*Star Trek ENDED*

[motom79]

The year is 2380 and it has been five long years since the Federation/Dominion War. Old allegiances have come under strain since then and the peace negotiations between the Federation alliance and the Dominion are still strained. As part of these negotiations, Starfleet has been authorized to send ships into Dominion territory but the Romulan Star Empire and the Klingon Empire are denied this privilege. This diplomatic maneuver has angered the government of the Romulan Star Empire and so once again the relations between the two intergalactic powers are on the fringe. The other major player the Klingon Empire has reached a compromise with the Federation, they can have detaches aboard Federation Vessels.

Under this less than ideal conditions the newly christened Sovereign-class Radiant and her crew are preparing to begin their mission to seek out new life and new civilizations to boldly go where no one has gone before.



.::rules::.

This is an open RP about the adventures and voyages of the star ship Radiant and it's crew. It takes place in the Star Trek Universe, where humans and alien species have formed alliances and are working together in an United Federation of Planets. Other players are more than welcome. For now all senior positions are taken but in the future one or two may open up. If you want to join please feel free. Summaries will be posted regularly.

Usefull links:

Deltans:
http://startrek.wikia.com/wiki/Deltan

Dominion:
http://memory-alpha.org/en/wiki/Dominion
http://memory-alpha.org/en/wiki/Dominion_philosophy
http://memory-alpha.org/en/wiki/Dominion_history
http://memory-alpha.org/en/wiki/Founder
http://memory-alpha.org/en/wiki/Vorta
http://memory-alpha.org/en/wiki/Jem%27hadar

General:
http://memory-alpha.org/en/wiki/Portal:Main
http://www.startrek.com/startrek/view/index.html

Medical:
http://stfederation.org/lcars/medical/medications.htm

*Crew Manifest*

Senior Staf

Captain: Elen (http://forums.sims2community.com/showpost.php?p=1220105&postcount=2)

Executive Officer: Melena (http://forums.sims2community.com/showpost.php?p=1220112&postcount=4)

Chief security officer: Hal Eloran (http://forums.sims2community.com/showpost.php?p=1220114&postcount=5)

Chief Medical officer: Dr. Lynda Riley
(http://forums.sims2community.com/showpost.php?p=1220140&postcount=14)
Chief Engineer: Joshua Woods
(http://forums.sims2community.com/showpost.php?p=1220128&postcount=9)
Senior operations officer: Tara sh'Raazh (http://forums.sims2community.com/showpost.php?p=1220107&postcount=3)

Senior Helmsman: Raian Zan (formally Raneri)
(http://forums.sims2community.com/showpost.php?p=1220120&postcount=6)
Chief Science officer: Tahlandi Rann (http://forums.sims2community.com/showpost.php?p=1220125&postcount=7)

Ships counsellor: Mizuki Azuma (http://forums.sims2community.com/showpost.php?p=1220126&postcount=8)

Strategic Operations: Korvin Caeli (http://forums.sims2community.com/showpost.php?p=1220133&postcount=11)

Other officers:

Lt. Cmdr. Jyric Hyrdri'x (http://forums.sims-community.com/showpost.php?p=1331295&postcount=395) (relief officer Command)

Ensign Sorjei Thelin (http://forums.sims2community.com/showpost.php?p=1220131&postcount=10) (engineering)

Ensign Mirok Elias (http://forums.sims2community.com/showpost.php?p=1220134&postcount=12) (conn)

Crewmen:

crewman 3rd class Imaru Hrisvalar (http://forums.sims2community.com/showpost.php?p=1220135&postcount=13) (linguistics)

Civilians and diplomatic core:

Lt. Loral (http://forums.sims2community.com/showpost.php?p=1269370&postcount=227) (Klingon Liaison officer)

Kell (http://forums.sims-community.com/showpost.php?p=1323709&postcount=376) (civilian)

NPC:

Captain Maurice Tsongo (http://forums.sims2community.com/showpost.php?p=1220141&postcount=15)

Radiant Crew and Edris (http://forums.sims2community.com/showpost.php?p=1271562&postcount=237)

Log entries:
Captains log 1 (http://forums.sims2community.com/showpost.php?p=1220526&postcount=17)
Captains log 2 (http://forums.sims2community.com/showpost.php?p=1233898&postcount=117)
Strategic Operations Log 1 (http://forums.sims2community.com/showpost.php?p=1273781&postcount=243)
Star Fleet intelligence Raport and Captain's Personal Log (http://forums.sims2community.com/showpost.php?p=1284031&postcount=261)
Captain's log addendum (http://forums.sims-community.com/showpost.php?p=1310934&postcount=339)

[motom79]

Name and Rank: Captain Elen

Age: 41

Species/Homeworld: Deltan

Position: Captain (expert in Sociology and Anthropology)

A brief sentence or two describing your personality: Captain Elen is one of the architects of the peace talks between the Federation Alliance and the Dominion. Before joining the Federations diplomatic core she was an instructor of Sociology and Anthropology at the Academy. Although her extensive experience in diplomatic missions she misses hands on experience as a captain of a star ship. Elen is a sensual and strong willed woman and like most Deltans her presence can be a little distracting to the crew because of her strong pheromones (not unlike Orion women). Like all Deltans serving in Star Fleet she has swore an oath of celibacy, this stems form the fact that Deltans feel that other species are sexually immature

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd84/motom79/MTS2_motom79_MTS2_motom79_snapshot_.jpg

[motom79]

Name and rank: Lt. Commander Tara sh’Raazh

Age: equivalent of 45 human years

Species/Homeworld: Andoria

Position: senior OPS officer

A brief sentence or two describing your personality: Tara is not your typical Star Fleet officer. She is highly aggressive and brutally upfront. This of course is not uncommon for Andorian women, but for Tara her aggressive nature is known to interfere with her work. She constantly butts heads with her superior officers and three years ago she spent a year in a penal facility for slugging Vice-Admiral Gral after a violent disagreement. The conditions for her return to active duty were and are very strict, and she still has to attend counseling session on regular basis.

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd84/motom79/MTS2_motom79_MTS2_motom79_MTS2_m-5.jpg

[Mikoyo80]

Name and Rank: Commander Melena
Age: 33
Species/Homeworld: Human/Orion, Martian Colony
Position: Executive Officer

A brief sentence or two describing your personality:
Melena was born in in a martian colony as the daughter of a human father, a starfleet admiral, and an Orion mother. Once a councelor, she switched to command and eventually earned a promotion to commander. Although usually a kind and friendly individual, she will stop at nothing (within ethical reason) to get the job done as efficiently as is within her ability. Previously serving as chief of operations on board deep space 7, this will be her first assignment as a first officer and she hopes to make a good impression.

http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q126/Mikoto80/Star%20Trek/snapshot_f487ec85_74a62e29.jpg

[Mikoyo80]

Name and Rank: Lt. Cmdr. Hal Eloran
Age: 35
Species/Homeworld: Bajoran, Earth
Position: Chief Security Officer

A brief sentence or two describing your personality: Laid back and very rarely loses his temper, he knows how to remain cool in a crisis.

His parents came to Earth, where he was later born, as refugees during the occupation of Bajor and have lived there ever since. When he was deemed old enough to understand, his parents told him of the suffering of their people at the hands of the Cardassians and how they had been the lucky ones able to escape, although they never told him how this came to pass. After that he vowed to prevent any further suffering, whether it be against his people or anyone elses, by any means neccessary and thus joined Starfleet as a security officer. Because of this goal, his loyalties may be questioned but he is very good at fitting in regardless and is a loyal trustworthy officer for the most part. Previously serving on Deep Space 7, he is looking forward to serving on a starship for the first time in a long time.

http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q126/Mikoto80/Star%20Trek/snapshot_f487ec85_34a5599d.jpg

[Mikoyo80]

Name and Rank: Lt.JG. Raian Zan (formally Raneri)
Age: Raian is 23
Species/Homeworld: Joined Trill, Trill Homeworld
Position: Senior Helmsman
A brief sentence or two describing your personality: Ensign Raian Raneri was known as a rather cocky and hot headed young man but nevertheless was thought of as one of the most promising of the up and coming starfleet pilots, a position he took great pleasure out of. Since his joining with the symbiont Zan, an unplanned event due to the death of a joined Trill officer aboard the vessel he was serving with at the time.

With three previous lifetimes of experience now under his belt, Raian has mellowed considerably. Although he can still be a little childish and over energetic at times, the Zan symbiont is known to be a little eccentric sometimes, he has lost a lot of the arrogance and cockiness of his previous self. His heroics during the incident that took his predecessors life, along with his new found experience and maturity, earned him a promotion to lieutenant junior. He had little chance to enjoy this however, due to being forced out of commision for six months in order to receive counselling back on Trill.

Raian has now returned to active duty all but recovered, albeit with the occasional confused memory. A great sense of humour, he will be one of the first to laugh at his own misfortunes as quickly as he would those of others. As well as senior helmsman, he was assigned to the Radiant in the hope that he could put the diplomatic skills of Zan's second host, Aeryn, whom was once known as one of the best diplomats in the federation, to good use.

http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q126/Mikoto80/Star%20Trek/snapshot_16015603_366c25bc.jpg

[motom79]

Name and Rank: Lieutenant junior grade Tahlandi Rann (note this is a Bajoran name so it’s Lt.jg. Tahlandi)

Age: 23

Species/Homeworld: Cardassian but Bajoran citizen

Position: chief science officer: his field is experimental psychology with minors in comparative Theology and neurobiology

A brief sentence or two describing your personality : Tahlandi is a Cardassian orphan born on Bajor. Like so many he was left behind on Bajor after the occupation ended. Raised by a Bajoran family, Tahlandi has embraced Bajoran culture as his own. Although he looks Cardassian he is a true Bajoran at heart. Before joining Star Fleet he studied to be a a Vedek (Bajoran Priest) but due latent rascisme towards Cardassians he was forced out the clergy. He decided to join Star Fleet because of their philosophy to embrace new cultures and new races. But he soon found out that some Star Fleet officers have hard feelings towards the people that sold out the Alpha Quadrant.

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd84/motom79/snapshot_96d1658b_36d16965.jpg

[Mikoyo80]

Name and Rank: Lt. Mizuki Azuma
Age: 24
Species/Homeworld: Human/Andorian, Andor
Position: Ship's Counsellor
A brief sentence or two describing your personality: Mizuki was raised on Andor by her andorian mother and grandparents. Her human father, an Earthling from Japan, was a senior science officer for Starfleet and so wasn't around much but visited as often as possible. She is well mannered and a good listener, thriving on helping those in need making her an almost perfect candidate for a counsellor. Thanks to her Andorian heritage, she knows how to stand up for herself when need be but is able to apply a firm but fair attitude, unlike a good percentage of her race. She is often ridiculed by her fellow andorians due to her odd skin colouration, resulting from her mixed heritage, but always has a comeback waiting.

http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q126/Mikoto80/Star%20Trek/snapshot_f57d24b0_d57d36f2.jpg

[motom79]

Name and rank: Lt. Joshua Woods

Age: 30

Species/Homeworld: Human (Maori ethnic)

Position: chief Engineer

A brief sentence or two describing your personality: Though minded and cool in a crisis. Lt. Woods isn't one to loose his head in a crunch. Before being assigned to the Radiant he worked on Deep Space Nine under Captain Kira Nerys. During his tour of duty on Deep Space Nine he was reprimanded for his involvement in illegal gambling activities. Woods takes pride in his work and Maori roots, which he shows by extensive use of body art. He may appear unfriendly and distant at first. But those who know him, will tell you that he is a warm and caring person buried beneath a sarcastic exterior. His hobbies are tribal dancing and ancient languages. He is also an excellent opera singer.

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd84/motom79/MTS2_motom79_MTS2_motom79_MTS2_moto.jpg

[motom79]

Name and Rank: Ensign Sorjei Thelin

Age: 22

Species/Homeworld: Andorian-Aenar hybrid

Position: sensor analyst {astrometrics}

A brief sentence or two describing your personality: Ensign Thelin is a graduate of the Academy and the Radiant is his first post. He is a mathematical genius but also a bit of an underachiever. He is sociable and tends to talk to fast when he's nervous or under stress. He is very open-minded and loves to interact with the different species aboard the Radiant. He considers himself something of a amateur anthropologist. He has limited telepathic abilities (compared to those of a full Aenar)

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd84/motom79/MTS2_motom79_MTS2_motom79_MTS2_m-1.jpg

[motom79]

Name and Rank: Lt. Korvin Caeli

Race/Homeworld: Bolian

Age: 27

Position: strategic operations

Brief Character Description: Lt. Korvin Caeli has a knack for politics and sweet talking his way through almost every situation. Like most Bolians he is very easy going and a little too talkative at times. He is ambitious and a little to much by the book. He served as assistant JAG under cpt. Elen and his natural flair for politics and diplomacy has earned him a spot on the Radiant.

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd84/motom79/MTS2_motom79_MTS2_motom79_MTS2_m-4.jpg

[motom79]

Name and Rank: Ensign Mirok Elias

Age: 21

Species/Homeworld: Cardassian/Bajoran hybrid

Position: shuttle pilot/navigator

A brief sentence or two describing your personality: Elias has had a life filled with hardship. He was a pariah in his own family. His birth was a result of gang rape by Cardassian soldiers so he was a constant reminder to his mother of this trauma. At the age of 12 his mother committed suicide and he was left behind. Soon there after he was adopted by a Bajoran star fleet officer and found the love and stability he always graved. He has a lot of issues with Cardassians and loathes his Cardassian heritage.

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd84/motom79/MTS2_motom79_MTS2_motom79_MTS2_m-2.jpg

[motom79]

Name and Rank: crewman 3rd class Imaru Hrisvalar

Age: 22

Species/Homeworld: Andorian (Southern Ice desert)

Position: linguistics (science)

A brief sentence or two describing your personality: Imaru has just graduated from the Andorian Language institute and decided to enlist in Star Fleet as a linguist. She is fluent in Klingonese, Vulcan, Andorian, English and Romulan. She also speaks a few words of the known Dominion languages. She belongs to the Keth minority.

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd84/motom79/MTS2_motom79_MTS2_motom79_MTS2_m-3.jpg

[Mikoyo80]

Name and Rank: Dr. Lynda Riley (Lt.Cmdr.)
Race/Homeworld: Human/Earth
Age: 37
Position: Chief Medical Officer

Brief Character Description: An accomplished doctor, Lynda has worked with patients of many different species and illnesses giving her plenty of experience. She has worked in starfleet for many years and up until recently was working in the main medical complex back on Earth. She speaks her mind and isn't afraid to say what needs to be said in order to get her point across and do her job effectively. Lynda may be nearing her forties but she still knows how to have fun.

http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q126/Mikoto80/Star%20Trek/snapshot_f57d24b0_558c0d12.jpg

[motom79]

*NPC*

Name and Rank: Captain Maurice Tsongo

Age: 41

Species/Homeworld: Human (African Union Congo)

Position: deputy head of Star Fleet Security

A brief sentence or two describing your personality: Captain Tsongo came to prominence during the Dominion War campaigns, where his ruthless nature made him an asset. But ever since the war ended Tsongo is a liability and embarrassment for Star Fleet. His lack of ethics came in handy during the war but now he is undermining everything the Federation stands for. The last five years he has been lobbying to lead a mission into the Gamma Quadrant so he feels bitter resentment that once again he was passed over. To make the pill even more bitter he was passed over for somebody he considers to be a diplomatic weakling with no spine.

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd84/motom79/MTS2_motom79_MTS2_motom79_MTS2_m-6.jpg

[Mikoyo80]

*OOC* Yeah, it's 1am over here so I should be leaving too. Good night!

[motom79]

Captain’s log stardate 56793.1

The last few weeks have been hectic to say the least, who knew that assembling a crew could be so time consuming. I’ve spent three days interviewing alone to find a first officer, but in the end I’ve found a suitable candidate in commander Melena. Although maybe not as experienced as other candidates she impressed me with her fierce determination and strong ethics. As I’m laying the last hand on my crew roaster, I find myself anxious to start. Captain Kira has been helpful and even lent me one of her finest engineers for the duration of our mission. Without her help and support I doubt this mission would have been possible. The last hurdle before I really can sink my teeth in my first command is the debriefing with Captain Tsongo, something I’m not looking forward to. It’s a public secret that he wanted to command of the Radiant and even went so far as seeking the support of the Andorian representative in the Federation Counsel but to no avail I’m glad to say. In my opinion this man has no place in Star Fleet, …

Computer voice: Captain Elen please report to the observation lounge.

Elen: On my way, computer save log.

(ooc: hope this is alright for you. If you want you can write a log to for one of your characters.)

[Mikoyo80]

*Deep Space 9 - Corridor*

Melena couldn't help feeling a little nervous as she strode through the corridor en route to the observation lounge. The feeling was mainly due to the fact that this would be her first post as a commanding officer, the highest rank save for the captain, and she wondered if she could pull it off successfully. The other part was of course meeting Captain Tsongo, an unpleasant man she had met once and had hoped never to meet again. As she made her way down she spotted a familiar face and smiled before catching up with her Bajoran friend, one Lt.Cmdr. Hal Eloran whom she had served with previously and shared a close friendship with.

Melena: Hello Elo!
Hal: Ello Ello to you too. Are you ready then? I heard about your promotion to XO, congratulations!
Melena: Thanks, now to see if I can cut it.
Hal: I have every faith in you. I'm not looking forward to this meeting, Captain Tsongo is...not worthy of polite description to say the least.
Melena: I know, we've met...
Hal: Ha! Wonder what our captains like.
Melena: Captain Elen is a Deltan, we met during my interview. I don't know much else about her really.
Hal: Guess we'll find out then. Well, here we are. Lets get this over with so we can go!

[motom79]

((ooc: need to sign of for a few hours, see you later))

*Deep Space Nine - observation lounge*

Caeli was setting up the meeting, cpt Tsongo was barking orders to some poor ensign whom quivered under the tirade of insults. Caeli was looking at the doors hoping that the other senior officers would be here soon. The door opened and a fierce looking human male with several tattoo's walked in, giving cpt. Tsongo a look that would scare even a Klingon. Closely followed by a green skined woman baring the rank of commander and a Bajor man. Without a word the man with the tattoos sat down, barely acknowledging his superior officer. Captain Tsongo also seemed intent at ignoring the others and went on insulting the poor ensign who seemed to be near to tears now.

[Mikoyo80]

*OOC* See you later.

*Deep Space 9 - Observation Lounge*

At that point, Raian wandered in and nodded in acknowledgment to his fellow senior officers. He noticed that Captain Elen was yet to make an appearence but he scowled as he noticed Captain Tsongo. He hadn't met the man personally but the previous host of his symbiont, Zan, had and the memories were far from pleasant. The host in question, Yulia, had once served under the aggressive commanding officer but was transferred at the captains request regarding her tendancy to put him in his place. If he had met him before his joining he was sure that he would have punched the man by now over the way he was treating the unfortunate young ensign. He remembered a good friend of Yulia's who had done just that to an admiral and had faced the consequences, leading to the decision that perhaps this course of action wouldn't be favourable. He looked at the other officers, who seemed to be either ignoring the situation or felt that it was not their place to do anything about it. He knew that they would be right and bit his lip as he lowered his head in an attempt to eradicate the internal conflict. It was against his nature to keep quiet, but then again he wasn't even sure what he was supposed to be like now anyway.

[motom79]

*Turbolift*

sh'Raazh was straightening her uniform wondering about the new mission. She was surprised that captain Elen personally requested her to serve aboard the Radiant. First of all she never even met the woman and secondly since the incident with Vice-Admiral Gral she was persona non grata with most captains. The last year she had been assigned to small science vessel surveying the Krem Nebula, a tedious and boring mission to say the least. The turbolift stopped with a load thump and young Cardassian in a blue uniform got in. He give a polite nod towards sh'Raazh. The two officers stood in silence as the turbolift continued its journey.

*Observation Lounge*

The air was thick in the observation lounge, captain Tsongo had taken the center seat and eyed the officer already there. His eyes traveled towards Lt.cmdr. Hal and he give the Bajoran security officer a short nod. Caeli looked at his fellow officers, all seemed to be nervous. He wondered what he found worse the abuse he just witnessed or the silence. At that moment captain Elen and two other officer entered the room. The Andorian woman seemed to stare at the young Trill officer, an odd expression was on her face. The young Cardassian officer acknowledge his fellow officer before taking a seat.

Tsongo: Captain Elen
Elen: Captain Tsongo as soon as my chief medical officer and counselor are here we can start the debriefing. I'm surprised Admiral Nechayev isn't leading the debriefing.
Tsongo: She had some urgent matters to attend to on Deep Space 2 but she will get a full report.
Elen: Yes I'm sure she will *smiling* Commander Melena I'd like you to take notes of the debriefing.

[Mikoyo80]

*Deep Space 9 - Observation Lounge*

As if on cue, a cheery red headed woman and a flustered purple Andorian scurried into the room and quickly took their seats. The doctor smiled cheerily in greeting to everyone but said nothing. Raian looked up as the new officers walked in and instantly recognised the older Andorian. There was no mistaking her as the oldest friend of his predessor, Yulia, and most trusted ally. Strange giving her record, but he felt an instant connection to a woman he had barely glimpsed. He quickly averted his gaze from her and turned his attention to the commanding officers. As Melena nodded and took out a PADD, it looked like their debriefing was about to begin.

*OOC* Be back in half an hour or so

[motom79]

*Observation Lounge*

Captain Tsongo stood up and immediately took the word. Captain Elen seemed to take it all in stride, almost like she expected this to happen.

Tsongo: I cut to the chase and leave out the pleasantries. As you know the Dominion has finally allowed the Federation limited access to their territory. This means we have an unique opportunity to establish and if necessary force new alliances and extend the Federations realm of influence *at this words several officers flinched*

sh'Raazh: *interrupting Tsongo* Captain you do realize that what you are suggesting is in direct violation of the Jankata Accord which states...

