Compile #4 - The Third Law - February 21st to 27th Mission: The Third Law Day: 2 Stardate: 2414.3.16 ========================= (USS Rosenante - Holodeck 2 - ACEO Lt Eian O'Neill - Day 2 - 1741) (USS Rosenante - Holodeck 2 - CTAC Lt. sg Ben Soma- 1743) ========================= (USS Rosenante - Holodeck 2 - ACEO Lt Eian O'Neill - Day 2 - 1741) "Who wants to try first?" Ben asked. Eian had to restrain himself from jumping up and down like a child. This was, after all, his element. The combination of tactical and engineering that made the gears in his brain turn and made him excited about his job. Counselor Davis conceded to Eian's obvious enthusiasm and stepped aside. "Computer transfer control to Lieutenant O'Neill." Ben said and stepped behind him to give him full view of the battle cruiser. "Left hand for targeting, right hand for weapon control." Eian adopted the controls easily, and was able to smoothly target the battle cruiser with both phasers and torpedoes. He found the interface to be user friendly and intuitive, and he was disappointed when the task was over. "Computer transfer control to Counselor Davis," Ben said. Eian watched Parker perform, and found that as usual, the psychologist surprised him by being unusually adept at something that wasn't his job. He wasn't as good as Eian at targeting, but that was probably more from lack of practice than lack of skill. Eian was convinced the counselor could have been a Renaissance Man had he been born in the correct time period. Ben transferred controls back to himself, and then demonstrated targeting multiple systems at once. "It is pretty user friendly." Ben concluded. "But it also requires a degree of self control and self awareness. The operator must be aware of his movements while using the TIHS. If he twitches either of his control fingers the results could be disastrous, it could mean the difference between a diplomatic solution and all out conflict." Eian frowned. He would have to practice extensive use. Once he got used to it and the novelty wore off, it would be difficult for him to remain still and not fidget. "How many hours are we required to train to become certified?" Parker asked. (reply Soma) "Are we permitted to practice as often as we like or is it under the classified inventory and will it need to be 'checked out' with a code?" Eian asked. (reply Soma) (posted by Morgan G) ------------------------- (USS Rosenante - Holodeck 2 - CTAC Lt. sg Ben Soma- 1743) Ben watched as Eian and Parker too turns using the TIHS, Eian appeared very enthusiastic though he was trying very hard not to show it. The engineer took to it with little trouble, he was able to use the interface with no difficulty. Eian could target easy enough and firing was no problem for him. Ben knew Eian's biggest challenge would be his ADHD, it could present a problem. Parker did well, though not as well as Eian had, he seemed to have a little trouble targeting but firing came to him easy enough. Everything considered Ben figured the session was a success, he was confident they could handle themselves if the need arose. "How many hours are we required to train to become certified?" Parker asked. NRPG: Just tossing out a random number here. RPG: "Certification on the TIHS requires one hundred hours of simulation." Ben replied. "It's a bit of time but considering the nature of the system it's essential that the operator be comfortable and confident with their interaction with the TIHS. Then there is a performance review with me after that time." "Are we permitted to practice as often as we like or is it under the classified inventory and will it need to be 'checked out' with a code?" Eian asked. Ben turned to Eian. "By all means, practise as often as you like." Ben responded. "This simulation records the hours logged by users for my review. Anytime you have an hour to spare run the program, though I will suggest that you limit your simulations to an hour session daily or every other day. As I said before it can be a little disorientating and vertigo is a likely side effect of over exposure." "Computer end program." Ben stated. The starflield along with the Jem Hadar battle cruiser faded and was replaced by the hologrid. "Gentlemen thank you for you time, I have every confidence that both of you will become proficient in operating the TIHS." Ben said. "Class dismissed." Before Eian and Parker could leave Ben called out to the engineer. "Lieutenant O'Neill, a moment please." Ben said. After the counselor had left them alone Ben went to stand before Eian. "Eian," He said. "I'd like to apologize for what I said to you during the Borg attack when you were assimilated. I don't know if you remember it or not." (reply O'Neill) (posted by Milo Young) ------------------------- ========================= Mission: The Third Law Day: 3 Stardate: 2414.03.17 ========================= (USS Rosenante - Personal Quarters, ATAC/SC Ensign (sg) Jessica Signos, Day 3 - 1145) (USS Rosenante - Engineering - ACEO Lt Eian O'Neill - Day 3 - 1148) ========================= (USS Rosenante, Personal Quarters, ATAC/SC Ensign (sg) Jessica Signos, Day 3 - 1145) Jessica had just entered her quarters from the main security offices. She spent the morning going over training reports of the new security staff. The new staff was showing improvement but still not where Jessica wanted to see them at. Now however it was time to switch gears. She grabbed a collection of PADD's from her desk. Jessica had spent the last two days going threw any source information she had on the ghost suit and the WAR rifle. Now it was time to get more in depth. Before she opened up training to other command staff on these weapons. She pressed her comm-badge then spoke. "Ensign Signos to Lt. O'niel, I have something that I need you to look at, how about over lunch?" (reply Eian) Jessica smiled has the comm line closed. She remembered how well they worked together on Starbase 989. She knew, they worked well together, She saw that much. Sometimes she felt that everyone else saw it to. She left her room; smiling, it was good to have a project like this one that she could work on, to keep herself busy. Jessica made her way toward the area known has Tradewinds. (reply Eian) ------------------------- (USS Rosenante - Engineering - ACEO Lt Eian O'Neill - Day 3 - 1148) Eian was looking over some of the more recently repaired items when his combadge chirped. "Ensign Signos to Lt. O'Neill, I have something that I need you to look at, how about over lunch?" Eian smiled. Despite their argument not long ago, he was looking forward to spending more time with her and he thought lunch was an excellent place to start. "Sounds perfect to me. I was just getting hungry. Let's meet at Tradewinds at 1200." (reply Jessica iyw) (posted by Morgan G) ------------------------- ========================= Mission: The Third Law Day: 5 Stardate: 2414.03.19 ========================== (USS Rosenante - Holodeck 4, ATAC/SC Ensign (sg) Jessica Signos, Day 5 - 2230) ========================= (USS Rosenante, Holodeck 4, ATAC/SC Ensign (sg) Jessica Signos, Day 5 - 2230) Jessica was surrounded, every faceless form wearing the uniform of a Section 31 officer each holding a pair of wicked blades. There was no escape for Jessica she had to face them in her hands running the length