Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz - Main Engineering - Ensign (sg) Miles O'Neill - 1304)   "Zzt glad met you," Zzt said, "What you specialty?  O'Neill show you round yet?"  Zzt looked from Lichfield to O'Neill waiting for an answer.   "Actually, sir, I wanted to show him to you first before I wanted to give him the tour, so you could know who he is, and not get the wrong impression, sir." Miles replied. ~I hope he took that well.~ He thought.   (Reply Zzt, Lichfield, any) (Posted by Matt Kirk) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz - Conferance room 1- CO- Captain Devan Sash - 1410) Sash looked around the room at his crew. They'd already been through a lot together, and now he was going to ask them to go through a lot more. What he was about to propose was on the verge of madness, but it was the only thing he could come up with, so he was going with it. He dodged a splattering of blood and smiled down at Zzt. "Would you mind putting that away for a moment Lt., you can finish it when we'e done." (reply Zzt) "Well, it certainly has been an interesting start to our day," Sash began. "I want to start by saying that I think you people have performed admirably in the light of what's been going on. That's the good news." He let that sink in for a moment. ~Now for the bad news.~ "The information we've gathered from the relay probe has led us to believe we've located the holding place of Captain Sevant. We are en route to it now. Details are thin, emaciated even. All we really know is that we're headed to the Tarnau Maris system, to a planet called Beta Kanobis 5. Dr. Gralen can probably give us more details the closer we get. What I can tell you is this," he pulled up the picture on the view screen. "This is the system, and this is Kanobis 5. These markers are most likely sensor posts. From what little information I have, it appears that there has been a great deal of traffic going through this sector recently. Ireally can't say what that means when we get there. We might be met by several ships, or the area might be cleared out," He looked around the room dubioysly, "but I seriously doubt that." He took a deep breath and prepared himself for what was about to follow. "Here is the plan that I've worked out with Lt. Commander West. They are going in, under cloak, to the planet. The Boudicca is in charge of the retreival of Captain Sevant. However, I do think that we have some people that need to be on that team. I'm send Lt. Tagon over to Boudicca, with his extensive back ground in this kind of operation, I believe he'd be of great value. Can any of you think of anyone else?" (reply any) "So you're all probably wonder just what we're going to be doing? Well, we have the fun job. We are the decoy. It's going to be our job to draw away any ship that might be in the area, to give Boudicca the time they'll need to find and rescue Sevant." Sash stopped there. He wasn't sure if the deafening silence was shock of disbelief, or the calm before the storm of mutiny. "Again, I have no idea what we're heading into, or what to expect at our arrival. We are traveling at warp 7, and should arrive in two and a half days." He turned to Zzt. "Lt, I'd like to see what we can do at getting a little more out of the engines for an extended higher warp jaunt, without depleating anything. I want us to be fully battle ready when we arrive." (reply Zzt) "K'ven, I want you to coordinate with Ensign Casely, and Major Dorkin. I want this ship ready for any eventuality, and I do mean any." (reply K'ven and Dorkin) "Ensign Casely, I want security posted on every deck and doubled at sensitive areas, such as engineering, and the secondary bridge." (reply Casely) "K'ven, I want the battle bridge prepared for use, just in case." (reply K'ven) "Dr. Kinkaid, I need you to make sure that sickbay is ready for a lot of potential business." (reply Kinkaid) "Ensign Harrison, we have over two days between here and there, I'm certain there's going to be a certain level of ... anxiety. I need you to stay aware. Get out there and talk with the crew. Be reasuring. They need to feel their own confidence, and no doubts." (reply Harrison) "Are there any further questions?" (reply all, any) (posted by Al Muir) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz, Conference Room 1, CEO, Lt.(sg) Zzt, 1411) "Would you mind putting that away for a moment Lt., you can finish it when we'e done," Sash said, smiling down at Zzt. Zzt quickly finished chewing and swallowed the meat in his mouth, and plopped the remaining hunk of meat down on the table top. "Sorry," Zzt said, licking his fangs, "Zzt hungry. Not get chance eat before." (Reply Sash iyw) Zzt licked the blood off his claws and listened to what the Captain was saying. He was glad they had found where Sevant was being held. He wasn't much worried when the Captain mentioned a possible battle. They'd been through worse, in Zzt opinion. His faith in Sash to see them through, was unshaken. "Lt," Sash said, turning to look at Zzt again, "I'd like to see what we can do at getting a little more out of the engines for an extended higher warp jaunt, without depleting anything. I want us to be fully battle ready when we arrive." Zzt thought for a moment before answering. "Zzt can do, but not necessarily be in regulations. You ok, Zzt start modifications when meeting done." (Reply Sash) Zzt went back to licking the blood off his claws, one ear still listening to what was happening while his mind was working out the exact modifications he would need to make to increase warp speed with out hurting the Nimitz battle reserves when Ensign Casely spoke up. "Yes Sir, could we have diagnostics run on the sectional force fields? I have my doubts they've been used in awhile and having the emitters checked could take the better part of a day." Zzt blinked, as the words sunk in. First a look of confusion, then surprise, then anger spread across Zzt's face as he turned to look at the new TAC\SC. ~What that insolent cub trying to insinuate?! That I'm a bad Chief Engineer? That I don't keep up on my maintenance of ship systems!?~ Zzt was opening his mouth with a sharp retort when the Captain's voice cut him off. "Good idea," Sash replied. "I want you to coordinate that with Engineering. Lt. Zzt, get one of your people to hook up with Ensign Casely. I actually think that our new man ,Lichfield might be good for this." Zzt was dumbstruck. He just stared at Sash, his mouth hanging open. He could not believe his ears. ~The Captain agrees with him!? After all we been though!?~ Closing his mouth, Zzt nodded his head numbly, the Captains words echoing in his head. ~...Lichfield might be good for this....~ Zzt sat unmoving, a glazed blank look on his face for the rest of the meeting. ~Captain doesn't trust me. Thinks I'm incompetent. I can't even maintain ships systems. I'm worthless...~ Zzt rose with everyone else, barely aware of what was going on around him. The mission forgotten, Sevant forgotten. His life was over. His Captain had no confidence in his abilities as Chief Engineer. Ignoring everyone and everything around him, Zzt headed to his quarters. He only wanted to be alone. He just wanted to die. He even left his hunk of meat behind, forgotten. (USS Nimitz, Personal Quarters, CEO, Lt(sg) Zzt, 14:28) Zzt walked into his quarters and waited till the doors slid shut behind him. He ripped off his comm-bage and hurled it across the room to shatter against the wall. He then ripped off his uniform, shredding it to ribbons with his claws, as he growled and shook with pent up despair and rage. He threw his shredded uniform to the floor and let the despair and rage lose in a roar that shook the deck plates around him and could be heard far down the corridor. Zzt threw himself down onto his bedding and began pounding his paws into the floor plating, unleashing his fury. The floor plating began to buckle under the onslaught, but Zzt paid no heed to the damage he was doing to the ship or to himself. His mind locked on the moment when Captain Sash had betrayed him. (Reply Sash, Any) (Posted by Wes) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz - Conferance room 1- COUNS - Ensign John Harrison - 1414) Harrison watched the Captain, and could see a barely visible glint of anxiety in his eyes. To most people, the captain seemed to be calm, but the counsellor could see that what he was about to propose was not going to be all good news. Admirably, the captain seemed as friendly as ever. He smiled as he told Zzt to put down the raw meat, and he seemed to be quite jovial as he began the meeting. "Well, it certainly has been an interesting start to our day," Sash began. "I want to start by saying that I think you people have performed admirably in the light of what's been going on. That's the good news." ~Here we go,~ Harrison thought. He listened intently as the captain outlined the information gathered from the probe and the plan of action for the Boudicca. When he came to the Nimitz' role, Harrison was initially relieved. He had expected something much worse, but then he realised this relief was just his inexperience of Starfleet. A decoy was probably the most dangerous part of this mission. The Boudicca would be in great danger, of course, but they had the option of a cloaking device. The Nimitz wasn't exactly an inconspicuous vessel. Captain Sash began giving out orders to each of the officers. Harrison looked at each of his colleagues as they recieved their orders, and turned his attention to his commanding officer as his name was called out. "Ensign Harrison, we have over two days between here and there, I'm certain there's going to be a certain level of ... anxiety. I need you to stay aware. Get out there and talk with the crew. Be reasuring. They need to feel their own confidence, and no doubts." "Certainly, sir," he said. There was nothing more to say. He began mentally planning what he would do. "Are there any further questions?" Sash asked (reply all, any) (posted by James Batchelor) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz - Conference room 1- TAC/SC - Ensign {SG} Paul Casely- 1417)   Paul listened to Captain Sash's plan for the Nimitz to be used in 'decoy duty'. He understood the sense of it and the fact that the Boudicca had a cloak, at least from a tactical standpoint. He also understood it from a political standpoint. If, as Paul surmised, the crew of the Boudicca were all certifiable they would never allow the Nimitz to take a staring role in the retrieval stage of their captain.   Paul listed to the Captain ready other departments for action and then watched as the captain turned to him. "Ensign Casely, I want security posted on every deck and doubled at sensitive areas, such as engineering, and the secondary bridge." "Not a problem, Sir," stated Paul. In two and a half days he should be able to get everyone onto a schedule rotation that would allow them all to be on duty at roughly the same time and rested to the maximum degree. He would have to decide type armaments and other important things beforehand but had a fair amount of time to worry about these things before they arrived. Paul vaguely listed to the Captain continue talking about preparations to other departments. He soaked in all the information, but still mulled some plans and ideas as he went. Finally, he sensed the meeting was close to conclusion. "Are there any further questions?" asked Sash. Paul cleared his throat and then asked, "Yes Sir, could we have diagnostics run on the sectional force fields? I have my doubts they've been used in awhile and having the emitters checked could take the better part of a day."   (reply Sash)   "Yes Sir, thank you," stated Paul.   (Reply Sash, any) (Posted by Jeff Bergeron) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz - Conferance room 1- CO- Captain Devan Sash - 1418)   They were beign quiet.  A little too quiet.  Granted they may have been thinking that it was too early to ask any pertinant questions, but Sash was worried by the total lack of questions. Finally someone cleared their throat.  It was Casely. "Yes Sir, could we have diagnostics run on the sectional force fields? I have my doubts they've been used in awhile and having the emitters checked could take the better part of a day." "Good idea," Sash replied.  "I want you to coordinate that with Engineering.  Lt. zzt, get one of your people to hook up with Ensign Casely.  I actually think that our new man,Lichfield might be good for this." "Yes Sir, thank you," stated Paul. "Don't thank me yet," Sash replied, "I don't think I've done you any favors." He looked around the room.  "Gentlemen, this ship and crew are about to take a beating, I want it ready.  