Elen: Thank you lietenant commander but I'm sure you just misunderstood captain Tsongo.

Tsongo: Well I merely meant we have an unique opportunity to explore an unknown part of space and establish diplomatic relations. *scratches his throat, clearly considering his words carefully* Well but of course you all realize this. The debriefing has to do with a sensitive matter. Three months ago a we lost contact with the U.S.S Rodenberry a science vessel. It's last known location was in the Kemala sector. You are to find out what happened to the ship and it's crew. Star Fleet Intelligence reports indicate that there may be Jem'Hadar activity which is surprising to say the least.

Elen: I wasn't aware that the Rodenberry had been assigned to explore the Gamma Quadrant.

Tsongo: Nor would you have been as I said this a sensitive matter. The ship was on a scientific mission to explore the binary system and carried with it state of the art scientific material. It's of the utmost importance that this ship is salvaged, the loss to Federation science would be tremendous. Any questions so far?

Although Tsongo's expression is impassive Tahlandi can't help shake the feeling that the man is hiding something. Why send a science vessel in a potential hostile enviromnent to explore an almost mundane phenomenon. It just doesn't make sense to him. Lt. Woods is leaning forward, his dislike for captain Tsongo barely masked. He looks at the LCARS behind both captains, on it the names of the missing crew and a list of the missing materials. Woods couldn't help but notice that Tsongo didn't seemed to be bothered for the crews wellbeing at all. He only seemed to be focusing on the material side of the matter which worried and angered him. sh'Raazh felt conflicted, she was pissed of because of the way captain Elen cut her off, she felt sure that she didn't misunderstood Tsongo at all. On the other hand if she went on the offense now it could mean on end to her first real mission in years. So against her nature sh'Raazh sat there, antenna's agressivly twitching and several questions burning on the end of her tongue.

[Mikoyo80]

*Deep Space 9 - Observation Lounge*

A few mumours of surprise echoed around the room as the revelation of Jem'Hadar activity and the uncertain fate of a number of their colleagues. Melena nodded slowly as she made her notes.

Melena: So our mission is to hopefully retrieve the Rodenberry and it's crew.
Hal: Sounds like trouble, hope they're not trying to start another war.
Azuma: I'm assuming that is part of the reason why we were assigned here in the first place - to negotiate against these kinds of uncertainties and misunderstandings.
Zan: I might not have served during the Dominion War, but I have memories of someone who did and I know that these people can't be trusted. I think this whole thing could be a trap.
Melena: Maybe lieutenant, but we should at least give them a chance. We have our mission, when must we depart?

[motom79]

*DS 9 - Observation Lounge*

Tahlandi: Sir, I beg your pardon, but why was the Rodenberry there.

Tsongo: Like I said to explore the Binary System of the Kemela sector. Well I'm sorry to cut the meeting short but I need to be on the USS Yosemite in one hour and I need to prepare myself. I'm sure that captain Elen can fill in the missing blanks.

And like that Tsongo disappeared.

cpt. Elen: Well the ship well depart in two hours and yes this is a rescue mission commander. I doubt the Dominion is planning another war but we best be on the alert. You are all dismissed expect for commander Melena, Lt. commander Hal and Lieutenant Caeli. Oh and doctor Riley can you meet me in sickbay in say one hour.

As her senior staff disappeared Captain Elen took a moment to study the LCARS for a brief moment and then turned to the remaining officers.

Elen: he's lying.

[Mikoyo80]

*OOC* Um, were we on deep space 9 for the debriefing or The Radiant? I've somehow managed to confuse myself again lol!

*Deep Space 9 - Obsevation Lounge*

As everyone began to disperse, Melena and Hal remained seated with eyes fixed upon the captain. This seemed as though was going to be a tough mission indeed, although not unexpected as they were headed into the territory of their former enemies after all. The captain then made her claim causing Melena to shake her head and Hal to fold his arms. Melena couldn't help but have a feeling that something was amiss as her counsellor training had taught her about the wonders of body language and tone.

Melena: I couldn't help but wonder if that were the case, but why?
Hal: Probably jealous, I hear he wanted this mission.
Melena: I think it could be a lot more than jealousy myself but whatever you say. What should we do then captain?

*Corridor*

As everyone else hurried to their positions, Raian still couldn't help but have a bad feeling about the whole thing. Still, he felt pretty excited about the mission ahead and couldn't wait for the chance to prove himself as worthy of Zan, despite never receiving initiation training. He tried not to think of the scenario in which he received the symbiont as teh memories from both perspectives were rather unpleasant. Apparently, the injury to Yulia had been so bad that the symbiont had been partially exposed and barely survived the joining process, never mind attempting to return it to Trill. He noticed the andorian woman from the meeting and bit his lip as he contemplated whether or not to say hello to Yulia's best friend.

*Sickbay*

Karyn arrived in sickbay and looked around at the spotlessly clean facility. She noticed that the rest of the medical team were yet to report to duty and decided that the best course of action for now would be to go over the tools and facilities, making sure that all were present and correct, before the arrival of the Deltan Captain.

[motom79]

((ooc: we're on DS9))

*DS9 - Observation lounge*

Elen: Yes I'm aware of the fact he wanted this mission but I doubt this is jealousy Lt. cmdr, I agree with commander Melena there is more here than meets the eye. Personally I think one of his pet projects has gone wrong. Look at the facts: he was deliberately vague about the whole thing and take a close look at this crew manifest.

Caeli: *leaning forward* There all connected to Tsongo.

Elen: Indeed. *turns to her XO and chief of security* I say we use extreme precautions. Lt. cmdr. Hal I want you to start to reinforce our defensive capabilities. Commander Melena, Lt. cmdr. Hal if you have anything to add please do so.

*Corridor*

sh'Raazh notices the young Trill junior lieutenant looking at her. It was the first time she ever set eyes upon him and still this young man bore the memories of her best friend Yulia. This stranger knew all her secrets and for a private person like sh'Raazh this thought was almost unbearable. But not so much as the grieve she felt as she looked at him, it was almost as looking at a strangely distorted picture of Yulia, some of the same little mannerisms but also very different, that strange familiar way he was looking at her. sh'Raazh give him a short nod and headed out to nearest turbolift at warp speed.

*Radiant - Lower decks*

Ensign Thellin is checking out his assigned living quarters, his home for at least the coming year. His antenna's twitch with excitement. His roommate is gloomy looking Bajoran-Cardassian hybrid named Mirok. Thellin's attempts to start a conversation with him have so far be twarted.

Thellin: Mirok, eh so which bunk do you prefer?
Mirok: The left one.
Thellin: Okay, seeing we have some time to kill wanna have a drink in the promenade?
Mirok: No.
Thellin: Suit yourself

Thellin leaves his roommate feeling a little worried, it seems this fellow junior officer is anything but interested in becoming friends. He had hoped to get along with his roomie seeing they will spent a considerable amount of time together. But maybe his roommate is just the sort of person who needs time to warm up to people. A beautiful young green skinned Andorian Woman is running towards him, her cheeks flushed with a darker shade of green.

Hrisvalar: He Sorjei didn't you hear me call, can you believe it we serving together on a starship it's going to be like old times.
Thellin: Oh sorry Imaru, I was lost in thought. Yeah exciting isn't it, how's your mother?
Hrisvalar: Well she's still not talking to me, you know she wanted me to became a professor at the Andorian Language Institute.
Thellin: Sorry to hear that but she'll come around in the end, she always does. I'm heading towards the Promenade for a quick drink wanna join.
Hrisvalar: Sure, we have some catching up to do.

The two old friends chat amicably with youthful enthusiasm about their hopes and dreams. Both green behind the ears dreaming of exciting adventures, their need for exploration pure and somewhat naive but genuine.

((ooc: Don't worry, I was rewriting my post anyways. Goodnight
Check out the newest Trek posters neat: http://trekmovie.com/2008/07/17/preview-of-star-trek-comic-posters-with-first-cast-photos/ ))

[Mikoyo80]

*OOC* Cool :)

*DS9 - Observation Lounge*

Hal: Aye ma'am.
Melena: Seems like we're all on the same page then.
Hal: If you'll all excuse me then I should probably start on this reinforcements. Couldn't hurt to familarise myself with my little underlings in security.
Melena: Heh. Alright, we're scheduled to leave at 1400 hours. That gives you around two hours to get those upgrades done so hop to it. Will that be all for now captain? I can't think of much else to add for except from what I said earlier. We should watch our backs and keep alert!
Hal: Yes ma'am!

*Radiant - Corridors*

Raian noticed Yulia's andorian friend, one Tara sh'Raazh, scuttle off at a hefty speed and couldn't help but feel a little hurt. He mentally scolded himself for this as he personally had never met this woman and therefore shouldn't be feeling anything towards her. There would be around two hours before departure anyway, enough time for a quick drink anyway before embarking. He boarded the turbo lift deciding on a trip to the ships Ten-Forward before reporting to the bridge and familiarising himself with the helm.

[motom79]

*DS9 - Observation lounge*

Elen: Yes, that will be all. Lieutenant Caeli will assist you lieutenant commander Hal. I think it's prudent to install the Borg modifications to our shields a little earlier than expected. Commander Melena would you care to join me to sickbay?
Caeli: Aye ma'am

*Corridors*

Tahlandi notices the strange little scene between sh'Raazh and Zan. He turns towards his companion a fellow psychologist an Andorian woman named Azuma.

Tahlandi: What do you think that is all about?

*Ten Forward*

Thellin and Hrisvalar decided that it would be better to remain aboard the Radiant seeing it's departure is imminent. They take a table at one of the big panoramic windows which gives them an excellent view at the Bajoran Wormhole.

Thellin: Within a few hours will be crossing through into a brave new world.
Hrisvalar: *raises her glass* To the unknown.

[Mikoyo80]

*Corridors*

Mizuki too cocked her head at the situation and then turned to her cardassian colleague.

Azuma: That was Lt. Zan, a joined Trill and you don't need a degree in psychology to tell that Lt. Cmdr. sh'Raazh was uncomfotable in his company. Perhaps she knew the previous host? If that were the case then perhaps she feels that her privacy has been invaded by the fact that joined Trills carry the memories of their previous hosts. Either that or she feels that maybe it is an insult to her friends memory somehow. I'll need to read Tara's file to be sure before - and I'm now infringing confidentiality. I'm Mizuki Azuma by the way, ships counsellor. I don't believe we've met?

*Ten-Forward*

Raian took a seat near a window and gazed out towards the wormhole. In just two hours he would be taking the ship through it, with not only the exciting prospect of venturing into the unknown, but the sheer challenge of it. He'd never actually taken a starship through a wormhole before, although two of his predessors had travelled through them in the past. He noticed the two young andorians and smiled before ordering himself a drink. There sure were a lot of andorians on board, he'd counted two on the senior staff alone.

[motom79]

*Corridors*

Tahlandi was taken aback a little by Azuma's response, she seemed irritated somehow. Maybe it was that damned debriefing that wasn't a debriefing at all. The senior staff wasn't even properly introduced to each other.

Tahlandi: I'm Tahlandi Rann, science officer. And I have a degree in psychology *smiles* Well I didn't know that Lt. Zan was a joined Trill but that would certainly explain some things. Weird we haven't met at the academy. But than again psychology is a rather popular subject. *Hesitates for a moment* So what about that meeting, I mean making a whole spectacle about this big debriefing and then give us virtually nothing to work with but some vague statement about a sensitive mission. I'm not even sure what the mission is. Did he actually give a reason for them being there. *mumbling more to himself* Except that nonsens about the Binary system.

*Ten Forward*

Hrisvalar is getting another round of drinks when she notices the most handsome man she had ever seen, a young Trill. He seemed to be lost in thought and is looking at the wormhole. Hrisvalar feels herself blushing and quickly turns her gaze away and bumps into a Vulcan officer causing the classes to shatter on the floor flinging their content on several people including the Trill officer.

Hrisvalar: I'm sorry.
Vulcan officer: It was an accident, there is no need to be sorry.

*Sickbay*

Captain Elen and commander Melena enter sickbay. The captain looks around but doesn't notice the doctor at first.

Elen: Doctor?

[Mikoyo80]

*Sickbay*

Lynda heard someone enter and then the captain's voice. She got up from her desk and left the office in order to greet the captain and first officer. She smiled cheerily as she did so.

Riley: Good day captain, commander. Everything seems to be in order here, just waiting for the rest of the medical team and we'll be A-okay. What can I do for you then?

*Corridor*

Mizuki suddenly realised that her response probably sounded a little harsh, although that was not her attention. She listened to the cardassian, who had identified himself as Tahlandi Rann, before responding.

Azuma: That is strange. Surely I would have remembered you, a cardassian in starfleet isn't something you see everyday anyway. Not that I mean to be disrespectful of course, I mean you don't see many purple Andorians either do you? I'm sorry if I sounded a little harsh back there, thats really not like me at all. Well, not unless I get attitude first. I might feel a little better for a quick drink, want to come along? After all, I can't do much counselling in this kind of mood anyway! That 'debriefing' was a bit of a waste, I mean we weren't really told anything useful and what he did tell us seemed to be fabricated somewhat. Anyway, drink, are you coming Mr. Tahlandi? Thats a Bajoran name isn't it?

*Ten-Forward*

Raian was quickly snapped out of his thoughts when all of a sudden he found himself dripping wet with goodness knows what kind of substance. He turned around to see the female andorian from earlier and a soggy vulcan officer vacating the scene. He had only seen a back up until now but close up he couldn't help thinking how beautiful she was. His first port of call however would be to look cool and laugh it off.

Zan: Whoops, well done! Seriously, don't worry about cos I'm not. I'm Zan by the way, Yulia Zan.(realising that was wrong and rolls his eyes) Or I could even be Raian, heh heh, damn joining. Let's try Raian today, and you are?

[motom79]

*Sickbay*

Elen: Thank you doctor, as you gathered at the meeting our first priority when we are in the Gamma Quadrant is a search and rescue mission. I need you and your medical team to start preparing for mass causalities. Also I gathered you were working on a way to neutralize the anti-coagulant effect of the Jem’Hadar’s energy weapons by means of an universal vaccine. I’d like to know how your research is going; the latest reports showed you were on the verge of a breakthrough.

*Corridor*

Tahlandi: Well I kept mostly to myself, there were some let's say anti-Cardassian sentiments among other cadets. Yes it is actually but just call me Rann. I assume you have a human ancestor, Mizuki Azuma isn't exactly an Andorian name. As for a drink I don't see why not, the labs are in order so I've got some time to kill.

*Ten Forward*

Hrisvalar goes a deeper shade of green and doesn't even notices Raian Zan's little slip of the tongue. A bartender tends to the broken glass and spilled Andorian Ale.


Hrisvalar: I'm so sorry sir. Eh my name is Hrisvalar, Imaru Hrisvalar. Crewman 3rd class, can I get you another drink *stuttering a little and blushing more deeply now*

((ooc: hope this works for you ;)))

[Mikoyo80]

*Sickbay*

Riley: Yes, I'm finally starting to get somewhere. We know that Jem'Hadar weapons have a substance intergrated into them that prevents the blood from clotting and therefore prevents healing, right? I've been attempting to boost the immune system to compensate and have been able to initiate a slow healing process. Unfortunately when I say slow I mean very slow and only in species with red blood cells, I'm still working on a vaccine for Vulcans, Andorians etc I'm afraid. I also haven't concluded if the vaccine is safe for joined species such as the Trill as I don't know if it will attack the symbiont. Rest assured that I'm working on it! Anyway, as soon as I have a medical team I'll continue with those preparations.

Melena: Good work doctor! You'd better get cracking as we have plenty of Andorians, Vulcans and even a joined Trill on board. Oh, this looks like some of your team right now.

Riley: Yes ma'am. Oh finally, I was starting to wonder if the only medical personnel on board were myself and the EMH. Those holograms are so boring, I wonder if I could program it to be a little more interesting...will that be all then? With all due respect, it's going to take some time to complete preparations and I'm keen to get started as soon as possible.

*Corridor*

Azuma: Yes, my human father was from Earth and my andorian mother was a scientist fascinated with Earth culture. My father hailed from a region known as Japan, which is where my name originates from. Apparently Mizuki means 'beautiful moon'. Anyway, he's a starfleet captain so I didn't see that much of him and I was raised primarily on Andor my my mother and her family. I wonder which ship he's commanding now? I haven't heard from him in a year or so. What about you, any family to speak of?

*Ten Forward*

Zan: Whats with the sir? Oh yeah, my rank heh heh. Listen, why don't you just call me Raian? It's not like I'm on duty yet anyway. Don't worry about the drink, to tell you the truth I wasn't really enjoying it anyway. (sees Thellin looking over) Oh, is that you're friend? Just how disappointed should I be (flirting)?

[motom79]

*Ten Forward*

Hrisvalar: I'm sorry Si... I mean Raian *still blushing* You mean Sorjei *giggles* we're just good friends. Maybe you weren't enjoying your drink because your sitting here all alone why don't you join Sorjei and me *said in a flirtatious manner*

Thellin walks over and suppressing the urge to laugh at the scene, the subtle flirtation between Zan and Hrisvalar while covered in ale was slapstick like in nature. He also senses a strange duality in Zan, something he only ever experienced in the proximity of joined Trills.

Thellin: Everything alright here Imura *holds out his hand to Zan* hello I'm ensign Sorjei Thellin.

*Loading Bay 7A.36*

Lt. Woods was coordinating the transfer of engineering supplies to the Radiant. He finds himself in an odd mood, as he watches the activity knowing that this will be the last time he will set eyes on DS9, his home for the last four, in a long time. He already said his goodbyes to his friends and co workers, debriefed his replacer and tied up all loose ends but still a little sadness seems to be creeping up on him. He takes on of the boxes and loads it on the transporter wondering what lies behind the wormhole.

*Corridor*

Tahlandi: Yes I have family back home on Bajor. Maybe you've heard of my father, he is Tahlandi Kusto. One of the commissioners of Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the Cardassian-Federation Alliance. Sorry if I'm indiscreet but why don't you just look your father's commission up in the Federation database, I mean if he's not on any classified mission you should be able to find him.

*Sickbay*

Elen: Yes I won't keep you any longer, doctor. Commander Melena I'll be in my ready room so you have the bridge for now.

[Mikoyo80]

*Corridor*

Azuma: Thats the problem, I tried that and nothing. Come to think of it, he did say something about a classified mission. I hope he wasn't commanding the Rodenberry. But enough about me, I am familiar with a Tahlandi Kusto. I supppose I shouldn't pry any further but saying that I'm a counsellor so it's my job to be nosy, tee hee. Well, here we are. I could use an Andorian Ale but it's probably best if I don't drink alchohol as I'm on shift soon. Oh, isn't that Lt. Zan over there? I hope he's not drinking, a drunk pilot flying us through a wormhole doesn't bare thinking about!

*Ten-Forward*

Raian smiles and shakes Sorjei's hand, although he found it a little difficult to take his eyes off Imaru. He felt himself going a little pinker every time she blushed and he hoped he would have the chance to get to know her well.

Zan: Nice to meet you, I'm Lt.Jg. Zan. Thats Raian Zan by the way but you'll have to excuse me if I get it wrong, I've only been joined 6 months and I'm still all confused. If you want to laugh you know just laugh. I mean I'm going to be piloting a starship stinking of Andorian Ale unless I somehow find the time to change so why not? I don't think the captain would find it very funny though. Oh, and the reason I wasn't enjoying my drink was because it was a Raktajino, thats Klingon coffee by the way, and I really don't like it but Yulia, the last Zan, couldn't get through a day without it. Still, I'd like to think of myself as a sociable person. So what do you two do then? You nervous about the mission?

[motom79]

*Bridge*

Caeli let's out a loud curse as he burns he fingers when he accidentally short circuited another relay again.

Caeli: Dammit I hate experimental technology. Why didn't they take more time to study the technology Voyager acquired in the Delta Quadrant. But no ... *stops himself* Sorry sir, I get this fixed in a jiffy.

sh'Raazh enters the bridge looking annoyed by something as she walks over to Lt. cmdr. Hal and Lt. Caeli.

sh'Raazh: do you need assistance Lieutenant Commander Hal, it seems your colleague is having trouble finding the right end of a hypospaner.

*Ten Forward*

Thellin: A little but mostly we are excited *points at himself and Hrisvalar* But you know what they say about drinking and driving *getting a dirty look for Hrisvalar*
Hrisvalar: Maybe you should get changed Raian, you wouldn't want to give a bad first impression. We could meet up later when your shift has ended for a drink or something else *disappointment in her voice*

Tahlandi: Well I didn't see his name on the crew manifest, the captain was Yildrin Chenowitch if I'm not mistaken. Let's hope that Zan hasn't been drinking. I don't want to disturb the Prophets home. I think I'll have an Andorian ale, alcohol doesn't effect me; the one advantage of Cardassian DNA

((ooc: goodnight))

[Mikoyo80]

*Ten Forward*

Zan: Yeah? I'm pretty excited too although one can't help but feel a little nervous too. Not only do I feel like I have butterflies in my stomach but it feels like the symbionts having a little jig with them too! I'd say more excited than anything though, I mean this is what Starfleet is for! New worlds, new civilisations, yadda yadda. Unfortunatley, I will have to be going. I'll have to change and then I should probably head to the bridge and familiarise myself with the helm. Last thing we want is for the captain to order me to pull out and then have me not no how! My last assignment was on an Intrepid class so a little different. Hope I see you both again later then, take care!

As Zan left the lounge, Mizuki turned to her fellow officer with a smile.

Azuma: Hmm, then I wonder where father could be? So you're immune to the effects of alchohol? Lucky you! We'll have these and then we should report to duty. We'll be leaving soon enough and we want to be ready.

*Bridge*

Eloran rolled his eyes as he crouched next to his Bolian colleague and was just about to reply to his statement when he heard a harsh voice from behind. He stood up and faced the Andorian woman.