of her arms lied Lily's chosen weapon a pair of arm blades. The faceless feel upon her, and broke upon the blades the rested against her arms. Jessica slashed, blocked, pierced, and danced around her enemies guard. Blood flowed and covered her white Kimono. Every agent that fell before her blades was another piece of the hold that section 31 had over her. Slowly Jessica and Lily chipped away at that hold. Another agent appeared before her it blocked her strike coming with in her guard, bring his blades down upon Jessica's body. Jessica twisted bring one blade to intercept the first the second made it's way threw and landed a grazing strike upon her body. Blood oozed and flowed from the wound. Jessica had long since altered the programs safety protocols to only protect her from lethal strikes. She needed the pain, need to feel that what before her was real. That she was breaking away from the oppression that Section 31 slaved her under. She winched has she skin was separated from the blow but that did not save her attacker from her bringing both blades down into his back. She ripped the blades out nearly tearing him half. Her next attacker came at her exposed back Jessica turned quickly swing her blade wide quicker and under the attacker raised arms severing head from body. Jessica and Lily danced the dance of carnage. Has the holodeck was filled with the faceless bodies of Section 31 agents. Jessica though of how not so long ago she was one of the faceless. She would no longer be lost to the wills of the mob. Another attacker came and Jessica lashed out finding the opening that was the mans mouth has the blade punched though the back of his skull. They came at her now in greater numbers first five then ten at a time, wearing down the determined figure bathed in white and the red of spilled blood. Slowly the attackers scored more hits upon Jessica mostly on her arms and legs. ~Life is a battle, I will take mine back, if that means by force...~ "SO BE IT! " She screamed at the faceless. She leaped upon one taking him to the ground crossing her blades at his neck. She could almost see the terror that should have been apparent on his face. In a swift motion her blades cut though his windpipe and jugular veins, in a spray of blood that covered Jessica's face. She could only imagine how she looked. A bloody vision from hell given life. Jessica battled on tiring she had long since lost count of those faceless she killed at her hand, they just blended together in one long massacre, but they were Section 31 the organizers of one massacre after another how many had Jessica killed in there name, not has many that laid before her. She wounds began to mount slowly slowing the rage of which she striked. Then it happened a blow passed her guard and stuck her squarely in her right leg mid thigh. Jessica screamed has the blade struck bone then stopped, and dissipated. When Jessica looked up the Holosuite was empty only herself remained. She walked over to the near by medical kit and started the task of healing her wounds most would go away by the time she left the suite. The more sever would be bandaged and cared for till they could fully heal. This was Jessica's and Lily's private war no one else needed to know. (reply none) (posted by Matthew Locke) -------------------------- ========================= Mission: The Third Law Day: 7 Stardate: 2414.03.21 ========================= (USS Rosenante – Observation Lounge – CMO – Cmdr Josh Caskie - Day 7 – 1135) (USS Rosenante – Observation Lounge –CTAC Lt. sg Ben Soma, 1136) (USS Rosenante – Observation Lounge – COps– LT Chance Raschen– 1205.5) (USS Rosenante – Observation Lounge –CTAC Lt. sg Ben Soma- 1206) (USS Rosenante – Observation Lounge – CMO - Cmdr Josh Caskie – 1207) (USS Rosenante – Observation Lounge – Lieutenant sg Sanok – 1208) (USS Rosenante – Observation Lounge– CSO- LT David Tamblyn– 1210) (USS Rosenante – Observation Lounge – CEO – Lieutenant Commander Steven Matrix – 1211) (USS Rosenante – Observation Lounge – SciO – Ensign Emma Leep – Day 7- 1215) (USS Rosenante – Bridge– Lounge Mgr- T'Lela– 1220) (USS Rosenante – Bridge– CO, Captain Ahmed Ibn Salid- Day 7- 1221) (USS Rosenante – Bridge– Lounge Mgr- T'Lela– 1222) (USS Rosenante – Observation Lounge – FO – Commander T’Larah Sullivan – 1225) (USS Rosenante - Observation Lounge - CMO - Cmdr Josh Caskie - Day 7 - 1217) (Rogue Planet – Landing Site Alpha – FO – Commander T’Larah Sullivan – 1332) (Rogue Planet – Landing Site Alpha – ATSC Ensign(sg) Jessica Signos – 1337) (Rogue Planet – Landing Site Alpha – SciO – Ensign David Spenser – Day 7- 1400) (Rogue Planet – Landing Site Alpha – FO – Commander T’Larah Sullivan – 1403) (Rogue Planet - Landing Site Alpha - ACEO Lt Eian O'Neill - Day 7 - 1406) (USS Rosenante - Transporter Room 1 - CMO - Cmdr Josh Caskie - Day 7 - 1425) (Rogue Planet - Beta Site One - CMO - Cmdr Josh Caskie - Day 7 - 1432) (Rogue Planet – Landing Site Delta – SciO – Ensign Pembrook Carter – Day 7- 1500) (Rogue Planet - Landing Site Delta - CSec Lieutenant sg Sanok - Day 7 - 1505) (Rogue Planet - Landing Site Delta - CEO Lieutenant Commander Matrix - Day 7 - 1507) (Rogue Planet - Landing Site Delta - CSec Lieutenant sg Sanok - Day 7 - 1545) ========================= (USS Rosenante – Observation Lounge – CMO – Cmdr Josh Caskie - Day 7 – 1135) Josh walked into the Observation Lounge with her usual cup of Lapsang Suchong tea in one hand and a padd in the other. Smiling she greeted everyone else there. "Commander, gentlemen." Nodding at everyone she put both her cup and her padd down and taking a seat waited for everyone else to arrive so that the briefing could start. She knew that this was a briefing for an away mission, but other than that she had no other information. (No reply needed, just posting myself in) (Posted by Marilyn) ------------------------- (USS Rosenante – Observation Lounge –CTAC Lt. sg Ben Soma, 1136) Ben nodded to Sanok as his friend entered the observation lounge and came over to sit beside him. "Commander," said Sanok, acknowledging the FO. He sat next to Ben. "It seems we're going to be off on another adventure together." "Considering our last adventure I'm anticipating that this one will be much easier." He replied. "Though I'm not sure how together we'll be this time, it's unlikely the Commander will be placing both of us on the same survey team." The Commander then went into the specifics of the mission, there were to be three teams consisting of a team leader an engineer and as well as a medical officer and scientific personnel. Ben had been wondering what they would find on the rouge and what the temperature would be but since it did support life he had hoped they wouldn't need thermal gear, it was bulky and restricted movement. And no matter how many times the goggles were fitted or adjusted they were always uncomfortable. He was glad to hear they would be armed however, better safe then sorry. (reply any) (posted by Milo Young) ------------------------- USS Rosenante– Observation Lounge – COps– LT Chance Raschen– 1205) The briefing was finally winding down with T’Larah giving out the team assignments. Chance was put with Bravo Team, lead by Commander Caskie, as the Operations Officer. He looked forward to it because he had worked Tactical and Security for so long that it was nice to get back to his 'roots' so to say. Commander Sullivan turned and spoke directly to Raschen,“… and Lieutenant I know you have logged more hours in tactical and security especially factoring in your Reserve status time, but Mister Soma is the Security lead. Feel free to advise, but defer to Mister Soma.” ~does she think this is really an issue? That's why I stayed away until I was asked to escort that S31 operative.