If there are no further questions then you are dismissed." As people began to rise he spoke again. "Wait."  He took a deep breath.  "This is going to be a long trip, and we all have work to do.  However, I also think we're going to need some down time.  So, I am going to arrange a friendly little billiards tournament for tomorrow.  I think after today we all just want some rest and peace.  Let's plan for after dinner, lets say at 1900 hours." (reply any) (posted by Al Muir) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz - Conference Room 1 - Ensign Miles O'Neill - 1419) Miles listened to Sash's new plan. ~Wow, each mission we get, the more radical thing we have to do.~ He thought. ~However, this time it seems that they don't need me to do anything important. Shame, I really like doing that stuff.~ He looked around the room.  "Gentlemen, this ship and crew are about to take a beating, I want it ready.  If there are no further questions then you are dismissed." Miles started to get up, when Sash started speaking again. "Wait."  He took a deep breath.  "This is going to be a long trip, and we all have work to do.  However, I also think we're going to need some down time.  So, I am going to arrange a friendly little billiards tournament for tomorrow.  I think after today we all just want some rest and peace.  Let's plan for after dinner, lets say at 1900 hours." ~Billiards? I love billiards! I'll have to schedule it on my to-do list.~ Miles thought. (Reply any) (Posted by Matt Kirk) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz - Conference Room 1- TAC/SC - Ensign {SG} Paul Casely - 1423) "Don't thank me yet," Sash replied, "I don't think I've done you any favors." He looked around the room.  "Gentlemen, this ship and crew are about to take a beating, I want it ready.  If there are no further questions then you are dismissed." As people began to rise he spoke again. "Wait."  He took a deep breath.  "This is going to be a long trip, and we all have work to do.  However, I also think we're going to need some down time.  So, I am going to arrange a friendly little billiards tournament for tomorrow.  I think after today we all just want some rest and peace.  Let's plan for after dinner, lets say at 1900 hours." ~Billiards? Ugh, I don't even know what end of the pool cue to use,~ thought Paul... another idea however had been floating around in his mind. He had to find a way to give the Nimitz a tactical advantage. Who knew what they were going into? "One other thing sir, before we all go, I was wondering... how much a problem would it be to set up our six shuttles with holoemitters and change the registry to different federation ships? Maybe we can confuse the enemy a little bit..." Paul trailed off, "It could be a bit dangerous, but let face it, this whole mission is dangerous anyway." (Reply Sash) "Well Sir, here is the idea, we want ships of different classes with people piloting each one. It would take 12 people piloting minimum, but still. We give the 'enemy' 7 vessels to try to follow and attack instead of one. It might buy us some time and allow us to keep them off kilter until the Boudicca can get Sevant," said Paul musing. It seemed like it might work, but he wanted the input from others. You never know what he might be missing. (Reply Sash, any) (Posted by Jeff Bergeron) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz - Conference Room 1- CO - Captain Devan Sash - 1425) "One other thing sir, before we all go, I was wondering... how much a problem would it be to set up our six shuttles with holoemitters and change the registry to different federation ships? Maybe we can confuse the enemy a little bit..." Paul trailed off, "It could be a bit dangerous, but let face it, this whole mission is dangerous anyway." Sash recalled that they tried something like this with the Alamo.  But it was worth a listen to.  "What did you have in mind, Paul?" "Well Sir, here is the idea, we want ships of different classes with people piloting each one. It would take 12 people piloting minimum, but still. We give the 'enemy' 7 vessels to try to follow and attack instead of one. It might buy us some time and allow us to keep them off kilter until the Boudicca can get Sevant," said Paul musing. It seemed like it might work, but he wanted the input from others. You never know what he might be missing. Sash mulled it over for a minute.  "It has potential, but I do see a couple of problems.  First, we used a similar tactic, before, but not quite as prolifically.  I would be worried that they might expect something like that, if Captain LeBeau was able to get a message through.  Although that seems a little unlikely.  It also depends on what we're going to be up against.  I don't feel comfortable, leaving 12 people hanging out there, in a shuttles.  If we meet sizable resistance, they wouldn't stand up to the beating they would take." "Well Sir, I think we could outfit all the personnel with pattern enhancers and get them out if we had to... or..." paused Paul, mulling over another related idea. Sash sat back and waited with anticipation for Casely to finish his statement. "What if we outfitted probes in a similar manner? It could distract them enough that they'd be disoriented for a moment or two and have no risk to any of the crew?" said Paul. Sash leaned forward again, putting his elbows on the table and steepling his fingers.  "It has potential.  We have a couple of says to work out any bugs.  Run some simulations on it and let me know where it leads." Paul nodded, "If we do this right, we might even be able to rig a similar surprise as the one they gave us... I don't think of the same yield, but even a small explosion might further give them pause. I'll bet Doctor Gralen can be of help with this one." Paul enjoyed working with Holis, and he'd proved to be extremely useful in situations like these... even if he was a bit verbose at times. "Get on," Sash replied.  "I'll expect an initial report by lunch tomorrow." He looked at the rest of the crew.  "Anything else?"  When there was no reply he said, "Then you are dismissed." Sash sat back in his chair once again as the people filed out.  He wondered just how many of them he'd e seeing in three days. (reply any) (posted by Al Muir) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz - Conference room 1- Strat Ops - Sogh la' K'ven - 1425) K'ven was still not so sure about the big upright walking carpet they called Zzt. He was suppose to be the Chief Engineering Officer, but, K'ven did not feel comfortable around the animal. He had only the incident at ten forward then the repairs he had accomplished on the bridge to base his opinion. Then when Zzt came into the meeting the way he did, had not garnered any more feelings that this animal was as good as everyone said he was. To K'ven Zzt was exactly what he appeared to be, an animal only fit to be skinned and eaten. K'ven let Sash address the mess that Zzt was making as he felt that what the animal was doing did not belong in the conference room during an important meeting. If K'ven had any say in the matter, he would put it in the kennel were all animals should be. He wondered if there was someone going behind him cleaning up the hair he sheds but then he got off thinking about the big carpet. K'ven was observant to what Sash said about the next phase of the mission. Sash showed them all where it was that Captain Sevant may have been taken. He listened to the rest of what said about the area all the while he was thinking of ways that they could disrupt whatever was protecting the base. As decoy it was not going to be an easy task if there were more than one ship there. He thought what he would do if he had the base and it was not very happy thoughts being the one attacking. Sash went through the meeting telling people different things that he wanted them to accomplished. He also told K'ven what he needed which was the same as he was thinking. He acknowledged what Sash had said as he was thinking. He also listened to the various suggestions that Casely had which he aired to the Captain. K'ven would have preferred that Casely have talked them over with him instead of the meeting, but, they were good no matter where they had come out. His basic start would be to ensure that the battle bridge was in working order after everyone had a few hours of rest and relaxation. Even Klingons know that no one can work forever without sleep. Then as people were beginning to rise to leave after the meeting was over, he decided that there would be Billiards tournament the next day. K'ven scratched his head at that as he really did not know what a Billiards tournament was and as such he figured that he would skip it. He would just spend his time on the battle bridge making sure things were in working order. The dinner he did plan on attending though as he also needed to eat. As everyone restarted to leave the meeting he wanted to make sure that Ensign Casely and Major Dorkin knew to start coordinating things with him. "Ensign Casely and Major Dorkin, I will be waiting on your inputs after you gather yourselves some much needed rest." K'ven said trying not to be too demanding. (reply Casely, Dorkin, any) (Posted by Frank) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz - Conference Room 1- CSO Holis Gralen - 1426) Holis shook his head to himself as he left the meeting, ~Out of one fight and into another. I wonder what kind of tactical capability Doenitz has in the area? In the meantime I'll go up to the bridge and go over the sensor logs and see if there is anything I've missed.~ He sighed. and spoke softly to the empty air. "War brings violence to even the most peaceful of men. ~Did I hear that somewhere before? It's likely but I don't remember from where.~ (Reply: None) (Posted by Charles) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz - Conference room 1- Strat Ops K'ven - 1427) "Rest is for wimps and Klingons when there is work to do and a defense to plan." The Tellarite growled "You can both find me in the Marine Center looking at invasion models when you two have achieved your precious rest." "Major Dorkin, My statement was meant for you and Ensign Casely. It was not a request, it was an order as you have been up as long as Ensign Casely and most of the senior crew. I will see you in the morning and we will go over your decoy models then." K'ven said not in the greatest tone as he was not trying to impress or be in a conversational debate. "I will be checking to ensure that all and that does mean you also Major Dorkin, have gone to there quarters for the rest that has been ordered. I will excuse anyone that wants to attend the,,, uh,, Billards whatever that the captain has set up. I will be working on some models myself also." K'ven added for Major Dorkin and Ensign Casely's benefit. "You may leave now, this conversation is over." K'ven finished and was not in the mood for any more talking as he also turned to leave the room ignoring any more comments. Mission: And Justice be Served Mission Day: 3 Stardate: 2406.11.26 (USS Nimitz - Deck 11 Battle Bridge - Strat Ops - Sogh la' K'ven - 0235) After K'ven had made sure that his orders had been carried out, he decided to take a bit of rest himself. All he could do was toss and turn thinking of different ways to do what they wanted to do. He thought of the many times that he had devised plans of this nature for his own Klingon ship. He knew it was different, but, he still should come up with the correct plan. He had gotten up and went to deck eleven to the Battle Bridge to think. He knew that Ensign Casely was good with tactics, but, he had no real dealings with the Tellerite Marine Major before his confrontation last night. He thought that the Tellerite could not have gotten to be a Major if he was not good at what he did. K'ven had no choice but to rely on those two to help get them through their job as being the decoy for the Boudicca. It was essential that they did as good a job as they could to give the Boudicca time for the rescue. K'ven knew that he could work with Casely and Dr. Gralen, but, the Tellerite called Dorkin, he was not so sure. He moved around the Battle Bridge turning on the different stations and stated them running a level two diagnostic. He wanted to ensure that all systems were running efficiently. By the time the diagnostics were done the others would be up, then the diagnostics would be revealed. He noticed that Casely had signed in at the Tactical station and K'ven figured that it was due to also not being able to sleep. "Sogh la' K'ven to Ensign Casely, I am at the Battle Bridge. I have started the systems here and am running level five diagnostics. I would like to get someone down here that could read what they come up with. Also, I would like for you to come down here when you