Hal: I wouldn't say everything is going smoothly but it's getting done. You must be Sh'Raazh? Lt.Cmdr. Hal (holds hand out to shake), security. I'm forgetting my duties at tactical, (to Caeli) keep up the good work lietenant! Well, keep up the work, I think the ship's fighting back already! Well, I'd better start recalibrating the weapons systems, If you'll excuse me.

As Hal returned to his station, Zan entered the bridge and immediately noticed sh'Raazh as brash as ever. He smiled briefly before taking a seat at the helm. Thankfully, everything seemed a little easier to handle than he thought it would and he decided that it should take no time at all to work things out. Melena had entered behind him and glanced around the room before addressing the rest of the bridge crew.

Melena: How are the preparations coming along?
Hal: Just recalibrating the weapons control ma'am.
Zan: Just give me the word and I'll fly us out of here.
Melena: I like you're enthusiasm lietenant but we should really wait for the captain. I'm not authorised to give you that order I'm afraid? (addressing sh'Raazh and Caeli) What about you? I guess we're now just waiting on the captain, the science officer and I think our counsellor will be accompanying us for launch.

((OOC: Goodnight))

[motom79]

*Ten Forward*

Tahlandi: Immune would be to strong a word but it takes more than an ale to get me drunk. I'm sure your father will be alright *compassionate smile*

*Bridge*

sh'Raazh: *shakes hands* Lt.cmdr. sh'Raazh Operations

sh'Raazh is crouching down to get a better look at what Lt. Caeli is doing when commander Melena addresses them. She stands up and notices Lt.jg Zan taking the helm next to the operations station. She wonders how much of Yulia is still preserved in this young man.

Caeli: I was just laying the finishing touches on the recalibration of our shields, they should be in order now. *glances over to Lt.cmdr. Hal*
sh'Raazh: I was just going to start the standard departing procedure, ma'am I'll get on it right away.

sh'Raazh walks over to her station giving Zan a little smile but still avoiding eye contact. She starts the start the routine system check-up before clearance.

*Engineering*

Lt. Woods enters engineering, several engineers are working on the warp reactor.

PO Tigan: Sir, the new specifications of the bio-neural gel packs as you requested.
Woods: Thank you crewman *glances at the PADD* Everything seems to be in order. Ensign Veela what is the intermix ratio of the warp core now.
Veela: We have the standard start-up ratio of 25:1, Sir.
Woods: excellent *taps combadge* Bridge engineering is reporting ready and on stand-by

((ooc: the layout is a little different than on Voyager, ops is next to the helm/conn, don't worry I'm not easily offended, but if I'm a little know it all let me know. See you later I also have to be going now.))

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Just one short post as I'm going out soon. I remember where ops is but thanks anyway! With my memory I might have just forgotten, lol! Sorry if I sounded a little rude, I find it a little hard to express myself though typing sometimes!))

*Bridge*

Raian looked up as sh'Raazh took her seat and smiled back. He noticed that she avoided eye contact but he thought this understandable giving the circumstances. As he made one final calibration on the helm, he decided that perhaps he should try and talk to her and hopefully make the older officer a little more at ease. After all, he knew a good many of her darkest secrets and he wouldn't like to think that he couldn't be trusted with them. He continued to calibrate the helm as he spoke.

Zan: Playing shy today? That's not like you Tara. Or would you rather keep things professional?

Melena tapped her combadge in response to engineering.

Melena: Good work, we'll let you know when we're ready to leave. Stand by until then, Melena out.

*Ten-Forward*

Azuma: Yes, I'm sure he is. Will you be stationed on the bridge? I'll be joining you on the bridge so we may as well go together when we're ready. For now though, we should sit back for a while and clear our minds. We need to relieve the stress of that 'debriefing that wasn't'.

[motom79]

*Ten Forward*

Tahlandi: Well I'll be dividing my time between the bridge and the labs, seeing I have to coordinate all scientific research. Ah look our drinks are here, let's toast to a successful mission. You know those Earth traditions really grew on me.

*Bridge*

For the briefest moment sh'Raazh almost forgets that the person next to her isn't Yulia Zan but Raian Zan. The way he delivered that remark was uncannily Yulianesk in delivery, she always had a way of calling her out when she was in one of her moods. But all the same his statement makes her mellow somewhat.

sh'Raazh: Well old friend give me some time to adjust to the situation, it's not everyday ones oldest and dearest friend dies and comes back reincarnated as a whole new person *sadly*.

For the first sh'Raazh looks Zan in the eyes her grieve and guilt almost overwhelm her and a single tear slides down her face. But she quickly regains a somewhat professional demeanor as she turns to do her work.

sh'Raazh: *chocked voice* All systems report ready to go, ma'am we are cleared to depart in one hour. *turns to Zan* How about diner tomorrow to catch up for old times sake. Don't worry I won't be cooking.

*Shuttle bay 1*

Mirok is inspecting The Delta Flyer type shuttles, they are a completely new design based on the original concept by Tom Paris, the former helmsman of the USS Voyager. The controls have been converted to standard Star Fleet issue but the Borg enhancements have remained. Mirok is the only person in the docking bay for the moment and he finds himself enjoying the loneliness, truth be told he never really felt comfortable around others and mostly kept to himself. He still felt like the unwanted child that was never loved or cared for by his mother.This deeply rooted trauma made it difficult for him to trust others. He takes a deep breath and decides to go to navigational control, he still hadn't done the check-up and the senior helmsman was probably already at the helm seeing the departure was getting nearer.

[Mikoyo80]

*Ten-Forward*

Azuma: To a successful mission! I'm quite fond of some Earth customs myself and I had a lot of good times there at the academy. I must get it form my mother, although as I said my father was human. This doesn't seem to be a bad ship really, although it will take some getting used to as it's a little different to working on a station.

*Bridge*

Melena nodded in response to sh'Raazh and looked a little concerned as she realised that she was upset. Deciding that it would be best to leave alone for the time being, she sat in the captains chair and looked around to the rest of the bridge crew. Raian meanwhile, smiled apologetically as he felt that perhaps he had been a little quick on the approach. Still, he knew that Tara was a strong woman and that she wouldn't let it get her down too much, at least while no-one was looking. He turned to look at her as they finally established eye contact before shaking his head.

Zan: Tell me about it, one minute I was a cocky young kid and the next I wound up being four different people in one. I didn't even have any of the training, which made things a little difficult. It's a long story, but I'd be happy to come to dinner and tell you all about it. I'd like to get to know you again, although something tells me, with all due respect. that its probably a good idea that you're not cooking. Joking aside, it'll be like old times but different.

[motom79]

*Bridge*

sh'Raazh: *faint smile* Yulia always said I was the worst cook in the whole Quadrant.

Captain Elen enters the bridge and gracefully walks towards her XO. Her strikingly beautiful features bare the signs of deep contemplation. Everybody on the bridge springs to attention

Elen: At ease, commander how are the preparations coming along?

*Ten Forward*

Tahlandi: Well yes I imagine it is. The Radiant is only my second commission, my first one was on the USS Intrepid where I was adjutant to the head of the human science department. I was surprissed that captain Elen requested me as chief science officer, all the more as I never lobbied for the function. It's not exactly a post that is usually preserved for a psychologist so I hope I'm up for the challenge.

[Mikoyo80]

*Ten-Forward*

Azuma: I'm sure you'll do just fine. It's seems that this entire senior staff is in their position for the first time, or at least in a long time. Lt.Cmdr. Hal served as chief of security on DS7, so he knows what he's doing at least. All the rest of us can do is try our best! I saw a lot of capable looking people
in that observation lounge so I'm not expecting any problems.

*Bridge*

As the captain entered the bridge, Melena among others stood to attention with a cry of 'captain on the bridge'. Once relaxed she then faced her commanding officer to give her report.

Melena: Everything is almost prepared, Engineering is on standby and we're just waiting for our counsellor and science officer to arrive. We'll be clear for departure in approximately 55 minutes. Looks like we have some time to kill. How are the weapons and shield calibrations going?
Hal: I'm just about done ma'am, and Lt.JG. Caeli seems to making progress now too.
Melena: Good, we'll need our shields for our trip through the wormhole. We're expecting a bumpy ride, think you can handle it Mr. Zan?
Zan: No problem, I mean yes ma'am!
Melena: Very good lietenant.

((OOC: Goodnight))

[motom79]

((ooc: goodnight))

*Bridge*

Caeli: the shield modifications are all done ma'am, to be honest Lt.cmdr. Hal did most of the work I just did the finishing touches.
Elen: *takes center seat* Excellent work people. As soon as we are in the Gamma Quadrant I would like a senior staff meeting. It seems none of you have been properly introduced to each other and I like my crew to be close to each other. I'd also like to debrief you on the current political climate of the Dominion.

Caeli takes the seat left of the captain and looks at a small LCARS with information about the political situation in the Gamma Quadrant. Ever since Odo had rejoined the great link, the Dominion had relinquished it's tight leash on it's 'members'. But this new found democracy brought with it great turmoil and internal struggle. Several worlds have started to seperate themselves from the Dominion leading to chaos and newfound terror.

[Mikoyo80]

*Bridge*

Melena took the seat to the right of the captain and also began to pore over her console. It wouldn't be too long before they were due to depart and sh wanted to be ready.

*Ten Forward*

A psychologist you say? Have you ever thought of being a counsellor? But I'm assuming you're more interested in the science part of the whole thing. I was just talking to Cmdr. Melena before the debriefing and apparently she was orignally a counsellor and then moved on to operations. She's the first officer here now and she was just as surprised to gain that position as you are this. As I said earlier , you'll do fine, I believe in you! Anyway, we should probably attend to our posts, we'll be leaving soon and we need our chief science officer on the bridge. It was really nice talking to you, I hope we can do this again.

[motom79]

*Ten Forward*

Tahlandi: Thanks for the vote of confidence. To be honest I never really wanted to be a counselor, so I choice the experimental side of our field. I didn't know that our XO used to be a counselor. Well our captain's background lays in human sciences, she used to teach anthropology and sociology at the Academy. I even attended a guest seminar of hers once. Maybe she likes to surround her with people with a similar background. Yes you are right we should be leaving soon *stands up*

*Navigational control center*

Mirok gives the navigational control center a quick but thorough check-up. This was actually a routine procedure and could easily been done from the bridge. But regulations specified that with a new ship, before it embarked on it's mission it had to be double checked. Everything is in order, as to be expected. Mirok twiddles with his combadge before reporting to his superior, Lt.jg. Zan.

Mirok: Ensign Mirok to Lieutenant Zan, please confirm that the helm is working according to specifications.

*Bridge*

Tahlandi and counselor Mizuki arrive at the bridge with 20 minutes to spare before take-off. Tahlandi takes the science station and reliefs a Vulcan ensign.

Tahlandi: Lieutenant Tahlandi reporting for duty ma'am.
Elen: Take your station Lieutenant, ah counselor I'm glad to see you joined us on the bridge.

[Mikoyo80]

*Bridge*

Azuma entered the bridge behind Tahlandi and looked around at all the nervous faces manning the various consoles. She couldn't blame them for feeling like this seeing as they were only the second starship to enter the gamma quadrant since the fated voyage of the Rodenberry. What this fate happened to be was yet to be investigated, or even if the ship was even there for that matter. Pushing these thoughts aside for now, she smiled warmly at the captain before taking a seat at an unoccupied station.

Azuma: It is my pleasure captain. Let's hope that our mission is a success.

Meanwhile at the helm, Raian jumped a little as his combadge blipped. He had been feeling so bored that he had begun day-dreaming, although whose life he was actually dreaming about was anyones guess. For now it wasn't all that relevant and he was glad to see that he hadn't changed perhaps as much as he thought, he had always found himself to be easily bored after all. He tapped his combadge in response to Mirok.

Zan: Sorry, everything is A ok up here. Thanks for double checking everything ensign, Zan out. Helm is ready to go when you are captain.

[motom79]

*Bridge*

sh'Raazh: DS 9 reports all systems green, captain. The docking clams are being released and captain Kira wishes us a safe journey.
Elen: Lieutenant Zan lay in a course to the wormhole. As soon as we clear it, I want you to lay in a course to Karemma. Send a thank you to captain Kira Lieutenant Commander. *turns to counselor Azuma* Ready to flex your diplomatic muscles, counselor?
sh'Raazh: Aye ma'am

sh'Raazh is surprised by that order seeing that traveling to Karemma would mean a considerable detour from the Kemala sector. An internal struggle whether to call out her captain on this unorthodox decision is raging within sh'Raazh until she realizes that the Karemma always had a friendly relation with the Federation, they even established a trade agreement via the Ferengi. But on the other hand she doesn't see how this is helpful to them but for now she decides to give her captain the benefit of doubt.

((ooc: love the daydreaming touch with Zan LOL))

[Mikoyo80]

*Bridge*

Melena raises an eyebrow at the captains decision as she too had realised the detour. As Zan keyed in the co-ordinates, Melena turned to Elen.
Zan: Aye sir, course laid in.
Melena: Captain, our orders were to head for the kemala sector. I assume we're checking up on old friends first? I wonder how the Karemma are coping under the political strain.
Azuma: Indeed. I'm as ready as I'm ever going to be captain, but in fact as I was thinking about asking you the same thing.

[motom79]

*Bridge*

Elen: Well as you realize commander, counselor we are heading in less than friendly territory and I'm sure that the information provided to us by captain Tsongo is less than complete. If this rescue mission has any change of succeeding we need to get a clear picture of internal Dominion affairs and seeing the Karemma are our only direct link to the Dominion I think we should pick their brains first. The Karemma are a resourceful people I'm sure they are doing fine commander. Lieutenant Caeli you have the necessary documents for the newest trade agreements
Caeli: Yes ma'am, the Ferengi have agreed to give us full discretion in the matter for a small fee of course.
sh'Raazh: All stations report ready, DS 9 gave us permission to disembark.
Elen: Lt.jg. Zan engage at half impulse

The Radiant begins to slowly move towards the wormhole ready to embark on her mission into the unknown. There is a feeling of unease among several officers. A missing ship with an unknown mission and reports of increased activity of the Jem'Hadar is enough to even make the skin crawl of the toughest and most seasoned officer. Although the Jem'Hadar liasion on DS 9 had insured captain Elen that the Jem'Hadar posed no threat, Elen still felt uneasy venturing into Dominion territory.

((ooc: I'll be back on tonight maybe earlier))

[Mikoyo80]

*Bridge*

Raian nodded and guided the ship toward the wormhole. As they drew closer, the hole sprung up into action revealing the phenomonal size and majesty of the anomaly. The ship shuddered on entry, causing Mizuki to almost fall from her seat, but thankfully Zan had remembered to configure the helm to compensate. One on the other side, Melena couldn't help but breath a sigh of relief.

Melena: Well, that wasn't so bad.
Azuma: Uh, we are on the other side aren't we?
Melena: Can you confirm that helm?
Zan: Affirmative, we're right where we're supposed to be.
Melena: Good, are we detecting anything to worry about? Any ships for example? I know the war is over but I still can't help but feel uneasy.

[motom79]

*Bridge*

As the wormhole opened Tahlandi said a prayer to the Prophets. For a brief moment the ship shakes violently, Caeli notices that counselor Azuma almost fell out of her chair but no harm is done.

sh'Raazh: No ma'am there are no ships in scanning range.

Elen: Yes commander I know what you mean. Lt. Zan proceed a course to the Karemma. *taps combadge* Doctor Riley, Lt. Woods please report to the observation lounge for the senior staff meeting.

A replacement crew relieves the senior bridge officers as they leave for the observation lounge.

[Mikoyo80]

*Bridge*

Raian did as he was told before handing the helm over to an ensign and making his way to the observation lounge. Mizuki, Melena and Eloran all followed on and took their seats at the table. Lynda was the last to arrive as she had been preparing for casualties, which thankfully never arrived. Not that she had been expecting anything to go wrong but it never hurt to be prepared. As everyone took a seat, all eyes were turned to the captain in anticipation of a proper debriefing as they were curious as to what was occurring in the gamma quadrant as of the last time any information had been received.

Melena: It looks like everyones here, hello everyone.
Zan: Hiya! Care to spill then captain?
Melena: Lieutenant...

[motom79]

*Observation lounge*

As the senior officers enter the observation lounge and take place, you can almost taste the anticipation. Caeli is fiddling with his combadge looking slightly ill. Lt. Woods is looking at the captain with intrest. sh'Raazh feels a little unsettled and understands the unease commander Melena was feeling on the bridge the prospect of running into the Jem'Hadar isn't inviting. An unconscious shudder rolls down her spine as the memories of the occupation of Betazed enter her mind. The Jem'Hadar were ruthless, uterly without mercy. The most brutal example was the massacre of the city of Cataria. The Dominion decide that in order to crush the resistance on Betazed and to send a message to the Federation and it's allies that the inhabitants of the city of Cataria should be exterminated. Within two hours the Jem'Hadar killed over 450.000 people. sh'Raazh looks at Zan wondering if he is also recalling his time on Betazed? Although he seems overly chipper at the moment, she wonders if he is masking his true feelings.

Elen: Yes Lieutenant I will spill it but please remember you are a senior officer not some dumb schoolboy. First of all I know some of you have some hesitations about whom I selected as senior staff *glances at sh'Raazh* Let me reassure you all that I've selected the best possible crew and that experience isn't everything *another look at sh'Raazh* Now as you all know our first mission is to find out what happened to the USS Roddenberry. Any questions so far? Please feel free to speak your mind.

sh'Raazh: I'd like to know why the detour to the Karemma?

Elen: We've established a friendly relation with them based on trade, they also know the inner workings of the Dominion. Plus we can persuade them to give us information without resorting to violence.

sh'Raazh: By buying the information like a common Ferengi you mean

Elen: If you want to call it that, yes. Lt.cmdr. sh'Raazh I know this isn't exactly Star Fleet procedure but if we want to succeed we are going to have to think out of the box. Is there anybody else who has a problem with this?

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Goodnight))

*Observation Lounge*

The young Trill bit his lip as he realised he was trying a little to hard to hide his uneasiness and made a mental note to keep a tab on it in future. Ensign Raneri might have gotten away with it but Lt.Jg. Zan needed to stop trying so hard to be the person he was and to stop covering his emotions in such a way. The truth was that he too felt extremely uneasy in dominion territory as thanks to Yulia he knew exactly what they were capable of and the suffering of the people while he was tucked up in the academy. Melena tilted her head as she followed the captains gaze to sh'Raazh. It was onlt then that she recognised her as the woman who had struck at Vice-Admiral Gral. Personally, she felt that he had probably deserved it but that was irrelevent. She agreed with her point but also agreed that sometimes it was neccessary to think of unorthodox ideas in order to accomplish the end goal. Hal nodded as he had his say.

Hal: Then we're going to need our best negotiators on the job. I think we have a few capable people in our ranks so that shouldn't be a problem.
Melena: Agreed, although we can't be over confident as that always leads to problems later on. First things first though, we should establish contact and go from there. I'm sure we can persuade them peacefully captain.

[motom79]

((ooc: goodnigt))

*Observation lounge*

Elen: Luckily the Karemma are a peaceful people but they may be reluctant to help, so we need to make helping us attractive for them. That's were Lt. Caeli comes in, he has been preparing a new trade agreement.

Woods: Ma'am if I may be so indiscreet to ask but aren't the Ferengi the ones who deal with the Karemma in name of the Federation?

Caeli: May I captain.

Elen: By all means lieutenant.

Caeli: the Grand Nagus Rom has granted us permission to negotiate the deal, if the Ferengi get a 55% cut of the deal. I have been in contact with the Karemman minister of Economy for the last 3 weeks and I'm confident we can come to some arrangement.

Tahlandi: 55% is a substantial amount but I'm surprissed that you were able to get the Ferengi to lower their cut to just above 50%

Caeli: Well the Grand Nagus his son owned me a favor. I've also assembled my team captain, it will consist of me, Lt.jg Zan, counselor Azuma and Lt.jg Tahlandi. If I'm not mistaken Lieutenant Zan you used to be one of the most respected diplomats in the Federation. I hope you still have those legendary negotiation skills.

[Mikoyo80]

*Observation Lounge*

Zan: So do I. I've never been what you'd call a diplomat personally but I'm sure I can borrow a few tricks from Zan and Aeryn.

Azuma: Aeryn Zan was one of the best so I hear. It's a shame we couldn't have brought Dax too, Curzon was also good. Unorthodox but good.

Zan: Dax? I seem to remember Zan and Dax having a run in on several occasions although I was speaking to her before the debriefing and we didn't argue. Back on topic though, I'm surprise there are no ferengi on board to make sure we give them their cut. You know what ferengi are like.

Hal: Indeed. May I suggest you also consider a security officer in the unlikely event that you may need one.

Melena: Good thinking, you never know what could happen. Good work lieutenant (Caeli)! Captain?

[motom79]

*Observation Lounge*

Elen: I agree that it would be prudent to have a seasoned security officer there, just in case. Lt.cmdr. Hal assemble a small security team. Lt. Caeli I know you've prepared for this mission but I'm sure you and Lt.cmdr. Hal can come to an arrangement

Caeli: Yes ma'am *disappointed* Well it took some diplomacy and glass hard guaranties but I think we managed to gain their trust. Plus they seemed reluctant to travel to the Gamma Quadrant themselves. Also the only Ferengi serving in Star Fleet Lieutenant Nog wasn't available for this mission.

Woods: Yes I've noticed that too on DS 9, the Ferengi are using middlemen for their dealings with the Karemma.

sh'Raazh: Which could indicate that they fear a governmental collapse.

Elen: I agree lieutenant commander. Doctor you've been awfully non-vocal do you have anything to add?

[Mikoyo80]

*Observation Lounge*

Riley: This isn't exactly my area of expertise, after all I'm a doctor not a diplomat. I'm still working on the inoculation against the effects of anticoagulant weapons and have made little progress since the last time we spoke captain. I'll keep looking into it but hopefully we won't actually need it.

