Veil of the Sky, Compile 15 ========== Mission: Veil of the Sky Day 4 Stardate: 2414.04.25 ========== (Beta Aquillia IV - CENTCOM - ACEO Lt Eian O'Neill - Day 4 - 1124) (Beta Aquillia IV - CENTCOM - ACEO Lt Eian O'Neill - Day 4 - 1143) (Beta Aquillia IV - Refugee Camp - Sickbay – CO, Captain Ahmed Ibn Salid - Day 4 - 1150) (USS Rosenante - Transporter 2, - CEO LCDR Steven Matrix - Day 4 - 1154) (Beta Aquillia IV - Refugee Camp - Emergency Sickbay - CMO - Cmdr Josh Caskie - Day 4 - 1155) (Beta Aquillia IV - Sickbay site - COUNS Parker Davis - Day 4 - 1158) (Beta Aquillia IV - Sickbay site - ACSO Lt. Viskhard - 1200) (Beta Aquillia IV - Sickbay site - COUNS Parker Davis - Day 4 - 1202) (Beta Aquillia IV - Sickbay site - ACSO Lt. jg Viskhard - 1203) (Beta Aquillia IV, Refugee Camp-ATAC Ensign (sg) Jessica Signos- Day 4 - 1313) (Beta Aquillia IV - Refugee Camp - FO - Lt. Cmdr Ben Soma - Day 4 -1509) (Beta Aquillia IV – Capital City - Ambassador Tzorn- Day 4 -1510) (Beta Aquillia IV - Refugee Camp - CO, Captain Ahmed Ibn Salid - Day 4 - 1512) (Beta Aquillia IV- Refugee Camp- FO, Lt. Cmdr Ben Soma - Day 4- 1514) (Beta Aquillia IV, Refugee Camp, 2O/CSec Lt. Sanok, Day 4, 1517) (Beta Aquillia IV - Refugee Camp - Emergency Sickbay - CMO - Josh Caskie - Day 4 - 1518) (Beta Aquillia IV – Capital City - "The Island" Ambassador Tzorn - Day 4 -1519) (Beta Aquilla IV - Disaster Site LT. Tom Jackson COPS 1520) (Beta Aquillia IV - Refugee Camp - Niambh McNulty - Day 4 - 1521) (Beta Aquillia IV, Refugee Camp-ATAC Ensign (sg) Jessica Signos- Day 4 - 1522) (Beta Aquillia IV - Refugee Camp - FO- LT. Cmdr Ben Soma - Day 4 - 1523) (Beta Aquillia IV - Refugee Camp - Niambh McNulty - Day 4 - 1525) (Beta Aquillia IV, Refugee Camp, 2O/CSec Lt. Sanok, Day 4, 1530) (Beta Aquillia IV - Refugee Camp - Emergency Sickbay – aCMO Lt Jg Tayla Fraiser - Day 4 - 1532) (Beta Aquillia IV - Refugee Camp - Emergency Sickbay – CMO - Cmdr Josh) Caskie - Day 4 - 1535) (Beta Aquillia IV - Refugee Camp - Emergency Sickbay – ACMO Lt Jg Tayla Fraiser - Day 4 - 1541) (Beta Aquillia IV - Refugee Camp - Emergency Sickbay – CMO - Cmdr Josh Caskie - Day 4 - 1543) (Beta Aquillia IV - Refugee Camp - Emergency Sickbay – ACMO – Lt Jg Tayla Fraiser - Day 4 – 1546) (Beta Aquillia IV - Refugee Camp-Emergency Sickbay - CMO - Cmdr Josh Caskie - Day 4 - 1548) (Beta Aquillia IV – Alaya's Residence – Agent Zhinn- Day 4 -1825) (Beta Aquillia IV – Alaya's Residence – Agent Gambra - Day 4 -1828) (Beta Aquillia IV – Alaya's Residence – Lieutenant Alaya - Day 4 -1829) (Beta Aquillia IV – Alaya's Residence – Agent Zhinn- Day 4 -1832) (Beta Aquillia IV – Alaya's Residence – Gambra - Day 4 -1834) (Beta Aquillia IV – Alaya's Residence – Lt Alaya- Day 4 -1835) (Beta Aquillia IV – Alaya's Residence – Lt Alaya - Day 4 - 1840) (Beta Aquillia IV - Alaya's Residence - Agent Zhinn - Day 4 -1842) (Beta Aquillia IV – Alaya's Residence – Sergeant Gambra - Day 4 -1845) ========== (Beta Aquillia IV - CENTCOM - ACEO Lt Eian O'Neill - Day 4 - 1124) "This is O'Neill at CENTCOM, Sir. We've got four officers attempting to remove wreckage from the former roof of Sickbay. There are several people trapped underneath, and you're relatively close. The four officers have requested engineering support and they've got an engineering tech on scene. They certainly could use your expertise, Sir. They've reported several potential dangerous substances that could be released if they shift the wreckage. They'll provide you more information, Sir. Do we have your permission to beam you there?" said O'Neill =^= Matrix to O'Neill. My equipment was lost in this mess of a situation. I'd like to beam to the Rose and pickup some gear, then back to the site to help. Can you beam me to the Rose? =^= "We'll beam you up, and give them a head's up to be ready for you. Grab safety equipment while you're there and anything the crew on the ground needs. I'm requesting that they forward their list to the Rose immediately." =^= Understood. Standing by. =^= He turned to his logistics officer and nodded, and then he said, "Energize," and beamed his senior officer to the Rosenante. (posted by Morgan G.) ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV - CENTCOM - ACEO Lt Eian O'Neill - Day 4 - 1143) About twenty minutes later, Matrix contacted him again. =^= Matrix to O'Neill. I'm beaming back to the surface now with supplies. Please give relay the coordinates to the transporter chief. =^= "Already done, Sir," Eian said. "Be prepared to handle unstable surfaces upon re-materialization. Good luck." (reply none) (posted by Morgan G) ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV- Refugee Camp- Sickbay – CO, Captain Ahmed Ibn Salid - Day 4 - 1150) Viskhard looked at Salid, "Sir? Captain, whatever you need done, I'll do it." The Denobulan added. "Right now let's focus on rescue efforts, there will be time for justice later." Ahmed replied to his science officer. Blake forced a smile and then in hurried words replied, "Thankyou." Suddenly she convulsed and groaned in terrible pain. Without a moment of hesitation Ahmed reached out and pressed the code button on the monitor which for some reason had not yet sounded. The noise of the alarm filled the room. The captain then slid past the end of the bed placing himself between Viskhard and Turner as he reached over and activated the chargers for the defibrillators. While it wasn't necessary yet, it would save some time if they were ready when they were needed. "Blake!" Viskhard screamed. "Mister Viskhard, step back." Ahmed ordered and the Denobulan for his part took a single step back. There was a look of utter horror on his face. A half-second later Fraiser burst into the room, "What happened?" "Some sort of bi-rhythmic tachacardia." Ahmed replied, well outside his ability to diagnose Turners condition, "She's crashing, paddles are charging." Ahmed was vaguely aware that Viskhard was speaking, but his full attention was on Turner. "Open the door!" She ordered, and ahmed stomped on the wheel lock releases on the mobile biobed as he shifted to open the doors to the private room. "Blake, wake up" Viskhard pleaded. Salid grabbed Viskhard by the shoulders and forced him to take two more steps back to clear the path that Turner's bed would be taking out of the room. "Door open!" Ahmed called, his bridge command training taking over and repeating orders, although he rarely had to to that for others, it was an ingrained habit that he fell into naturally. "Sir, I need to get her into surgery right now." Fraiser reported as she stomped the wheel releases free on her side of the bio bed. "Don't wait for me, lieutenant." Ahmed replied, "Take her." A nurse appeared out of nowhere and friseur snapped a series of orders fore her to fulfill. Fraiser gestured to salid who stepped nearer so that the Doctor wouldn't need to shout or raise her voice. "Sir, her heart's failing. The stress and her injuries…We'll do what we can." "What are her chances?" Ahmed inquired, concerned. "If I can stabilize her, I'll send her up to the Rose and Doctor Jonson." The nurse wheeled Turner past them and into the surgical unit. "I need to get in there. Would you explain this to lieutenant Viskhard? Parker…sorry lieutenant Davis is here. If he needs support, ask him to look in on him." "I can do that." Ahmed replied, "Go. keep me advised." Alaya nodded once, "I'll contact you when I can." That's when Viskhard was suddenly overcome by the emotion of the situation. He burst from the private room on a path for the surgical suite. "Davis!" Ahmed shouted and then grabbed Viskhard as he tried to push past the CO. For a moment Ahmed was worried that the Denobulan would break free and make it into the surgical ward but fortunately Davis arrived to help Ahmed restrain Viskhard. The two forced him into a nearby chair as his energy waned. Ahmed took a step back and motioned Davis to do the same. When the counselor had joined him, Ahmed said simply and quickly, "Fraiser is in critical surgery with a failing heart. She and Visk…are…intimate." He explained. "He's taking this badly, help him will you? I have other duties to attend to." (reply Viskhard, Davis) Daniel Greene ---------- (USS Rosenante - Transporter 2, - CEO LCDR Steven Matrix - Day 4 - 1154) Matrix had gathered all the supplies and provisions he could accommodate. Standing on the transporter pad Matrix busily stowed the stray contents in whatever pocket he could fit it in. "Energize" order Matrix as he continued to pack. In 0.327 second Matrix's image on the transporter faded as the energy cycle rearranged his atoms into the transporter pattern buffers. A few moments later he materialized back on the planet. Slightly dizzy from the transportation process Matrix began to assess the situation around him. ~I'll never get used to be transported.