~ he thought. Instead he then turned to Ben "If I didn't think you were capable, I would have tried to keep the job." (Reply Soma iyw) Raschen turned to once again face Sullivan "No worries ma'am. He has his job to do and I have mine." “Of course I expect no less.” She finished. (Reply Soma iyw, but none needed) (Posted by Charlie) ------------------------- (USS Rosenante– Observation Lounge –CTAC Lt. sg Ben Soma- 1206) "If I didn't think you were capable, I would have tried to keep the job." Ben nodded. "I appreciate that Chance." He replied. "I'll accept any advice or suggestion you may have none the less, once a Sec officer always a Sec officer." They were then given a choice as to where they would like to survey, Ben reviewed the map. Tamblyn selected a mountain face and a valley, the mountain face offered a challenge but provided little for cover, the valley on the other hand would provide some cover and a break from any active weather. "The valley would be a good place for starters." He chimed in and in turn pointed out a place on the map. "This plateau may be a decent beta site. Both are on fairly even ground with scattered cover should we encounter any active weather systems." He wasn't overly found of could weather, he much preferred the warmth and plenty of sunshine. Though things could be colder, should a storm crop up the temperature would plummet and the wind chill would be pretty nasty. He knew Sanok wasn't liking the idea either, Vulcan's came from a very arid planet. Human's for the most part were acclimatised to cooler weather, some even seeked it out for recreation. He had to admit it would be nice to get off the ship and stretch his legs and breath some unrecycled air. (reply any) (posted by Milo Young) -------------------------- (USS Rosenante – Observation Lounge – CMO - Cmdr Josh Caskie – 1207) Josh listened as Cmdr Sullivan outlined the teams and told them to organise what they would do. Turning to Lt Tamblyn Josh grinned at him. "Ok Mr Tamblyn, you're the Science Officer you get to tell me your choice of sites. Pick two sites. Alpha and Beta. Once you're done Soma and Rachen get to give me their input on which site is best from their point of view. After I've listened to all of you I will make a decision on which site we visit so you all had better make your argument compelling first time around. Understood?" (Reply Tamblyn, Soma and Rachen and anyone else that wants to pick a site) (Posted by Marilyn) ------------------------- (USS Rosenante – Observation Lounge – Lieutenant sg Sanok – 1208) Sanok had remained silent for the entire briefing, listening and observing. Like Commander Matrix, he was unclear about what their assignments were. He understood that finding a rogue planet was an extremely rare occurrence, and exploring it was desirable and part of what Starfleet was. However, the briefing had been vague. Sanok also agreed with Matrix questioning the makeup of the away teams. It was perfectly reasonable for science, security, and medical personnel to go to the plant. However, what was the point in sending the Operations Officer and as Matrix questioned, the top two engineers? Why even send any engineers? If the teams discovered something that might concern an engineer, someone could be beamed down later. It was illogical. After Commander Sullivan responded to Matrix's questions, the Chief Engineer was visibly shaken. Sullivan seemed to be talking to him like he was a green cadet, rather than showing him the respect due his position and experience. It was most puzzling. Sanok had been assigned to the team being led by Commander Matrix. Perhaps there would be an opportunity for them to talk once they were on the rogue world. Viskhard and Fuller were also part of the team, but Sanok had almost no interaction with them in the past. Sanok wasn't looking forward to spending a lot of time on a planet that was one step away from being an ice ball. The climate of his home world of Vulcan, was hot and arid. Vulcans did not like the cold. Cold-weather survival training at the Academy had been one of the most difficult challenges he had faced. However, it was his duty to serve as needed, and he would do his best. That was all one could expect. The briefing continued, as more questions were asked, and beam-down locations were discussed. Wherever his team was assigned, was where Sanok would go. His purpose was to protect the team. Everything seemed like it would be routine and uneventful, but since he had come to know Ben Soma, routine and uneventful were the last things to expect. (reply any) (posted by Bob B.) ------------------------- (USS Rosenante– Observation Lounge– CSO- LT David Tamblyn– 1210) Caskie turned to Tamblyn and grinned at him. "Ok Mr Tamblyn, you're the Science Officer you get to tell me your choice of sites. Pick two sites. Alpha and Beta. Once you're done Soma and Raschen get to give me their input on which site is best from their point of view. After I've listened to all of you I will make a decision on which site we visit so you all had better make your argument compelling first time around. Understood?" "Let me see the map, Commander?" He asked. But thought ~It would be nice if they understood that a historian and teacher doesn't really make me a scientist.~ (Reply Caskie iyw) Looking at the map, Tamblyn considered what locations might be best to find what they were going after. "I think we should try here and over here." He said as he indicated the locations on the map. Alpha being on a mountain face and Bravo being in a valley. (Reply Caskie) (Reply Caskie) (Posted by Charlie) ------------------------- (USS Rosenante – Observation Lounge – CEO – Lieutenant Commander Steven Matrix – 1211) As the briefing continued, Matrix took the opportunity to outline his away teams assignments. He was excited at the opportunity for some research for a change and made every effort to empower his team to do whatever they felt necessary within their areas of expertise. Matrix punched up the task lists in his PADD and the automated system forwarded the tasks to each team member. He also sent a message to Peter Cohen to shore up the duty roster while he was away. Peter was a good friend and an excellent engineer. He was confident that Peter would handle things in engineering during his short sabbatical on the away mission. The FO was right it was a good time for both CEs to be away. Elian had more than earned his spot on the team and Matrix was eager to see what the young engineer could accomplish. He would afford him the time and opportunity to expand his horizons. Matrix reviewed his personal messages as well and noted one from his parents on Earth. He smiled knowing they were okay, but didn't read the message. That would come later. (Reply none) (Posted by Steve) ------------------------- (USS Rosenante– Observation Lounge – SciO – Ensign Emma Leep – Day 7- 