Zan: I wouldn't be so sure, some of us know what the Jem'Hadar are capable of. Right now they, and the entire gamma quadrant, are vulnerable and that makes them more dangerous then ever.

Hal: Zan may be right, but in any case i pray to the prophets that the doctor is right. Either that or we can really get it working.

Melena: I'm hoping that none of this will be relevant for the time being and we run into no trouble from Karemma.

[motom79]

*Observation Lounge*

Tahlandi: *addressing the XO* Well the Karemma aren't exactly the bravest of people. I mean they will sell information for the right price but some of it is highly unreliable. I don't think they will launch a direct attack.

sh'Raazh: Lieutenant Tahlandi has a point Captain, I mean we are putting an awful lot of trust in a species that are less than trustworthy.

Elen: I realize this lieutenant commander but as I said before they are the only link to the Dominion we have, except for Odo. And as you are all aware he isn't available at the moment. Thank you doctor for your assessment but lieutenant Zan is right, the Dominion is weakened and that makes the Jem'Hadar more dangerous. Remember their war cry: Victory brings life. I don't want to be their victory.

Woods: Captain with your permission I would like to reinforce our shields with the assistance of Lt.cmdr. Hal before we enter Karemma Space, in case the present modifications aren't enough. Also I'd like to add that there may be the need for extra combat training, most of my engineering staff are non-coms with zero battle experience.

Elen: Yes I think that would be prudent, as for the extra combat training Lt.cmdr. Hal didn't you already made up a training schedule? Lt. Zan what is our ETA at present speed?

((ooc: hope that last part is alright with you if not I'll change it))

[Mikoyo80]

*OOC* No problem. You'll have to excuse this post but I'm only guessing as to what ETA means.

*Observation Lounge*

Hal: I sure did captain, we're ready to begin as soon as this meeting is over. Of course, I will be helping Lt. Woods first with our shield recalibrations.

Melena: Alright, then we can start the combat training as soon your done.

Zan: At present speed we should be there in 3 hours, 47 minutes.

Melena: Good, that gives us a few hours to sort out our shields.

[motom79]

((ooc: Estimated Time of Arrival, you were spot on ;-) ))

*Observation Lounge*

Elen: Perfect Lt.cmdr Hal, see that all department heads get a copy of the combat schedule. Thank you Lt.jg Zan, keep present speed that should give us ample time to prepare. Are their any more questions at the moment, if not I consider this debriefing closed. I think we shall postpone the formal introductions for now and get to work. But I all except you at the captains table tomorrow at 0800 hours.

Elen stands up and so do the other officers as they head back to the bridge. Caeli walks towards Zan holding out a hand.

Caeli: Hello I'm so glad to finally meet you Zan, my grandmother, Syldra Caeli sends her regards. You are a legend among the diplomatic core, well Aeryn Zan is. I never could quite figure out how it works for joined Trills.

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Woot! Goodnight anyway.))

*Observation Lounge*

As everyone nodded and left the table, Raian turned around to see the bolian officer holding a hand out to him. He shook it with a smile as he recalled the many adventures Aeryn and Syldra.

Zan: You must be Korvin, you're looking well. Wow you've grown a lot since the last time I saw you, and you look so much like you're mother. How is Syldra? You know, Yulia wrote to her quite often and she was good friends with your mother Halora too. They lost touch when the war started though, which was sad really.You know, technically I'm your godmother, and if that isn't the height of weirdness then I don't know what is! You'd only just been born when Aeryn died, as I recall. In fact I think you were one, maybe two year old? Anyway, and if you ever find out how the joining thing is supposed to work, let me know. We should get back to our posts for now but I look forward to talking with you some more. Wow, dinner with the captain, dinner with Tara, drink with Imaru and a chat with you. Thats one busy schedule, ha ha!

[motom79]

((ooc: Woot? I'm signing of for tonight I'll post a replay tomorrow. I love the godmother twist LOL!!!!))

*Bridge*

Caeli: Yes I know, I mean I don't remember Aeryn. But the fact that you are my godmother, sorta, is kinda strange seeing that you are man and a couple of years my junior. My grandmother always speak kindly of you or should I say Aeryn. Man how do you manage to get through the day without your head exploding is beyond me. What I didn't know is that my mother and Yulia were friends, I wonder why she never told me. It's nice meeting you and I'm sure we will become good friends.

At the security station Lt. Woods and Lt.cmdr. Hal are already buzzy with another update to the shields. Although the reinforcements that were already in place should hold up under heavy fire, they were designed as protection against the Borg Lt. Woods still wants to implement some extra reinforcements just to be on the safe side. Lt. Woods is surprised by the modifications of the internal sensors. Lt.cmdr. Hal seems to have found a way to detect shrouded Jem'Hadar.

Woods: *Admiring Lt.cmdr. Hall's work* I must say sir I'm impressed by your realligment of the internal sensors. *gives him an appraising look* Haven't we met before? Weren't you one of the guest speakers at the Federation Defensive Technology seminar?

[Mikoyo80]

*Bridge*

Zan: I don't know if they were very good friends as they only met once or twice through your grandmother but it' strange that she was never mentioned. Yep, I'm your junior technically as I just turned 23 a few months ago. I'm not sure off hand exactly how old Zan is but I'd guess around the hundred mark? Lets see, Arrik had it for around 69 years, Aeryn for 41 and Yulia for 25, and me for 6 months which gives us around the 135 mark? Anyway, I hope we do become friends but I'll have to get back to the helm for now. Catch you later!

As Raian once again manned his station, Eloran was just finishing off the modifications when he was praised by Woods. He had to have a little think about his question but then it came to him and he turned to face the tatooed officer beside him.

Hal: I remember now! I knew I'd seen you somewhere before but I couldn't quite put my fingure on it. Quite an event wasn't it, a little drawn out in places but aren't they all? How have you been keeping? Oh, and thanks for the compliment, I dare anyone to try and hide from these sensors!

Melena: (joking) Don't get cocky lieutenant! In all seriousness though, thats good to hear.

Hal: Oh Mel, were you eavedropping?

Melena: Would I? But if we can act professional while on duty, how are the shield modifcations going?

Hal: We're getting there ma'am, I figure we should be done soon.

Melena: Good, I'll leave you to it then.

With that Melena walked back to her seat and began speaking with the captain. Eloran pulled a face and tugged at his collare before turning back to Woods and speaking quietly so only he could he hear.

Hal: You know, with a Deltan and a half Orion in charge, I figure us men don't stand a chance.

[motom79]

*Bridge*

For a moment Lt. Woods finds himself distracted, but quickly shakes it off. It was true that both their Captain and XO were extremely attractive women with a strong sexual aura.

Woods: I know what you mean. Thanks for modern medicine and the pheromone suppressors. It they weren't available we probably wouldn't get any work done. Are you and our XO close?

As Mirok stands up to let Lt.jg Zan man the helm once again he notices that one of the senior officers is a young Cardassian man. His face turns a whiter shade of pale as he stares at Tahlandi, horror sketched upon his face. Without really realizing what he is doing he begins to scream at Tahlandi who is taken aback by this sudden rage directed at him by the Cardassian/Bajoran hybrid.

Mirok: Noooo, you filthy murderer! Get away from me! Nooo get away.

At this point several officers stare at Mirok clearly shocked by what is happening. Captain Elen reaction is instinctively as she approaches the young officer and touches him. The effect is immediate, a strange blissful expression is upon Mirok's face. Captain Elen realizing that her actions are somewhat unorthodox and unexpected quickly lets go and turns towards the doctor and counselor.

Elen: Doctor I think it's best you escort this young man to sickbay. Counselor as soon as he comes out of his trance, you should have a talk with him. Lieutenant Tahlandi are you doing okay, I would understand if you wanted to file a complaint against ensign Mirok.

Tahlandi: No that won't be necessary. It's not the first time that people condemned me for being born Cardassian. But it is the first time somebody actually feared me.

Although Tahlandi downplays what just happened he is visually shaken by the event. Not so much by the words but by the look of terror in the ensigns eyes, he can't help but wonder what happened to this young man to make him react this way.

[Mikoyo80]

*Bridge*

Lynda nodded and proceeded to escort the poor ensign from the bridge. She seemed to be a little shocked by what had just occured, but then again so was everyone who had been present to witness the unusual and frightening chain of events which had unfolded. As Mizuki too decided that it would be best to leave with them, she gave Rann a reassuring smile and a pat on the arm before leaving. Raian, who had been about to restrain Ensign Mirok and was frozen in this position, looked at sh'Raazh with a quizzical expression before springing back into action and manning the helm. As Hal looked at Woods, completing forgetting as to what they talking about, Melena walked over and stood next to the shocked Cardassian.

Melena: Are you sure you're alright lieutenant. I understand you're probably shaken. It wasn't your fault so remember that alright? What is the status of hour shields?

Hal: Nearly there, just a few more recalibrations. (turns to Woods) Ah yes, thats where we were, Melena and I served together for a long time on DS7. We're good friends but nothing more. Are we just about done?

*Sickbay*

Lynda and Mizuki arrived in sickbay with the entranced ensign Mirok and laid him on a biobed. The doctor proceeded to scan him as Mizuki looked down at the Bajoran/Cardassian hybrid and grimaced a little. She had dealt with a similar case once before but this was with a Cardassian orphan, not unlike Tahlandi. She couldn't imagine anything worse than hating ones own skin.

[motom79]

*Bridge*

Tahlandi nods at Azuma, his hands shaking a little it takes him a few moments to respond to his XO.

Tahlandi: I'm alright.

sh'Raazh: *fierce* No it's not. It's not because you were born Cardassian that you should be blamed for the sins of the Cardassian Empire.

Tahlandi: Captain, I should check up on the labs. With your permission of course.

Elen: Yes of course. Commander we need to discuss how we are going to handle this incident. Lt.cmdr. sh'Raazh you have the bridge. Commander my ready room.

sh'Raazh: Aye ma'am *looks over at Zan* Lt. Zan if you clutch that station any harder it's going to break under the strain *kindly*

Tahlandi quickly leaves the bridge feeling the tears of anger and shock burning. Lt Woods watched the scene with clenched teeth and was about to intervene when the captain defused the situation using Deltan telepathy. Everybody seemed unsure what to say or do next so most of them continued working as if nothing happened.

Woods: Yes that should do the trick. It's sad to see that some people still can't get over appearances. I understand that your people have suffered under the occupation but blaming a young officer. I just don't get it.

*Sickbay*

Mirok is completely calm and relaxed. He's barely aware that he is in sickbay, at this moment only this blissful calm matters to him. Captain Elen's instinctive reaction has taken away his mental anguish, for the moment. Deltans strong pheromones combined with a form of close contact telepathy can relive physical and mental pain but not cure it. Soon Mirok will return to reality.

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Goodnight!))
*Bridge*

If there was just one thing Zan couldn't stand, in any of it's forms, it was prejudice. Although the previous event had been disturbing to say the least, it brought back many unpleasant memories, most of which were not Raian's own. Yulia had seen first hand the prejudice and the cruelty of the Dominion forces whilst stationed on Betazed and the more he thought about it the more the injustice of it all hit him. So much so that he had almost forgotton that he was supposed to be flying a starship until sh'Raazh broke him out of his internal rant. He looked a little startled and turned to her before quickly tunring his attention back to the helm.

Zan: Yes ma'am, Sorry ma'am, I've got a lot on my mind. Ahem, at present speed we should reach Karemma in about 2 hours, 11 minutes.

Hal watched both Mirok and then Tahlandi leave sadly before turning to Woods with a sigh.

*Captain's Ready Room*

Melena nodded and followed Elen into the ready room. She stood in front of the desk, still reeling over what had just occured, but she remained cool and clasped her hands behind her back.

Melena: Yes Captain? Is this about our incident or was there something else you wished to discuss?

Hal: I know it's not Lt. Tahlandi's fault and despite his heritage, I don't condone Ensign Mirok's actions. To tell you the truth I was and raised on Earth so technically Lt. Tahlandi is more Bajoran than I am! Don't get me wrong, I am proud of my heritage but I've been around too many humans to be considered a true Bajoran, no offenceI try my best but it was definately better than the alternative of my parents being slaughtered and thus not allowing me to be born. They of course returned to Bajor once the occupation was over but I never felt quite at home. Anyway, thats enough of my life story, I think we're about done here. If you can finish off, I'd better be doubel, or even triple checking the weapons. Good work, thanks for the hand.

[motom79]

((ooc: Goodnight))

*Captain's Ready Room*

Elen: At ease commander. *sighs* We need to discipline ensign Mirok, we can't let this incident slide even if Lt.jg. Tahlandi doesn't want to press charges. We need to set a firm example that this behavior will not be tolerated on the Radiant. I would like your thoughts on this matters before we proceed.

*Bridge*

sh'Raazh: Don't worry about it, if I had my way that young man ... *stops herself* Never mind.

Woods: No problem sir, I should get back to engineering anyway.

((ooc: I won't be able to post this weekend but I'll be back on Monday, Tuesday the latest))

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC Don't worry about it, hope everythings alright. I haven't had much spare time this weekend either!))

*Captains Ready Room*

Melena: My suggestion is that we confine him to quarters until he receives adequet counselling. That is what I would do given the situation. The brig may be a little over the top considering that no-one was physically hurt during the incident. We should be almost at our destination by now anyway.

*Bridge*

Zan: I get the picture but thats not quite whats bothering me. It's just that...maybe it should be discussed at another time.

[motom79]

((ooc: everything is alright just had to take care of some important RL stuff))

*Captain's Ready Room*

Elen: I agree that throwing ensign Mirok isn't the way to handle this situation. I see your counseling past is still firmly embedded in your decision making process. Don't worry commander I like that my crew takes the people factor into account. I think I'll also put a reprimand in his file, but if no further incidents happen it will be erased from his permanent file. I believe firmly in giving people second changes. I just hope that our counselor can get through to him. Yes you are right we should get back to the bridge.

*Bridge*

sh'Raazh: yes you are right Yulia *notices slip of the tongue* I mean Lieutenant Zan.

*Astrometics*

Tahlandi manages to slip into astrometics unnoticed. He likes to come here and look at the star charts to clear his mind. A handsome young light green skinned Andorian/Aenar ensign catches his eye. Thellin senses that somebody has entered astrometics so he turns around to welcome their guest. As he turns he sees an attractive young Cardassian baring the rank of junior lieutenant. This most be the infamous Tahlandi Rann, their Cardassian chief science officer with the Bajoran name.

Thellin: Sir can I help you? I'm afraid that chief Indigo isn't here at the moment. He's down in stellar cartography.
Tahlandi: At ease ensign I'm just here to brush up on my astronomical phenomena.
Thellin: Well except for the wormhole it's pretty dull in this neck of the woods, lieutenant.

Thellin is surprised by the fact how well his telepathy is working with Rann. Although Cardassians can be read by telepathic species, most of them are highly resistent. But not Tahlandi his emotions are almost screaming at him and although ensign Thellin tries to block them out, he is not entirely successfull in doing so. He notices that the attraction he felt towards his superior was mutual and he gives Tahlandi a flirty little smile.

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Good good, welcome back!

Raian smiled as he hadn't realised that he hadn't even introduced himself to Yulia's old friend. Thanks to her memories, he found that he knew sh'Raazh so well that the thought that she didn't even know his individual name had completely slipped his mind. He turned to her with a smile.

Zan: Oh, did I not get around to introducing myself? That was a little rude of me considering how well I now know you. The names Raian, but you'll find that I answer to Zan, Yulia, Aeryn or Arrik, the latter three depending on my mood. I wasn't properly trained for this joining so you'll forgive me if I slip up from time to time. (sees Elena and Melena enter) Ah sirs, we're entering the Karemma system now.

*Sickbay*

Meanwhile in sickbay, it seemed that the young ensign was recovering well although this fact could not yet be established, all the signs pointed to normal. There were two nurses on standby behind the doctor and counsellor, just in case but much to Mizuki's displeasure as her antennae twitched nervously. It didn't seem like a good idea as Ensign Mirok needed to be as relaxed as possible when he came too. She turned to her human colleague and began glancing discreetly behind her, to which Lynda gave a short nod and requested that the nurses stood back and 'looked normal' before addressing her patient.

Riley: Welcome back ensign, how are you feeling?

[motom79]

((ooc: goodnight))

*Sickbay*

Mirok is a little confused and it takes a moment to remember what happened. He seems to vaguely remember that he was escorted to sickbay after captain Elen touched him after he went berserk seeing that Cardassian on the bridge. He feels his stomach turn and he leaps forwards and begins to throw up on the sickbay floor, sure that his Star Fleet career is over.

Mirok: Sorry. I'm doing alright *looks at Azuma* Are you here to analyze my unresolved youth trauma's, let me help you I don't have any.

Mirok's rigid body language betrays him, the lingering hate and resentment he felt towards his Cardassian heritage has not be resolved. Although the last years he had found stability and some sort of peace with his past, seeing a Cardassian for the first time in almost five years made him go of the handle. He begins to sob, startling a young nurse whom is giving the doctor and clinical psychologist a worried look.

*Bridge*

Elen: Lt.cmdr. sh'Raazh open hailing frequencies and send a standard greeting, lieutenant Zan enter a standard orbit at the Karemma's planet.

sh'Raazh: Aye ma'am hailing frequencies open, no response but they received our greeting.

Elen: patience Lt.cmdr.

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Goodnight))

*Sickbay*

As another nurse proceeded to quickly mop up the mess, Mizuki sat on the bed beside Elias, convinced that he wasn't telling the entire truth. Someone who was completely happy with themselves did not go beserk without provocation, never mind on the bridge. She took a deep breath and placed a gentle hand on his.

Azuma: Actually, I'm here because I was worried about you. That was quite the incident back there.

Riley: I've just received word from the bridge, apparently you're to be confined to quarters until further notice. Counsellor, I hope you can take on another patient as those are you're orders in regards to all of this. Phew, and we've barely even begun. Still, keeps us on our toes.

Azuma: Alright, those are our orders then Ensign. I'll arrange a time thats hopefully convenient. You'd better return to you're quarters for now.

*Bridge*

As Raian nodded and did as he was told, Melena took her seat and glance behind her to Eloran's station. She wondered how he felt about the incident that just occured and if perhaps he too harboured a great dislike to their Cardassian colleague. Of course, this had been long forgotton by him as he, along with the rest of the bridge crew, eagerly awaited some kind of response. Melena wondered how the Karemma were faring in the political strain affecting all of the former Dominion worlds. Certainly badly enough for the Ferengi to avoid them but they were a species quite known for cowardice and exaggeration, perhaps with the exception of Lt. Nog.

[motom79]

*Sickbay*

Ensign Mirok nodded at the purple Andorian counselor as he gently pushes her hand away. He listened to the hollow words of the counselor and gives her a curt half smile. He looks up at the doctor when she addresses them with the announcement of his punishment. He wasn't exactly sure what will happen next, but he doesn't like the idea of talking to a psychologist. When he was younger he received extensive counseling after his mother's suicide, an experience he doesn't want to repeat. He always felt that counseling was a waste of time and that counselors were snoops. He rigidly gets of the biobed without saying a word as he is escorted to his quarters by two security crewmen.


*Bridge*

sh'Raazh: Captain the Karemma's Senior Secretary of Economy has replied to our hails, audio only.

Elen: put it on speakers Lt.cmdr.

Secretary of Economy: Good day Star Ship Radiant and it's esteemed crew, the minister of Economy is momentarily not available for the new trade arrangement between the Karemma and The Federation-Ferengi Economic Alliance. Pleas standby for further instructions.

Several eyebrows are raised on the bridge, standby for further instructions. This was a weird response to say the least.

Elen: Lt.cmdr. Hal do you detect any defense mechanisms on the surface or satellites with defensive capabilities? Lt.cmdr. sh'Raazh start short and long range scans for any ships.

sh'Raazh: Aye ma'am

((ooc: I don't think Mizuki's words are empty but for Elias Mirok they come across like hollow.))

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Fair enough, our characters don't have to see things the same way as we do or it becomes very boring :p))

*Bridge*

Zan turned briefly to sh'Raazh and raised an eyebrow as Hal began his scan of the surface. The response did seem a little odd leading most of the the officers to conclude that perhaps there was some kind of problem.

Hal: I'm detecting what appears to be the aftermath of an explosion in several areas. Just one could have been an accident but any more and theres serious trouble. There seems to be nothing that would affect us directly, unless of course we have to go down there.

[motom79]

*Bridge*

Elen: *rising from her seat* What? Can you determine the weapon signature, is it Jem'Hadar in design?

sh'Raazh: Captain, I detected two small trade vessels, one is Ferengi, the other one is of unknown design. I'm detecting no life signs on either of them.

Elen: Lt. Zan bring us the nearest ship, Lt.cmdr. Hal assemble a team and meet me in Transporter Room One.

((ooc: indeed LOL))

[Mikoyo80]

*Bridge*

Hal: I'm one step ahead of you ma'am, the signatures don't seem to be Jem'Hadar but they're not very clear. Somethings interfering with our sensors, it started just now ma'am.

Melena: I see, obviously someone knows we're onto them and don't want us to find out any more. Captain, I don't think you going on this mission is a good idea. Need I remind you of Starfleet Code Section 12, Paragraph 4?

As Melena voiced her objections, Hal left his station in order to assemble a team as requested and couddn't help but wonder what the Ferengi were doing out here to begin with. They had been told that there were no ferengi vessels currently in the quadrant and this discovery made him feel a little uneasy. It didn't take him all that long to throw a team together and arrive at the transporter room, along with Dr. Riley who had also been called in case of a medical emergency, or at least to find out how the crewmen had died. This assumed of course that there were crewmen on board to begin with, although of course the alternative wasn't possible. The nearest ship happened to be the unknown vessel and as Raian positioned the ship directly adjacent to it, he couldn't help but wish he was on the team. Before the joining he had loved nothing more than being at the helm but the Yulia in him seemed to miss this greatly.