~ he thought. (Beta Aquillia IV – Refugee Camp - CEO LCDR Steven Matrix - 1207) Matrix ran toward the area O'Neill referenced as an unstable structure and had been working there for several minutes helping to remove the rubble and shore up the structure while other rescuers attended to those trapped in the debris. Matrix counted sixteen rescued including nine children. Most of them had minor injuries, a few with severe injuries including compound fractures and lacerations. The shock wave of the blasts were the likely cause of all of the wounds. Matrix assisted in pulling out the last victim the tricorder scan found. She was a alive, scared, but appeared to be uninjured. Matrix handed her to the medics who whisked her away to the triage unit. Wiping the sweat off his forehead Matrix stood there in the middle of the chaos. Smoke still bellowed from the two craters of the massive explosions and people were busy running, shouting and attending to the victims. He stood there dumbfounded and shaking his head in disbelief. (Reply none) (Posted by Steve) ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV - Refugee Camp - Emergency Sickbay - CMO - Cmdr Josh Caskie - Day 4 - 1155) As soon as Tayla reached her she immediately began her report. “Maam, i'll have to make this brief. We have numerous blunt force trauma and burns. Broken bones and cuts also but there has been a number of more serious injuries.” Nodding Josh spoke. "More or less what I expected and what I've seen myself doctor. What have you done with the most seriously injured?" “Maam, the most seriously injured have already been transported up to the Rose and Doctor Jonson. I've got Ensign Turner being prepped for surgery at the moment.” Josh paused for a moment to mentally remind herself who Turner was and realised that she had been taking to her not long before the explosion. Feeling a shiver run down her spine at how close she had come to being at either one of the explosion sites she frowned. "Fill me in on what her condition is please." “She was caught in the explosion at the main gate. She's got a broken thigh bone that's protruding out, several second and third degree burns to her torso and her heart is struggling to cope.” Josh nodded once more and smiled at Tayla. "Bye all means then don't let me keep you from treating her. She is your patient, do whatever you think is necessary regarding her treatment." Tayla nodded her agreement and asked a final question. “ I will. Was there anything else?” Josh shook her head. "No, off you go. I'll take over in here." Looking down at her dirt streaked uniform she smiled. "Well, just as soon as I can wash up and get a clean set of scrubs." (No reply necessary. Just closing off an open reply) (Posted by Marilyn) ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV - Sickbay site - COUNS Parker Davis - Day 4 - 1158) As Turner was taken away, Viskhard lunged after her and it took the full strength of Davis and Salid to hold him back from interfering in her medical care. Eventually they were able to push him into a chair where he slumped down, his spirit broken. Out of immediate earshot, Salid said, "Fraiser is in critical surgery with a failing heart. She and Visk…are…intimate." He explained. "He's taking this badly, help him will you? I have other duties to attend to." It took Parker a moment to process what the Captain said. Tensions were high and he had heard the report that Turner was critical--it was far more likely that she was the one with the failing heart, not his girlfriend. But the way the Captain stated it...he blinked, studied the Captain's face for a moment and saw no compassion and sympathy directed at *him*, so reasoned that it truly was a misstatement. He nodded. "It's my job, Sir. I'll do my best to help him." (reply Salid iyw) Davis approached Viskhard and sat next to him. He was silent for a moment and then asked, "What are your thoughts right now?" (reply Viskhard) (posted by Morgan G) ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV - Sickbay site - ACSO Lt. Viskhard - 1200) Once they had shoved him into the chair, Viskhard had lost his fight. He didn't know what to do with himself and so he sat there, staring at nothing. Davis approached Viskhard and sat next to him. He was silent for a moment and then asked, "What are your thoughts right now?" Visk turned his eyes towards the dark-skinned counsellor. They were pure white, and any observant Denobulan would be able to tell what that meant. The silence lingered until Visk rememebered. ~He's not Denobulan.~ "I'm terrified Mister Davis, I'm terrified and angry and I may loose the woman I want to marry before I get to tell her." (repy Davis, RFM) Viskhard blinked, "I never thought I'd want to get married." (reply Davis) (posted by Lori) ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV - Sickbay site - COUNS Parker Davis - Day 4 - 1202) "I'm terrified Mister Davis," Viskhard answered. "I'm terrified and angry and I may loose the woman I want to marry before I get to tell her." The counselor nodded slowly, and said, "Those are all very understandable emotions." Viskhard blinked, "I never thought I'd want to get married." It surprised him that Viskhard wasn't already married. He understood in Denobulan cultures, it was fairly common for a man to have several wives, and marry young. But he didn't react. His job was to get Viskhard fit for duty, not necessarily counsel him as of this time. They needed every able-bodied person they could get, and if Viskhard was to confront his fears of Blake's death now, it would only make it more difficult for him to work. Instead, Parker knew, Viskhard needed a distraction. So he decided to get him to change the subject. "Why is it you didn't think you would?" (reply Viskhard) (posted by Morgan G) ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV - Sickbay site - ACSO Lt. jg Viskhard - 1203) "Why is it you didn't think you would?" The question came at Visk out of left field and he blinked. He had to sit for a moment and think. "I... I suppose to be different. I never really stood out among my siblings and as each of my brothers and sisters started finding husbands and wives, I just felt like being... well, solitary." (reply Davis) Visk looked at the counsellor, his eyes cooling a little more with each passing moment. When he spoke, it was with surprise - like he was amazed by his own answer. "Marriage on Denobula is expected, Mister Davis and it is conventional. I don't always like convention." (reply Davis) "You might say I have been married to my work," Visk tilted his head, a small smile spreading, "but even the chaos theory isn't as challenging and satisfying as a living companion." (reply Davis, any) (posted by Lori) ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV, Refugee Camp-ATAC Ensign (sg) Jessica Signos- Day 4 - 1313) It took Jessica a while to work her way though the chaos and gain access to the Centcom at the refugee camp she was glad the bombers did not think to attack the nerve center of the base. It was utter chaos inside the base most of the senior staff were off dealing with other urgent matters leaving the running of logistics of the Alpha and Bravo Centcom's in the hands of officers that most have never been in this kind of situation. The Rose lost a lot of her experienced officers in battling the Borg a few missions back. Jessica took in the situation saw the look of horror on the faces of officers before her, saw the unorganized mess the refugee camp centcom had become. "Everyone calm down think and communicate clearly." It was odd how such small delicate looking creature like Jessica could muster a voice that could be compared to a military drill instructor. A voice that commanded respect and caused the noise in the centcom to quite. With everyones attention Jessica spoke again."First, we need an inventory of what supplies we have on hand, to include what we recently have acquired from the ship... that the captain as brought with him. Second we need to know what we need and if we can aquire those reasources from the main centcom or centcom bravo. Third we need to send an update of everything we have, additional personnel that have responded, those wounded, those dead, resources and supplies, everything we have and everything we might need to Centcom bravo, main, and the Ops station on the bridge so they can accurately track the situation here." Jessica watched has the officers in the centcom went about the task she laid out it was easy to get overwhelmed by a situation like the one they were in. Get lost in the confusion, to lose one's direction. All it normally took to correct the issue was to stop a moment re-asses the situation and get back on course. That's all Jessica did, now with Centcom heading in the right direction she could get along with her task. She found the officer at the operations console. "Listen, I need a full work up on all systems in case of another attack, we were lucky those bombs did not hit anymore vital area's then what they did." The officer nodded then went about his assignment, has Jessica opened a com-line to the main centcom. "Centcom main this is Ensign Signos at Centcom alpha..." She waited till the main centcom responded before continuing. (reply Eian) Upon hearing Eian's voice Jessica mood softened it was a subtle change but one she knew he would pick up on. After the break up between the two they had avoided contact the wounds of that night still ran deep in both of their minds and hearts. "Yes," Jessica continued "I'm requesting that a full system scan of all centcom locations be conducted to be sure that these attacks on here were not only a diversion for a bigger attack else where. I know you may already be on this but if not..." She let her voice trail off knowing her point was made. Also be expecting a system update from Centcom Alpha. It should let you know where we are at over here." (reply Eian) She waited for the main centcom to respond before she closed the channel. There was a goodly deal of work to be done. (reply Eian) (posted by Matthew Locke) ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV – Refugee Camp- FO- Lt. Cmdr Ben Soma- Day 4 -1509) =/\=In a manner of speaking, yes they are commander, but it is not Habrii, it's his lieutenant. She has decided to take things into her own hands rather than allowing Habrii to do things a bit more diplomatically.