1215) Emma was a new addition to the Rosenante crew. As a result she was very surprised that she would be assigned to an away team so quickly after joining the crew. Her area of expertise was geology and xenomorphic biology. Two fields which were great for a research scientist, but not so great for most away missions. She had listened carefully as Tamblyn and then Soma had chimed in. She then decided that there was no time like the present to chime in and add her two strips of latinum. "The valley would be a good place for starters." Soma added as he pointed out a place on the map. "This plateau may be a decent beta site. Both are on fairly even ground with scattered cover should we encounter any active weather systems." "I agree. From a geological standpoint, both the valley and the plateau have exceptional potential, as does the mountain face. From the plateau, I should be able to make observations of the strata that should give us an indication of the natural processes that this planet are facing. Things like weather erosion patterns, rock chemistry, striations, and potential environmental factors such as weathering, glaciations and the like. The boulders there could offer some insight as well." "And from a biochemical point of view, this would be a good location to look for some of the more hardy forms of extremophilic life, which will be every useful to us in categorizing and synthesizing a potential timeline of the development of this worlds geological processes." Emma looked up to see the other officers looking at her intently. "Ah sirs..." she added as a second thought. (reply Bravo team) Daniel Greene ------------------------- (USS Rosenante - Observation Lounge - CMO - Cmdr Josh Caskie - Day 7 - 1217) Josh listened as everyone gave her their input and finally once Ensign Leep had spoke Josh considered all she'd heard for a moment and finally coming to a decision, nodded her head. "Ok boys and girls, The valley is designated Alpha Site, we will head there first. Report to Transporter Room 1 at 1425 and bring whatever equipment you feel you need." USS Rosenante - Personal Quarters - CMO - Cmdr Josh Caskie - Day 7 - 1230) Once Cmdr Sullivan had dismissed everyone to prepare Josh made her way back to her quarters and began to gather up what she needed. The first thing she picked up was her personal medical kit and checking it over made a note to swing passed Sickbay and pick up some bits and pieces that she thought might be useful. The next thing she checked out was her climbing kit, it had been following her around for a couple of years now unused and Josh, whilst knowing it would come in handy for the Beta Site, still needed to check it over before she would use it. Once that was secured she contacted Operations and asked for a set of transport enhancers to be waiting for them in the transporter room. Once that was done Josh turned to her cold weather clothing. -10C was not unusual for an Orkney winter, especially when you factored in wind chill and at one time Josh wouldn't have batted an eyelid at that temperature, however she knew well enough that she had spent far too long living on starships to find it comfortable anymore so she set about clothing herself in lots of thin layers that could be discarded as needed. Finally settling on a pair of night goggles she rummaged around in the back of her wardrobe and dug out her own winter climbing clothes, since she preferred them to the regular Starfleet issue. Eventually she was dressed in a pair of waterproof fleece lined trousers, over one pair of thick knit tight trousers. Two pairs of socks, one ankle, one knee high and one pair of waterproof sock that went on just underneath her own hiking boots. Dropping her parka and her thermal gloves beside the rest of her equipment Josh crossed to the replicator and ordered a bowl of lentil soup and some bread and picking it up sat down and started to eat it knowing that hot food was an essential before venturing out in cold weather. That thought sparked something else in her mind and she contacted Kitty, told her what she needed and knowing that Kitty would have what she wanted waiting for her in Sickbay went back to her soup with a smile on her face. (No reply needed as yet, but if team Bravo wants to post to getting ready go ahead.) (Posted by Marilyn) ------------------------- (USS Rosenante– Bridge– Lounge Mgr- T'Lela– 1220) T'Lela stepped out of the turbo-lift wearing a Starfleet uniform, with a black undershirt and no insignia except for the comm-badge she regularly wears anyway. Walking from the lift to stand by Captain Salid "Captain" she started as she held a PADD out to him "here is the Intel report you asked for." (Reply Salid) "Well sir, before the refit there were only minor differences between this ship and the Imperial one." (Reply Salid) "Sir, what exactly are my duties for this mission?" (Reply Salid) "I understand sir. Which post should I take?" (Reply Salid) (Reply Salid) (Posted by Charlie) ------------------------- (USS Rosenante– Bridge– CO, Captain Ahmed Ibn Salid- Day 7- 1221) Ahmed was standing at the back of the bridge, observing the planetoid through a series of deep scans from the auxiliary science station there when T'Lela entered the bridge and came to stand beside him. "Captain" she started as she held a PADD out to him "here is the Intel report you asked for." "That was fast" Salid replied as he took the offered PADD from her and ran through the details. "Well sir, before the refit there were only minor differences between this ship and the Imperial one." Ahmed nodded, "I suppose that makes sense. I will review some of your suggestions and determine if we should take additional action to implement some of them." Ahmed replied. "Sir, what exactly are my duties for this mission?" "For the duration of the mission, I will need traffic intelligence, communications and detailed tactical and strategic reports and surveys run for the entirety of the exploration of this sector as long as we are here. I know that's a bit ambiguous, but it is the federations intention to expand into this region of space and as such they need the most detailed surveys, threat analysis and cartographic data that they can get to help them make educated decisions." "I understand sir. Which post should I take?" She asked him. "I want you to customize (ABS3) Auxiliary Bridge Station Three for the duration, here on the bridge. It will be your normal duty station going forward. For our immediate mission, I would like for you to find an appropriate location planet side suitable to deploy a remote intelligence listening asset. Take Rosenbauer and his team and put together a mission plan for submission and approval for me before you depart. Once you have confirmation of a strong encrypted passive signal responder, you and your team can return to the ship. Any questions?" (reply T'Lela) Daniel Greene ------------------------- (USS Rosenante– Bridge– Lounge Mgr- T'Lela– 1222) "For our immediate mission, I would like for you to find an appropriate location planet side suitable to deploy a remote intelligence listening asset. Take Rosenbauer and his team and put together a mission plan for submission and approval for me before you depart. Once you have confirmation of a strong encrypted passive signal responder, you and