((OOC: Just for the record, Elen can go if she wants to. It's the first officers job to object after all :D Goodnight, anyway.))

[motom79]

((ooc: no problem that's the XO's job to keep the crew and captain safe, hope you don't mind I interpret Melena's mood. Anyway goodnight))

Elen: I'm well aware of that section Commander but it's still a captain's prerogative to select her own missions. *noticing that commander Melena isn't about to back down from her position* We have no time to debate this Commander you have the bridge. Put the ship on yellow alert and keep your eyes open. Lt.cmdr. sh'Raazh your with me. Lt.jg Zan keep a transporter lock on the away team just in case.

sh'Raazh: Yes ma'am, *whispers to Zan* use the secondary transporters to boost the confinement beam, it will make it easier to transport us back when there is trouble.

[Mikoyo80]

*Bridge*

Indeed there was no time to argue meaning that Melena found herself having to reluctantly back down. She nodded and smiled weakly before responding to the captain.


Melena: Then good luck captain. (turns to remaining and replacement crew) Alright, yellow alert! Ensign, keep scanning for more ships, I'd hate for any unpleasant suprise visits. Make sure we keep a com link open with the away team at all times and keep an eye out for the Karemma, just in case they get back in touch.

Zan: (whispering to sh'Raazh) Good idea. Careful out there.

[motom79]

*Bridge*

sh'Raazh: You two Zan, keep your eyes open and be alert. Ghostships are always a bad omen.

Tahlandi enters the bridge, he just learned what happened and as senior officer his place is on the bridge during a potential crisis. He takes the science consul and watches the tense exchange between the captain and the XO. As the captain and sh'Raazh leave for transporter room one, he turns towards Commander Melena.

Tahlandi: Ma'am I've linked the astrometical sensors into our external sensors.

*Astrometics*

Thellin's antennas twitch nervously as he starts scanning the unknown ship, some of the sensor data didn't make sense at all. For one thing he couldn't find anything that remotely resemble a warpdrive or anything that even came close to an engine room.

*Engineering*

Lt. Woods is sitting in his office looking at the data that is coming in and like the inexperienced ensign Thellin in Astrometics, he is surprised what he sees. Luckily the ship's atmosphere is breathable for most humanoid species. The artificial gravity aboard the ship is problematic and probably slow them down, seeing that their body mass will almost double.
Woods: Ensign Yoshi please assist me with extending our gravimetric field to the other ship.
Yoshi: Aye chief.

Both men start to work and within a mere two minutes the managed to pull it off, although the slightest movement from any of the ships could disrupt the field and cause damage to both.

[Mikoyo80]

*Bridge*

Melena noticed the Cardassian officer returning and couldn't help but notice that his eyes looked a little red. Now was not the time to dwell on it though, as her concern for the captain and the away team

Melena: Good work lieutenant, welcome back! Do we still have that lock on the away team?

Zan: Yes ma'am.

Melena: Good, then all we can do is sit tight unless somethign comes up.

*Unknown Ship - Corridor*

As the away team materialised upon the vessel, Riley began scanning for lifesigns with her tricorder as Hal gave his team a nod to spread out a little and in order to keep an eye out for trouble. The constant creaking of the seemingly abandoned vessel was bound to unnerve one or two crewmembers as they moved along the barren corridors, the only sound other than there own being the hissing of the exposed and torn wiring. Lynda raised an eyebrow as the readings she had been taking were a little puzzling to say the least. She turned to the captain and security chief.

Riley: I'm picking up lifesigns but they're very erratic.

Hal: Lifesigns? I thought there wasn't anything? What do you mean by erratic anyway?

Riley: Maybe the sensors couldn't pick anything up until we were scanning at close range? Anyway, I mean the reading is erratic, but it's definately life and it's pretty close.

Hal: Ok, keep a wether eye team! Do we know what kind of ship this is yet? I don't recognise it so we're either dealing with a race thats A: in danger or B: can't be picked up very well by our sensors, or the Borg are here.

Riley: Don't say that! Seriously though, we should be careful. Did you get any of that captain?

[motom79]

*Unknown Ship - Corridor*

Elen: *distracted* Oh I'm sorry yes, I've never seen this ship design before but I can sense life here, it's almost overwhelming.

sh'Raazh: Captain, what's wrong?

Elen: The species is telepathic and it's unsettling but I'm okay. How come our sensors didn't pick up any life signs Lt.cmdr sh'Raazh?

sh'Raazh: There's some sort of damping field here, but unlike any I've seen before. *Turns towards Hal* What makes you think the Borg are involved?

Captain Elen walks towards doctor Riley, unsure whether what she's experiencing is some sort of telepathic contact or something else completely. Deltan telepathy required intimate contact and there was no living soul near her.

Elen: Doctor can you pinpoint the life signs? Also I need you to scan me I think something is wrong.

The group moves slowly along the endless eerie corridors, all of them damaged and seemingly abounded.

sh'Raazh: I think this is the control center.

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Goodnight!))

*Unknown Ship - Control Centre*

Hal: That was a joke, and a badly timed on at that, the borg should be nowhere near here.

Riley: I did tell you not to Lieutenant Commander... (scans Elen) I'm detecting increased brain activity consistant with telepathic contact, but we're not looking at dangerous levels just yet. I would like to continue scanning at regular intervals to make sure that it doesn't reach those levels. I'm still detecting those 'life signs' and there may be something in this room or close by.

Hal: Right, (to his team) spread out and take a look around, I want to know the second you find something. Are these controls salvagable? It may be a good idea to try and download the ships logs to see if we can find out what happened here.

[motom79]

((ooc: goodnight))

*Unknown Ship - Control Centre*

Elen: how is that possible doctor? Deltan telepathy is only possible if there is some sort of physical contact.

sh'Raazh is looking at the controls for some reason the universal translator is not locking on to the language patrons. Also she has zero success in downloading the logs into her tricorder. As she moves to another station for closer inspection she notices something moving, instinctively she reaches for her phaser.

sh'Raazh: Doctor I think I've found somebody, it's alive.

sh'Raazh is looking at a strange creature that resembles an earth octopus. It seems to be breathing but for the rest it's unresponsive to her. suddenly one of it's tentacles grabs the security ensign next to sh'Raazh. The young man lets out a pitiful scream and drops to the ground, mouth foaming. sh'Raazh reacts instinctively and stuns the creature. She rushes towards the ensign whom is suffering some sort of seizure.

sh'Raazh: *scanning him* He's going into shock, doctor I need your help.

*Bridge*

Tahlandi: ma'am, I've just lost our away team on sensors, wait there back but one of the lifesigns is erratic.

Tahlandi feels uneasy, that brief moment that they lost contact something bad most of happened. He looks at XO wondering what she will do.

[Mikoyo80]

*Unknown Ship - Command Centre*

Riley: I don't know captain, I'm guessing that perhaps whatever it is is not specifically targeting anyone as a telepathic species? Now that I mention it there was -

She was then interrupted by the statement of sh'Raazh but had no time to take anything in as it's sudden reaction caused a possible medical emergency. As she ran over to him and began quickly scanning. Hal lowered his phaser after also shooting at the creature. The shot had been simultanous with the one fired by sh'Raazh. He signalled to his remaining team members to scan the room visually, phasers at the ready.

Riley: It's some kind of toxin, we need to get him back to the ship immediately!

Hal: Yeah, what is that thing anyway? I don't recognise the species but obviously it's dangerous!

Riley: Agreed, you'll have to discuss the rest with the captain. Riley to Radiant, two to beam directly to sickbay.

As the doctor and her patient disappeared, Eloran couldn't help but feel uneasy as he noticed a slight buzzing sensation in his head which seemed to be increasing in volume and intensity, which had also been felt by Riley, as she had been about to mention. Maybe this had something to do with the telepathic readings picked up earlier. Hal had no choice but to attempt to ignore it for now as he turned to the captain whilst keeping an eye on his remaining team members.

Hal: Captain, I recommend that we do what needs to be done as quickly as possible and get out of here. Aside from the fact that there may be more of those things lying around, I have a hunch that we probably shouldn't be sticking around for too much longer. what should we do about him (gestures toward the alien)?

*Bridge*

Melena jumped from her seat, suddely pumped wit hadrenilin, at Tahlandi's statement. She felt that if anything were to happen to them, especially the captain, that it would be her fault for not arguing her point further. She attempted to make contact with the away team for now and to worry about her personal concerns later.

Melena: Radiant to away team, is everything alright down there? Zan, do we still have a transporter lock?

Zan: We sure so commander, I can confirm that two people beamed directly to sickbay just now.

Melena: Damn it, what could have happened? Captain, please respond, is everything alright?

[motom79]

*Unknown ship - Control Center*

Everything happened so fast that Elen didn't have time to respond to the doctor. As the doctor and her patient beam away, her leadership capabilities kick back in full gear.

Elen: Lt.cmdr. Hal it's a clearly a sentient being and what just happened could just as easily been an attack as an attempt to communicate. We shall beam it to a secure lab *Melena's call comes in* Commander the situation is under control, prepare a lab to receive a possible hostile being full security measures.

sh'Raazh: Captain, I'm afraid our technology is incompatible with the aliens, it would take us at least a day and a full engineering team to procure the logs. We could beam it the central computer on to the Radiant, but I wouldn't recommend it. Oh my head, is it me or is there a loud buzzing in this room.

Elen: No commander I feel it too and it's getting louder.

*Engineering*

Yoshi: Chief, the artificial gravity field is weakening.

Woods: How do you mean *looks at the LCARS* dammit *taps combadge* Lt. Woods to commander Melena, ma'am we need to pull the away team of that ship, we can't maintain the artificial gravity field for much longer, within fifteen minutes it will collapse, and when it does there is a 51.3% change there will be hull breaches on the alien ship. There is nothing I can do to stop it.

[Mikoyo80]

*Bridge*

Melena: Acknowledged, thank you engineering. Captain, We can't maintain the artificial gravity over there for much longer. It will hold for another fifteen minutes approximately, are you ready to beam over?

*Unknown Ship - Control Centre*

Hal: Could be captain, but theres only one way to find out. *Melena's call comes in* I'll call my team back here and recommend that we leave immediately. Approximate isn't much good to us so we should take that as any minute.

[motom79]

*Unknown ship - Control Center*

Elen: Agreed Lt. cmdr. Hal, I think it's best to leave. As soon as we are on board the Radiant I want you and Lt.cmdr. sh'Raazh to send a distress call on all frequency and all known languages. *taps combadge* Commander the away team is ready to beam over, as soon as we are aboard set a course to the Ferengi Trader.

sh'Raazh: Understood captain, as far as I call tell there was only one creature aboard this vessel, but our tricorders aren't working properly for some reason. Maybe we should ask the Karemma with whom we are dealing before sending a distress call *looks at Lt.cmdr. Hal for support*. Seeing the Alien was in their space, they may have an idea with whom we are dealing.

*Bridge*

Tahlandi: commander, an incoming message from the Karemman Prime Minister, shall I put it on screen or do you want to wait for the captain?

[Mikoyo80]

*Unknown Vessel - Control Centre*

Hal: Agreed, we've already seen how hostile he can be whether it was intentional or not. That looks like everyone, are we ready to go?

*Bridge*

Melena: Aye captain. Lt. Zan, set a course for the ferengi vessel and engage when the away team arrives. Forget that last part, thank you Lt. Tahlandi, put them through. This is Commander Melena of the Federation Starship Radiant. Thank you for answering our call. The captain is unavailable at the moment but will be back shortly.

[motom79]

*Bridge - View screen*

The Karemman Prime Minister is clearly nervous about something. The way he is twiddling and shifting is not only very annoying to watch it also signals that something is wrong. His voice is high pitched and shrill with a panicked edge to it.

P.M.: Why has your ship moved out of orbit? We don't appreciate that you are snooping around on our territory. The Vessels you are investigating belonged to terrorists, we have apprehended their crew and detained them on our planet. I was under the impression that Star Fleet didn't budge into internal affairs of other worlds.

Tahlandi can't help shake the feeling that the man is lying or hiding something. Why didn't they confiscate their cargo or the ships themselves. Plus the away team was attacked by one of their presumed prisoners. He looks at the viewscreen wondering what is happening with the Karemma. Lt. Caeli is sitting next to commander Melena and leans into her and whispers so only she can hear him.

Caeli: Something doesn't add up her, ma'am. Plus according to my data that man is not the Karemma P.M. I recommend we use extreme caution, and try and figure out what is going on.

((ooc: Goodnight))

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Goodnight))

*Bridge*

Melena had already figured that something was very wrong from the manner in which the Karemma spoke, as well as by studying his body language. Of course, it wouldn't have taken a trained counsellor to pick up on this fact as several members of the present bridge crew seemed aggravated. The statement from Caeli seemed to confirm this fact and she nodded in response to him. She spoke carefully to the fake prime minister so as not to cause any sort of conflict, all the while hoping that the captain would soon return.

Melena: I am very sorry for the apparent intrusion, but it is our policy to investigate anything that could endanger surrounding life. We didn't mean to intrude. We were hoping to gain some information on the current situation in this sector, in fact we were hoping to speak with you directly. I assure you that we do not mean to interfere, unless of course our own lives are put at risk, and are here for exploration purposes.

[motom79]

*Transporter Room One*

Captain Elen, and her two senior lieutenants sh'Raazh and Hal are discussing options what their next course of action should be with the Alien, currently apprehended in their sciences lab behind a damping field, unaware what is happening on the bridge right now.

Elen: I can see your point but Star Fleet policy is to help ...

sh'Raazh:*interrupting* Captain, this is a potential hostile species with unknown telepathic abilities. Calling it's friends without knowing who are what they are may not be the best cause of action.

Elen: Yes lieutenant commander I've heard your opinion, Lt.cmdr. Hal where do you stand on this, ship security is after all your domain. I understand that you are also in favor for contacting the Karemma first before we send out a distress call.

*Bridge*

Tahlandi: Transporter Room One, just beamed over the last members of the away team. The captain should be here any minute, commander.

P.M.: No harm done, but we must ask you to leave Karemma space, because of some internal matters that need immediate governmental attention we can't hold new trade arrangements. *all of the sudden the nervousness and friendliness in his voice is gone* You have one hour. I also suggest you leave the Ferengi ship be, commander. Good day. *cuts of transmission*

Caeli: Commander, sensors are picking up a fleet of 12 heavily armed Karemma ships coming our way, I suggest we raise shields. *muttering* Where did they come from.

[Mikoyo80]

*Bridge*

Melena: Damnit, shields to maximum! I'd start planning evasive action if I were you Mr. Zan, just in case we're not out within the hour.

Zan: Doing it now commander (muttering) Geez, whats their problem.

Melena: Good, (taps combadge) captain, as much as I would like to welcome you back, we have a problem. Long story short, there will be no talking with the Karemma and we need you on the Bridge.

*Transporter Room One*

Hal: Indeed it is captain and I do see Lt.cmdr. sh'Raazh' point. I suggest -

He is then interrupted by the urgent call from Melena and frowned.

Hal: I suggest for now we head to the bridge as we may be needed at our posts.

[motom79]

*Transporter Room One*

Elen: We are on our way commander.

The three officers rush to the bridge, Elen wondered what happened during the short period they were away.

*Bridge*

Elen: Rapport commander what is going on?

sh'Raazh takes her position at ops and notices that 12 armed ships are approaching at full impulse. This isn't good and unexpected seeing the Karemma have always avoided direct conflict, something must have changed. But before she has time to ponder about it one of the ships fires missing them by inches. Clearly this was a warning shot.

sh'Raazh: I think it's safe to say captain that the Karemma have changed their mind.

Elen: Evasive maneuvers lieutenant Zan.

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Goodnight))

*Bridge*

Melena: I would agree with that assumption lieutenant commander. We have been in contact with an individual claiming to be the Prime Minister. hHe has given us one hour to leave the system before those ships decide to attack us properly. I have no idea what's going on, but they say we should leave the Ferengi ship alone.

Hal: I recommend we do as they say, not only are we outnumbered but it seems that they have mad some upgrades to their weapons and shields since the last time we met them. We may be able to defest one or two but taking on Twelve would be suicide.

Zan: Why would they leave a Ferengi vessel stranded out there anyway? I though they had good relations with each other.

Melena: A good question Lt.JG. Zan, but I suggest you concentrate on the helm for now. Your chair captain (offering Elen the Captains chair)?

Zan: Aye sir...

[motom79]

((ooc: goodnight))

*Bridge*

Elen listens carefully to her staff and contemplates their predicament. Lt.jg. Zan has a valid point why leave the stranded vessel(s) there. The relations with the Ferengi, although sometimes strained, have always been good but than again the Ferengi were known to sell weapons and technology during wartime and not uncommingly at both sides at once for a bigger profit. Maybe this was what happened. She nods at her XO and takes her chair. She is surprissed to hear that the Karemma have upgraded their fleet, it seems the Dominion is really losing their grip, even more so than intelligence reports about the situation in the Gamma Quadrant indicate. They needed answers and fast, a daring plan forms in captain Elen's mind.

Elen: *turns to sh'Raazh* Lt.cmdr. sh'Raazh in your opinion is it possible to transport the Ferengi's computer core into one of our cargo bays at Warp speed.

sh'Raazh: Yes ma'am but we wouldn't have any margin of error and it would be unwise to do so.

Elen: Can you make the calculations lieutenant commander?

sh'Raazh: Yes of course

Elen: Do it. *taps combadge* Lt. Woods I need you to coordinate a transport of a Ferengi computer core into cargo bay three at high warp.

Woods: *over the com* Aye ma'am, but this is a highly unusual and extremely dangerous, ...

Elen: Yes I know lieutenant, you have your orders. *turns to Lt.cmdr. Hal* What kind of modifications are we talking about Lt. cmdr. Hal and how will it effect your shield modifications? Because I guess once the Karemma figure out that we are planning a little heist they won't be happy. Lt.jg Zan Warp one and soon as we have the Ferengi's database go to Warp Nine, course the Kemala sector.

sh'Raazh: Ma'am I'm not an Android I can't calculate should a delicate procedure in mere seconds. I'm going to need at least 15 minutes.

Elen: You've got five, Lieutenant commander. Red alert prepare battle stations.

Although Elen seems calm cool and collected on the outside, inwardly she is doubting her decision. The safe option would be to try and download the Ferengi's ship database into their computer but setting up a link between their ships would require some time and time was something they didn't have. Hopefully the Ferengi Vessel holds some answers to what is going on.

[Mikoyo80]

*Bridge*

Hal: It seems that they have taken a leaf from the Jem'Hadar's book and upgraded their weapons to include phased polaron beams. It also seems that their design has changed slightly, rather like merging their own vessels with those of the Jem'Hadar.

Melena: That doesn't make sense, the Karemma were never truly hostile. Why would they turn their own ships into attack vessels base on Jem'Hadar design?

Hal: I don't know, I'm just telling you the results of this scan. I'm a bajoran not a betazoid, I don't know what they're thinking! Anyway, our shields could hold of one or two of those things for a while, but we're looking at twelve here. In other words, if we get caught and Lt.jg. Zan falls asleep at the helm, we should bend over and kiss out butts goodbye!

Zan: (chuckling) Nothing to worry about there sir, I assure you that when the time comes, I'll be ready.

Melena: Quite, thankyou Lt.Cmdr. what about their shields?

Hal: We're looking at approximately 25% added to their shield effiency. Looks like they're relying a little heavily on the brawn. Why set twelve on us anyway? Mel, I mean Cmdr. Melena does have a point. I'll see if I can make further modifications to our shields but I don't know if we can squeeze much else out of them.

[motom79]

*Bridge*

Caeli: The biggest question here is how is this even possible. Captain, even with the less stringent control of the Dominion on it's worlds I can't see them allowing this.

Elen: We can worry about it later lieutenant. Lt.cmdr. Hal do what ever you can with the shields. Is there any tactical advantage in the fact the rely mostly on heavy weapons instead of their shields? Couldn't a resonance burst disable their ships? Lt.cmdr. sh'Raazh it seems time's up.

sh'Raazh: I've got it captain.

Elen: Lt.jg. Zan as soon as I give you the word go to warp one *taps combadge* Lt. Woods prepare to receive the Ferengi's datacore and to jump to warp seven

Woods: Aye ma'am *to his crew* You heard to captain get to it people.

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: G'night))

*Bridge*

Hal: Yes captain, we could use a photonic shock wave to disable them long enough to get us out of here. Of course, it usually only works on two at a time but looking at their formation, I think it would be possible to take down three or four. So long as we can take out the nearest vessels, we should be fine.

Melena: Sounds like a plan, do you think you could pull it off? It would require exact timing if it were to be successful. I have every confidence in your ability and am sure we can leave it in your capable hands Lt.Cmdr.

Hal: Thank you ma'am, I'm pretty confident we can pull it off with no trouble at all. Of course, I'd better watch what I say, pride comes before the fall, as they say.

Melena: Indeed. If we're going to transport that core, we'll have think about doing it very soon.

[motom79]

((ooc: Goodnight))

*Bridge*

Elen: Make it so Lt.cmdr. Hal, Lieutenant Zan when I give you me word you jump to warp and Lt.cmdr. Hal will initiate the burst. At that exact moment Lt.cmdr. sh'Raazh you will beam over the Ferengi's computer core. Is everybody clear on this.

sh'Raazh: Aye ma'am

sh'Raazh was preparing the daring beam in and glances for a moment at Zan, facing danger and almost unbeatable odds this sure feels like old times again. The fearful anticipation of what is going to happen next is almost tangible and some of the younger officers have the look of a freighted animal. Tahlandi feels his hands tremble slightly as he steadies himself for a possible attack. Caeli bites his lip as he stares at the view screen wondering if he missed something during his preparations. Well there will be time to dwell on that later, if they don't get blown to smithereens that is.