=^= Came Tzorn's reply. Habrii's lieutenant was responsible for the bombing, this made Ben wonder what else this lieutenant was responsible for. "What has Habrii done in response for this?" Ben asked. =/\=President Habrii has ordered her arrest and detention in connection for ordering the bombings. He has also made some significant concessions to you. He has ordered the shelling of the Hotel stopped and he has ordered the Veil troops surrounding your camp to no longer hinder anyone that wishes to enter and seek aid with you. He has expressed his outrage and deepest sympathies to you and to the families of those injured or killed.=/\= At least that was something, now people could get to the centers unmolested and McNulty could breath a little easier knowing her hotel was no longer in danger. If Habriii had more control over his subordinates this wouldn't have happened so the families of those who were killed as a result of the bombing would take Habrii's sentiments as little comfort but it was a step in the right direction. Maybe now Habrii would be a little more receptive. "I'll pass that along to those affected but it probably won't gather any support for Habrii's cause." Ben said. =/\=There is more commander.=/\= Tzorn replied and then paused. Ben wondered what was to follow. "Please continue Ambassador." Ben prompted. =/\=I am in a position and of an inclination to render you aide. I can arrange a communication with your Ambassador and also believe that President Habrii is surprised by the abduction of the Skorr Ambassador. He has made it clear to me that he ordered the Ambassador deported only and was surprised to learn that he had not returned to his people.=/\= Tzorn stated. Ben got the impression that Tzorn was acting against his will from their meeting earlier, but this still came as a surprise to him. "Any aide you can offer would be appreciated Ambassador." Ben replied. =/\=I will do what I can to help you find him, but there is a price for my services.=/\= Of course, there was always a catch wasn't there. "And that would be?" Ben inquired. That wasn't something Ben could grant, it would have to be cleared with the Captain first. "I'll see what I can arrange." Ben replied. "I'll have to speak with my superiors before I can grant your request." =/\=In return I will make certain that you receive either Alaya, should she survive her capture attempt, so that she can be interrogated or if that is not possible, I will help you locate and gain access to those responsible for deporting the Skorr Ambassador.=/\= "Perhaps you can be persuaded to do both." Ben said. "Contact me again in an hour." (reply Tzorn iyw) When Ben had finished speaking with Tzorn he tapped his combadge to contact Salid. "Soma to Salid." He said. "Ambassador Tzorn is willing to help us if we grant him asylum, he tells me Alaya was responsible for the recent attacks and not Habrii." (reply Salid) "I think he's telling the truth Captain." Ben said. "From our previous meeting I got the impression that he was not working for the Veil by choice. He says he can arrange communication with Ambassador Turner and give us Alaya or those responsible for the Skorr Ambassadors abduction." (reply Salid) "We may be able to convince him to do both, that is provided Alaya survives her capture." (reply Salid) (posted by Milo Young) ---------- Beta Aquillia IV – Capital City- Ambassador Tzorn- Day 4 -1510) =^=Perhaps you can be persuaded to do both.=^= Soma replied, =^=Contact me again in an hour=^= "Certainly I will speak to you then." Tzorn replied although he wondered why he was agreeing to play such a dangerous game. As the line closed the ambassador allowed himself to deflate his chest so that he could let all the gathered tensions could seep through the pore of his flesh. He rotated the chair he sat in, a Graz leather number imported from the federation. It was custom built specifically for his body form and it was the very first thing that he had purchased after he had been named Ambassador to the federation nearly thirty years ago. His law office was still covered with dust cloths to protect against unwanted dirt and decay and he had not used them for a very long time. The spines of his antiquated legal library was covered with spiders webs and dust particles that persistently refused to abandon the shelves. What had happened to allow all this madness to come into being? Was it the government? Was it the Federation? or was it something unseen and undiscovered that had overturned the world that he had given so much of his life to? He dropped the Federation commbadge onto his desk top and opened the top drawer of his desk. There he withdrew a small metal case. He placed it on the desk before him and firmly pressed his thumbprint against the surface of the embedded scanner. A moment later the top of the case popped open with a distinct click. He lifted the hinged lid and reached inside to withdraw his disruptor. He checked the charge and satisfied, he slipped the compact weapon into his jacket pocket. If things were going to get dangerous, he wanted to make certain he was prepared. He turned to his desktop console and raised the screen. Almost immediately the image of a younger man appeared. The emblem of the Secret police behind him was the only clue giving his location away. =^=Uncle=^= the man replied, =^=Why are you calling me here? You know it's not safe.=^= "I know," Tzorn replied, "we need to meet, sooner rather than later. Can you meet me at the Island?" His nephew's eyes narrowed. =^=Yes. when?=^= "Ten minutes" =^=Slig! Not much warning.=^= the man protested. "I know, but the situation is dire. I need your help." =^= Ten minutes then.=^= the man agreed and then he reached over and cut off the channel. (reply none) Daniel Greene ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV- Refugee Camp- CO, Captain Ahmed Ibn Salid - Day 4- 1512) Ahmed had finished his unescorted tour of the refugee camp, speaking with Caskie, O'Neill, Matrix and Sanok on the situation. Things were bleak, but not unmanageable, although had the damages been more extensive the aftermath might well have been all that they could handle. The devastation as bad as it was could have been much worse. Of course his people had responded exceptionally quickly and efficiently despite the chaos and it reminded Ahmed exactly why it was that he had the best crew in the entire fleet. It was all he could do to handle the flood of feelings that were threatening to overcome him. Anger, failure, rage, sympathy, pity. These were just some of the emotions that were struggling to come to the surface. There was so much needless injury and destruction against a people that had done nothing to deserve such harsh treatment. He wanted revenge, or at least justice, but was bound by orders to only minimally interfere here. It was made very clear that he was not to take any part in the political arena. He was not to work for a particular outcome where the governance of this world was concerned, and as long as that was the case, he would not be able to bring those people to justice. It was a difficult position to be in. As it was just beaming the most critical Aquillian patients to the ship or off the planet was an act against orders. he had been ordered not to evacuate any Aquillians from the planet under any circumstances. For one of the few times in his life, he found his own morals and his duty to his orders in opposition. In this aspect he allowed his morals to win and had authorized the transport of Aquillians off the surface if they were in need of immediate life-saving medical attention. Ahmed spotted an engineer struggling to overturn a piece of debris laying atop one of the mobile generators. He stepped forward and grabbed the debris. The crewman stepped back quickly and came to attention, "Captain.' he said. "Carry on, crewman. Let's get this off the generator." Ahmed said. "Aye sir." he replied and the two men pushed the debris free of the device. "There you go all done." Ahmed commented. "Thank you sir." "You're welcome." Ahmed replied and turned to find Soma. He didn't have to wait for long. =^= Soma to Salid.=^= "Salid here." Ahmed replied with a tap of his commbadge. =^=Ambassador Tzorn is willing to help us if we grant him asylum, he tells me Alaya was responsible for the recent attacks and not Habrii.=^= "Do you think he's on the level?" Ahmed asked. =^=I think he's telling the truth Captain.=^= Ben said. =^=From our previous meeting I got the impression that he was not working for the Veil by choice. He says he can arrange communication with Ambassador Turner and give us Alaya or those responsible for the Skorr Ambassadors abduction.=^= "What do you think of his offer?" Ahmed replied. "Can he pull it off?" =^=We may be able to convince him to do both, that is provided Alaya survives her capture.=^= Ahmed nodded, knowing full well that Ben couldn't see him. His mind was a whirl with possibilities. "Okay, we'll proceed. It looks like things are settling down and the most critical needs are being dealt with efficiently. I asked Ambassador Dralar a short while ago for Skorr security forces to be sent down to supplement our own. He has greed and we should have skorr troops on the ground to help us with security within the next two hours. But before that i want to hold a quick sit-rep briefing. Have all the senior staff able to do so report. have them place their operations into the hands of their junior officers unless there simply is no one that can handle the situation. At the very least I want everyone involved by video conference." (reply Soma) "We'll assemble at the central supply depot. There is an operations structure there that has an open meeting space. Let's call it at 1630 hours. Ask Miss McNulty to to join us." (reply Soma) Daniel Greene ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV- Refugee Camp- FO, Lt. Cmdr Ben Soma - Day 4- 1514) =/\=Okay, we'll proceed. It looks like things are settling down and the most critical needs are being dealt with efficiently. I asked Ambassador Dralar a short while ago for Skorr security forces to be sent down to supplement our own. He has greed and we should have skorr troops on the ground to help us with security within the next two hours. But before that i want to hold a quick sit-rep briefing. Have all the senior staff able to do so report. have them place their operations into the hands of their junior officers unless there simply is no one that can handle the situation. At the very least I want everyone involved by video conference.