your team can return to the ship. Any questions?" "Captain, I appreciate the amount of trust you have shown in me thus far. Unfortunately, I need you to trust me a little more. The computer does not recognize my codes for almost anything that doesn't involve Tradewinds, my quarters, or recreation spaces." (Reply Salid) "Lieutenants Raschen and Tamblyn had been as helpful as they can be sir. However sir, I cannot continuously rely on their assistance to accomplish my mission specific additional duties." (Reply Salid) (Reply Salid) (Posted by Charlie) ------------------------- (USS Rosenante – Observation Lounge – FO – Commander T’Larah Sullivan – 1225) T’Larah was getting some visible hostility from some officers. It wasn’t insubordinate, not even close. She sometimes did not understand the other officers. The rouge planet was a unique opportunity. What is causing this planet to stay a relatively balmy -10 C instead of much closer to absolute zero? If it turns out to not be a natural phenomenon, then it must be artificial. That is why we are out here to find evidence of new phenomenon, and new civilizations. The teams had been discussing for some time, and no one had yet decided exactly what their teams were doing. ~Time to jump start this.~ “So any ideas? Do you want to study the mean atmospheric temperature and why it is so high with-out an obvious source of external heat? How about it’s trajectory and where it’s coming from? Maybe a simple tectonic and volcanic study? Crust and core samples to see if this is a viable mining site? Shuttlecraft or runabouts can be made available if a great deal of ground needs to be covered or large amounts of special equipment needs to be transported or even craft-borne.” (Reply any, Team leaders) (posted by Todd) ------------------------- (Rogue Planet – Landing Site Alpha – FO – Commander T’Larah Sullivan – 1332) Alpha Team coalesced at the landing site, and were immediately assaulted by the cold winds. Maddox’s tricorder opened, the soft hum could barely be heard. “Negative ten degrees Celsius.” Maddox reported. “And this is one of the garden-spots of this planet.” She said off-handedly. “Make sure you check your gear. We will be moving for a few kilometers. Because of some of the interference we were getting from the work site, we weren’t able to beam closer. Make your-self comfortably cool, I don’t want anyone overheat.” T’Larah down-graded to one moisture wicking inner layer, an insulating layer and one water resistant outer layer, her patrol cap fleece, goggles, and contact gloves. Maddox could be heard mumbling under his breath. ~Is he complaining about the movement? I guess he’s not that used to carrying weight on his back.~ NRPG: Unless you have mission-specific equipment larger or bulkier then a tricorder packs shouldn’t weigh more than 35ish pounds. Cold weather gear and rations should be about it for what’s in them. RPG: She was the first one done with down grading she started asking who could carry what equipment. She took the pattern enhancers and left the smaller mission specific gear with the mission specialists. Having strapped the three large cylinders to her pack so that the weight was distributed on her shoulders, she went around and checked on everyone else. “Here let me help you with that.” (Reply any, room for more.) She got around to Maddox and his pack was lop sided and sagging. She helped him adjust it so the weight was snug to his back, higher and centered. “Is that better? You look like you were struggling for a moment.” “Way better, thanks, sir.” Maddox responded. “What do you have in there anyway?” she asked. “Heat-resistant Nanites. They can walk into an average volcano and bring data back for us to analyze.” He responded. “Carry-on.” She said. T’Larah walked off to check the remainder of the team. Satisfied everyone was ready she affixed her palm beacon to her right strap so the light was directly in front of her and about knee high to anyone walking several meters in front of her. “Mister Signos, please take lead, I’ll take rear, our bearing is 73 degrees straight to the objective from where we are standing. Feel free to adjust our movement around obsticles. (Reply Signos, all) (Posted by Todd) ------------------------- (Rogue Planet – Landing Site Alpha – ATSC Ensign(sg) Jessica Signos – 1337) Jessica had listened to the briefing intently and had prepared appropriately prepared for the harsh weather, has they appeared on the Rogue planets surface. “Negative ten degrees Celsius.” Maddox reported. Jessica nodded in agreement. She was wearing a soft shell body suit that nearly covered her completely. With the lined into the suit was a set body warmers that once activated would warm the body and last for nearly twelve hours before needing to be replaced. Over the suit was a small light jacket with a hood and military style cargo pants. The jacket was designed to leave Jessica's mid-drift open exposing the body suit to elements this also allowed for a cooling point that would keep her body from over heating. Her feet were covered in tactical mountain boots. the handles of two boot knives could be seen mounted into the side of the boots protective shell. Finally Jessica wore a tactical harness, it could be used for repelling it the case called for it or it allowed weight to be distributed more easily about the body than a standard pack. Jessica found early that such a harness worked well for her small frame. After all a thirty five pound pack on a girl that was barely a hundred pounds was not wise. It would bog her down and Jessica knew that. Upon the harness Jessica kept two hand phasers, along with one phase rifle that was mounted across her back. An medical kit was strapped to the hard point that fell along her left leg. Under the rifle was her survival pack and rations, below that was a pack that was filled with water. Allowing her to carry close to three liters of the life giving fluid on her back. The insulation of the pack combined with the heat from her body kept the water from freezing and cool. Jessica knew that she might of been a tad over armed for this mission but she rather been more prepared than be caught in a situation where might find herself with out something she needed. “Make sure you check your gear. We will be moving for a few kilometers. Because of some of the interference we were getting from the work site, we weren’t able to beam closer. Make your-self comfortably cool, I don’t want anyone overheat.” T’Larah ordered her team. Jessica watched has T'Larah went to Maddox's side to help him fix his pack, has she slide her tactical circlet to it's place and linked it to the tricorder on her side. Her vision in the monocle blurred has the small screen polarized then cleared to a crystal clarity. Tactical data was displayed though the small screen, direction of travel, targeting receptical, vital monitor that included body temperature, just to name a few. “Mister Signos, please take lead, I’ll take rear, our bearing is 73 degrees straight to the objective from where we are standing. Feel free to adjust our movement around obsticles. T'Larah called to Jessica. Jessica quickly took the point and acquired the needed direction from her circlet. "73 degrees from current location, ready to set out on your orders Ma'am" Jessica