[Mikoyo80]

*Bridge*

As Raian configured the helm, he caught Tara's gaze and flashed a quick reassuring smile. Of course, this was nothing like Yulia's as it was more of a boyish grin but he hoped that it would do the trick. This wasn't the first time he had faced such diffucult odds as either Raian or Zan so he didn't feel as anxious as some of the other crewmembers. It reminded him of the time he was serving on board the USS Athena when they came under fire by an unknown vessel whilst patrolling the neutral zone. It was only his quick thinking that had saved the ship from being completely destroyed. Unfortunately, this had been at the cost of the senior helm officer and chief security officer, Yulia, who had been killed by intruders. Of course, Zan had had some close shaves too, most noteably as Yulia during teh occupation of Betazoid. He wondered if sh'Raazh was also recalling those times as they prepared to initiate their daring transportation. He just hoped that engineering were ready to warp when he was and that Lt.Cmdr. Hal's idea worked.

Eloran meanwhile, was preparing the required weapons for the maneuver, as well as plotting the course. There would be a lot of trouble if they missed their target, especially if they hit one of the vessels. The upmost concentration would be required in order to get this one right, and so he couldn't let the feelings of anxiety creep up on him just yet.

[motom79]

*Engineering*

Engineering was buzzing with activity, most of the engineers were preparing the ship for the straining effect on the warpdrive, pushing it from one to seven wasn't exactly recommended procedure. The danger of micro fractures and breaches in the warpcore was a real possibility with such a jolt. A few engineers were also coordinating the transport at warp, an extra risk. Woods shakes his head for a moment and wonders if going to the Gamma Quadrant was such a good idea to begin with. But there is work to be done, dwelling on the politics behind the exploration of the Gamma Quadrant will have to wait for now.

Woods: *taps combadge* Engineering reports Ready ma'am.

*Bridge*

Elen: Understood lieutenant. Lt.cmdr Hal ready when you are, how much time do we have before our friends attack.

Caeli: 20 minutes ma'am. But they are getting restless by the looks of it.

Elen: Thank you lieutenant. People you know the plan as soon as Lt.cmdr. Hal is ready we make a run for it.

Captain Elen didn't like the fact that she needed to resort to violence but they were backed into a corner and the Karemma didn't seem interested in negotiating anymore. She can't help but wonder in what kind of hornets nest they got involved. At the Con/Ops sh'Raazh returned Zan's smile, strangely it felt like working with Yulia all over again and at the same time completely different.

[Mikoyo80]

*Bridge*

Zan: I'm ready ma'am, just give the word and we're outta here (muttering to self) Thats if we don't blow the warp core anyway...

Hal: Photon torpedo and phasers ready. I just hope we don't hit one of the ships by accident but we should be fine.

Melena: How many times have you actually done this Mr. Hal?

Hal: Once, when I was an ensign. That was a long time ago.

Melena: We have no room for error lieutenant commander, we're counting on you. So, transport, photon and warp. Have we got that everyone? May as well start then captain, if we're ready. We'll be riding on the seat of our pants but I'm confident that this will work.

[motom79]

*Bridge*

Caeli instinctively took the sides of his chair and clinched his teeth in anticipation. Captain Elen sat gracefully in the middle and without hesitation she gave the order.

Elen: Now.

It all happened quickly the ship jumped to warp as did the Karemma Fleet. Now it was up to Lt.cmdr. Hal, Lt.cmdr. sh'Raazh and engineering and of course their young pilot Lt.jg Zan, whom as a joined Trill was the most experienced member of the crew.

sh'Raazh: We've got the Ferengi's data core, ma'am

All of a sudden the ship shook violently and a nearby LCARS counsel exploded, luckily it was unmanned.

Elen: Lt.cmdr. Hal did report.

A second shock wave followed, the violence of it throw Lt.jg. Tahlandi on the ground. The young officer quickly got back in his seat, blood trickling down on his blue uniform.

[Mikoyo80]

*Bridge*

On the captains command, Zan and Hal worked quickly and efficiently as they quickly carried out their respective tasks. Hal said a silent prayer to the prophets as he fired a photon torpedo toward the Karemma ships, aiming for just in between the nearest vessels. A carefully aimed phaser blast later, it seemed as though the ships were no longer following. Of course, this would have to be confirmed at ops but it seemed to be a job well done. He was concentrating so hard that he had barely noticed the explosions at the other consoles, but surveyed the damage now around him. It seemed as though only one bridge officer was hurt so in his eyes it could have been a lot worse. Melena turned around to check if everyone was ok and asked for a report before spotting the bleeding Tahlandi.

Melena: Is everyone alright? Did we lose them? Lt. Tahlandi, you're wounded. You should report to sickbay, that looks pretty bad. Lt. Caeli, will you be able to accompany him? I imagine both our medical and engineering department will be quite busy for a while.

[motom79]

*Bridge*

Caeli: *voice shaking* Aye ma'am, Lieutenant Tahlandi please follow me.

Tahlandi: I'll be ofay it's nof fhaf baf

Caeli: You have a nasty cut on your forehead it should be checked out.

sh'Raazh: The Karemma have fallen back captain, engineering reports minor damage to deck seven and port nancel A

Elen: *sigh of relieve* Good work people, Lt.jg. Zan what's our eta on the Kemmala sector?

*Engineering*

Woods: *shouting* keep a eye an the warpcore, I'll be on the bridge.

Woods decided that seeing that the situation was under control for now maybe they could use an engineer on the bridge.

[Mikoyo80]

*Bridge*

Zan: Estimated time of arrival is around three hours and forty two minutes. Wow, that was close call! I'm still shaking, heh heh.

Melena: Me too, but lets keep it together lieutenant. Do we have a casualty report?

*Sickbay*

Thankfully, it seemed that injuries were few and far between as Lynda found herself treating minor cuts, burns and bruises. It had certainly been a bumpy ride, and she counted herself lucky that she had not found herself among the injured. It had been a close call as she had just vacated a console when it burst into flames, which although quick to die down, could still have caused a fairly significant injury. So far, only seven crewmembers had been injured, none seriously, but there could be more yet as she had not heard from the bridge.

[motom79]

((ooc: goodnight))

*Bridge*

sh'Raazh: Reports are coming in commander, there are ten minor injuries reported including Lt.jg Tahlandi. All and all we come of cheap.

Lt. Woods enters the bridge and takes the engineering station.

Woods: Captain, commander I've set up a link to the Ferengi's data core. We should be able to read the data within a few seconds.

Elen: Thank you lieutenant. *taps combadge* Doctor Riley how is ensign Spell doing?Commander would you join my to my ready room. We need to discuss what we are going to do with our guest.

((Spell is ensign how got wounded during their away mission ;-) ))

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Goodnight.))

*Bridge*

Riley: (through com) Ensign Spell is still sedated but, unless there are any unforeseen problems, he should be fine.

Melena: That's good to hear considering his original condition, good work. Of course captain.

As the captain and commander disappeared from the bridge, Raian sat back in his seat and breathed a long sigh of relief.

Zan: Phew, that was some heist! I think some of us should be giving ourselves a pat on the back, if not all of us. I hope Tahlandi will be alright though.

Hal: We'll see. I'm looking forward to seeing those logs, I'd love to know what was going on back there. All I can say for now is, we've made some serious enemies out of the Karemma and we haven't been out here a day.

Zan: Don't worry, I'm quite used to making a lot of enemies. What, between being a Field Docent, a diplomat and a Starfleet officer, twice, one gets quite used to people being less than friendly toward you. Zan taught me to just let it go over your head but to watch your back anyway in case they don't. I don't think we've seen the last of the Karemma.

Hal: Indeed not. I'm not worried, if thats what you're implying, but we want to be careful from here on out. Too many enemies and we may as well set the ship on self destruct. Obviously, that would be the worst case scenario, but I don't think we could pull that little stunt off again if we tried!

[motom79]

*Captain's Ready Room*

Elen sighs as she sits down and motions her XO to do the same. Captain Elen looked tired but still managed to look alert somehow.

Elen: Commander, we need to decide our course of action with the unknown Alien in the science lab. Both our security chief and chief of operations have voiced some valid concerns about sending out a distress call for it's species. The problem is I feel morally obliged to do so but not at the expense of this ship and it's crew. I'm going to be honest with you, I'm not sure what to do at this point.

*Bridge*

sh'Raazh: I'll start analyzing them directly Lt.cmdr, I just hope we can get some useful information.

Woods: Well it looks like somebody tried to erase the logs but lucky for us whomever did it did a piss poor job. With your assistance Lieutenant commander sh'Raazh we should have some answers in a jiffy. What happened to Tahlandi, it's nothing serious I hope.

Woods knew Tahlandi quite well, the young Cardassian lieutenant had made a name for himself on Bajor and was something of a well known figure on Bajor because of his stride for a better acceptance of Cardassian orphans on Bajor. He had brushed some high placed Bajoran officials in the wrong way when he openly admitted that he was forced out his studies as a Vedek due to racism. Both he also made some friends, most noticeably captain Kira whom had always be a vocal supporter of him. He was not exactly a friend but still he didn't want to see him hurt.

sh'Raazh: He was wounded during our escape, nothing serious though.

*Sickbay*

Tahlandi sat on biobed as a nurse fussed over him with a medical tricorder, he had a meld concussion and he bit his tongue rather badly but nothing life threating.

Tahlandi: Thank you nurse I really should be back on the bridge.

Nurse: I should check with doctor Riley first. Doctor can I realize mister Tahlandi back to the free world or do you want to keep him for observation?

[Mikoyo80]

*Observation Lounge*

Melena nodded in understanding and sat back a little in her chair. She knew that the captain was correct on both counts and she found herself struggling for a valid answer. She took a deep breath in order to attempt something remotely helpful.

Melena: I agree with you captain, but the safety of the ship and crew should come first. If we could find a way of communicating with it then maybe we could get somewhere. We should have science and medical teams look into it thouroughly if we're going to find out what we're dealing with. I know this sounds immoral captain, but calling it's people could lead to more trouble. Of course, you have the final decision to make captain. I can only advise you at the end of the day.

*Sickbay*

Lynda had been rallying around attempting to treat the injuries of the crewmen who had been injured. She checked Ensign Spell's life signs and seeing no immediate danger, decided that perhaps the time would be right to revive him. Of course, waiting for the sickbay to quieten first would be the most logical course of action. She heard the nurse calling to her and made her way over to her. She smiled as she looked from the young nurse to their patient, one Lt.jg. Tahlandi. She double checked the tricorder readings before nodding and speaking to the Cardassian officer

Riley: You should be fine lieutenant, but I'd like you to report back at the end of your shift. Nurse, would you be able to monitor Ensign Spell while I continue treating the others? Thanks.

[motom79]

((ooc: I opened up the RPG and send put up an invitation at the RPG planning thread))

*Bridge*

Elen: I think that is a valid idea commander, hopefully the Ferengi database will give us some answers. But we should examine the creature and try to find a way to communicate with it.

Elen doesn't say anything to her XO about the telepathic sensations she felt at the creatures vessel, seeing it had stopped. Doctor Riley was about to say something before the ensign Spell was attacked and several other crewmembers complained about headaches. But why did it stop now, she doubts a damping field would be so effective that all symptoms dissipated. Was it something with the ship, they were never successful in getting a clear reading there or even access their database, it was one giant puzzle.

*Sickbay*

Tahlandi: Yes doctor

*Bridge*

sh'Raazh and Woods are working their hardest at shifting through the information they obtained from the Ferengi, for the moment all of it was pretty useless. They learned that these Ferengi weren't weapon dealers but were trying to sell some expensive and exclusive Andorian Silk, no doubt illegally obtained. Also their captain seemed to have an inflated ego and his personal logs were mostly ego maniacal rants.

sh'Raazh: I hate Ferengis, gold digging little monsters.

Woods: If you can get past the fact they would sell their own mother for profit they are actual quite nice. Lt.jg. Zan any luck with deciphering thier navigational logs?

((ooc: Goodnight))

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC)) Cool :). Goodnight anyway!

*Bridge*

Zan: No look as of yet, but I'll keep trying. You know, Yulia would have agreed with you Tara, but Aeryn visited Ferenginar once and for some reason liked them. Back then of course if you were female you were naked and I cringe just thinking back on it. Aeryn wasn't bothered, it took a lot to bother her, but as a guy it's an embarrassing memory to have. Personally though, Ferengi's get on my nerves! One of my worst nightmares would be trapped in a turbolift with a Ferengi on one side, reeling off the rules of aquisition or whatever, and a Klingon cursing on the other! Nothing against Klingons, just they don't smell terribly cute! Besides, I get claustraphoic sometimes as it is! Aha, looks like I'm really starting to get somewhere now. Just give me a little while longer and i may just crack it. You guys got anything yet?

*Ready Room*

Melena: Then we should probably make a start. Are you alright captain?

[motom79]

*Ready Room*

Elen: Yes of course commander? I'll be right there.

*Bridge*

Woods: *signers a little at Zan's comments* Well nothing useful to our present situation, just the typical things although I think Star Fleet Intelligence might get a kick out of some the logs about the Orion Syndicate.

sh'Raazh: If those little sexiest ever asked me to take of my clothes I'd break their nose. I don't understand that you would stand for something like that Zan. *than realizes that it was a previous host, not her friend Yulia. damn this is confusing* Aeryn most be very different for Yulia, I can't image that she would tolerate something like that.


Captain's log:

We've been less than 24 hours in the Gamma Quadrant and already we have encountered unexpected trouble. Our first mission is to search and rescue the Roddenbery but seeing that the information provided to us by Captain Tsongo was a little sketchy to say the least I took it upon me to visit the Karemma a little earlier and pick their brains for information. What we didn't foresee was that the Karemma would turn against us, for no apparent reason, and more surprising yet is that they somehow managed to built a heavily armed fleet under the noise of the Dominion. Intelligence reports about the current situation in the Gamma Quadrant hinted that the political situation has deteriorated ever since the war ended five years ago and the Founders decided to set a new course of enlightenment. But none of the reports I've read indicated a total collapse and I hope that such a thing is not the case because that could mean civil war for the Dominion. Another problem we are facing is the unknown alien in our science lab. During a investigation in an unknown alien vessel we encountered it and it already has put one of my crew in sickbay. I sensed that the being was telepathic but ever since it came aboard it has been mute. We hope to find some answers in the Ferengi database we stole, seeing the alien's technology was incompatible with ours. I hope that our search for the Roddenberry will be successful but I can't really help but shake the feeling that something is terrible wrong in the Gamma Quadrant.

[Mikoyo80]

*Bridge*

Zan: Yeah, Yulia probably would have broken their noses just for suggesting it, but Aeryn was quite tolerant of other cultures. I suppose she had to be to be as an ambassador, but she always enjoyed indulging in the cultures of other races anyway. Whether that would be stripping on Ferenginar or singing and eating gagh with Klingons, doesn't really matter at this point. Anyway, we can talk about that later at a more convenient time. Back on topic, I'm sure Starfleet will have quite a lot to say about that! It doesn't surprise me of course, as you quite rightly pointed out lieutenant, they'd sell their own mother for profit. If I could just decipher these navigational logs then if nothing else we'd have some pretty juicy gossip for our beloved boys and girls at Starfleet intelligence!

[motom79]

*Science Lab*

Hrisvalar is looking at the strange octopus like creature. It has regained consciousness and it has begun exploring the forcefield. Hrisvalar attempts at any meaningful communication has thus far failed. A Vulcan scientist is making passive scans of the creatures anatomy and also to decipher if it is trying to communicate. The swirling tentacles are almost hypnotic but for the moment nobody is getting the meaning behind it all.

Hrisvalar: None of the standard ways of language communication have worked. I could give nonverbal communication another try. *turns to a Betazoid crewman* Any luck Omer with telepathic communication?

Omer: It's like listening to static noise, Imaru. It definitely has telepathic abilities and I'm able to read it but I'm not making any sense of it.

Hrisvalar: I know, I've tried almost every from of communication I can think of, including an obscure language that uses various forms of smells.

*Bridge*

Woods: Is that sunny disposition typical for Zan or is it the new host. Commander Hal, I think you should see this. A recent entry mentions something about terroristic activities on the Karemma home world and contacts between the Karemma and the Orion Syndicate.

sh'Raazh: And that's not all, look at this entry. Apparently our Ferengi friends tried to get into the deal or it least let the Karemma buy their silence. Typical those money hunger bastards have double crossed us, and that idiot Caeli fell for it. I don't understand that a seasoned diplomat as captain Elen didn't see this coming.

Woods: Well maybe these Ferengi worked alone. It's possible that the Grand Negus didn't know this, Rom is a honorable man and has proved more than once that he is a loyal alley of the Federation. Don't let your distaste and preconception about them cloud your vision Lt.cmdr.

sh'Raazh: Are you calling me a racist *very aggressive tone of voice, readying herself for a fight*

[Mikoyo80]

*Bridge*

Zan: Both, although I'm starting to sound like Aeryn. That's a little worrying.

Whilst Raian was left with his personal concerns, Eloran made his way over to Joshua and the others and leaned over the latters shoulders to view the transcript. He raised an eyebrow as the information was indeed very intriguing and he wondered if the Grand Nagus could really have known about this. He was about to comment, chossing to ignore the remark about Korvin, when their was suddenly a lot of tension in the air. He had a feeling that Tara's aggressive streak would resurface and had been waiting for it, but for now he would have to diffuse the situation before he had a fight on his hands.

Hal: Calm down, both of you! This isn't the time nor place to be fighting. Now Lt. Woods, you were saying?

Zan: Hey Tara, lets say we leave them to it and have a look at these navigational logs. I might be getting somewhere and what we have so far seems to back up what the captain's logs have been saying. (quietly so that only she can hear) Take it easy and don't let the b****** get you down, eh? You're better than that.

[motom79]

*Bridge*

Reluctantly Tara follows Raian, her fist are clinched a little and her antennas twitch aggressively, she never learned to control her anger properly. Her ex husband once told her that he suspected that she had a Klingon ancestor somewhere down the line but sh'Raazh never found that little joke amusing. What is funny to her is that Raian has the same calming effect on her than Yulia, the only person ever to calm her down. She looks at the navigational logs and first she thinks that somehow this most be wrong.

sh'Raazh: Don't worry Zan, now a days I only bark, I don't bite anymore. *hesitantly* Their course sure was erratic. But yes it sure supports their captain's logs.

On the other end of the bridge Joshua Woods and Hal Elderon are poring over the captain's logs, which are slowly showing them some disturbing facts indeed.

Woods: Look at this, apparently the Karemma bought derelict ships from the Orion Syndicate through some shadow operations controlled by a Ferengi named Cad. I never heard of him, you?

Tahlandi is sitting at the science station analyzing the data collected by astrometics, the young Andorian/Aenar ensign he met in Astrometics is helping him. The scans of the Alien ship are worthless, but the scans of the Karemma ships are interesting.

Thellin: I've never seen a warp signature like the ones on the Karemma vessels. It definitely isn't your typical Dominion warp signature nor are their weapons, the energy signature is a little off. I'm surprissed they didn't follow us at all.

Tahlandi: They wanted us gone and seeing that we did what they wanted, there wasn't any reason for them to follow us *hoping that he is right*

Thellin: I guess.

[Mikoyo80]

*Bridge*

Zan: Looks like you learned your lesson then Tara. Anyhow, check this out. I wonder if these co-ordinates here could be locations for the Orion Syndicate?

Hal: Cad huh? I had a feeling that somehow he'd be involved. That guy is immoral, even for a Ferengi, and never mind his mother, he'd sell off the Grand Nagus himself to line his pockets. I heard he had been supplying the Marquis when they were still at large, and even the Dominion during the war, but this really takes the cake. Looks like he couldn't let go of bad habits, but I wonder if this was Cad's last crime?

*Science Lab*

After finishing up in Sickbay, Lynda finally got around to making her way to the labs where she noticed a few crewmembers already gathered. She approached the the Andorian and Betazoid.

Riley: Hi, I've been sent down to take a medical scan. (to Hrisvalar)You're the communications officer aren't you? Any luck with translation?

She then proceeded to take the scan and was quite mystified to see that alien's interior was a cross between an octopus and a human. Of course, this probably would have been obvious looking at it but one never quite knew what to expect in the far reaches of space.

[motom79]

((ooc: goodnight))

*Science Lab*

Hrisvalar: No I'm afraid not doctor, a way to communicate with the creature thus far has eluded us. We found out it's telepathic but other than that, nothing. Although the swaying of it's tentacles could be a complex form of sign language.

*Bridge*

Woods: Ah I see, well there isn't indication he was aboard, but than again they didn't exactly keep a passenger or crew list.

sh'Raazh: Well this one is close to the Orion system, but the Syndicate is always been elusive and they have several bases of operation. Captain.

Elen: At ease Lt.cmdr, Lt.jg. Have you found something interesting?

sh'Raazh: Well there seems to be a connection between the Karemma and the Orion Syndicate.

Captain Elen had arrived on the bridge and couldn't help but overhearing the conversation between sh'Raazh and Zan. This information was disturbing, all the time she had spend preparing with Lt. Caeli, neither of them had found anything to suggest that the Karemma had ever any contect with the Orion Syndicate. So one of the biggest criminal organisations in the Alpha Quadrant was getting a foothold in the Gamma Quadrant. Captain Elen knows that they need to get to the bottom of this and fast.

Elen: Hmm that's troubling, even more so is the fact that they pulled that off right under our noises. Lt.cmdr. Hal see that all this information gets to Star Fleet Intelligence, encrypted code Level 10. As soon as you are all through digging this information I want you all to take the next two hours of, before reporting back to the bridge. I want my senior staff alert when we arrive at the last known position of the Roddenberry. Lt.jg. Tahlandi as soon as you are done here I need you in the science lab.

Tahlandi: Yes captain but we are all done here ma'am, I'll send our findings to engineering and security.

Thellin: *As soon as the captain is out of earshot* Mind if I escort you to the science lab, my shift ended and it's on my way.