=/\= Extra security would certainly be welcomed, it would free some of the starfleet personnel up to get to the bottom of the mysterious exploding shuttle. Ben hoped for the Veil's sake they didn't try anything around the Skorr, they'd likely regret it very quickly and that regret would likely be short lived. "The added security would make things a little easier for us." Ben said. "I'll relay the message about the briefing, what location and time did you have in mind?" =/\=We'll assemble at the central supply depot. There is an operations structure there that has an open meeting space. Let's call it at 1630 hours. Ask Miss McNulty to to join us.=/\= Came the reply. "I'll see to it Captain." Ben replied. After Ben was through speaking with Salid he tapped his combadge again. "Soma to all senior Rosenante Officers, Captain Salid has requested a sit-rep briefing at 1630 hours." He stated. "Where ever possible pass your current duties off to one of your junior officers and rendezvous at the central supply depot. If you cannot hand off your duties set up and video comlink to the depot, this way you'll be kept in the loop and we'll have the benefit of your direct input." (reply senior officers iyw) With that done Ben went in search of Niambh, the Captain had requested her presence during the briefing. He couldn't help but wonder if she would make any further advances, previously she seemed interested but it was possible he had read to much into the situation. When he had located her moved up beside her. "Ms. McNulty." He said. "Captain Salid would like you to join us for a briefing at 1630 hours, it seems we've managed to stem the tide as it were. You'll be happy to know Habrii has ordered the shelling of your hotel to be stopped." (reply McNulty) (posted by Milo Young) ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV, Refugee Camp, 2O/CSec Lt. Sanok, Day 4, 1517) A call came to the senior officers from Ben, announcing a meeting with the captain in just over an hour. =^=If you cannot hand off your duties, set up a video comm-link to the depot. This way, you'll be kept in the loop, and we'll have the benefit of your direct input.=^= Sanok tapped his comm badge and acknowledged the order. Tapping it again, he made a call himself. "Sanok to Signos. Please come to the main gate as soon as you are able." After Signos responded and the channel was closed, Sanok found Ensign Bauer and asked for an update. "Things are still going slowly, sir. We freed more people, but it's going to take time to find everyone. There haven't been anymore deaths, which is a relief." "Continue to do the best you can. At 1630, I will be meeting with the captain and senior staff for a meeting. Ensign Signos will be in command here while I am gone. After the meeting, if I am able to do so, I am going to the sabotaged shuttle to conduct an investigation." Bauer nodded. "Sir, with so much to do here, is it possible to beam down from the ship, any equipment or machines we may have, that can lift and move the heavy debris? It would be a big help." Sanok wondered inwardly why no one had thought of that sooner. "I will mention it at the meeting." "Thank you, sir." Bauer left and went back to work. Moving back to the main gate, Sanok resumed helping to check in the refugees that were continuing to flow into the camp. It was going to be a long day. (reply Signos, any) (posted by Bob B.) ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV - Refugee Camp - Emergency Sickbay - CMO - Josh Caskie - Day 4 - 1518) Josh was in the middle of setting a broken arm for a crewman who had been too near, but thankfully not near enough Sickbay as it collapsed to be seriously injured. The wounded arriving were beginning to sort themselves into a pattern that she recognised. Initially you got the walking wounded and those furthest away from the damage. Then you started to get the slightly more seriously wounded, then the most and then again the less severely injured who had stayed to help and had to be coaxed by their friends and colleagues to seek treatment and finally you got the dead. They were more or less at stage 4 now and Josh was treating a series of minor injuries and not looking forward to stage 5 at all. Making sure that the cast she had just put on his arm was stable she patted him on the shoulder. "You should be fine now, make sure you see someone from Medical in the morning and," she paused, "if you intend to go back to help out, make sure that you don't use that arm. You can do other things rather than dig in the debris. Distribute food, water and blankets, help Centcomm, I'm sure they could do with the help. Just no moving great chucks of debris. OK?" Watching him nod as he left she was about to turn the her next patient when her comm badge chirped. =/\= Soma to all senior Rosenante Officers, Captain Salid has requested a sit-rep briefing at 1630 hours. Where ever possible pass your current duties off to one of your junior officers and rendezvous at the central supply depot. If you cannot hand off your duties set up and video com link to the depot, this way you'll be kept in the loop and we'll have the benefit of your direct input. =/\= Tapping her badge she replied. "Caskie here Sir. I'll make sure I'm there. We have enough medical personnel here for us to manage now, however Lt Fraiser is in surgery at present operating on Ensign Blake and I have no idea how long she will be. I will have someone set up a video com link if necessary but I can't guarantee that she will be available. Caskie out." With that Josh checked the time and beckoned her next patient forward. (Reply Soma iyw) (Posted by Marilyn) ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV – Capital City- "The Island" Ambassador Tzorn- Day 4 -1519) The Island, as Tzorn and his nephew had long ago termed it was not an actual island as one would define them. It was instead, a place of relative calm set in the busy heart of the city center, where the hustle of people and materials created a sort of sea of motion. In contract the Island was a central geometric figure that stood motionlessly at the center of the busy square. It took it's nickname from a conversation between Tzorn and his nephew Tzir, where the statue was referred to as 'An Island of order in a sea of chaos" Later it had become their secret password for this location, especially since his nephew had joined the secret police. Tzorn stood looking at the once gleaming Tritanium sculpture correctly titled "Starward". It had been defaced by members of the veil, covered in gauche painted graffiti slanders against out worlders and politicos of the old regime. He remembered when it had been dedicated. It was a monument to the first trade agreement between the Federation and the Aquillians established thirty years prior. He had negotiated that agreement and in a way it's defacement mirrored his own desperate situation. "Uncle" Tzir's voice sounded behind him suddenly, making the older man jerk in surprise. "You can't sneak up on me" Tzorn chided, "I'm too old for that these days." Tzir just stepped beside his uncle and nodded. "We're all getting too old these days." he replied. "I didn't expect to see you after the fall of the government." he added. "I didn't expect to be here, honestly." Tzorn responded, "I would rather have died peacefully in my bed than see this… debacle of a revolution succeed." Tzir just nodded. "Things are dangerous for me these days. If my loyalty is called into question with the Veil, they will make me disappear." It was Tzorn's turn to nod. "I understand. And thank you." "Thank you? for what?" Tzir asked in response. "For protecting me when the coup took place. I know you held sone sway in the decision not to have me rounded up and executed as a traitor to the cause." "Yes, well you are family. The last family I have anymore." Tzorn nodded slowly. "You need my help?" Tzir asked. "What do you need?" "I need you to set up a secret communication between the Federation and their Ambassador." "Slig!" Tzir cursed under his breath. "You're not asking for much." "I know, believe me I know. But if we can't do this, there will be a war with the Federation. And we both know there will be a very one-sided and terrible conflict." "Yes. but… Alaya…" "Don't worry about her. You've heard about the bombings?" "Of course, hasn't everyone?" "She was responsible." "I thought as much." "She being arrest, Habrii has ordered her supporters rounded up as well. You can use it as a cover to arrest her loyalists at the compound." Tzorn explained. "I suppose it could work, but it could get nasty." "Yes. That is why I came to you. I know you will do what needs to be done. That's why you infiltrated the Veil almost a year ago. your intelligence was immeasurable." "It didn't prevent the