replied "Reading a large heat source ahead, lets go get warm." Jessica continued with a bit of lighthearted humor. (reply Alpha) (posted By Matthew Locke) ------------------------- (Rogue Planet – Landing Site Alpha – SciO – Ensign David Spenser – Day 7- 1400) The team had made good time through the mixed terrain without any real trouble. The few bits of specialized mission gear that Spenser had brought along were quickly divided up by the members of the team to prevent him from being overburdened and for that Spenser was very thankful. By the time they reached the Volcanic area where they were to conduct their experiments, Spenser had become so accustomed to the stark whiteness of the surrounding countryside that the grey and black seemed exceptionally alien to him. Ahead of them, A small field of volcanic plumes protruded from the ground with an appearance not unlike a bony protrusion through skin. The area, roughly a half kilometer in area, was filled with roughly twenty of the plumes. Each of these seemed to be made of a concrete-like material, similar to the waddle used by some terrestrial colonies of ants on the African continent of Earth. Each of the plumes was belching a thick black smoke, filled with dark flakes of ash into the thin atmosphere of the world. Even before they had reached the area immediately surrounding the plumes, there were signs of the ash fallout, first on the ground where it mixed with the ice and snow that covered everything, and then as they got closer and closer, it began to actually precipitate from the air as if it were nothing more than a moderate snowfall. Solid frozen soil turned slightly mushy, in places where the warmer ash falls had melted the ice creating liquid pools of sludge. While a potential concern, such locations were very easily avoided, and tricorder scans indicated a high concentration of lower microbial and bacteriological organisms. there were even signs of small bioluminescent clusters of algae analog plants, which in turn were homes to entire ecosystems of small buzzing insect analogs. It quickly became evident that there were small ecosystems, complete with a resplendent chain of food chain present in each of the semi-frozen pools. But if David had thought those few organisms were amazing, he was absolutely amazed at the proliferation of life present at the actual site of the vents. There, the heat of the exhaust was warm enough to create a miniature island upon which life flourished. Small buzzing insects were everywhere, and feeding upon them were a variety of nematodes, flying vertebrates, and small crustaceans. Some strange invertebrates, similar to a jellyfish floated lazily between the vent exhausts, first being lifted by the plumes airborne, only to drift back downward towards the soil where they caught the same or different plume to repeat the process. They bore long tentacles and from time to time those tentacles seemed to grasp some smaller flying beast and entangle them. And to cap it all off there was a broad, all encompassing carpet of bioluminescent algae analogs that seemed to pulse and glow in waves of alternating colors. He stopped, his body immediately taking note of the increase of temperature. "Wow!" was all he could say. Daniel Greene ------------------------- (Rogue Planet – Landing Site Alpha – FO – Commander T’Larah Sullivan – 1403) T’Larah was surprised at the time they made to their destination. Not a forced march pace, but not a leisurely stroll. Approaching the objective was a stark contrast to say the least. When they started making their way close enough to the volcanic plume that the temperature increased. “Ambient temperature -1 degrees Celsius and rising. Humidity up twelve percent.” Maddox called out as Ensign Signos led the group around the melted muddy ash zones. “Life sign readings are increasing in frequency.” “Get everything you can with your tricorders Ensign Spenser and Mister Maddox. Call out if there is any equipment that you need to retrieve to deal with a situation or anything you want to take a closer look at.” “Aye sir.” Maddox said just loud enough to be heard but his eyes never looked up from his tricorder. (Reply Ensign Spenser) “I didn’t expect all this life.” Maddox said simply. “I brought nanites suited for volcanic spelunking not biological study.” “Well I guess you’ll just have to improvise Mister Maddox.” T’Larah said simply. “I could adjust their programming slightly, allowing for differing densities of organic matter versus volcanic rock so as not to lyse the tissues.” Maddox mumbled while fiddling with his tricorder. “I thought you’d have at least a few ideas.” She said. “While we are stopped we can put packs down. We are close enough to begin our studies and far enough away from the volcaninc interference to place transport pattern enhancers. Anyone who is getting too warm can downgrade uniforms, but keep a water resistant outer layer, we don’t know if these life forms pose any kind of threat yet.” She unsecured the pattern enhancers from her pack, and handed one to Ensign Signos. “Take this one and place it over there.” She said indicating a dry spot on the far side of all the packs and past by a couple meters. (Reply Signos, Spenser, Alpha) (Posted by Todd) ------------------------- (Rogue Planet - Landing Site Alpha - ACEO Lt Eian O'Neill - Day 7 - 1406) Eian was getting too hot, so he was thankful for the opportunity to strip some layers from his uniform. He took the outer layer off first and then removed the insulated inner lining. He shoved it in his pack and replaced the waterproof outer layer. Resuming his patrol of the area, he kept an eye out for trouble while they were stopped but since there didn't seem to be much trouble other than the potential to trip on the rocky surface, he made his way over to Jessica. "How are you doing?" he asked her. (reply Signos) He nodded. "I don't like the heat...my favorite weather is low humidity and about 4 Celsius." (reply Signos) "Have you ever seen snow? There's not much of it in Ireland on Earth but if you go to a place like Canada or Vermont, or anywhere in the northern part of North America, there's a ton of it and the landscape is pretty hilly, so people snowboard and ski. It's a lot of fun." It felt good to have a normal conversation with her. One that wasn't loaded with emotion or controversial. Just a conversation about weather. (reply Signos) (posted by Morgan G) ------------------------- (USS Rosenante - Transporter Room 1 - CMO - Cmdr Josh Caskie - Day 7 - 1425) At 1425 precisely Josh entered Transporter Room 1 and picking up the transport enhancers that Ops had left waiting for her began to strap them to her pack whilst she waited for the rest of Bravo Team to appear. She had previously swung by Sickbay and picked up everything else she thought she would need from a medical standpoint for an away team mission to what she considered a night time excursion on Arctic tundra. Not only did she have state of the art hot saline packs in case of severe hypothermia, but she had Kitty replicate enough mylar blankets for the team, just in case. Josh had even filled the rest of her backpack with old fashioned hot food packs. The idea had originated sometime around the NASA era and whilst Josh knew that they weren't as nutritious as the new rations