This last statement was a complete lie and Tahlandi knew it but he nods in agreement, he could use some company.

((ooc: human, octopus anatomy creepy))

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Lol, you said it! Goodnight anyway.))

*Bridge*

Raian, who had been slouched a little in his seat, immediatley sat up straight so sharply that it was a miracle that he hadn't pulled any muscles. He nodded in agreement to sh'Raazh conclusion. Eloran nodded as he was given his orders and once they were dismissed decided that before he took a break he should head to his office and send that report to Starfleet Intelligence. Raian rose from his seat and stretched his arms in the air before turning to Tara.

Zan: Man am I glad for a break. It's been an interesting mission so far huh? I'll be in Ten-Forward, care to tag along Tara? We've got some catching up to do and you'll probably need to get to know me a little again. I'm a little different to Yulia, starting with the gender thing. Feels like I havn't been a guy for so long that I keep forgetting I am one. Damn snake, heh heh.

*Science Labs*

Riley: Could be. i'm getting some very interesting readings from our friend, starting with the fact that he seems to be part human, or close enough, and part cephalopod. That's an order of marine life that includes the terran octopus, to name but a few. I'll take this back to the medical lab to try and analyze it further but it's definately like nothing I've seen before. Keep trying crewman, I have a feeling that you can pull it off somehow. I'll leave you to it.

Just before she left however, she approached the force field holding the alien and smiled warmly. There seemed to be little point in actually speaking, for the being spoke a language that defied the translators, but she hoped that it would count as a universal language and hopefully inform it that they weren't a bunch of mad scientists keeping it prisoner. There was no way of knowing that it had understood, but as she left she hoped that it had.

[motom79]

((ooc: I like doctor Riley's gesture it's very humane))

*Science Lab*

Hrisvalar nods in agreement at the doctor's statement but the truth is that she isn't all together sure she will succeed. Every attempt so far has come up empty and the young communications officer is running out of ideas.

Hrisvalar: thank you doctor *doctor Riley leaves* I need a brainwave and fast. Omer I'm going for a walk to think about the situation I'll be back in a hour or so.

Omer: I'll try and work it here, don't worry we'll figure out.

Hrisvalar: Well maybe we should brush up on our exobiology see ya.

Hrisvalar walks out the science lab with her padd under her arm, she decides to have a drink in Ten Forward and work on it there, maybe inspiration will hit her there.

*Bridge*

sh'Raazh: Well I could use a stiff drink, so why not.

sh'Raazh smiles a little at the comments of the new host. Raian Zan looks somehow lost, confused and ill prepared for the joining. Yulia had once told her that joining can be an overwhelming experience, she wonders if all new joined Trills are as flaky as him or is it because the joining didn't go as planned. She desperately wants to ask questions about her friends death but at the same time she doesn't want to disrespect her memory and invade Raian's privacy. sh'Raazh silently walks to Ten Forward lost in her own thoughts.

*Corridors - en route science lab*

Thellin: Can I ask you a question Sir?

Tahlandi: Sure, but there is no need to call me sir.

Thellin: Okay lieutenant, is it true that you once studied to become a Vedek?

Tahlandi: Yes but that was in a previous lifetime, let's just say things didn't work out.

Thellin: Sorry I didn't want to be a snoop.

Tahlandi: No worries it's just something I don't feel like talking about. Ah we are here, well thank you for the company. *hesitates* Would you like to have diner, some time. Just to talk.

Thellin: I'd like diner and just talking *smiling*

Tahlandi felt himself blush as he entered the science lab, he wasn't exactly a smooth operator and he couldn't believe he actually pulled it of, sorta. He looks at the strange alien that is moving around on the biobed. He notices a young crewman making attempts at establishing communication without success. Tahlandi sits down at the computer and begins studying the data they collected about the creature.

*Mirok's quarters - Lower Decks*

The red alert is over but Mirok feels on edge, not knowing what is going on is frustrating. He rearranges the living quarters for the tenth time, any moment counselor Azuma will pay him a visit, a prospect that is freighting and frustrating at the same time. So he lost his head a little, it's not like he's going to run around and attack people. He hates psychologist, they were meddling nosy snoops. Mirok looks at the quarters once again, maybe he should move the sofa, again.

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Yeah, I originally didn't have that last paragraph but when I posted it and then proof read it (something I should have done before posting), I was reminded of little green men and spaceships. Is that weird :blink: ? Lol!

*Corridor*

As Raian walked to Ten-Forward with sh'Raazh, he too was lost in thought and wondering if this had been such a good idea after all. He felt a sort of kinship with the older officer, despite the fact that she had been Yulia's best friend. That seemed a little wrong to him and he found himself unsure as to whether Yulia would find it insulting or perhaps would have wanted it this way. He had the memories of Tara's most painful experiences after all, things that he should never have known but with only ten minutes to prepare for an emergency joining, he had very little time to really think about that. Still, maybe it was the Yulia in him that really wanted the friendship to continue after all but the only way to be certain would be to ask her during a Zhian'Tara. Once they reached Ten-Forward, Raian turned to his older companion and smiled.

Zan: Well, we're here. Are you ok Tara? I know this must be a little weird and I'm sure you have a few questions but lets just try and chill for now huh?

*Lower Decks*

As Mizuki made her way through the lower decks, she looked down at the PADD she was carrying. Her current appointment was with Ensign Mirok, the young man who had flipped on the bridge not too long ago. She had a good idea what could have caused it, especially after reading his file, but she had hopefully figured out the best way of doing getting through to him. Chances were though that it would be easier than her next client, one Lt.Cmdr. sh'Raazh. She wasn't looking forward to that one, although she wasn't easily intimidated, she knew that to say it would be a challenge would be an understatement. Still, it was better to concentrate on one at a time and took a deep breath before lowering her PADD and ringing the bell on Mirok's Quarters.

[motom79]

((ooc: I tend to change details of my post all the times so no biggie, sometimes things pop up when see it posted. Little green men and spaceships LOL))

*Ten Forward*

sh'Raazh: I'm fine, well the questions can wait. *tears well up* I'm sorry this so weird, you are Yulia and the same time you are not.

This was only the partial truth, a bigger part of the weirdness was the fact that Raian was close in age of her son Sorjei. Sorjei died 13 years ago and Yulia had been there by her side, helping her through it. But now Yulia was death but her memories lived on in a man that was young enough to be her son and although she felt an immediate connection toward him part of her had great difficulties dealing with the changes.
Hrisvalar notices Zan and sh'Raazh entering Ten Forward, she feels her heart making a little jump. She wonders if they would mind if she joins them. She walks towards them, blushing ever so slightly.

Hrisvalar: Hello Raian, Lt.cmdr. I'm interrupting?

sh'Raazh does a weird sort of nod that can be interpreted in several ways and than gestures at a free chair. Maybe this young woman's company takes the edge of a little.

*Mirok's quarters - Lower decks*

Mirok: Enter

Mirok glances in the mirror and straightens his uniform and tries his best to look calm, cool and collected.

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Yeah me too, when I feel I've missed something important or rambled on a bit much but who doesn't lol? I've corrected the post by the way, I should have remembered that fact as it was in the PM you sent me. Doh! Maybe it's time I called it a night. G'night!))

*Ten-Forward*

As Raian settled down into a seat he looked at sh'Raazh and had a good idea what the matter was. He had the memories of the most painful times in her life, including the death of her son and best friend. He thought the Andorian woman handled herself well, considering that most would have found these losses to much to bare. Of course, the feelings were still there and Zan knew all too well how sh'Raazh covered her feelings most of the time. He was about to say something when the beautiful Andorian girl from earlier approached. He had actually forgotten about the incident in Ten-Forward and the memory of it made him smile. He nodded as Tara gestured to the empty seat and began speaking.

Zan: Hey, Imaru was it? Nice to see you again, just watch out with the drinks this time! Tara, this is Crewman Imaru Hrisvalar, and this Imaru is Lt.Cmdr. Tara sh'Raazh. She's and old friend of mine, or rather the last host of the symbionts, but I'd like to think that it could work this time too. So what are we having? Are you alright Tara?

*Ensign Mirok's Quarters*

Mizuki entered from behind him and stood in the doorway as it closed behind her. She smiled warmly as she placed her hands behind her back and began speaking, whilst secretly thinking something along the lines of hear goes nothing

Azuma: Hello ensign, are you feeling any better?

[motom79]

((ooc: I don't want to be annoying but sh'Raazh's husband is still alive, they got divorced. I bid you goodnight))

*Ten Forward*

Hrisvalar: *beaming smile at Zan* Yes it is. *turns to sh'Raazh*Hello Lt.cmdr. sh'Raazh *a little unsure*

sh'Raazh: Hello *turns to Zan* don't worry Zan I've got something in my eye. What about a round of Vulcan Wine, I heard that the chef of Ten Forward has stocked some fine vintages. *Looks at Imaru* You are Keth, are you not?

Hrisvalar: Yes ma'am, I was born and raised on Archer Valley

sh'Raazh can't help but notice the subtle glances between Zan and Hrisvalar, those two youngsters defenitly have a mutual attraction. Well if anybody knows how to handle Andorian women it's Zan.

sh'Raazh: I've never been there but I heard it was beautiful. Do you still like Vulcan Wine Raian, I know tastes sometimes change after joining because of the host and previous experiences.

*Mirok's quarters*

Mirok: I'm feeling alright I guess. Do you want something to drink?

((ooc: don't worry about it))

[Mikoyo80]

*Ten-Forward*

Zan: We'll soon find out won't we? I don't think I've tried it but it was one of Arrik and Aeryn's favourites. Yulia always prefered Andorian Ale and Raktajino. Sorry, I was reminiscing. Yes I'll have the Vulcan wine. What about you Imaru? Been busy? It's been hectic on the Bridge, not to mention outside of it.

*Ensign Mirok's Quarters*

As Mizuki nodded gratefully and sat down, she noticed that Mirok looked a little awkward. This was understandable of course as she knew that he hadn't wanted these sessions anyway, but orders were orders. Beside that fact, it would probably be good for him if he could let off some steam and hopefully prevent any more incidents from occuring. She could tell that for some reason or another he hated counsellors and the like but nevertheless she hoped that he could get through to him. She nodded and smiled at his offer of a drink. The best way to talk to someone was when either they, she or both were relaxed with a nice drink in hand.

Azuma: Thank you, I'll have an iced tea. So how long have you been in Starfleet...how may I address you?

[motom79]

((ooc: love your new avatar, it's sleepy time for me too.))

*Mirok's quarters*

Mirok: Replicator two iced teas.

Replicator: specify temperature.

Mirok: 10 degrees Celsius. To answer your question the Radiant is my first commission. I recently graduated from the Academy. You can call me Elias or ensign Mirok, either way I don't really care.

Mirok puts down the cold drinks and looks at the purple Andorian. He can't help but notices her young age, she can't be much older than him.

Mirok: that PADD that your holding doesn't that answer all your questions? Ever sordid detail is there for you to see isn't that enough or do I have to spell it out for you?

As always Mirok goes on the defense, he doesn't want to relive the past but the past still hunts him ever single day and he feels tears well up in his eyes. Great now the counselor is going to think he is a weak minded, softhearted nut job.

*Ten Forward*

Hrisvalar: Well I've been busy trying to find a way to communicate with our guest, I suppose none of your former hosts were exo-biologist? I came down to Ten Forward to relax and hopefully an Aha-erlebnis (sudden inspiration). You know sometimes we trust to much on our universal translators.

sh'Raazh: Waiter a bottle of Vulcan Wine. Yeah I remember Yulia's taste in Andorian Ale and Klingon coffee very well. *smelling* Have you tried mathematics crewman?

Hrisvalar: One of the first things we tried but to no avail.

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Ta, I love guinea pigs and this one made me crack up! Anyway, bedtime, G'night!))

*Ensign Mirok's quarters*

Azuma: (takes tea) Thankyou Elias. A PADD can only tell you so much, you can't get to know anyone simply by reading a few facts on a screen. Are you alright Elias? I know this is going to be hard for you but getting things out in the open will relieve a lot of pressure that you've been locking away. bottling your feelings only causes outbursts that are unpleasant for everyone concerned, especially you Elias. Why don''t we sit down and drink our tea for a while? Take as long as you need, my next appointment isn't for another day or so.

*Ten-Forward*

Zan: I'm afraid not, I've been an artist/teacher, an ambassador and a Starfleet officer twice but never an exo-biologist. What kind of creature are we dealing with anyway to need a one of those? You're right anyway, no-one takes the time to actually learn languages any more. You must have a real interest in the subject, I know one of my hosts, the ambassador, always took the time to learn them because she thought using translators was cheating! Did you trying using a telepath, I hear there are one or two Betazoid crewmembers on board? Have you tried using visual communication as in pictures and the like? You'd be surprised at how effective communication through art can be. Anyway, lets take it easy for now. Once we reach the Kemala sector things will be getting rather hectic again.

[motom79]

*Ten Forward*

Hrisvalar: Well I'm not really sure but the doctor mentioned something about it being part humanoid and part cephalopod. But I like the idea of trying to communicate with it through art, we have tried to communicate via changing colors because some species are known to communicate that way, but that's not exactly art. Thanks for the idea Zan. As for telepathic communication, reports from the away team indicate some sort of telepathy, causing headaches and some displeasure but ever since it's been aboard the Radiant nothing of the sort. Our telepathic linguist only gets static and a Vulcan mind meld is out of the question because of it's defense system.

sh'Raazh: Strange maybe something on the ship helped it focus it's telepathy, I wonder. Yeah you are probably right Zan I can feel it in my antenna's that the Kemala Sector spells trouble.

sh'Raazh remembers the strange feeling people were getting on the ship and now it just stopped. It's almost like a puzzle in a puzzle.

*Captain's Ready Room*

Lt Caeli is sitting in a chair nervously wringing his hands, he feels tremendous guilt over the failure of their mission with the Karemma. He thought he had foreseen every pitfall, pricked through ever lie the Ferengi had fed them, he had made sure he knew every security report by heart and still the mission went wrong. Captain Elen knows that Korvin is beating himself over this and she also knows that he isn't to blame.

Elen: nobody saw this coming, not me, not our security chief, nobody Zan. So don't blame yourself.

Caeli: But captain it was my responsibility to coordinate the diplomatic relations and I screwed up completely.

Elen: No you didn't you worked with all the information you had and made the best possible decision under the circumstances. Once you became aware of the danger you alerted our XO to the fact that the Karemma were double crossing us, really Korvin we all make mistakes, the import thing is that nobody got hurt this time and that you learn from it. We all learn from it.

Caeli: Yes captain but still...

Elen: Lieutenant you are an excellent officer but you must learn to except that sometimes you make mistakes like the rest of us.

Elen knew Korvin well, like his grandmother he was a perfectionist and a control freak. His work was always meticoulus and by the book but he missed his grandmother's flair of improvisation and thinking outside the box at times. He also had a tendency to overthink situations, which served him well as an aspiring diplomate but also crippled him at times. Elen gives Korvin a warm smile hoping that her words were making the right impact.

*Mirok's quarters*

Mirok: *almost shouting* Well reliving the past and open old wounds isn't helpful either, sorry counselor I'd like to just have some tea with you.

Mirok is surprised to hear himself say this but the truth was that he didn't want to be alone. He had always chosen to be a solitary person, afraid to let people close, afraid that they will see the shame hidden deep inside of him. Maybe Azuma was right maybe bottling this feelings wasn't helping him but only hurting him. The young ensign is confussed and silently stares at his glass wondering should he let her in.

[Mikoyo80]

*Ten-Forward*

Zan: Well, I don't know exactly what happened over there but it sounds as though telepathy could be it's only form of communication. Not many cephalopods like pretty pictures anyway! Maybe it's something that only its own people can understand but I wouldn't give up hope just yet. Maybe what we should do is find out what kind of conditions it lives in and drop it off at the nearest planet that meets those requirements. Then we could send out a signal but the only flaw with that plan is that it might not be its friends that pick it up. I wonder how it got into trouble with the Karemma anyway? I'm fresh out of ideas if our telepath people are no good. (to sh'Raazh) What exactly happened over there anyway? As a pilot, they don't really tell you much other than that you really need to get them outta there fast. I'm sure we'll have plenty to deal with in the Kemala sector, a missing vessel is never good news anyway is it?

*Mirok's Quarters*

Mizuki was a little taken aback by Mirok's tone but she had been expecting it. there was no way that this was going to be easy as the young ensign hadn't wanted these sessions anyway. Her antennae twitched as she spoke again calmly.

Azuma: That's up to you Elias, we can talk about it in your own time. Unfortunately you won't be able to return to full active duty until you learn to control your feelings whilst on shift, the captains decision not mine. We can take as many sessions as you need. You have a room mate don't you? Do you get on with him?

[motom79]

*Ten Forward*

Hrisvalar: You have a point but it isn't exactly a cephalopod so it's worth a shot, anyway.

sh'Raazh: Well when we got aboard the captain started sensing a telepathic connection, which is unusual for a Deltan seeing their telepathy requires intimate contact. Also other members of the away team began feeling it, with the exception of the captain and some Vulcan crewmen everyone was a telemute. It's hard to explain, the ship had this weird unworldly vibration. I agree with you Zan the safe option would be to leave it to it's own devices and let it's people find it far away from this ship. And you are right a missing vessel is never a good sign.

Hrisvalar: Isn't that a little harsh, lieutenant commander.

sh'Raazh: Maybe but I put our safety before a potential hostile alien, it almost killed one of us.

*Mirok's quarters*

Mirok: he's friendly enough I guess.

*Science Lab*

Tahlandi is studying the various brain scans of their guest, the findings are somewhat surprising first the creature's brain is clearly cephalopods in nature but it's brain patron is bizarre mixture of several known telepathic humanoid species native to the Alpha and Beta Quadrant. Communication has thus far eluded them but it seems to reject to their presences and it's exhibiting some curious behavior including color changes at the moment.The doctor's report is also puzzling. Tahlandi wonders, is this creature natural or an experiment?

Tahlandi: *taps combadge* Doctor Riley I want your opinion on something, do you think it is possible that our guest is a result from advanced DNA resequencing?

[Mikoyo80]

*Ten-Forward*

Zan: I agreee that maybe it is a little harsh but we should be thinking of the crew. What are they accomplishing keeping it cooped up here anyway? I guess they're just trying to find out whats going on around here in case we have any more nasty surprises. Ah, looks like our wines here. About time too!

*CMO's Office - Sickbay*

Lynda was back in sickbay going over the results from her scan of the alien. The results were intriguing, to say the least, and she found herself wondering how it, he or even she, could survive at all. Analyzing the DNA structure was equally puzzling but before she could go any further, she was contacted by Tahlandi and tapped her combadge in response.

Riley: I was just wondering the same thing, maybe we should meet up and discuss our findings?

[motom79]

*Science Lab*

Tahlandi: agreed doctor I shall come to sickbay.

*Ten Forward*

Hrisvalar looks at the two officers both have valid points: keeping it could endanger the lives of the 855 crewmen of the Radiant and their attempts to establish any meaningful communications are proving a lesson in futility. But on the other hand their mission statement was to seek out new life and this was most certainly new life.

sh'Raazh: Well lets have a drink and worry about it later.

Hrisvalar: Hmm I love Vulcan wine, the taste reminds me of hidden passion. *blushing slightly*

[Mikoyo80]

*Ten-Forward*

Zan: Yeah, you're right. No use worrying about it know, it hasn't got much to do with me anyway! All I've got to do is pilot the damn ship and it's up to you guys what goes on elsewhere! Joking aside, I love being at the helm and wouldn't change my position for anything, but Zan seems to miss being in control of ships security. (to Imaru) Hidden passion, eh? Thats an interesting description! Have you made many friends yet then guys? I've tried since the joining but I never know if they're my friends of Zan's! I like to think we can share.

*Security*

As Eloran continued to pore over the logs, his eyes felt heavy from the constant strain of reading for so long. Deciding to take a break for a short while. He arose and made his way over to the replicator, but was disturbed by Melena entering the office.

Hal: Well, this is a surprise!
Melena: Hello Eloran, how are you doing?
Hal: Not bad, not bad. Just resting my eyes, decrypting these logs is taking some doing. I also have security training to organise for the nom-coms.
Melena: You do have your hands full, so what have we got so far?
Hal: Little more than what we found on the bridge, it looks like our Ferengi friends have been uo to their old tricks. They mention a race named the Stakorons, although I haven't been able to find out how or even if this is relevant. I don't know anything about them.
Melena: I've never heard of them, do you think they're connected to the Karemma and the incident back in their system?
Hal: Who knows, I don't think they were members of the Dominion though. I could be wrong though, hopefully we'll find out.
Melena: Alright good work! I'll let the captain know, although then again I'm not sure if there's really much to tell her. Might be worth mentioning anyway, keep trying Elo! If you need help maybe you could ask Lt.Cmdr. sh'Raazh?
Hal: Will do! I'll ask her if absolutely neccessary but I get the feeling that she'll be a little hard to work with.

[motom79]

*Security*

Woods walks into security before he takes a short break he needs to discuss training schedules with Lt.cmdr. Hal. His engineering team is seriously lacking in combat experience and combat training seeing the majority are Noncoms.

Woods: Lt.cmdr. commander, I hope I'm not disturbing you but I wanted to go over the security training schedules with Lt.cmdr. Hal but if you are buzzy at the moment I can wait. It's just some of my staff need extra attention seeing that most of them are untested in combat.

*Sickbay - CMO's office*

Tahlandi walks into sickbay holding a PADD with the strange patrons revealed by the brain scans of the creature. Although it has a partial humanoid make-up, some of it's brain patrons are definitely vulcanoid. To top it of the brain's anatomy isn't remotely humanoid (nor vulcanoid for that matter) in appearance. He goes over his analysis of the brain of the creature once more but can't find an explanation why he found four distinctive brain patrons belonging to Vulcans, Remans, Deltans, Betazoids, and Trills. Also he has no clue how this is possible for such a seemingly unsophisticated cephalopods' brain, hopefully the doctor has had better luck unlocking the creatures secrets.