coup." Tzir said bitterly Tzorn sighed, "No it did not, but it definitely slowed it down. Without your help it would have happened sooner rather than later." The man nodded, "yes I suppose so." "Yes. but I will need some time." "We haven't much. I am supposed to contact the Federation in less than an hour." "Slig!" Tzir cursed again, "Why not make things difficult. It will be rushed and I have to set up relays. I can't have any of the Veil posts tracing back the signal. Or the Federation for that matter, it will cause unimaginable damage to our resistance movement." "I know. Can you do it?" "I'll arrange something. I know some people that work well under pressure. I need to go though if this is going to happen." Tzir added, his tone short and focused. "Go my nephew." Tzorn said and he wrapped his arms around his relative and gave him a hug. Tzir returned it. "Don't worry for me Uncle. I will die a hero if I die." "You are already a hero Tzir. Never forget that." Tzir took a step back and turned. Within a few moments he was engulfed by the crowds of people and vehicles moving through the square. Tzorn turned his eyes upward, where he could almost imagine the Federation starship floating overhead. (reply none) Daniel Greene ---------- (Beta Aquilla IV - Disaster Site LT. Tom Jackson COPS 1520) Tom was taking a rest from search and rescue duties when his comm badge cane to life. "Soma to all senior Rosenante Officers,Captain Salid has requested a sit-rep briefing at 1630 hours.Where ever possible pass your current duties off to one of your junior officers and rendezvous at the central supply depot. If you cannot hand off your duties set up a video comlink to the depot,this way you'll be kept in the loop and we'll have the benefit of your direct input." Tom tapped his comm badge and acknowledged Soma's orders with " Jackson here Commander Understood". Tom waited for Ben's acknowledgement. (Reply: Soma IYW) He and an ops petty officer had been working pretty steadily. Tom tossed the enlisted man a combat ration to eat. Both were starving and things had calmed down enough to rat. Tom was thinking of the little girl who had died in his arms, of his little babies Hope and Jacoband of Dahlia. He hopes fervently they'd get some leave. (Reply: None) (Posted by: Bill W.) ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV - Refugee Camp - Niambh McNulty - Day 4 - 1521) Niambh, having no special skills had simply elected to help move the rubble in the search for injured people. She was hot, sweaty and tired. Not to mention extremely dirty and vastly in need of a hot bath, a hot meal and a very large glass of Bushmills. Realising that a shadow had fallen over her she merely assumed that someone had come to help and, tucking a wayward strand of her hair behind her ears she carried on trying to dislodge a large piece of a metal strut that was hindering her moving anything else. It wasn't until she looked up that she realised that it was the Rose's FO who was standing behind her. "Ms. McNulty." Captain Salid would like you to join us for a briefing at 1630 hours, it seems we've managed to stem the tide as it were. You'll be happy to know Habrii has ordered the shelling of your hotel to be stopped." Looking up at him she wiped the sweat from her forehead with a dirty hand no doubt leaving a streak of grey across the top of her face. But she smiled up at him. "It's Ben, isn't it? I'm sorry but Commander seems just so darn formal amongst all this chaos. Thank your Captain for me and tell him that I would be honoured to join you. As for the shelling. I hadn't noticed to be honest, but thank goodness for small mercies." Continuing to regard him she realised that she had no idea where the briefing was to take place, so, smiling sweetly at Ben she asked him. "Just one final think Ben. Where is the briefing being held and do you think it would help if I brought David?" (Reply Soma) (Posted by Marilyn) ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV, Refugee Camp-ATAC Ensign (sg) Jessica Signos- Day 4 - 1522) =/\= Sanok to Signos. Please come to the main gate as soon as you are able. =/\= "I'm on my way." Jessica spoke into the headset, as she made her way from the centcom station to the main gate. It did not take long for her to find Sanok. Walking up to Sanok's side "Signos reporting in Sir." (reply Sanok) (posted by Matthew Locke) ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV - Refugee Camp - FO- LT. Cmdr Ben Soma - Day 4 - 1523) "It's Ben, isn't it? I'm sorry but Commander seems just so darn formal amongst all this chaos. Thank your Captain for me and tell him that I would be honored to join you. As for the shelling. I hadn't noticed to be honest, but thank goodness for small mercies." She had a point, formalities did seem a little out of place considering what was happening around them but for Ben it was the norm. If she preferred to use his first name opposed to his rank who was he to argue, she was a civilian not affiliated to any military he was aware of. "Ben would be fine Ms. McNulty." Ben replied. "And yes, thank god for small mercies." "Just one final think Ben. Where is the briefing being held and do you think it would help if I brought David?" She inquired. Ben's commbadge chimed then interrupting them, Ben held up his hand gesturing he needed a moment. =/\=Caskie here Sir. I'll make sure I'm there. We have enough medical personnel here for us to manage now, however Lt Fraiser is in surgery at present operating on Ensign Blake and I have no idea how long she will be. I will have someone set up a video com link if necessary but I can't guarantee that she will be available. Caskie out.=/\= "Understood Doctor." Ben replied. Then Tom's voice came across the line. =/\= Jackson here Commander Understood =/\= Ben still needed to speak with Tom, there was some friction between them that needed to be addressed but now wasn't the time. When they were finished on BA4 he would speak with his friend and see what was bothering him. "Acknowledged." Ben replied. Turning back to McNulty he said. "Sorry about that, the breifing will be at the central supply depot. If you think David can add anything I'm sure the Captain would be happy to listen to what he has to say." (reply McNulty, any) (posted by Milo Young) ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV - Refugee Camp - Niambh McNulty - Day 4 - 1525) "Sorry about that, the briefing will be at the central supply depot. If you think David can add anything I'm sure the Captain would be happy to listen to what he has to say." Nodding Niambh smiled up at Ben. "I'll find him and if he thinks he has anything to add I'm sure he would be more than willing to attend. Thank you Ben. I'll see you later." Watching him walk away Niambh shook her head. She was reminded of something that David had said about people walking around with their head in the clouds and not really paying attention to the ground in front of them. Ben she thought might just be one of these people. Maybe, she thought, it had something to do with being in Starfleet. They swoop in to fix a situation and then they swoop out again once the panic was over. Maybe they had just stopped seeing the ground. What ever it was Ben certainly didn't seem to be paying any attention to her signals or, she thought, ~maybe your just losing your touch girl and he isn't interested.~ A smile crossed Niambh's face at that thought. ~Ah well, the chase is most of the fun anyway.~ Standing up and dusting herself off she went to find David. (No reply needed) (posted by Marilyn) ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV, Refugee Camp, 2O/CSec Lt. Sanok, Day 4, 1530) Sanok saw Signos coming and waited for her to reach him. "Signos reporting in, sir." Sanok nodded. "The captain and FO are holding a briefing in an hour. I was going to have you remain in charge here while I attended. However, I have since learned assistants are to attend as well. Help here at the entrance, and when it is time for the briefing, we will go together." (no reply necessary) (posted by Bob B.) ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV - Refugee Camp - Emergency Sickbay – aCMO Lt Jg Tayla Fraiser - Day 4 - 1532) Walking out of the surgical bay, Tayla wiped a bead of sweat from her eyes and sighed heavily. She had seen injuries like this during the war but this was peacetime and it had shaken her. For once, since she had had her implant fitted, she was glad that she couldn’t feel the emotions of this place. It would overwhelm her. As she walked through the temporary sickbay, the sights that were still there chilled her. Small children hanging onto their parents, women and men weeping over their beloveds. She needed to get out. Half jogging, half walking she finally reached the exit and stepped out into the sun. The weather was cooling as the evening began to set in. Finding a small spot, she plonked herself down and held her head in her hands. Taking a deep breath, she tried to clear her mind of the images and the tension in the air. Suddenly, a dark shadow fell over her and she looked up into the eyes of Commander Caskie, (Reply Caskie) Shaking her head, she replied, “I will be, i just need a moment to gather myself.” (Reply Caskie) “Can i be honest, Josh?” (Reply Caskie) “I’m glad i have this.” she replied and moved the hair to reveal the implant behind the base of her left ear. (Reply Caskie, Any) (Posted by Jackie Smith) ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV - Refugee Camp - Emergency Sickbay – CMO - Cmdr Josh) Caskie - Day 4 - 1535) Josh had watched Tayla finish her surgery and simply walk out the door. Desperate