can so we can talk a bit about the mission. I want also to start sometime going through different options on the holodeck. I will await your arrival to discuss the options that you were discussing earlier in the meeting. K'ven out." K'ven said when he opened the channel to Casely's console. He sat down in the command chair as he picked up his cup of Rakjinko. (Reply Casely, any) (Posted by Frank) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz - Quarters deck - Private Kain Curtis - 1430) Kane was sweeping the decks, as security would do their rounds. Upon enterering the deck with quarters for senior staff, he heard loud growling and pounding. Also other crewmembers were confused about what was going on, looking around, scared that the ship would fall apart. Kane decided to investigate. "private Kane to security, there is loud growling and pounding on deck 3. I'm going to investigate." Kane said in a low dead tone. He stood in front of the door where the sound seemed to originate from. He pushed the chime, but no one seemed to answer. He forced the door open, and entered to see a bear-like creature smashing into the floor. It didn't seem to notice him, so Kane stood firmly upon his feet and yelled out with all he could. "ATTEEEEEEEEENNNTION." He yelled, sounding loudly over Zzt's growling. (reply Zzt) "You will stop your attempt to damage the ship, I will arrange repairs. You will comply, or else." Kane said in a drill-sargeant tone (Reply Sash, Any) (Posted by Wes) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz - Quarters deck - Private Kain Curtis - 1430) Kane was sweeping the decks, as security would do their rounds. Upon enterering the deck with quarters for senior staff, he heard loud growling and pounding. Also other crewmembers were confused about what was going on, looking around, scared that the ship would fall apart. Kane decided to investigate. "private Kane to security, there is loud growling and pounding on deck 3. I'm going to investigate." Kane said in a low dead tone. He stood in front of the door where the sound seemed to originate from. He pushed the chime, but no one seemed to answer. He forced the door open, and entered to see a bear-like creature smashing into the floor. It didn't seem to notice him, so Kane stood firmly upon his feet and yelled out with all he could. "ATTEEEEEEEEENNNTION." He yelled, sounding loudly over Zzt's growling. (reply Zzt) "You will stop your attempt to damage the ship, I will arrange repairs. You will comply, or else." Kane said in a drill-sargeant tone (Reply Sash, Any) (Posted by Wes) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz, CEO Personal Quarters, ACEO, Lt Lichfield, 14:32) Lichfield looked round the corridor it suddnely had gone a bit strange ~Whats going on somthings not right~ Thought Lichfield then there was a loud crash from the quaters he was heading to the CEO's one... Lichfield was going there to find out what had been said at the meeting. "I take it that the meeting didnt go good then" Wispered Lichfield as another bang went off and a dent apered in the door. Lichfield patted his trousers to check his phasor was there. Non-regulation but hay niether was anything else he did. Lichfield ran into the quaters of the CEO and found some officer shouting at Zzt. Lichfield turned to the officer. "And who are you" Asked Lichfield (Reply Kane) "Ok shouting isnt going to do anything." Said Lichfield suddenly a claw hit Lichfield ~Ouch i hope that was ment to hit somthing else.~ Thought Lichfield suddenly blood trickled down Lichfields face. "I am gonna stun him i hope you agree" Said Lichfield (Reply Kane) "Well like it or not i carry a phasor with me." Lichfield stunned the LT and watched as it had no effect. " What the.... I am increasing power." Said Lichfield stunning him again feeling sick as yet more blood trickled down his face and again the CEO wasnt brought down. Lichfield turned to Kane " Sorry Mate" Said Lichfield who passed the phasor to Kane then passed out form lack of blood. (Reply Kane, Any) (Posted by Mike) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz - CEO Personal Quarters - Private Kane Curtis - 1433) "And who are you" Kane heard coming from someone who was attracted by the noise. "I'm Private Kane Curtis, I'm trying to get to a diplomatic solution." "Ok shouting isnt going to do anything." Then Kane noticed that Zzt was attacking, and dodged it. Only the officer got hit, and fell down to the floor. "I am gonna stun him i hope you agree" Said Lichfield "Agressive negotiations follow after a last warning." "Well like it or not i carry a phasor with me." Kane saw lichtfield take a phaser and shot at Zzt, but it didn't seem to have effect. "What the.... I am increasing power." But before Lichtfield could do anything, he passed out, giving his phaser to Kane. "Sorry Mate" the officer said. Kane took the phaser, but before he really could do anything, Zzt attacked, and he had to dodge, thus losing the phaser. Kane had to hurry, when suddenly a flash went through his head. He attacked Zzt, dodging the incoming claw. He struck Zzt just beneath his ribs with full force, punching all the air out of his lungs. And before Zzt could recover, he grabbed the phaser and fired on maximal stun. After it collapsed, Kane tapped his combadge. "Private Kane to sickbay, we got a man down, need immediate medical assistance on deck 3, CEO's room." He closed the channel, and opened another one. "Private Kane to security, problems in CEO's quarter has been solved, man down, medical team is on it's way." Since Zzt belonged to the senior staff, Kane thought the Captain had to be notified, so he opened another channel to the Captain. "Private Kane to the Captain, please come to the CEO's quarter, your presence is required." (Reply Sickbay, Security, Sash) (Posted by Anthony Struelens) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz, Personal quarters, CEO, Lt.(sg) Zzt, 1435) Zzt just wanted to be left alone. Why wouldn't they just leave him alone. He had ignored the puny humans yelling, but when another human showed up and started shooting Zzt, Zzt got mad. "GO WAY!" Zzt bellowed, swinging a paw in their direction not really trying to hit either of them, just trying to scare them away, but they only shot Zzt again. This really angered Zzt. ~Why they shooting me? They want to kill me now too!~ Zzt rose to his full 10 foot height and roared, as Lichfield fell to the floor for some reason. Zzt tried to bat the marine out of his quarters but he was quicker than Zzt had first expected and managed to dodge. He punched Zzt in the ribs but Zzt didn't even feel it. ~Strong for a human, but still weak.~ Then Zzt slipped in a pool of Lichfield blood, and landed heavily on the floor. The Marine, then grabbed up Lichfield phaser and shot Zzt again. Zzt's head swam at the power of the phaser blast and he felt himself dipping toward unconsciousness, but with pure rage Zzt fought the effect. "Private Kane to the Captain, please come to the CEO's quarter, your presence is required." Just then Zzt reached up and grabbed Kane with one paw and lifted the marine off the floor like he weighed nothing. "YES!!" Zzt roared, "COME CLEAN UP YOU!" Zzt slammed Kane against the ceiling several times, leaving a bloody trail on the ceiling after about the second slam followed by the sound of breaking bones. After about 6 or 7 slams against the ceiling, hard enough to leave a large dent in the ceiling, Zzt started tossing Kane around the room like a rag doll. He weight nothing to Zzt. Zzt could do this all day. Zzt lifted the broken bloody pulp that was now Kane when a shadow crossed the threshold to his quarters. "LT ZZT!! CEASE AND DESIST!!" Zzt turned, ready to throw Kane at who ever dared challenge him now, but Zzt stopped cold when he saw who was standing in the door. Captain Sash, a full security team behind him, but it was Sash who held Zzt's attention. The anger suddenly drained out of Zzt, replaced once more sorrow and despair. He dropped Kane at Sash's feet then fell to the floor himself, sobbing. "You hate Zzt," He whined, "Think Zzt incompetent. Now you want kill Zzt! You send people to shoot Zzt, and punch Zzt. Hurt Zzt. Zzt just want be left alone. Why not leave Zzt alone?" And Zzt sobbed, filled with shame. (Reply Sash, Kane, Anyone else) (Posted by Wes) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz - Bridge- TAC/SC - Ensign {SG}Paul Casely - 1436) "I could set up something for a dry run with simulations in one of the science labs tomorrow morning if you would like. How about the astrometrics lab on deck six, that would give us a lot more flexibility and room as well as privacy to work in," stated Holis. Paul nodded, "Sounds excellent Doc... ummm... Holis." "I can reconfigure the lab with whatever we want in it, I can even program in the ships systems for different opponents. We can start with the holograms and try to find some kind of energy form we can use as a backup plan," said Holis "Hmmm... if we can somehow make it seem like a standard Federation energy signature that would probably do even more to fool them," stated Paul. "Oh and by the way Paul. How do you play billiards?" Paul winced a little bit. "Billiards... Well... they put these heavy balls onto a table with holes in it and you use a stick, poke a plain white ball and try to make the other balls go into the holes. There is some... physics... to it, although I really don't understand the game. Nor do I particularly enjoy it quite frankly," said Paul with a shrug. (Reply Holis iyw) (Posted by Jeff Bergeron) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz - Personal quarters - Private Kane Curtis - 1436) Kane dropped his eye on Zzt just a second to long, cause Just then Zzt reached up and grabbed Kane with one paw and lifted the marine off the floor like he weighed nothing. "YES!!" Zzt roared, "COME CLEAN UP YOU!" Zzt slammed Kane against the ceiling several times, leaving a bloody trail on the ceiling after about the second slam followed by the sound of breaking bones. After about 6 or 7 slams against the ceiling, hard enough to leave a large dent in the ceiling, Zzt started tossing Kane around the room like a rag doll. He weight nothing to Zzt. Zzt could do this all day. Zzt lifted the broken bloody pulp that was now Kane when a shadow crossed the threshold to his quarters. "LT ZZT!! CEASE AND DESIST!!" Kane was beeing thrown around like he never experienced. His foe was awfully strong, and he could do nothing. His speed could be greater then Zzt's, but speed is nothing when you can't use it. Raw power was needed for this one. When the Captain entered, Zzt dropped Kane to the floor. Awfully in pain, he tried to get up. Though his endurance is far greater then any human, he reached his limit in this fight. "Sorry Sir, I failed." He said before he lost conciousness. (Reply Sash, Zzt, Anyone else) (Posted by Anthont Struelens) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz - Bridge- CO- Captain Devan Sash - 1438) When the call came in that there was a problem in Zzt's chambers Sash had already been tired. It had been a long day, and he was ready for it to be over and make his way to the oblivian of sleep. He also knew that he had other things to deal with and wanted to get to sickbay to check on the status of the Boudicca marine. "Sir, do we have a 'Private' Kane in security?" Casely asked. "I can't find him on my group rosters, apparently he's engaging a disturbance on Deck 3." "Kane?" Sash searched his memory. "The only Kane on board is a Marine. Curtis Kane. " He shook his head. "I could be possible." Sash was more talking to himself than anyone else. "I've moved a team in and erected barriers." "Excellent," Sash said, heading to the for the turbo lift. "Ensign Wolfgaard, would you go down to deck 3 and meet with the team? Report back to me on the nature of the disturbance and how its being dealt with. I'll clear the force barriers for you as you move down there and re-erect them after you. Be careful." "Where exactly on deck three is this disturbance?" Sash inquired. Casely looked at his panel. He looked up with a strange look in his eyes. "Lt. Zzt's quarters." Sash frowned. The way that Zzt left the meeting, not taking his meat with him. That was not a good sign. "Mr. Casely, I think this might require your services. Ensign Wolfgaard, stay here and montor the tactical station." Sash and Casely headed for the turbolift. (USS Nimitz- Deck 3- CO- Captain Devan Sash- 1440) Sash and Casely met up with the security team as they exited the turbo lift. Suddenly a claxon went off. [Warning,phaser fire on deck 3, section 8, room 7] Sash and Casely looked at each other. "Zzt's quarters," they said together. They started running down the corridor. Sash could