Josh was canny enough to realise that hot food in a cold climate still had a psychological advantage over the newer ration bars. (Rogue Planet - Beta Site One - CMO - Cmdr Josh Caskie - Day 7 - 1432) Beta team were luckier in that there wasn't as much interference in their beam down site as the other teams had found so they had been beamed in a short hike from their designated main site. Once they reached it Josh turned to the rest of her team. "Mr Soma please set up a permiter. Mr Raschen, I know you are here as Ops, but to be honest I would rather you help Mr Soma set up a perimeter at present . I will have Tamblyn and Leep set up their gear and I will see to setting up the transport enhanchers." (Reply Soma and Raschen) Turning back to the two science officers she smiled at them. "OK boys and girls time to set up your equipment and get going. If you want to check out both sites before I call it a day you had better get started." (Reply Tamblyn, Leep) After setting the pattern enhancers Josh took a good look around waiting for Soma and Raschen to get back to her. It was a typical U shaped glacial valley. Forrested at one end with what Josh assumed was a typical native low growing brush. A half frozen river meandered through it just to the east of their position and Josh noted it on her padd as a possible emergency water source. Had there been any daylight it would have been possible to see the Beta Site from here. But Josh, using her night goggles managed to scan the cliff above them and smiled. It looked an interesting climb, but unfortunately Josh wasn't here to climb it unless necessary. Her fingers twitched and she smiled to herself. ~Maybe later if you're lucky. (Reply Soma, Raschen ,Tamblyn and Leep.) (Ok Beta Team, go for it) (Posted by Marilyn) ------------------------- (Rogue Planet – Landing Site Delta – SciO – Ensign Pembrook Carter – Day 7- 1500) Pem couldn't the last time that he was this cold. He also couldn't the remember the last time that he had been on an honest-to-goodness away team. He had managed to get assigned to the team led by Commander Matrix along with Lieutenants Viskhard and Sanok and Chief Fuller. To make matters even better, Commander Matrix had given the green-light to a couple of his proposed experiments. And so Delta team stood on the nearly 1/2 mile of sea ice approximately 30-kilometers for the locations of the other teams. They also had a great deal of specialized equipment, which included a trio of clean powered ice crawlers that they had pulled from the very underused ship's exploratory stores. The idea was simple. The team would move along a path, conduct scans, make observations and take ice core samples over the windswept sea ice to determine a few different factors. The first related to potential sea ice drift, or ice plate movement. This would be ascertained by direct observation, looking for points where ice became hammocky, or where pressure ridges might be visually seen and inspected if encountered. This data would allow them to determine if there was a liquid mantle beneath the thick sheets of ice in any semblance of uniformity, or if there was really nothing more than isolated pockets of super cold, highly pressurized bubbles of liquid. The second aspect of that same 20-kilometer inspection circuit would be the placement of a series of seismic sensors. These particular sensors were more than just simple devices used to measure tectonic shakes. They were equipped with a detailed data collection sensor suite. They could sample atmosphere, weather conditions at the surface, relative drift, seismic activity and ambient magnetic and ionic field densities. By placing them in a web-like field, they would prove a viable and valuable tool for getting to the bottom of this world's unique climate. The second missions was actually the one that would take the most time. It involved deep drilling ice cores, storing them, and transporting them back to the ship for later study. Carter had selected three different locations that he felt would be excellent locations for the core experiment. Of course there was also a desire to collect sediment and liquid samples of what lay beneath the surface of the ice. The surface of the frozen sea seemed more like a desert, only instead of sand dunes; there were dunes of amalgamated ice and snow. Above them, the sky seemed more alien than any other that he had ever seen. There was no ambient light, at least not from a star or satellite. Instead there was just a massive blanket of stars that seemed to be everywhere at once. Of course the HUD in his Expedition goggles enhanced that ambient light, allowing him to see clearly. He was even fairly certain that he could almost make out the colored glow of the Rosenante's warp nacelles as the ship sped around the diameter of this tiny little world. He reached down and tightened the final strap on the equipment. he then took a long look around to see that the small drilling device , had been properly hitched to his crawler and he couldn't help but smile. "All the gear is stowed on the crawlers sir." He finally reported when it was clear that all the experimental gear was stowed and that they were ready to move to the next drilling site. (reply Matrix, Any on Delta Team) Daniel Greene -------------------------- (Rogue Planet - Landing Site Delta - CSec Lieutenant sg Sanok - Day 7 - 1505) In addition to the standard cold-weather gear and backpack of supplies, Sanok also brought with him a phaser rifle, a hand phaser, a combat knife, a tricorder and extra battery pack, a first aid kit, and goggles that had night vision and infrared capabilities. Standing on the sea ice, the cold most disagreeable with him, he also had his face covered with a mask. Only his eyes could be seen. When Ensign Carter had chosen his location to take ice core samples, Sanok first conducted a security sensor sweep from inside one of the ice crawlers. Satisfied that it was safe, he went outside first and did a visual inspection of the area. Waving the all clear to the others, he found a piece of elevated ice dune to stand watch. Despite the cold, it was fascinating to be able to do some exploration on a rogue planet. This sort of thing wasn't commonplace, after all. Besides, after the high stress and combat of the Borg encounter, and he and Ben going to rescue Marah, Sanok welcomed a quiet and uneventful mission. Though Sanok desired to be on the nice, warm ship, he had to admit things weren't so bad on the planet surface. His cold-weather gear was functioning quite well. There were no high winds making things worse. It was extremely unlikely they would face anything dangerous. All in all, a routine scientific expedition. Of course, he had learned on Earth while attending the Academy, that there was an old tradition from several hundred years ago in hospital emergency rooms, that if it was quiet and someone mentioned that it was, they cursed the quiet night and things got busy. He was certain it had been more perception than reality, as it was silly to think a quiet night would suddenly become busy just because one of the medical personnel commented on it. If people were going to become sick or injured, it was going to happen, the words spoken in the ER had nothing to do with it. Sanok had also learned, that when he and Ben were