to follow her Josh knew that she had to check up on Tayla's patient first so making her way to the surgery suite she stopped the first person she saw and asked them for a sit rep. "Sir, it went really well. We had to install a pacemaker since the Enign's heart showed signs of arthymia. Once the pacemaker took over the Ensign immediately began to recover and Dr Frasier had her beamed up to the Rose Sickbay." Nodding in agreement Josh thanked him, reminded him to write up his notes, since these were always the first thing that seemed to go missing on off world missions and finally followed the lieutenant out the door. Josh could see her shadow covering Tayla as the sun began to set over her shoulder in the background. Talking a moment to watch it Josh smiled and spoke to Tayla. I always enjoy sunsets and sunrises. Both of them are a promise I think." Resting a hand on Tayla's shoulder Josh sighed. "Tayla I need you up and running again. If not you need to return to the Rose. Now if you need to I can have you escort our urgent patients up, but knowing you I don't think you would care for this, would you?" Shaking her head, she replied, “I will be, i just need a moment to gather myself.” Can i be honest, Josh?” Josh sighed since she wasn't entirely sure what was coming next. "Go ahead Lt. I've never punished anyone for being honest with me." “I’m glad i have this.” she replied and moved the hair to reveal the implant behind the base of her left ear. Josh's face finally split into a grin. "I'm glad you finally feel comfortable with it Tayla. I understand that you might be having problems with what is going on around you, but to be honest your care of Ensign Blake was exemplary. I know that you feel that you need a break, to be honest we all do." "You know about our Command Meeting shortly. I need you there, but as soon as that is over you can take some down time. The only think I would ask you to do between now and then is find out who has been working mega hours and organise down time rota for all of them. Have it ready for the meeting and be ready to bring it up. After that we will run it on a rota basis Four hours sleep, four hours meals etc and then four hours work. Get on it and let me know what you come up with." (Reply Tayla) (Posted by Marilyn) ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV - Refugee Camp - Emergency Sickbay – ACMO Lt Jg Tayla Fraiser - Day 4 - 1541) "You know about our Command Meeting shortly. I need you there, but as soon as that is over you can take some down time. The only think I would ask you to do between now and then is find out who has been working mega hours and organise down time rota for all of them. Have it ready for the meeting and be ready to bring it up. After that we will run it on a rota basis Four hours sleep, four hours meals etc and then four hours work. Get on it and let me know what you come up with." Josh asked. Smiling, Tayla regarded the woman before her and nodded, “That i can do. I think that i would like to go up to the Rose just to make sure Ensign Turner is okay in Sickbay. As you said, she is my patient after all. That and i think Lieutenant Viskhard would have my head if i didn’t check in on her.” (reply Caskie) Tayla laughed a little and said, “I’ll be back down for the meeting. With a working rota for the medical staff at the very least.” Pausing for a moment, Tayla lowered her eyes a second and then said, “Josh, i can’t thankyou enough for everything that you’ve done for me. You had faith in me when others wouldn’t have looked at me twice. Thankyou.” (Reply Caskie) Grinning widely, Tayla nodded once more and said, “Right. I should get up and check on Miss Turner. Is there anything you think we need that i can bring back?” (Reply Caskie, Any) (Posted by Jackie Smith) ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV - Refugee Camp - Emergency Sickbay – CMO - Cmdr Josh Caskie - Day 4 - 1543) “That I can do. I think that I would like to go up to the Rose just to make sure Ensign Turner is okay in Sickbay. As you said, she is my patient after all. That and I think Lieutenant Viskhard would have my head if I didn’t check in on her.” Josh smiled slightly. "Whilst I do understand Lt Viskhard's concerns regarding Ensign Turner, never ever base what you should do next on how much a relative or a friend of your patient is pushing you. They are not relevant, your patient is and is the only relevant thing. Now if you indeed feel that you need to go up to the Rose to check on Blake, then by all means do so. If you feel that you need a small break and are using this as a reason, then by all means do so. I have never had an objection to anyone in my sickbay taking a break from a bad situation since I believe that everyone needs one. I would however prefer that you simply told me the truth and said that you needed a break rather than making up a reason." "If however Lt Viskhard is pushing you regarding Ensign Blake then I would prefer that you tell me since I would not be happy to see that happen and there are various ways that we in the medical department can head this off without resorting to taking it to our Command Staff and making it official. We could decide that his next medical happened to co-incide with his next down time at a Starbase for one and Kitty is well versed already in running the most thorough medical exams I have ever come across. In fact, if I remember there was one that ran for almost ten hours since his blood sample kept telling us he was Romulan. Turns out eventually that he wasn't. The padd had been wrongly calibrated, but, what could poor Kitty do but keep trying." Tayla laughed a little and said, “I’ll be back down for the meeting. With a working rota for the medical staff at the very least.” Pausing for a moment, Tayla lowered her eyes a second and then said, “Josh, I can’t thank you enough for everything that you’ve done for me. You had faith in me when others wouldn’t have looked at me twice. Thank you.” Josh smiled at Tayla. "See that you do Tayla since we will need it for the senior staff meeting. "You screwed up big time on our last mission. I haven't forgotten that and neither has the Captain. I don't want you to forget it either. Your lucky to get a second chance, use it and prove to us that you are the officer we both think you can be. Do you take my meaning. No screw ups Tayla. Do your job and do it right first time . OK. Don't get sidetracked onto something else no matter how important it seems to you without at least bringing it to me first. That way I can at least cover your ass if I need to. Anyway we'll speak more about this later ok. For now go back to the Rose, check on Turner and possibly you might want to shower. You're pretty fragrant after your stint in surgery." Grinning widely, Tayla nodded once more and said, “Right. I should get up and check on Miss Turner. Is there anything you think we need that I can bring back?” Josh thought for a moment before allowing a wide grin to split her face. ".Decent food. Decent coffee and tea. Clean water, lots and lots of it and an entire Starbase Sickbay to do the autopsies. Grinning Josh paused for a moment. "What the heck. Just bring the entire Starbase . We could all do with a break. Seriously the first four are necessary. We need fresh food and water for the entire camp . Run that past Ops, the will probably be working on it already and it might be a good idea to have some fresh food set out for the meeting at the Central Suppy Depot too. Other than that, just whatever you think we need." (Reply Tayla) (Posted by Marilyn) ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV - Refugee Camp - Emergency Sickbay – ACMO – Lt Jg Tayla Fraiser - Day 4 – 1546) “We need fresh food and water for the entire camp . Run that past Ops, the will probably be working on it already and it might be a good idea to have some fresh food set out for the meeting at the Central Suppy Depot too. Other than that, just whatever you think we need." Nodding, Tayla replied simply, “I can certainly do that. If it’s one thing my mother taught me, it was how to play the good hostess.” (Reply Caskie) Standing tall now, Tayla gazed around her for a moment and then said, “I’ll go seek out Lt Raschen. I believe he should be able to assist me with what I need. That and I think it’s about time I finally met the Quartermaster.” (Reply Caskie) Tapping her combadge, Tayla said, =/\= Fraiser to Transporter room, one to beam up.