hear the hum of the security fields as they shut down at their approach, and then turned back on as they passed the juncture. Sash turned the corner to look into Zzt's room. the sight that befell him was, to say the least, astounding. Lt. commander Lichfield was laying on the floor, partially eviscerated. Zzt was in the middle of what was left of his quarters, holding marine Kane over his head and slamming him into the ceiling. Both men looked in pretty bad shape. Zzt, who seemed to be in an enraged fury, was standing naked, only a few shreds of uniform still hung in his fur. The rest of his uniform was in tatters on the floor. Or what might have been his floor, if it had still been a solid piece of metal. Sash knewe he had to get a handle on this situation quickly, before it really got out of hand, and the security team started in on Zzt. "LT ZZT!! CEASE AND DESIST!!" he bellowed. Zzt dropped Kane to the floor, with a sickening thud. He looked in bad shape, but Sash figured, that with his enhancements he'd probably survive. He might not be happy he survived, but it was most likely he would. "Sorry Sir," Kane managed to croak out, "I failed." Then he lost consciousness. "What the hell is going on in here?" Sash asked. Then he watched as the anger suddenly left the Gerratlian's face to be replaced by a look of dread and dispair. then Zzt did something that caught the captain by surprise. He buried his face in his paws and began to sob. "You hate Zzt," He whined, "Think Zzt incompetent. Now you want kill Zzt! You send people to shoot Zzt, and punch Zzt. Hurt Zzt. Zzt just want be left alone. Why not leave Zzt alone?" Sash was lost at what he had heard. Then a sense of clarity came over him. Hard as it was to believe, the huge, and powerful Geratlian, was still only ten years old. He was young, naive. He was throwing a temper tantrum. Somehow, he'd gotten the impression that Sash had lost faith in him. That might explain what happened to his uniform and the floor and walls of his quarters. Kane must have stumbled onto the tantrum and handled it poorly. But Lichfield? Now where did the engineer come from? And what was the weapons fire? He motioned to the security team. "Get these men to sickbay, and then everyone else, outside." "Sir?" Casely began. "You too Ensign," Sash said reassuringly. "I'll be fine. Won''t I Lieutenant?" Zzt, however, just ignored him and plopped himself down on the ground. When the rest were clear, Sash went and sat down beside Zzt. "Well, then my young Gerratlian, we're in a little bit of trouble now aren't we? Want to tell me what you're talking about? Why would I think you're incompetant. You know I think you're the best engineer in Starfleet. You also know that I would never send someone to hurt you. What started this?" (reply Zzt, Casely, any) (posted by Al Muir) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz - Bridge - TAC/SC - Ensign {SG} Paul Casely - 1440) Paul was working intently on his report for the captain when there was a beep at his station. =^=Private Kane to security, there is loud growling and pounding on deck 3. I'm going to investigate.=^=   "This is Security Private, I am sending a team enroute," said Paul. ~I have a Private Kane on my security team? Oh well, first day as chief... who knows...~   Paul tapped a few keys and and appropriated a full team to the deck. He also erected force fields as the team moved into place... ~Argh, one of the forcefield emitters is malfuncitoning, I'll have to move the field down a sector.~ With that, Paul stepped away from his panel and called out to the Captain.   "Sir, do we have a 'Private' Kane in security? I can't find him on my group rosters, apparently he's engaging a disturbance on Deck 3. I've moved a team in and erected barriers," stated Paul. Paul turned to his ATAC. "Ensign Wolfgaard, would you go down to deck 3 and meet with the team? Report back to me on the nature of the disturbance and how its being dealt with. I'll clear the force barriers for you as you move down there and re-erect them after you. Be careful."   (Reply Sash, Wolfgaard, any) (Posted by Jeff Bergeron) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz - Turbolift - CSO Gralen - 1443) Holis was in a pensive and melancholy mood as he stepped into the turbolift, Paul hurried up before the door closed and slid inside. He gave a smile hoping to cheer Holis up it appeared but it wasn't helping much. "Excuse me, Doctor Holis? I was wondering if you could help out with designing some of the more finicky systems for the probe? I can probably work on programming the emitters, although I'll need help with the fine tuning, but I wouldn't mind some kind of 'present' to give the ships on the other side..." stated Paul with a slight grin. Holis sighed and forced his mind to turn over the possibility. "First of all Paul just calll me Holis, the Doctor thing is strictly formal. As for the SURPRISE you were thinking of, could you be a little more explicit?" Paul nodded, "I was something that could hit them with enough force to possibly disrupt some of their systems. Give us a bit of an edge, especially if they have more than one craft. At this point, its all about the tactics of surprise and hopefully keeping them off balance." Holis rubbed his chin with his right hand a bit as he thought. "Well of course an electromagnetic pulse would work if it was big enough but to disrupt a starships shielded systems, we're talking about a whole other scale here. Starships are designed to ride out unexpected stellar phenomena as a matter of course. The trick would be to get something powerful enough close enough to have an effect. Maybe we could use holograms to confuse them? I hear it has been done before on this very ship as a matter of fact." "Ok. I'm going to work on some of the preliminary designs for an hour or two and then I'm going to turn in. Its been a rather long day. My 'shift' has lasted about 12 hours so far and counting," said Paul while walking onto the bridge and towards his station, "Remember, the holographic images don't have to be perfect, we just need to disorient them for a bit... and we have less than two days." Holis nodded. "That should be enough time to come up with something." "Can we meet back here at 0800 tomorrow and keep working? Or should we take this to a lab?" asked Paul. "I could set up something for a dry run with simulations in one of the science labs tomorrow morning if you would like. How about the astrometrics lab on deck six, that would give us a lot more flexibility and room as well as privacy to work in." (Reply: Paul) "I can reconfigure the lab with whatever we want in it, I can even program in the ships systems for different opponents. We can start with the holograms and try to find some kind of energy form we can use as a backup plan." (Reply: Paul) "Oh and by the way Paul. How do you play billiards?" (Reply: Paul Casely, any) (Posted by Charles) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Boudicca - Marine Armory - Major 'Spider' Drizzt - 14:35) Spider shoved the power cartridge into his rifle and laid it aside gently as he reached for the scatter-gun. He pulled the power pack from it and blew on it, then plugged it into a charging port and grabbed a fresh one. He eyed it critically for a few moments, and then slapped it into his weapon with practiced ease. He grabbed his modified type-3 rifle and balanced it in the crook of his armored arm. From a side-containment pod on his hip he pulled out a small scope. The Andorian looked at it for a few moments, then cocked it into place on the top of the rifle. With a quick gesture he flicked a small button on the side, and the two optical covers flipped to the side. Another gesture later and he was looking through the scope, whispered commands in the suit changed the zoom level. Satisfied that the scope was working properly, he flipped the tab again and closed the optical covers. He swung the rifle around his neck and picked up the Scatter-gun. =/=Sir, the gathering is about to begin.=\- "Very well." Drizzt said tonelessly into his suit to the CE that had spoken. "I'll be there shortly." (USS Boudicca - Outside Holodeck 2 - Major Drizzt - 14:51) "Your turn Lt." Drizzt stepped in behind them all quietly, arms behind his back, and waited. (reply: any) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Boudicca- Observation Lounge- Lt. Dru Tagon- 1440) Tagon stepped into the observation lounge and his first opinion was that there wasn't much room to accomodate him. He took up his usual spot, by the door and listened to what the acting CO of the Boudicca had to say. West did a run down of Captain Sash's plan, and then went through his departments expectatiopns. Surprisingly, the senior staff had very little to say. Either they had it all figured out, or they had no idea what they were getting into. He hoped which one it was. "I would like to introduce our temporary crew transfer, Lt Tagon. His specialty is Search and Rescue. Lt, you will join the security team and help out please." NRPG: For those of you who don't know, Tagon is a Brikar. Pretty much a huge walking rock. Nimitz is distinguished at having the two largest members of the game on its roster. If you're really interested, check out his bio. RPG: Tagon nodded to the staring crew. That is to say, his body moved forwards and back, in the rough approxiamtion of a nod wwith his whole body. "Hi," he said simply. "Dismissed." With the meeting over, Tagon stepped out the door to allow the others to leave. As Stratton and Stolev passed him they were already in conversation. "If you don't mind," Stolev was saying, "I'd like to start incorporating some security personnel into the simulations, as we discussed earlier. That way we'll know how our personnel can best support each other without getting in each other's way." "Have your people assemble outside holodeck 2 in 20 minuets," Stratton replied. "The Marines will be their waiting." She looked over at Tagon and nodded at him as well. Tagon assumed that meant he was to come along aswell. Tagon gave her, his best attempt at a thumbs up, but since he only had three fingers, he never figured which was his thumb. He hoped she didn't think he was making a rude gesture. He fell into line, behind the MCO and Security chief. It was the easiest way to find where he was supposed to go. He listened to Straton set up the simulation. He was interested by the call names that marine units had given themselves. It had been a long standing tradition for humans, as the Brikar had learned. Death Dealers, Hells Angels. It was also... intriguing. Very, what was the phrase, tongue in cheek. Straton did an excellent job of ignoring his imense presence in her preparations. As the turbolift stopped, he stepped out and folowed her to the holodecks, where a group of marines, in similar BDU's stood waiting. (USS Boudicca, Outside Holodeck 2, MCO, Major Straton, 14:51) Tagon tried to stay out of the way of the marines, which was near impossibility for someone of his size. But they managed to work around him. He wished that they'd use him for something, but he had found that the first, best way to insult a marine, was to offer them some help. If they needed it, they would ask. So he stood waiting for Stolev to show up with his crew, which didn't take long. "Lt. Stolev, and Lt Tagon" Eva began looking at each of them in turn, "Let me introduce you to the Death Dealers." Stratton then proceded to introduce them to the members of her squad, plus the two "Fallen Angels" from Drizzts CE's. She then motioned toward Stolev. "Your turn Lt." Stolev introduced his staff and they all looked at Tagon expectantly. He felt like he should say something. "I'm Tagon." Then he shrugged his shoulders. ~Maybe I should share something of consequence with them. Nah!~ "Shall we begin Major," Tagon suggested. (reply Straton, Stolev) (posted by Al Muir) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Boudicca, personal quarters, Ensign Caleb Talda, 1500)     Caleb relaxed with a cup of light tan-colored coffee, blinking away some of the stinging in his eyes due to a lack of sleep.  He had an hour to go before his shift began, and the ensign intended to use the time wisely - he would vegetate until the last possible moment.  His gaze settled momentarily on the Horga'hn positioned tastefully on the desk near his bunk.  Bemused, he wondered how the straight-laced federation types on this vessel would react if they understood the purpose of the wooden sculpture.     Suddenly, his commbadge flared to life with an irritating insistence.  "West to ACSO Talda, please report to my Ready Room for a job assignment. West out." ~Your ready room?  Well, that didn't take long.~  "Aye, sir." Talda replied.  "I'm on my way."  "So much for relaxation," the ACSO spoke aloud to the empty room.  As usual, his bunkmate was gone.  "Somebody stop this circus, I want to get off!"  Caleb chuckled at his own tired joke. (USS Boudicca, Ready Room, Ensign Caleb Talda, 1504) The door to the captain's ready room hissed open, and Caleb stepped inside to find commander West waiting for him.  The ensign swallowed before speaking, noticing that at some point, he had burned his tongue on that accursed coffee.  "Ensign Talda, reporting as requested, sir.  You have an assignment for me?"  A break from sensor duty would be welcome indeed, though it might mean that he would end up missing action on the bridge.  Ah, well... one couldn't always have it all. (reply West) (posted by Olan Suddeth) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Boudicca, Ready Room, Lt Cmdr Trevan West 1500) Trevan was busy looking over the reports of the system the Captain was being held in. "Hmm, not much data here to go on." he said to himself. "Computer send the following message to Captain Sash of the Nimitz, text only and encoded priority 2." "Please begin, " replied the computer.   "Captain Sash, I was sitting here thinking and perhaps you can help. Upon your arrival in the Tarnau Maris  system, could it be possible to launch a class four probe with a small shield screen to send us updated data for the system? If you can we would pick it up about 15 minutes prior to arrival. It would help us greatly. West out." The computer chirped it's reply and sent the message out. "West to ACSO Talda, please report to my Ready Room for a job assignment. West out."     (Reply Sash, Talda) (Posted by Kerry Fletcher) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Boudicca, Ready Room, Lt Cmdr Trevan West, 1505) The door to the captain's ready room hissed open, and Caleb stepped inside to find commander West waiting for him.  The ensign swallowed before speaking, noticing that at some point, he had burned his tongue on that accursed coffee.  "Ensign Talda, reporting as requested, sir.  You have an assignment for me?"      "Yes, please sit down Ensign," he gestured to the seat in front of him. "As you are aware, we are going to rescue Captain Sevant and we are heading into dangerous territory. I would like you to give me a complete brief on the biological and technological status of the planets in that system. I want to be ready for anything." Trevan paused, "Also, once that is completed send your information to Major Stratton so she can implement your results into her simulations. I would also like a copy."     Trevan stood up, and looked out the window. "Ensign, your file says you are an expert at all aspects of lifeform identifications and that you have a particular interest in xenobiology. I want you on the bridge for the rest of this mission. If there is anything that has or could possibly injure a member of any kind of rescue team on the planet. I want to know about it ahead of time. You have 12 hours to complete your assignment for myself and Major Stratton. Once that is completed, please report back to me."     Trevan turned around to face the Ensign, "Dismissed Ensign," he said with a smile. (replyTalda) (posted by Kerry Fletcher) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Boudicca, Outside Holodeck 2, MCO Major Straton, 1510) Eva nodded as Stolev introduced his people to everyone, she already knew the ones from the Boudicca, the two Nimitz crew though she did not know well. She looked at Tagon with narrowed eyes. ~I'm not sure why we need a walking rock on this mission, it's not like I'm exactly new to search and rescue missions. ~ "Shall we begin Major," Tagon suggested. Eva pushed the ideal thoughts out of her mind, it was time to concentrate on the task ahead. "Very well," She said, putting her arms behind her back and looking at the assembled team. "As our information on the location and conditions where Captain Sevant is being held is uncertain, the size and exact members of this team may change. As it stands at present, this is the team taking the lead at recovering and returning Captain Sevant safely to the Boudicca." She stepped aside and looked at Drizzt. "Major Drizzt's presence here is two fold. First, he will be in charge of putting this team through the grinder. He will test us. Try to break us. He will do everything in his power to stop us. The marines in the group know just how trying a task master he can be. Thank him for his diligence, for the harder he is on us in this simulation, the better our chances at succeeding and staying alive when the time comes to do it for real. Second, Major Drizzt will be leading the second team should we either fail or need some serious back up. By supervising our training, he will become familiar with this team. That familiarity could mean the difference between life and death for us." She nodded at Spider, who was now standing next to the holodeck controls. The doors to the holodeck opened and Eva lead the way in. She strode purposefully into the middle of the still deactivated hologrid, coming to a stop in the middle of the room. The rest of the team gathered around her. Drizzt stepped just inside the holodeck doors and stopped, he started at entering commands into the holodeck. "Alright," Eva said, "the Death Dealers will be lending fire support as needed. Lt. Stolev, you and your people are in charge of finding Sevant and subverting any security systems in the facility. Lt. Tagon, your assistance in those regards will also be helpful. The two CE's are carrying a jump point. A portable short range transporter. Once we find Captain Sevant and get him to a defendable location they will set up the jump point, if normal transport is blocked due to hostile interference, and get him back to the ship. Questions so far?" (Reply Stolev, Tagon, Drizzt, Anyone wanting to be on the team) (Posted by Wes) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Boudicca - Holodeck 2 - Major 'Spider' Drizzt - 1513) Drizzt finished tapped in his commands and gently spoke into his mic, "Force Alpha: Report to Holodeck two pronto, as previously ordered." The message went over a secure line to the force he had assembled for this earlier, two and a half squads. Desperate Measures, Semper Fi and what was left of his Fallen Angels would play the opposing team. He turned his head just as the MCO asked, "Questions so far?" "Too bad." Drizzt said out loud in interruption before anyone could say anything, "Welcome to hell." And with that he hit he hit the 'execute' button before anyone could say a word in responce. Surprise was good, even the best plans tended to fall apart in the midst of combat. A bit of surprise to start the day would shake the multi-ship team up a bit. As per programming, the holodeck made him 'invisible' as soon as the program started, so he could get into position. He would be completely undetectable to any of their sensors (the holodecks were currently in communication with their tricorders and TAC-Corders) until he gave a code word. "Computer," he said into his mic, "When Alpha Force enters the holodeck, immediately place them at my position." [Affirmative] Spider hefted his scatter-gun, and looked around. The terrain was heavily forested with outcroppings of rock, fairly common on the planet they had found. He had loaded a few other sub-programs for typical Starfleet and alien instillations, for the purpose of this exorcize they had been beamed two miles off their projected point- that could happen for several reasons, including transport inhibitors. Spider had thrown a lot of bloody realism into this program, just like every Marine training program he had ever devised. Casualties would be marked 'invisible', just like Spider was now, while the computer created holodeck facsimiles of them to lay where they had been killed. It wasn't uncommon for people going through his programs to get violently sick when, in the course of combat, they came across pieces of their friends. This simulated combat was very real, Spider had seen to it, even knowing those same friends were invisible somewhere watching the rest of the mission didn't always help. NRPG: In short. If you get 'killed', the computer makes you invisible to everyone else while putting a holographic fake where you fell. So if you get shot in the head, you get to stand off and watch everyone else work while a computer dummy falls to the ground looking like they got shot in the head. RPG: He gave a command to the computer, and instantly he was shuffled off to another part of the 'complex' and became visible to anyone watching (though the enemy force was still some two miles distant, at least) He took position just outside in a corner that housed one of the heavy phaser emplacements, in a very nicely hidden place. After another couple minutes he heard crunching below him, he didn't have to look in order to know that the two and a half squads of Marines had joined him. "Semper Fi to the grounds, you're on roving patrol with four other simulated squads and two simulated Security squads. SquadCO has overall command of the grounds. Desperate Measures, you're in the complex, guard the prisoner at all costs. There are various Marine and Security units strategically placed; all data should be uploaded to your traccorders. Angels, position yourselves wide, your job is to flush out and destroy the enemy. Move." He took a breath and opened a channel to all his 'friendly' forces. "Drizzt to all Forces, there is a battle going on above the surface and there are tell-tale traces that a battle-force may have beamed onto the planet. Be aware, be awake, and stop the intruders at all costs. Report contact immediately. Drizzt out." The Marine put the scatter-gun to the side and pulled out his sniper-rifle. He was in a well defended position, and with his armor already under camouflage grey against the hard color of the base wall, it was hard to see him with the naked eye. This was, by definition, the perfect snipers position. Below him, Semper Fi began making way to the outer defense ring, and Desperate Measures was entering the base to join with the internal forces. The Angels... well, they were spreading themselves out, they would be hard to find and expensive to remove; as should be expected from a well trained group of highly motivated killers. He flipped on his own tactical scanners and got comfortable, looking around. If Combat were a game, then it could be said he was a master, and he always played to win. (reply: Combat Team) (posted by Trout) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Boudicca - Holodeck 2 - Major 'Spider' Drizzt - 1513) Drizzt finished tapped in his commands and gently spoke into his mic, "Force Alpha: Report to Holodeck two pronto, as previously ordered." The message went over a secure line to the force he had assembled for this earlier, two and a half squads. Desperate Measures, Semper Fi and what was left of his Fallen Angels would play the opposing team. He turned his head just as the MCO asked, "Questions so far?" "Too bad." Drizzt said out loud in interruption before anyone could say anything, "Welcome to hell." And with that he hit he hit the 'execute' button before anyone could say a word in responce. Surprise was good, even the best plans tended to fall apart in the midst of combat. A bit of surprise to start the day would shake the multi-ship team up a bit. As per programming, the holodeck made him 'invisible' as soon as the program started, so he could get into position. He would be completely undetectable to any of their sensors (the holodecks were currently in communication with their tricorders and TAC-Corders) until he gave a code word. "Computer," he said into his mic, "When Alpha Force enters the holodeck, immediately place them at my position." [Affirmative] Spider hefted his scatter-gun, and looked around. The terrain was heavily forested with outcroppings of rock, fairly common on the planet they had found. He had loaded a few other sub-programs for typical Starfleet and alien instillations, for the purpose of this exorcize they had been beamed two miles off their projected point- that could happen for several reasons, including transport inhibitors. Spider had thrown a lot of bloody realism into this program, just like every Marine training program he had ever devised. Casualties would be marked 'invisible', just like Spider was now, while the computer created holodeck facsimiles of them to lay where they had been killed. It wasn't uncommon for people going through his programs to get violently sick when, in the course of combat, they came across pieces of their friends. This simulated combat was very real, Spider had seen to it, even knowing those same friends were invisible somewhere watching the rest of the mission