on a mission together that was expected to be quiet, it almost never was. This wasn't a superstition, but fact, based on experience. On the other hand, though both he and Ben were on the planet, they weren't actually together. Perhaps this would be a quiet mission after all. Still, the teams were investigating something very rare that was in a state in which it shouldn't be. There was always the possibility in space, that something unexpected, or previously unknown, could happen. There was so much out here they didn't understand. For all they knew, there was an underground civilization of abominable snowmen. Abominable snowmen, indeed! Sanok almost laughed at himself. Almost. Sanok needed to stop allowing his thoughts to roam like this. Whatever they were going to find here, they would find, no matter what it turned out to be. It was his responsibility to keep his team safe, and he needed to stay alert to do that. No more outlandish imaginations. "All the gear is stowed on the crawlers, sir," said Carter to Matrix. Sanok took one, last scan before coming down from his perch. Once inside his ice crawler, he fired up the engine. Time to head to the next drilling location. (reply Delta) (posted by Bob B.) ------------------------- (Rogue Planet - Landing Site Delta - CEO Lieutenant Commander Matrix - Day 7 - 1507) As the team assembled their gear Matrix took note of his time. They looked more like creatures of gelid than an away team. The cold made its way into Matrix's body just by his visual observation yet he was bundled up and felt comfortable. Even the cold of space could be felt on a planetary surface. Matrix hoisted his backpack into the crawler along with everyone else's equipment. Cater reported that all the gear had been stowed. "Okay everyone...lets get moving. The sooner we get these samples the sooner we can get back to the warmth of the ship." said Matrix as he climbed up into the crawler and took the front passenger seat. He would let someone else drive while he took readings. He glanced at the all glass display in the crawler and noted the time and temperature. Negative 16 degrees Celsius. Matrix punched up the internal heaters, took off his gloves and pulled out a PADD from his backpack on the floor in front of him. "Okay folks...looks like we need to head out about 3 kilometers nearly due east from our current position. If I can trust these magnetic readings. Mister Carter, I trust you'll keep an eye on the weather and the team to ensure we're not going to freeze to death. From these atmospheric scans it looks like we can expect even colder temperatures." said Matrix. (Reply Cater) "Lieutenant Viskhard, this is your specialty so I'll trust you to ensure that we gather samples and scans to fulfill the science requirements on this mission? If there is something of interest you think we should investigate further don't hesitate to ask." requested Matrix. (Reply Viskhard) "Mister Fuller, see if we can't get some increased area scans from these tricorders. I know the cold will play havoc with these batteries, but see what you can do. I'd like to see if we can't get deeper scans at each core site. If there is or was a civilization here the detailed scans could prove invaluable." said Matrix. (Reply Fuller) "Lieutenant Sanok, I don't expect any problems with the natives, but please be vigilant. I'd like you to scan for any threats in or around the areas we're working in or traveling to. Use the internal scanners in the crawler to help. I think we could augment the scan range by using the hydrogen cells if necessary. " said Matrix (Reply Sanok) "Everyone please ensure that you can get to at least a hand phaser quickly. If you've carried any other weapons keep them handy as well. We may not need them to fight off a threat, but using them to keep warm if something happens could be a life saver." said Matrix (Reply any, none) (Posted by Steve) ------------------------- (Rogue Planet - Landing Site Delta - CSec Lieutenant sg Sanok - Day 7 - 1545) Delta team and their ice crawlers moved carefully across the ice sea. Taking the point, Sanok drove one of them, his tricorder in one hand, scanning continuously. The short trip was uneventful, so when they reached the designated site for the next core sample, the little convoy stopped. Sanok got out and moved about the area, scanning and looking around. Nothing was found, so he waved to his team that it was clear. Just like at the first site, he found an ice dune and climbed on it to have a higher position to keep watch. The scientists climbed out of the crawlers and began unloading their equipment. They had an enthusiastic air about them, almost like excited children about to go someplace special. They also appeared to be oblivious to the cold, something Sanok wished he could do. Sanok looked up at the sky. There wasn't a cloud in sight, and the stars shined brightly. It reminded him that he was where he was supposed to be. Oh, not on a cold, rogue planet, but at this stage in his life. Though he had participated in a terrible civil war, and had been on several dangerous missions, he was doing exactly what he wanted to be doing. Sanok thought about Ben and what he and his team were doing now. Now that Marah was on the ship with them, and their relationship could grow to whatever it would eventually become, Sanok wondered where that would take them. He was certain they would marry one day, and Ben would want to continue serving in Starfleet, but what would Marah do, and what say would she have in their future? He had learned, that with Humans, once a man had a woman in his life, his time with his friends, and his time doing the things he liked to do, almost ceased, being replaced by being with her, and with doing everything she wanted. He found this to be most illogical. In a Vulcan marriage, neither in the couple ceased doing their work or their duties. It was even common for the married couple to be in different locations to continue their work, often not seeing each other for long periods of time. Despite this, Vulcan marriages remained strong, and divorce was something that almost never happened. This train of thought caused Sanok to think about his family. He had not been to his home world since just after the end of the war. He had taken a medical leave for six months, and under the orders of a Vulcan counselor, had gone back to Vulcan to receive training to suppress his emotions, which he had chosen to keep all his life. He had not attained true Kohlinar, but he was closer to being a typical Vulcan, though he did still have flashes of emotion. He once felt it was illogical to suppress what was a natural part of himself, but because of the stresses of the war, he had come to understand why his people had chosen that path. Now, with a finely-tuned balance, he felt he was living the best of both worlds, and was the better for it. Captain Salid had told the senior staff they would be exploring this section of space for some time, so Sanok's next opportunity for leave might not come for a while. Whenever it did, he decided he would return to Vulcan to see his family. It would be agreeable to go there again, and it would be warm. (reply Delta) (posted by Bob B.) ------------------------- ========================= Compiled by Marilyn =========================