=/\= (reply Caskie) (posted by Jackie) ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV - Refugee Camp - Emergency Sickbay - CMO - Cmdr Josh Caskie - Day 4 - 1548) Nodding, Tayla replied simply, “I can certainly do that. If it’s one thing my mother taught me, it was how to play the good hostess.” Nodding Josh replied. "Wonderful, but I'm not interviewing you for my social secretary. So just go do it please." "To be honest, I'm thinking of sandwiches and lots and lots of coffee and tea, fruit juice and anything else you can think of to drink or eat. I'm fairly sure that Ops along with our Quartermaster who is in charge of this and Tradewinds should be able to fulfill all your needs." "As far as I am concerned you are indeed capable of doing this. You have my permission to request what you need within reason." Standing tall now, Tayla gazed around her for a moment and then said, “I’ ll go seek out Lt Raschen. I believe he should be able to assist me with what I need. That and I think it’s about time I finally met the Quartermaster.” Josh simply shook her head and grinned. Walking back into the medical centre she headed off to find a clean set of scrubs, but turning back to Tayla smiled. "Good luck with that." (No reply needed) (Posted by Marilyn) ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV – Alaya's Residence – Agent Zhinn- Day 4 - 1825) Zhinn knelt behind a small copse of Burrowbark trees that were clustered around the outside edge of Alaya's ancestral family residence. It had taken him and his team some time to locate the property, since the the traitor had managed to purge the property records from the main government databases. But Zhinn was very good at finding people and so here he was. The remote scans detected at least four bodyguards and possibly more hidden away by dampening field within the confines of the property. His teams had effectively cordoned off the property, and as a backup had added a perimeter of local police and military personnel at 1 keton and three ketons from this location. In order for the woman to escape, she'd have to fight her way past the specially trained teams sent to capture her, through a perimeter manned by battle-hardened military and then through the paramilitary civilian police force. In short, three layers of containment, all three potentially deadly. NRPG: A keno is a measure of distance, one keno is equal to approximately 0.75 kilometers He activated the Heads-up display located in his riot helmet and scanned the perimeter of the property. All was abnormally quiet, and other than the detected movement within the confines of the building. The crisp click of the rapid assault and tactics teams checking in as the reached their assault ready positions clicked over his earpiece. There was no voice, just in case Alaya had somehow managed to crack the signal. He looked over at his team sniper and gave him the nod, then Zhinn clicked his own signaler three times rapidly, it was the go signal. (reply Alaya, All presidential security and/or Bodyguards) Daniel Greene ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV – Alaya's Residence – Agent Gambra - Day 4 -1828) Gambra was positioned near a small hedge. In the dimming light his suit adapted to the lessening light in effect 'cloaking' him. He struggled to focus his thoughts. Tremayn had him secure the presidential co.pounds and round up Ayala's loyalists. He had hated doing that but he followed orders. His military training had many different aspects. He was a small weapons expert and a fair shot with assault weapons. He heard the click signifying all were set. Gambra tensed - he wondered if the off worlders ever had doubts. (Reply: None) (Posted by: Bill W.) ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV – Alaya's Residence – Lieutenant Alaya - Day 4 -1829) Silence. As Alaya’s eyes flittered open, her brain registered no noise in the house. Sitting up suddenly, she glanced out of the window and saw that it had grown dark. Taking a good look around from her vantage point, there seemed to be nothing moving outside but because she knew that they would come for her and she knew who Habrii would send, she kept watch. After a moment, she caught a flash. A light reflecting in the dark and she stood. They had come. Clenching her fists together, she ran to the cabinet in the room and opened the door, saying a silent prayer that her departed parents had left the room exactly as it had been. Reaching into the cabinet, she felt for her old hiding place and sighed happily that it had not been discovered and removed the carefully wrapped package that was inside. Turning, knowing she had precious little time, she unwrapped the items faster than she would have done normally and smiled. Lying on the bed before her was her ancestral short blade. An ornate item that had been in the family for generations and that she had become profficent in using. Alongside it lay her small disruptor pistol. Fixing the pistol to the holster hidden in the small of her back, she picked up the blade and approached the door. Listening for a moment before she opened the door, she caught a noise. A thump on a floor downstairs and knew that they were in the house. Footsteps soon followed, heading in her direction. Closing her eyes, she sighed and then opened them again. The disappointment replaced by anger at these intruders in her family home. Waiting, she heard several men begin to search the rooms on the first floor, getting closer and closer to her location. Then a singular set of footsteps approached the door. Taking a step back, Alaya placed her hand on the handle gently and waited. The door handle turned and she moved with the door as it opened, keeping herself behind it. As the man began to enter the room, she forced all her weight against the door, knocking him backwards. Barging through, she flew straight into him, knocking him into the next room. Snaking an arm around his neck, she pulled him infront of her and growled in his ear, “Don’t move. Don’t say a word or I swear that I will snap your neck like a twig.” Removing the man’s helmet, she said, “Rifle. On the floor. Slow.” He did as she asked. Tightening her grip on his neck, she whispered, “I am sorry. I truly am.” With one swift movement, she struck the back of his neck with the hilt of her blade, knocking him unconscious. Looking down at the now prone form, Alaya felt the anger rise within her but she knew she had to be smart. Removing the man's tactical helmet, she pulled it on and called up the display. Sighing as she saw the amount of interlopers in her family home, she activated the comm system within the helmet and said, “Gentlemen, leave this place now.” (Reply Zhinn) Smiling, she replied, “Zhinn. So it's come to this. Back down.” (Reply Zhinn) Moving to the door, Alaya regarded the display that showed her where the troops were and noted the positions of the ones on this floor. “You were never able to best me in combat, Zhinn. I'm on home turf. What makes you think you will do so now?” (Reply Zhinn) As he spoke, she removed the helmet, held the phaser rifle to her side and peered out from the door. Nothing moved in the corridor outside. Setting the phaser to stun, she crept along the corridor. Opening one door to her left, she fired two shots and heared the two mens' bodies fall to the ground. Knowing that the noise of the shots would bring them to her, she positioned herself behind the door and waited. (Reply Zhinn) (Posted by Jackie Smith) ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV – Alaya's Residence – Agent Zhinn- Day 4 - 1832) Movement across the lawn of the estate was an easy affair and the teams had made the open ground in record time. The specialists had breached the house in near perfect silence, and with the help of their snipers had been guided directly to the four bodyguards that were attempting to protect their target. They had been taken down quickly and silently, stunned by stun batons before they could even make a sound. Still there was no reason to make things harder than they needed to be and Zhinn had ordered the lower level of the house thoroughly searched for any additional unwanted personnel. Finding none, they then headed up stairs. The building was a traditional Aquillian design, large open rooms at the top of the stairs, which branched off into two corridors that ran along the outside perimeter of the larger open landing way. These corridors in turn connected the various sleeping chambers and multipurpose functional rooms that were set up there. Alaya's family had been wealthy once and the appointment of the landing room, where close friends and family would be entertained showed it. They didn't know exactly which of the rooms she had taken refuge within, but Zhinn knew that there was nowhere else for her to be. She was most certainly in one of those rooms. He had designated the search teams to make a sweep, slow and methodical. then it seems someone failed to stay in their predetermined team, because there was a loud bang and then sudden silence. A moment later Alaya's voice sounded over the tactical channel. =^=Gentlemen leave this place now.=^= the voice was low and steady. She was prepared to fight, it was a tone that he knew well. Cursing under his breath for a moment, Zhinn went through his mental options. The first thing he did was isolate the tactical helmet that she was using and prepare to shut it down, so she wouldn't be able to track all of his men. Then he answered her. "You know I can't do that Aya." he said, using his pet name for her. "I can't let you out of this house without either being in custody or dead. I would prefer in custody, for old times sake. Don't make this harder than it has to be Aya. Give yourself up." =^= Zhinn, So it's come to this. Back down.=^= Zhinn shifted to where he could see the majority of the back hallway. Rifle ready. =^=You were never able to best me in combat, Zhinn. I'm on home turf. What makes you think you will do so now?