didn't always help. NRPG: In short. If you get 'killed', the computer makes you invisible to everyone else while putting a holographic fake where you fell. So if you get shot in the head, you get to stand off and watch everyone else work while a computer dummy falls to the ground looking like they got shot in the head. RPG: He gave a command to the computer, and instantly he was shuffled off to another part of the 'complex' and became visible to anyone watching (though the enemy force was still some two miles distant, at least) He took position just outside in a corner that housed one of the heavy phaser emplacements, in a very nicely hidden place. After another couple minutes he heard crunching below him, he didn't have to look in order to know that the two and a half squads of Marines had joined him. "Semper Fi to the grounds, you're on roving patrol with four other simulated squads and two simulated Security squads. SquadCO has overall command of the grounds. Desperate Measures, you're in the complex, guard the prisoner at all costs. There are various Marine and Security units strategically placed; all data should be uploaded to your traccorders. Angels, position yourselves wide, your job is to flush out and destroy the enemy. Move." He took a breath and opened a channel to all his 'friendly' forces. "Drizzt to all Forces, there is a battle going on above the surface and there are tell-tale traces that a battle-force may have beamed onto the planet. Be aware, be awake, and stop the intruders at all costs. Report contact immediately. Drizzt out." The Marine put the scatter-gun to the side and pulled out his sniper-rifle. He was in a well defended position, and with his armor already under camouflage grey against the hard color of the base wall, it was hard to see him with the naked eye. This was, by definition, the perfect snipers position. Below him, Semper Fi began making way to the outer defense ring, and Desperate Measures was entering the base to join with the internal forces. The Angels... well, they were spreading themselves out, they would be hard to find and expensive to remove; as should be expected from a well trained group of highly motivated killers. He flipped on his own tactical scanners and got comfortable, looking around. If Combat were a game, then it could be said he was a master, and he always played to win. (reply: Combat Team) (posted by Trout) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz - Sickbay - Private Kane Curtis - 1550) It was only an hour ago since Kane was brought to sickbay. Amazingly nothing was broken, wich left the question, how he survived a beating like that. Suddenly out of nowhere, he opened his eyes, and like a broken machine, he tried to get up to his feet, his wounds from the battering still clearly visible. He slowly looked around the room, identifying every character carefully. He ignored the people talking to him as if they weren't there. After that, he just stood there, lifeless, his eyes closed. (reply any) (posted by Anthony) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz - Bridge - TAC/SC - Ensign {SG} Paul Casely - 1740) Paul rubbed his eyes and looked at the display again. He wasn't even sure how long he'd been going over the specs. It always came back to the same problem, controlling more than 2 probes at a time independently of each other. The general idea seemed sound, but he needed to find a way to either futher automate the process or create 3 more of himself. He didn't really want to pull people off their stations for this as everyone would be needed where they were. If he counted his ATAC, they still were 2 people short. ~There has to be a way...~ thought Paul as his stomach growled.   "Computer? Time?" queried Paul.   [It is now 1742] responded the computer.   Paul sighed. He'd been at this for over three hours. It had come a long way, but he needed more time to straighten out a few of the problems. Perhaps Holis would be able to help with some of them later... and barring that he could ask some of the other bridge crew or engineering members. Right now he wasn't going to do anyone any good by killing himself.   "Computer, lock work station, Casely alpha four nine," stated Paul to close up shop for the day. This did two things, it made it necessary for only a properly cleared bridge crew member to open the station and it meant that all Paul's work was securely saved.   [Tactical and Security station locked.]   Paul looked around the bridge crew and saw a group as exhaused as he was. "Hey all, I'm hungry and heading to Ten Forward, anyone care to join me?" he stated as he walked away from his workstation, "We've been at this too long, if we get too tired we'll be no good to anyone."   (Reply any on bridge)   Paul nodded and stated, "I'm heading out... Ensign Wolfgaard, take care of the station until you're relieved by the next ship please."   (Reply Wolfgaard, any) (Posted by Jeff Bergeron) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz – Ten Forward – COUNS – Ensign John Harrison – 1900) The doors slid back, revealing the usual mix of civilians, crewmen and officers in the ship’s most populated area. Harrison still found it remarkable that, no matter what time of day it was, Ten Forward was always more full of life than any other section of the ship. He walked in and leaned against the bar, waiting patiently for the bar staff to realise he was there and started to feel guilty about why he was here. Yet again, Harrison had emerged from a staff meeting feeling that he wasn’t doing his part for the ship. He felt slightly ashamed that he was still feeling quite new, while other crewmen were joining the Nimitz for the first time and settling in remarkable well. ~Ensign Casely springs to mind!~ Harrison thought with a smile. So, yet again, this had fuelled his determination to prove that he did fit in here – if only to prove it to himself. The Captain had charged him with keeping a watchful eye over the crew, being reassuring and generally doing his job. Harrison grimaced that, as yet, he hadn’t felt like he was doing his job, so he had come to Ten Forward to make a start. This is where he felt guilty. The role of a counsellor was to make sure that everyone was emotionally and mentally secure as they went about their duties. The less work he had, the better for the crew, right? So he felt slightly hypocritical as he came looked around Ten Forward, actually hoping to find that someone was anxious or upset. He shuddered for an instant: he felt like a doctor hoping someone had the plague, simply to give him something to do. Ten Forward had been the obvious choice for this, of course. When anyone had a problem, or was feeling low, there were two ways to deal with it: the Holodeck, or the bottom of a glass. Despite the wonders of hologramatic technology, the traditional and more liquid-based method always seemed to take preference. A waiter noticed him and took his order. As Harrison watched him leave, he looked at the other people at the bar. There were a few medics, having a few pleasant glasses of wine after a long shift, an engineer or two discussing their work and a couple of security officers, waiting for some action. Harrison’s drink arrived and he listened to the hubbub of Ten Forward, trying to pick out conversations. He stood there for about ten minutes, finishing his first drink and ordering another, when he heard something of interest. “…Sevant!” someone was saying, “I mean, we’re never going to find him, are we?” Harrison turned. It was a security officer who, judging by his stance, was approaching his drinking limit. To some, the things that a person says once that limit is neared is usually nonsense. To others, including the counsellor these things were in fact the deepest fears or thoughts of the drinker, breaking out to make themselves known. “Sure we will,” the security officer’s colleague was saying as Harrison moved closer, but he didn’t sound convinced. “He’s one man! One man in a vast galaxy, where warp travel means you can be anywhere in the galaxy within days. He could be dead already. And we don’t even know where to start looking.” Harrison stepped forward, unsure as to what he could and couldn’t say. “We have a fair idea actually,” he said. For a moment, he recalled how Edward Gideon had chided him for entering Commander Wilson’s quarters without permission. He imagined that Gideon would have had more than a few words to say about this conversation. A brief memory of Gideon’s death shocked his mind back to the conversation. “What would you know, Counsellor?” the officer spat. “The counsellor is a member of the senior staff, is he not?” Harrison replied pleasantly. He could see where this conversation would be going: the man had clearly passed his drinking limit. “Yeah, but you’re just the ship’s, er, whaddya call ‘em…. Twentieth century slang… shin…shriek…shrink. That’s it – SHRINK! You don’t need to know anything about the mission.” Harrison decided that this argument could develop for a long time and would eventually be pointless. Besides, he was not here to justify his position on the ship. He was here to calm this man down. “We have a good idea of where Captain Sevant is, and we WILL find him. I’ve only been on this ship a short time, but I KNOW that this crew can accomplish anything,” Harrison said, truly believing what he said. “How can we when the senior staff keeps diminishing so often?” a medic pointed out. Harrison became aware that all of Ten Forward was listening in on this conversation. “Yeah,” the security officer pointed out, “We’ve already lost Gideon and Kateb, and that was before we even started looking!” “I suggest you refer to them by their full rank from now on,” Harrison replied, a serious tone to his voice, “If only out of respect for the dead.” The officer fell silent for a moment. “The loss of those two fine officers was tragic, but do you think they would want their deaths to hinder the mission? Were they not as dedicated as the officers who are still with us?” The officer still didn’t say anything. “Do you know what this ship runs on?” Harrison asked him. “Dilithium Crystals,” an engineer chipped in. “Besides that,” Harrison chuckled, before turning back to the security officer, “It also runs on faith. The faith of its crew in each other, and each other’s abilities. When you’re ill or injured, you’re sent to Sickbay. Do you have faith in the abilities of the medical crew to heal you?” The officer remained silent, but nodded. “I suggest you finish off your last drink and go and rest for the evening,” Harrison said, softly, “We’re going to have a lot of work to do in the next few days.” ~Even me,~ The counsellor thought. The two security officers finished their drinks and left Ten Forward, Harrison returned to his original spot on the bar, and all eyes returned to their own conversations. Suddenly, the counsellor felt less guilty. He smiled to himself and ordered another drink. (reply any in Ten Forward) (posted by James Batchelor) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz – Ten Forward – TAC/SC – Ensign {SG} Paul Casely – 1905) Paul finished eating his meal and began contemplating dessert. He looked over and saw a couple members of his security team talking ~no berating~ the ship’s counsellor. Paul watched with interest as Harrison handled things. He could certainly see the point of those who were not informed, but Harrison was handling himself admirably. He watched the crewmen leave and walked over to Harrison. “Well done with them. You are right of course, we are going to find him. I often wonder about the uncertainty of my new ‘staff’ about me. The change was sudden… it must be hard on some of them,” said Paul looking at the seated counsellor. (Reply Harrison) “Do you mind if I join you?” said Paul looking at the empty seat. (Reply Harrison, any in Ten Forward) (Posted by Jeff Bergeron) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz – Ten Forward – COUNS – Ensign {SG} John Harrison – 1906) Harrison noticed someone approaching him and turned around. It was Ensign Casely. He smiled pleasantly, hoping that this time he would have a civil conversation with this man without embarrassing himself. “Well done with them. You are right of course, we are going to find him. I often wonder about the uncertainty of my new ‘staff’ about me. The change was sudden… it must be hard on some of them,” said Paul looking at the seated counsellor. Harrison nodded in agreement, "Probably about as hard as it is for you. It's hard to think that you're one of the newest members of the crew, because you're settling in remarkably quickly." “Do you mind if I join you?” said Paul looking at the empty seat. "By all means," Harrison smiled, "Drink?" (reply Casely) (Posted by James Batchelor) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz - Ten Forward - TAC/SC - Ensign {SG} Paul Casely - 1921) "Do you mind if I join you?" said Paul looking at the empty seat. "By all means," Harrison smiled, "Drink?" "Certainly... but I believe I'll need to stick to something... without a punch. I need to get to sleep early as I have to get up and gets some work done before my report for Captain Sash at noon," said Paul stifling a yawn, "As for your comment on  me settling in nicely... are you on the clock? Is that an observation as a crewmate or a counsellor?" (reply Harrison)   Paul considered that for a second. There had been tension between Harrison and himself. It was probably better at this point to let some of that trepidation drop away and try to take him at face value.   "Hmmm... well, I find that people respect those who work hard, do their best to be useful and try to contribute where they can. I'm just lucky that I've been a position to do those things... although everyone on board, I believe, can contribute in their own way. Some just get so hung up on being involved in everything. I wouldn't try to counsel, take helm controls or patch up a patient. Its not where my strengths lie," said Paul, "I mean Holis is ten times the scientist I am, so I'm better off deferring to him there... he comes up with the scientific ideas, I find the practical tactical applications. Or I pose the tactical problem, or a perceived solution and engineers and science officers help make it a reality... or tell me where I go wrong."   (Reply Harrison)   "So how is your profile of Sevant coming... or the kidnappers? Any luck there so far? Anything we can use?" asked Paul with interest. A decent psychological profile could help Paul decide whether or not a plan would be more successful or whether he missed certain variables. Harrison's insights could therefore be important.   (Reply Harrison) (Posted by Jeff Bergeron) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz - Ten Forward - COUNS - Ensign {SG} John Harrison - 1923) "By all means," Harrison smiled, "Drink?" "Certainly... but I believe I'll need to stick to something... without a punch. I need to get to sleep early as I have to get up and gets some work done before my report for Captain Sash at noon," said Paul stifling a yawn, "As for your comment on me settling in nicely... are you on the clock? Is that an observation as a crewmate or a counsellor?" "A bit of both, really," he replied, truthfully. He still felt newer than Casely, but that was starting to change. He called the waiter over and ordered two drinks. "Hmmm... well, I find that people respect those who work hard, do their best to be useful and try to contribute where they can. I'm just lucky that I've been a position to do those things... although everyone on board, I believe, can contribute in their own way. Some just get so hung up on being involved in everything. I wouldn't try to counsel, take helm controls or patch up a patient. Its not where my strengths lie," said Paul, "I mean Holis is ten times the scientist I am, so I'm better off deferring to him there... he comes up with the scientific ideas, I find the practical tactical applications. Or I pose the tactical problem, or a perceived solution and engineers and science officers help make it a reality... or tell me where I go wrong." Harrison thought about that. He had a good point. So far, he had been so worried about not doing his job right, or not settling in - that was probably why he had accomplished neither one or the other. "You make a good point," he said, "I guess i've been worrying too much." "So how is your profile of Sevant coming... or the kidnappers? Any luck there so far? Anything we can use?" asked Paul with interest. A decent psychological profile could help Paul decide whether or not a plan would be more successful or whether he missed certain variables. Harrison's insights could therefore be important. "It's... interesting, to say the least," he replied, "Sevant's Starfleet record reads like a good book! I did a preliminary profile on him when this all started: He's been in plenty of situations like this before and somehow he's come out of it. He knows how to handle himself. Whether he would attempt escape on his own, or wait for a rescue, I can't be sure, I'm afraid. He has done so before, in a Romulan base. He managed to keep up his guerilla tactics until his away team rescued him. I wouldn't be surprised if the Boudicca find him in a similar situation, but he's unlikely to attempt an escape unless he's fairly confident that he can do so. As for who's holding him, I'm afraid I haven't found much, but as soon as I do, I can pass it along to you." (reply Casely) Their drinks arrived and Harrison took a swig, before turning back to the Tactical Officer. "So how are things at your end? Any luck with your hologram idea?" (reply Casely) Harrison listened with genuine interest. It seemed like a good idea to him. It reminded him of an old story from back home about a soldier who scared away his enemies with enough wooden cutouts of soldiers to make it look like he outnumbered his foes. Harrison doubted that the Nimitz' shuttles would scare off the ships they would be up against, but it was better than going in alone. "How many volunteers have you found so far?" (reply Casely) (Posted by James Batchelor) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz - Ten Forward – Ensign (sg) Miles O'Neill - 1930)   Miles entered Ten Forward, already with some people in it, and went over to the bar. He signaled a bartender that knew him, and said, "The usual, please." The bartender nodded, and returned in a few seconds with Miles' drink. "Thanks." Miles said as he took the drink, and started to mingle with some of the other people in Ten Forward.   Some time later, Miles ran into Holis. "Why hello Miles, and how is everything in engineering at the moment?"   "Hello Holis, things are great in Engineering, thanks for asking."   Holis nodded and motioned the waiter over. "I'll have a bottle of Napoleon brandy and a glass..." he looked over at Miles. "Would you like a nip? It's actually very good I assure you."   "Sure, I was just about finished with my drink, anyway." Miles said as he put down his glass on the table near him. He picked up the glass Holis gave him, and drank some of it. "This is pretty good." Miles said as he heard his commbadge beep. ~Damn.~ He thought as he pressed his badge, "O'Neill."   “Ensign Casely to Ensign O’Neill. Can you do something for me? I need you to take a class two probe and change the configuration so it CAN’T cut through holographic signaling, so it just reads the ship’s registry signal and automatically assumes it’s a normal ship. I know it seems a bit strange, but it might be helpful for us in the decoy game we’ll be playing. If you try it and it works, please modify 5 more probes.”   "Sure Paul. It'll take me some time to modify the probe, but it should be done in an hour or so." Miles replied.   “Excellent, let me know how you progress and transfer any technical data to my workstation on the bridge so I can look at it in the morning. Thank you. Casely out.”   "Sorry Holis, I've got to go. I'll see you at the tournament, hopefully."   (Reply Holis)   "See you then!" Miles said as he walked out of Ten Forward. He made his way to Engineering, and started to work on the probe.   (USS Nimitz - Main Engineering – Ensign (sg) Miles O'Neill - 2100)   "And...done!" Miles said, mostly to himself, as he closed the probe's maintence hatch. He ran a simulation to see if it worked. To his delight, it did. "O'Neill to Casely. I've finished modifying the probe and I'm sending the data and the simulation to you now." He transmitted the data, and the simulation replay to Paul's console, and he started modifying more probes.   (Reply Casely) (Posted by Matt Kirk) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz - Ten Forward – TAC/SC - Ensign {SG} Paul Casely - 1931) Paul listened with intent and interest when Harrison started talking about Sevant. "It's... interesting, to say the least," he replied, "Sevant's Starfleet record reads like a good book! I did a preliminary profile on him when this all started: He's been in plenty of situations like this before and somehow he's come out of it. He knows how to handle himself. Whether he would attempt escape on his own, or wait for a rescue, I can't be sure, I'm afraid. He has done so before, in a Romulan base. He managed to keep up his guerilla tactics until his away team rescued him. I wouldn't be surprised if the Boudicca find him in a similar situation, but he's unlikely to attempt an escape unless he's fairly confident that he can do so. As for who's holding him, I'm afraid I haven't found much, but as soon as I do, I can pass it along to you." “Well we’re already fairly certain that it’s the other ‘Starfleet’ that has him. It would just be good to know why and whether they’d just simply kill him or hold onto him for some reason,” stated Paul thoughtfully. He preferred to know his enemy as much as possible. It allowed him to exploit weaknesses. Their drinks arrived and Harrison took a swig, before turning back to the Tactical Officer. "So how are things at your end? Any luck with your hologram idea?" “I believe so, but it will take some work. We’ve moved away from using shuttlecraft and are going to use probes instead. That should minimize the loss of life possibility. Holis is currently working on finding a way to make the holo-image work and fine some way to conceal a weapon or pulse to disrupt enemy ships. I’ve run some simulations and my main issue is control 5 or 6 probes at once. The programming creates a situation where they want to either follow the same flight path as the others, as they look for the best path, or they criss cross over each other due to random programming. I have to find a way to ‘fool’ the probe into thinking the other probes are actual ships as well. Hey…” Casely suddenly had an idea. His conversation and musing with Harrison had actually helped him to put his problems and thoughts in a more organized state. This allowed him to see the problem from another perspective. Harrison, at least, appeared to be interested in his explanation. "How many volunteers have you found so far?" “Well, volunteers aren’t necessary now that we’re using probes. Hmmm… if I changed the probe’s array and squelched the ‘probe’ feature, it would pick up the register and see 4 or 5 more ships instead of other probes. It should work…” Paul trailed off… an idea was beginning to form where one hadn’t been before and he actually owed it to having a conversation with Ensign Harrison. “Excuse me for a second,” said Paul to Harrison while tapping his comm. badge, “Ensign Casely to Ensign O’Neill. Can you do something for me? I need you to take a class two probe and change the configuration so it CAN’T cut through holographic signaling, so it just reads the ship’s registry signal and automatically assumes it’s a normal ship. I know it seems a bit strange, but it might be helpful for us in the decoy game we’ll be playing. If you try it and it works, please modify 5 more probes.” (Reply O’Neill) “Excellent, let me know how you progress and transfer any technical data to my workstation on the bridge so I can look at it in the morning. Thank you. Casely out.” “I’m sorry Mr. Harrison. I just had an idea and felt I should deal with it before I forget it.” (Reply Harrison) (Reply Harrison, O’Neill, any) (Posted by Jeff Bergeron) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz - Ten Forward – COUNS - Ensign {SG} John Harrison - 1933) Harrison saw that Casely listened politely and with genuine interest as he gave his preliminary profile on Sevant. “Well we’re already fairly certain that it’s the other ‘Starfleet’ that has him. It would just be good to know why and whether they’d just simply kill him or hold onto him for some reason,” Paul said when he finished. It was an area that Harrison hadn't looked into in great detail as yet, but he probably should. As soon as he was done here, he would return to his office and continue work. Their drinks arrived and Harrison took a swig, before turning back to the Tactical Officer. "So how are things at your end? Any luck with your hologram idea?" Harrison asked. “I believe so, but it will take some work. We’ve moved away from using shuttlecraft and are going to use probes instead. That should minimize the loss of life possibility. Holis is currently working on finding a way to make the holo-image work and fine some way to conceal a weapon or pulse to disrupt enemy ships. I’ve run some simulations and my main issue is control 5 or 6 probes at once. The programming creates a situation where they want to either