=^= She baited. "I'm not alone Aya, and even you have limits. I'll rip down your family home if I have to, it would make it easier to drag you from under the rubble if you force me to. I had hoped you'd be more likely to come along peacefully if it was me that came to get you. Besides, Aya…" He paused and then cut out her stolen helmet's tactical connection. "This isn't a competition, its the real deal and that changes a lot of things." He heard the helmet drop to the floor as she and a moment later there were two blasts of a rifle. The thump of two men down followed close behind them. "I've been trying not to destroy your house Aya, but you're not leaving me any choice." he said more to himself than anyone before disabling all the functions in the stolen helmet. "Team one, move in. Team two if you get a clear shot, take it. Stun if possible, avoid using lethal force. "Gambra, move in and flank her. I'll hold the exit. Be cautious." (reply Gambra) As his teams moved, the firing started almost immediately. Precious glassware, images, holocubes and other irreplaceable, were rattled, destroyed or shattered as the firefight started. It was very clear where she was now, the team outside had managed to isolate her as soon as she had fired the weapons. All of the operatives knew exactly where she was and they converged on her in a hail of blasts that threatened to rip the house down around her. But Alaya wasn't one to it in the corner and allow herself to be captured without a fight. She returned fire and her ferocity was going to have terrible repercussions. Zhinn refrained from firing, choosing instead to observe and direct, but still ready for the assault to run it's course. (reply Alaya, Gambra) Daniel Greene ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV – Alaya's Residence – Gambra - Day 4 - 1834) Gambra listened quietly to the exchange between Alaya and Zhinn. She was proving very very slippery. His headset crackled with orders tfrom Zhinn. "Team one, move in. Team two if you get a clear shot, take it. Stun if possible, avoid using lethal force. "Gambra, move in and flank her. I'll hold the exit. Be cautious." He acknowledged the orders by a single click. Gambra checked the area and low crawled slowly pausing to listen for anything indicating unwanted company. His breath cane in short gulps of air. Gambra willed him self to breath slower. As Zhinn's teams moved, the firing started almost immediately. Precious glassware, images, holocubes and other irreplaceable, were rattled, destroyed or shattered as the firefight started. It was very clear where she was now, the team outside had managed to isolate her as soon as she had fired the weapons. All of the operatives knew exactly where she was and they converged on her in a hail of blasts that threatened to rip the house down around her. Gambra rested against a wall. He rose slowly with his weapon in firing mode. Firing erupted as the others engaged the fugitive. Gambra entered and greeted by weapons fire way too close for his comfort. Gambra squeezed his trigger and mIssed his target as Alaya fired in return. His luck held ad he dove to the floor and rolled to a new position. Time was running out for all concerned. (Reply: Any) (Posted by: Bill W.) ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV – Alaya's Residence – Agent Zhinn - Day 4 - 1836) Zhinn saw Gambra sprint across the criss crossing field of incoming and outgoing fire and dive through the room where Alaya had taken refuge. In an instant he knew he had to move. He was up and sprinting, calling over the helmet for his men to hold their fire and to back him up as he moved. Gambra was one of his best men and Zhinn was not about to let Alaya kill him if he could prevent it. He reached the room as Gambra was rolling behind a piece of furniture which nearly exploded from the disruptor burst fried from Alaya's handheld. Zhinn turned, tracking the barrel of his weapon in a short arc towards her and squeezed the trigger. His first shot went wide, striking a photo frame on the wall with a malignant sounding hum of power. Alaya instinctively dropped to her knees and Zhinn's second blast went over her head as she dropped. it burned a hole in the wallpaper, but otherwise didn't do any serious damage. he didn't have a chance to realign his weapon, so he stepped forward and kicked his right foot out. It struck her firing hand, sending a disruptor blast into the chandelier which burt into a thousand fragments. he had over extended himself, planting his foot too far forward. Alaya's fist shot upwards, landing in his groin with a painful thud. Despite the cup taking the majority of the force, there was still enough to make Zhinn's knees buckle as he gasped in pain. He landed hard on his knees on the floor. Then Alaya's blade was headed for his throat. She had decided on deadly force rather than be captured. Zhinn recoiled away from the end of the blade, throwing his arm up in a defensive block. The blade rebounded from his hardened assault armor deflecting the point away from the vital joint under his arm. The blade point travelled upwards in an uncontrolled arc and slipped beneath the lower edge of his helmet. A moment later pain shot through his jaw as the tip of the point drove itself into the bone of his jaw. A downward strike caused the blade to fall from Alaya's hand. Then help arrived. Gambra had taken aim under the bed and a single burst of weapons fire struck Alaya in the ribs. She jerked to one side as the blast hit her, causing her right arm to go numb. A moment later two other men burst through the door taking aim on the fugitive. (reply Gambra, Alaya) Daniel Greene ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV – Alaya's Residence – Gambra - Day 4 -1838) Whoever said time slowed down in perilous situations was right about that. Things seemed to slow aa Gambra rolled in reaction to Ayala's firing. Alaya and Zhinn fought. It wasn't pretty. Alaya resorted to hand to hand. Her occupation with Zhinn allowed Gambra to use a bed as shielding. He willed his breath to slow and fired. His shot hit her side. She wad dropped and other team members secured her. He rose - keeping her covered - she was capable of anything . He walked to her and loomed at Zhinn. "Are you ok?" Gambra asked the agent. (Reply : Zhinn) "Keep her covered. Secure her hands. If she even looks even trying somthing stun her into unconsciousness" Gambra barked. He realized he had overstepped his bounds. "My pardon Zhinn" Gambra added. (Reply: Zhinn) (Posted by: Bill W.) ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV – Alaya's Residence – Lt Alaya - Day 4 -1840) Her right side was now numb but the hatred for these traitors burned like a white hot fire in her. ~They think they can come into my house, My family’s house and do this? Treat me this way?~ She thought to herself as the other man went to assist Zhinn. Glaring into Zhinn’s eyes, she knew that he could tell she wasn’t done. Thinking quickly, she reached with her left hand, picking up a small bit of debris in her hand. “Hey, what are you doing?” came the voice of one of the two men guarding her. Looking up at him, she smiled, sarcastically and replied, “Picking up my sister’s locket, If that’s alright with you?” Taking a breath, she threw the dust and bits of detritus into his eyes, whirling on her knees and sinking her blade into the other guy’s ankle. He screamed and went down. Standing slowly, she picked up the rifle and held it towards Zhinn, saying, “Did you really think i would give up this easily?” (Reply Zhinn) Stretching herself to her full height, she turned on the man at his side and said, “Don’t move or i will blast a hole in this man, understand?” (Reply Gambra) Looking back at Zhinn, she said, “So tell me, what do you do now?” (Reply Zhinn, Gambra) (Posted by Jackie Smith) ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV - Alaya's Residence - Agent Zhinn- Day 4 -1842) Zhinn watched almost as if he were observing from the outside world as things went into overdrive. one moment, there was Alaya subdued and captured, the next she had a weapon and was pointing it directly at his chest. It had happened quickly and before Zhinn had even realized he needed to raise his weapon. "Did you really think I would give up this easily?" she asked him. "I had hoped you might." Zhinn admitted as he slightly adjusted his grip on his weapon. "Don't move or I will blast a hole in this man, understand?" She added, glancing at Gambra. She turned her attention back to Zhinn, " So tell me, what do you do now?" "I let Gambra shoot you." he replied. The confusion crossed her face for a moment, but it was all the time that Gambra needed. The Sergeant shouted her name and in the moment that she instinctively turned to look at him, Gambra fired a heavy stun blast directly into her and the hostage. Both hit the floor hard. The sergeant rushed forward to finish her off with a hard blow to the head with the butt of his rifle, but Zhinn grabbed him and held him back. "Enough, she's not a threat now." he said and the Sergeant stepped back, shaking himself free of Zhinn's grasp. Zhinn turned and gestured to two other officers. "Restrain her and take her to the vehicle. Don't take any chances and don't take your eyes off her for a moment. " (reply none needed) Daniel Greene ---------- (Beta Aquillia IV –Alaya's Residence – Sergeant Gambra - Day 4 -1845) Gambra slowly moved his hand to switch the setting to heavy stun. Slays was a good soldier but her fury was affecting her combat skills. For the first time Gambra smiled. He would use this slip to his advantage. He was feverishly working on a plan. He'd have to risk the life of a teammate but this was a desperate time. Gambra tensed and took several deep breaths to calm himself and steady his nerves. Slowly ever so slowly his finger curled around the trigger of his weapon. He jumped up yelling "Alaya". She was momentarily distracted and he fired hitting her and her hostage dropping them both. "Move now " Gambra bellowed. He secured Alayas hands and feet. He viscously kicked her twice and was about to club her when Zhinn grabbed him. Gambra was taller and with eyes burning with hatred stared deeply into Zhinn's eyes. (Reply: Zhinn I.Y.W.) NRPG: Daniel I took a liberty with Zhinn here - sorry. RPG: Gambia's control returned. Shaking loose of the man Gambra went on check on their wounded man. (Reply: Any) (Posted by: Bill W) ========== Compiled by Bob B.