follow the same flight path as the others, as they look for the best path, or they criss cross over each other due to random programming. I have to find a way to ‘fool’ the probe into thinking the other probes are actual ships as well. Hey…” Harrison saw the tactical officer's eyes light up. "How many volunteers have you found so far?" he asked. “Well, volunteers aren’t necessary now that we’re using probes. Hmmm… if I changed the probe’s array and squelched the ‘probe’ feature, it would pick up the register and see 4 or 5 more ships instead of other probes. It should work…” Harrison tried to follow Casely's ramblings as best he could and found he actually followed most of it. The air of excitement his colleague was giving off could only mean that this was a very good idea. “Excuse me for a second,” said Paul to Harrison while tapping his comm. badge, “Ensign Casely to Ensign O’Neill. Can you do something for me? I need you to take a class two probe and change the configuration so it CAN’T cut through holographic signaling, so it just reads the ship’s registry signal and automatically assumes it’s a normal ship. I know it seems a bit strange, but it might be helpful for us in the decoy game we’ll be playing. If you try it and it works, please modify 5 more probes.” (Reply O’Neill) “Excellent, let me know how you progress and transfer any technical data to my workstation on the bridge so I can look at it in the morning. Thank you. Casely out.” “I’m sorry Mr. Harrison. I just had an idea and felt I should deal with it before I forget it.” Harrison smiled. "I know the feeling! I'll catch you later." (rely Casely, iyw) He watched Casely leave and returned to his drink. Once finished, he left Ten Forward and headed to his office. ~Never a dull moment~ he thought as the doors of Ten Forward slid shut silently. (Posted by James Batchelor) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz - Ten Forward – CSO Holis Gralen (Ensign sg)- 1934)   Holis walked into ten forward a bit unsettled from the days events and intending to get another bottle of Napoleon brandy, his stock had 'evaporated' pretty quickly, he noticed the engineer named O'Neil was mingling about and decided to say hello. He walked up with a smile on his face and said. "Why hello Miles, and how is everything in engineering at the moment?"   (Reply: Miles O'Neil)   Holis nodded and motioned the waiter over. "I'll have a bottle of Napoleon brandy and a glass..." he looked over at Miles. "Would you like a nip? It's actually very good I assure you."   (Reply: Miles O'Neil)   Holis looked back at the waiter. "Bring two snifters please."   NRPG: Just in case he would like a snort or changes his mind. *Smiles* RPG:   (Reply: Miles O'Neil, any)   (Posted by Charles) Stardate:2406.11.25 (USS Nimitz - Personal Quarters – TAC/SC - Ensign (SG) Paul Casely - 2101)   Paul had just entered his quarters and was contemplating his bed when his comm badge chirped.   =^=O'Neill to Casely. I've finished modifying the probe and I'm sending the data and the simulation to you now.=^=   "Good work Miles! Thanks a lot for your help. Make sure you get yourself some sleep tonight. I get the feeling the next two days are going to be a bit crazy. I'll have a look at the data and sim in the morning and send you any suggestions for changes I might have. I should warn you though that morning for me is going to be in the order of 0300. Thanks again for your help." replied Paul.   (Reply Miles)  (Posted by Jeff Bergeron) Stardate:2406.11.26 (USS Nimitz – Personal Quarters - TAC/SC - Ensign {SG} Paul Casely - 0200) [This is your automated wake up, it is now 0200] Paul sat bolt upright, still clothed from the night before. He looked down at his clothing disgustedly and carefully removed his comm. Badge and his new solid pip and laid them on the table. From there he proceeded to clean  up and shave, select a clean uniform and reattach the relevant hardware. ~Just time for some food and then back at it. No time for training today…~ Paul thought as he walked into the next room. (USS Nimitz – Bridge - TAC/SC - Ensign {SG} Paul Casely - 0230) Paul walked to his station, relieved the ATAC at his station for this shift and unlocked his personal settings, he called up his files and started back to work. The problem with the synchronous control had been bothering him fairly consistently and he knew that it had to be solved before anything could work. The timing seemed right, as did the choice of probes as the delivery system. He had to see what Holis could come up with, but that wouldn’t be for several hours at least. Paul hoped that he could make some headway before noon, when he had to give his report to the captain. He already had most of the tactical issues dealt with, there was just the technology factor and the control factor left to deal with. Paul stepped away from the console and scanned the bridge to see who else from the alpha shift had started early. He suddenly felt a desperate need for coffee. (Reply any on bridge) (Posted by Jeff Bergeron) Stardate:2406.11.26 (USS Nimitz - Bridge – TAC/SC – Ensign {SG} Paul Casely - 0245) Paul was working intently on double checking his figures and still trying to work out the problem of being able to control several probes at once. Suddenly, his intercom beeped and a message came through. =^=Sogh la' K'ven to Ensign Casely, I am at the Battle Bridge. I have started the systems here and am running level five diagnostics. I would like to get someone down here that could read what they come up with. Also, I would like for you to come down here when you can so we can talk a bit about the mission. I want also to start sometime going through different options on the holodeck. I will await your arrival to discuss the options that you were discussing earlier in the meeting. K'ven out.=^= Paul was about to respond when the channel was cut. Paul shook his head. ~Is he watching me or something?~ came Paul’s first thought. Paul knew that at the moment he didn’t have time time to run all over and his work was still at the preliminary stages. He also knew that one of the primary reasons he had returned to duty was so he could arrange his security roster and details in case of boarding. There was no point in continuing without Holis' input at this point anyway, he only had half a report at this stage. ~Well, he did say when I can… right now security matters have to be dealt with.~ With that Paul closed the tactical files and started working on security details. Paul glanced at the schedule, it seemed sound, everyone would be on duty, more or less, when the ‘event’ was supposed to happen. He was concerned with the weapons inventory, however. ~This hasn’t been updated in a long time. I’d better double check the power cells.~ Paul thought. With that, he tapped his comm badge. “Casely to Major Dorkin. I’m working on an inventory and status check of onboard weapons. Do you have any concerns or requests? Is there anything you need?” Paul asked (Reply Dorkin, any on bridge) (Posted by Jeff Bergeron) Stardate:2406.11.26 (XXXX - Courtroom - Sevant - 0800) Sevant, flanked by two betazoid guards who were more then capable of stopping at least a common telepathic attack, crossed his arms behind him as he looked at the court through his peripheral vision. ~Traitors, all.~ he thought glumly. There wasn't a single person here who hadn't given their utmost word to follow Doenitz and his New World Order. To them, Sevant was a thorn, the former Captain of a battleship; someone who had given his word to stop the take-over of the Federation. The entire trial had been a sham. Today, he was to be sentenced. "All Rise." The half-Vulcan remained at loose attention as the presiding admiral and two Captains walked through the door of the pre-fab shelter. He had come to despise these men as the very epitome of the Forces Sevant had sworn to fight when he had followed LoDona far past the borders of the Federation. It had only been three long days, but their attitude was transparent. "This court-martial is now in session." The admiral said as he grabbed a gavel and pounded it once. "Commander Sevant, Stand Forth and prepare to receive the judgment of his hearing." Caladryll, who still wouldn't answer to 'Commander', made not one move. The Admiral looked over and made a theatrical sigh for the holo-recorders. "Your obvious attitude and uncooperative nature, in evidence from the beginning, has made it impossible for this court to be lenient. I sense no repentance in you; I sense no remorse for the Treason you have willingly played a hand in." Sevant's face remained immobile; this is exactly what he had expected. ~Pompous B*stard.~ he thought without rancor, more intent on studying everyone else in the court then the speaking Admiral. Un-phased by Sevant's apparent lack of reaction, the Admiral continued with. "By the power invested in me by Starfleet and the United Federation of Planets, in accordance with the Articles of War- This court finds you guilty of High Treason, Conduct Unbecoming an Officer, Conspiracy to overthrow the rightful government of the United Federation of Planets, and Armed Rebellion against the United Federation of Planets; all charges having been levied in a time when the Federation is in a State of Emergency. The penalty therefore, and in accordance with the Articles of War, shall be Death." The Admiral paused long enough for those words to sink in. "Sentence to be carried out in two days time." His gavel rang once more through the room, cheers erupted from those who had been witnesses. Sevant, who had been the very epitome of Vulcan calm since the trial had started, suddenly spit on the floor before the judges. "That is what I give this court-martial, and your judgment." He snarled dangerously. Without further ado he spun on his heel, not even the betazoids attempted to grab him... that lesson had been learned, at least. The guards followed him until he reached his cell, where he was locked in quietly. With the utmost calm he sat on the bunk and closed his eyes, mentally preparing himself. There was no doubt that he would be visited many times before that sentence was carried out- he still carried too much information He held his breath for a moment and let it out slowly. That he had been sentenced to Death was not a surprise, he had expected it from the start, he wasn't shocked. There was no remorse, the only things he had to live for were his ship and his Crew; they would be adequately taken care of. All his other ties to this universe had been severed with the death of his only family. This was one of the ends he had signed up for, when he had taken his oath to Starfleet. He had done his job to the best of his abilities. There were no regrets. None. (reply: none) (posted by Trout) Stardate:2406.11.29 (USS Nimitz - Bridge – TAC/SC – Ensign {SG} Paul Casely - 0245) Paul was working intently on double checking his figures and still trying to work out the problem of being able to control several probes at once. Suddenly, his intercom beeped and a message came through. =^=Sogh la' K'ven to Ensign Casely, I am at the Battle Bridge. I have started the systems here and am running level five diagnostics. I would like to get someone down here that could read what they come up with. Also, I would like for you to come down here when you can so we can talk a bit about the mission. I want also to start sometime going through different options on the holodeck. I will await your arrival to discuss the options that you were discussing earlier in the meeting. K'ven out.=^= Paul was about to respond when the channel was cut. Paul shook his head. ~Is he watching me or something?~ came Paul’s first thought. Paul knew that at the moment he didn’t have time time to run all over and his work was still at the preliminary stages. He also knew that one of the primary reasons he had returned to duty was so he could arrange his security roster and details in case of boarding. There was no point in continuing without Holis' input at this point anyway, he only had half a report at this stage. ~Well, he did say when I can… right now security matters have to be dealt with.~ With that Paul closed the tactical files and started working on security details. Paul glanced at the schedule, it seemed sound, everyone would be on duty, more or less, when the ‘event’ was supposed to happen. He was concerned with the weapons inventory, however. ~This hasn’t been updated in a long time. I’d better double check the power cells.~ Paul thought. With that, he tapped his comm badge. “Casely to Major Dorkin. I’m working on an inventory and status check of onboard weapons. Do you have any concerns or requests? Is there anything you need?” Paul asked (Reply Dorkin, any on bridge) (Posted by Jeff Bergeron)