Tahlandi: Doctor Riley, this are the results of my scans with the psychotricorder. I've double checked all the results but this doesn't make any sense at all. *hands over the PADD with his findings*

*Ten Forward*

Hrisvalar: It's just such a contradiction for such a logical people to brew alcohol, something that let's loose your inhibitions *blushes harder* Well my best friend Thellin is serving on the ship in astrometics and I get along well with my colleagues. But it's bet soon into the mission to have met many people, I still learning my way around here.

sh'Raazh: Yes I can see that it can be confusing at times for you and Zan's old friends. Let's make a toast to new and old friends and that we all may find our peace and long life.

sh'Raazh is surprised with herself how easy it is to make friends with these young officers. Usually she doesn't get along well with others in the crew because of her argumentative nature and short temper. Maybe the counseling session are helping her but she quickly shakes that thought as she sips her wine.

((ooc: nice touch the Stakorons, could it be the species the mysterious creature belongs too?))

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Could be! Seeing as we don't know what the Stakorons (http://memory-alpha.org/en/wiki/Stakoron) actually looked like ( I believe they were ony mentioned by the Ferengi, but I could be wrong), maybe our friend is either that species or a genetically engineered variety? I was toying with the idea and was going to pm you when I came up with something!))

*Security*

Melena: Actually, I was just leaving. Keep up the good work gentlemen!

Hal: Will do commander! Actually, I was just working on training programs, Woods was it? Unfortunately, it's had to take a back seat to reading these logs from the Ferengi vessel. You ever heard of the Stakoron? I'll give you the planned training schedules for our none commitioned friends, see what you think. I wish we had time to start before we reached the Kemala Sector but we'll be there in less than an hour.

*Sickbay*

Lynda nods with a smile and takes the PADD from Elias. She raises an eyebrow at the results and places the PADD on her desk before standing up.

Riley: Well, I'm pleased that my equipment isn't malfunctioning but this definately can't be right. Either this creature was created or genetically engineered as like you, I picked up traces of a multitude of telepathic races. No wonder we experienced that strange sensation on the alien vessel with this mixed bag of telepathics! They all seem to be Alpha Quadrant species so I wonder what it's doing here. I also can't help but wonder if this is a genuine species genetically engineered, as I suggested earlier. I'm pretty certain that it is, or was, primarily and aquatic race. If that were the case then surely our translators would have been able to pick up it's language just like the aquatic Xindi? Or maybe it has no way of actual contact, as in speech, but rather body language? How is Crewman Hrisvalar doing with the translation? Anyway, I wonder if it would be worth performing an EM scan, but we have no way of knowing whether or not this would be safe of course.

[motom79]

((ooc: sounds interesting, well it's not unheard of that species within the Dominion were genetically altered to serve the greater good))

*Sickbay - CMO's office*

Tahlandi: Well our linguists are coming up on dead ends, I'm sorry to say. You may be right that there is no way of communicating with it through conventional language. If it's aquatic in nature shouldn't we provided with water then? But the biggest question remains who would create such a creature and then leave it behind for everyone to find? Doctor Riley is it possible if the creature was indeed man made to find a fingerprint of sorts to trace it back to it's designers?

*Security*

Woods: Can't say that I have Sir, why? Well it all seems in order although I would recommend extra sessions with crewmen Shell, Lamkin and Yxophor, they are excellent engineers but have zero combat skills or experience. Plus their training has been years ago and none of them ever applied for advanced training.

*Captain's ready room*

Elen is listening to Deltan meditation music and tries to clear her mind when the door buzzes. She straightens her uniform and takes place in her chair

Elen: Computer end music, come in.

((ooc: night))

[Mikoyo80]

*Sickbay*

Riley: Surely if water was essential we would have already noticed some sort of decline in our guests health? There was no water in the vivinity when it was found. I wonder if perhaps using water would aid us in our effort to communicate. I've been doing some research and it appears that some cephalopods communicate through changing the colour of their skin. If telepathic communication is out of the question then perhaps we could try this? I suggest creating a controlled environment in the holdeck in order to test this, as it seems our communications crewman is running out of ideas. We should get the captain down here and show her our findings.

((OOC: Goodnight.))

*Captain's Ready Room*

Melena entered the room and noticed that the captain appeared to have been in the middle of something.

Melena: I'm sorry, am I disturbing you? I came to deliver a progress report. Lt.Cmdr. Hal has had some luck with the logs, apparently a race known as the Stakorons are mentioned, although he has been unable to identify the reason or if this information is even relevant. Attempts to communicate with our guest have so far been futile, although I'm yet to hear from the doctor and Lt.Jg. Tahlandi.

Right on cue, there was a beep and a communication came through from sickbay.

[Riley: Sickbay to Cpt. Elen, can you meet us down here? We've made some interesting discoveries regarding our friend from the Karemma system, and it would be easier to show rather than tell.]

[motom79]

*Sickbay*

Tahlandi: You are probably right but some aquatic creatures have been known to survive for several hours without water. Well the linguistic team is studying the color changes but the problem is that we have no reference point, but it's worth a shot.

*Captain's ready room*

Before captain Elen could respond to her XO, the call from doctor Riley came in.

Elen: *taps combadge* On my way doctor. Care to join my commander. Did you say the Stakorons? I've heard of them through the Ferengi, the Ferengi tried to establish some mining consortium with them but all contact so far has been audio only there isn't any visual records of them. They seem a rather secretive lot and we don't have a whole lot of information on them to be honest. Do you think our guest could be a Stakoron?

[Mikoyo80]

*Captains Ready Room*

Melena: Yes, I too have heard of them briefly. It's posssible but we'll see what the doctor and Lt. Tahlandi have to say on the matter. I'm a little more concerned about what it does rather than what it is. Ensign Spell could easily have been killed back there, in fact he might have been if the doctor hadn't acted so quickly. I wonder if Lt.Cmdr. Hal has had any more luck with those logs?

*Sickbay*

Riley: I would suggest using a type of squid as a reference point, perhaps a Carribean Reef Squid? I did detect traces of chromatophores, a pigment containing light reflecting cells. I sure wish we had a marine biologist on board, this isn't exactly my speciality. What we know for sure is that our friend contains as yet unidentified toxins harmful to other species, or at least to humans. Anyway, Captain Elen should be on her way down now so we can discuss our findings and ideas with her.

[motom79]

*Corridors -en route to sickbay*

Elen: Well the only information we have on them is from the Ferengi, not the most reliable source. As you are well aware of we depend on their intelligence because they have established alliances and friendly relations in the Gamma Quadrant. *sighs* But of course their information comes at a price.

*Sickbay*

Tahlandi: Well I'm afraid I can't help you there but I'll start pulling up the files on the Caribbean Reef Squid, mind if I use one of the medical stations?

At that moment the captain the XO walk into sickbay.

Elen: Doctor, Lieutenant what have you found so far?

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Goodnight))

*Sickbay*

Riley: By all means, help yourself! Captain, commander! Looking at the creautures anatomy we have discovered traces of cephalopod, Betazoid, Vulcan, Trill, Reman and even Deltan DNA! This would explain the reading I took on the alien vessel but we haven't been able to fully determine why it is that we are not feeling anything from it whilst here. Communication has proved futile thus far, but I have have suggested that perhaps it cannot communicate without water, a cephalopods natural environment, and that perhaps it could use the traces of chromatophores that we detected to communicate via changing the colour of it's skin, not unlike a creature of Earth known as the squid.

Melena: You have been busy, what is our friends condition?

Riley: All signs appear normal, but I'm only guessing as to what normal actually is. I have medical personnel working in the science lab to monitor his condition and to let us know if somethign seems to be wrong. Back to the main point, Lt. Tahlandi and I are almost convinced that this is a project of some sort of genetic engineering. Otherwise, we would have too much of a coincidence on our hands.

Melena: Thankyou doctor. Do you have anything to had lieutenant(Tahlandi)?

[motom79]

((ooc: goodnight))

*Sickbay*

Tahlandi: Well I agree with doctor Riley's assessment. Also the creatures brain is something of enigma, it's physiologically almost indistinguishable from a cephalopods' but the brain wave patron resembles that from Betazoids, Vulcans, Deltans, Remans and Trills. The strangest thing about this is that some of them are incompatible like the Vulcan and Betazoid brain patrons. Also Trill telepathy is mostly restricted to host and symbiont, I still have to figure out how these readings are possible.

Elen: Good work, doctor Riley and Lt.jg. Tahlandi if the creature is indeed the result of genetic engineering I want to find out whom is responsible for it, that's an order.

Tahlandi: Well we could try to decipher it's genetic code and run it through our database and look for a fingerprint so to speak, what do you think doctor?

*Astrometics*

Thellin found himself back in astrometics along with the very talkative Lieutenant Caeli. The young ensign always thought he was a waterfall of speech but compared to his Bolian superior he is only drop of rain in a big ocean. They are doing long range scans of the Kemala sector and are analyzing the warp trails. So far they haven't found a Federation signature but they did find several Jem'Hadar warp trails, the most recent is from three days ago.

Caeli: Are you sure about your last reading ensign?

Thellin: Yessir, grid 078 has no Federation Warp signature.

Caeli: *sighs* direct your scans to grid 079.

[Mikoyo80]

*Sickbay*

Riley: There are none joined Trill telepaths used in ceromonies such as Zhian'Tara, but other than that you are correct. Also, Deltan telepathy is only truly possible under certain kinds of physical contact. I Agree Lt. Tahlandi, sorry you just asked me that before didn't you? I also agree that we need to find out who could be responsible, so order or no I'll look into it captain! We should get back to work.

Melena: Yes, in the mean time our arrival at the Kemala sector is imminent. We should recall the bridge officers and leave this enigma in the capable hands of the medical, science and communications teams. Before we do though, we should check up on Astometrics. (taps combadge) Melena to Astometrics, how are you doing in there?

[motom79]

((ooc: goodnight))

*Astrometics*

Caeli: We are scanning the region commander but so far we haven't found any trace of them. But there is recent Jem'hadar activity I recommend extreme caution, ma'am.

Thellin: Sir, I think I've found something in grid 080, it looks like a Federation escape pod.

Caeli: ma'am we've found what looks like a Federation escape pod, are you sure ensign?

Thellin: Well the composition of the hull matches as does the configuration and energy signature. The life signs indicate three people aboard all human.

Caeli: Did you get that last one ma'am

*Sickbay*

Tahlandi: *addressing the doctor* True doctor but the Zhian'Tara is specifically designed to place the memories of the past hosts into another person ... I wonder could it be designed to store memories? Doctor can I see your brain scans of ensign Spell?

Elen: Yes I agree commander. Yes thank you lieutenant keep monitoring the situation and send the data to the helm and navigation and security. commander put the ship on yellow alert. Doctor Riley I hope you are ready for the extra work you are bound to get.

*Ten Forward*

As the sound of the yellow alert echoed through Ten Forward, the officers whom had been talking and enjoying themselves got up like one man to get to their stations.

Hrisvalar: I should be getting back thanks for the ideas Raian. Goodbye Lt.cmdr.

Hrisvalar gracefully walks towards a nearby turbolift her silver white hair dangling behind her like a silk veil. sh'Raazh smiles to herself because honestly she couldn't see how Zan helped her to towards a breakthrough. Clearly this young woman had set her eyes on her old friend in new form.

sh'Raazh: *bluntly* Are you sure you can handle an Andorian woman as a lover Zan?

[Mikoyo80]

*Sickbay*

Melena: Alright, set a course to rendevous with the escape pod. Thankyou, Melena out. An escape pod huh? I wonder what could have happened to the Rodenberry. We should scan for debris, but first the escape pod.

Riley: Indeed, I'll prepare for casualties. Exactly what I was thinking Lieutenant, although I don't know how that would be possible. It's a little big for joining, thats for sure! I'll start those preparations now captain, but I hope they won't be needed. Good luck!

*Ten-Forward*

Raian had been enjoying his time getting to know Imaru and speaking with sh'Raazh when the yellow alert sounded. He sighed as Imaru left, noting that she had been a little to complimentary as he didn't feel his suggestions were all that valid. Even Aeryn had never come across anything quite like it, despite doing a lot of research.

Zan: If I can handle you Tara, I can handle anyone! One thing I can say about Zan is, it's a gutsy little thing and it kind of rubs off on the hosts! Who else would have the guts to strip and stop sexist Ferengis in their tracks? You should have seen the look on their faces, it was hilarious, but they did ask! I think Yulia already told you all about Aeryn's exploits, but seriously, we ought to get to our stations. Wonder if they found anything?

[motom79]

*Ten Forward*

sh'Raazh: Well I can't argue with that. *smiles at his Aeryn and Yulia comments* Probably I'm thinking it's bad seeing they put the ship on alert.

The two officers hurried themselves to their stations. sh'Raazh is glad she didn't let her initial hesitation come between her and Zan, it felt like old times again but somehow different.

*Sickbay*

Tahlandi: Well I was thinking more along the lines of storing memories of others. Was there anything wrong with the memory engrams of ensign Spell?

*Corridors*

Elen: *over the combadge* can you calculate a course to the most likely position of the Rodenberry using the escape pod as reference point ensign Thellin.

Thellin: Yes ma'am, I'm on it.

Elen: Let's hope that we find the Rodenberry in one piece commander *doubtful*

*Bridge*

Lt. Woods is sitting at the engineering station monitoring the ship's systems and the technical data from Astrometics. Ensign Thellin's calculations are meticulous, as he expected but he notices that the although the power signatures they found are definitely Jem'Hadar in origin, they differ slightly from what one would expect, almost as if they are using a Romulan cloaking device but didn't know exactly how to use it. He isn't sure, the signature is vague, almost non existing but none the less it's there. Lt. Woods wonders if the Dominion obtained this technology when they took down the joint fleet of the Obsidian Order and the Tal Shiar in 2371. According to all accounts the fleet was destroyed, not one ship had survived but on the other hand Enabran Tain whom was presumed death after the destroction of the Romulan Warbird he was on, reappeared as a detaine at Internment Camp 371. So it wasn't unthinkable that Romulan technology fell in the Dominion hands.

Woods: Lt.cmdr. Hal, haven't you noticed something strange about those Jem'Hadar warp signatures. It's almost like they are using some kind of Romulan cloaking device, don't you think?

((ooc: Lt. Woods' musings were referring to events that took place in DS9 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Die_is_Cast
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/In_Purgatory%27s_Shadow ))

[Mikoyo80]

*Bridge*

Hal looked up at Woods as he spoke. He had been lost in his own thoughts

Hal: It's possible, the warp signature does suggest a cloaking device, although it's hard to tell if it is indeed Romulan in origin. Try running a diagnostic, see if that clears anything up. I've had little more luck with those logs, but we'd better worry about whats out here for now. I'd better make sure our shields and weapons are ready to go, just in case. I here they detected an escape pod but theres been no sign of the Rodenberry.

At that moment, Raian entered the bridge and relieved the acting helmsman, before taking his seat. He checked his course and noticed that they had arrived. He overheard his fellow crewmembers discussing the possibilty of Jem'Hadar ships with cloaking devices and shook his head. It looked as though everyone would have to keep their wits about them.

[motom79]

((ooc: goodnight))

*Bridge*

sh'Raazh takes her position at ops and begins tying every bit of information of external and internal sensors into her station making a mental note to give her replacement a good dressing down after the potential crisis is averted.

sh'Raazh: lieutenant Zan our course is of with 0.08 degrees, please correct.

Woods nods at the chief of security, well at least he is clear headed which is reassuring.

Woods: Aye sir but these readings can only come from a Romulan cloaking device, badly implemented I might add. I should get down to engineering just in case.

Woods hurries to his engine room wondering what unpleasant surprises are waiting for them out there. At that moment captain Elen and the XO arrive closely followed by Lt. Caeli.

Elen: Security rapport.

[Mikoyo80]

*Bridge*

Raian nods as he makes the correction, having not realised the error. As the Trill shook himself awake, the captain and XO entered forcing him to at least look like he knew what he was doing. Now wasn't the time to be falling asleep, although he had a feeling that he would be woken up soon enough. Melena took her position as Hal stood to attention upon the ladies entrance.

Hal: All stations report ready ma'am. Ready for what, I can only imagine. We've picked up Jem'Hadar warp signatures with traces of a badly implemented cloak, apparently Romulan on origin. If they don't know what they're doing then this could give us an advantage, as they would be easier to track.

Zan: We're in range of the escape pod captain.

Melena: Alright, can we attempt to contact the occupants? Actually before that, are there any occupants?

[motom79]

*Bridge*

sh'Raazh: They haven't responded to standard hails ma'am but we are definitely picking up three human lifesigns. I've got a transporter lock on them.

Elen: Any damage to the pod that can explain why they aren't answering?

sh'Raazh: their communications array is intact and I detect no weapon signatures?

Caeli: this feels wrong ma'am.

Elen: Agreed, Lt.cmdr Hal tractor the pod into docking bay 3, full security measures and assemble a team. *taps combadge* Doctor Riley meet Lt.cmdr. Hal in docking bay 3. sh'Raazh keep scanning for the Rodenberry. Lt. Zan calculate the most likely course for the Rodenberry and proceed *turns to Commander Melena* What do you think of this, an escape pod but no ship and no response to our hails.

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Goodnight))

*Bridge*

Melena: Certainly very strange, but there could be a few logical reasons. One is that the Rodenberry has been destroyed and that these are the only survivors. Another could be mutiny.

As Melena pondered further, Eloran and Raian followed their respective orders. Zan scanned for warp signatures in an effort to calculate a possible course, whilst Hal engaged the tractor beam and monitored it's progress before looking up again from his console.

Hal: The escape pod has been tranferred successfully into docking bay three. I suggest we assemble a small security team in case the commander is right.

Melena: I hate to be a doom mongerer, but either is a possibility. Of course, we can't greet them with phasers in their faces.

Hal: Of course not, I am merely suggesting we have a few officers on standby.

Melena: Alright, which of us shall greet our guests captain?

[motom79]

((ooc: I love the idea of some sort of rebellion, my plan was that the passengers in the pod weren't human but a Vorta and two Jem'hadar))

*Bridge*

Elen: Well if the Rodenberry was destroyed we would have picked up debris, or at least residual energy signatures, commander. And I don't like the idea of mutiny at all. I agree with Lt.cmdr. Hal, deploy a discrete security team. Commander, Lt.cmdr. lets greet our guests, Lt. Caeli you have the bridge.

sh'Raazh: Captain I must protest I'm senior ....

Elen: Lt.cmdr. sh'Raazh I don't have the time to argue over every decision I make. I need you focused on your task, you are one of the best operations officers in the fleet, Lt.cmdr. But if you don't like my orders I can always relive you of duty, no good I think we understand each other then.

sh'Raazh clinches her fist ready for a fight but she is also a professional and she knows that she is needed on the bridge, so she lets the captain win this round. Lt. Caeli feels nervous he knows the struggle between captain Elen and Lt.cmdr sh'Raazh is far from over. He takes the captain's chair and nervously turns to Zan.

Caeli: Any luck tracking the ship, lieutenant.

*Docking Bay 3*

There is a certain anticipation in the air in Docking Bay 3 as the escape pod is being towed in. Security fields are being put in place and the engineers that normally occupy this section of the ship are being replaced by security guards. Any moment the greeting committee consisting of the captain, her first officer, her chief of security and chief medical officer will be arriving.

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: It was just a thought that occured to Melena. It's the first officers job to fear the worst after all!))

*Bridge*

Zan: No luck yet, but I'll keep trying. If we could at least find some debris, although obviously I'd rather find the ship entact.

He glanced to sh'Raazh as he noticed that she understandably had a face like thunder. 'The face that could sink a thousand ships', Arrik would have referred to it as, but for now he knew from experience, or Yulia's, that when in this mood she was best left to it.

*Docking Bay Three*

Lynda, and a couple of her nursing staff, arrived as the final preparations were being made to open the recently arrived escape pod. She looked over to the captain, first officer and security chief and nodded in indication of her being prepared. Eloran nodded in return and began the opening sequence of the pod, phaser at his side and set to stun just in case.

[motom79]

((ooc: That's true. Hope this post works for you if not I'll change it, happy birthday btw))

*Bridge*

sh'Raazh: try narrowing the EM band and widen the range lieutenant.

Caeli: *sighs* A ship doesn't vanishes in thin air like that, excellent suggestion Lt.cmdr.

sh'Raazh just nods at Caeli, her anger hasn't subsided yet and she knows if she opens her mouth now it will result in her being in the brig or confided to her quarters.

*Sickbay*

Tahlandi and a young doctor are examining the brainscans of ensign Spell meticulously for any abnormalities. His memory engrams are indeed effected but in such a subtle way that it's almost impossible to predict the effect.

Tahlandi: *taps combadge* Counselor Mizuki I need your assistance in sickbay, for a psychological assessment.

*Docking Bay Three*

Captain Elen: Open the hatch

As the hatch was opened an unpleasant and unexpected surprise awaited them, two furious looking Jem'Hadar soldiers armed to the teeth greeted them. Instinctively several officers draw their phasers. Captain Elen gasped for a moment but quickly regained her composure and she too draw her phaser changing the setting to kill in one swift move, although she had never shot somebody or used a phaser (other than in her training as officer) she was prepared to do whatever it took to protect her crew. A Vortakan man with a honey sweet voice emerged out of the escape pod and the Jem'Hadar still hadn't made an aggressive move although their weapons were clearly armed and locked upon the star fleet officers.

Vorta: Their is no need for all that captain we all are friends, please lower your weapons we mean you no harm.

Elen: Tell the Jem'Hadar to lower their weapons first, as a sign of friendship of course.

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Thankyou :D))

*Docking Bay Three*

On the captains orders, the pod was opened and upon sighting the contents, Eloran jumped back and pulled out his phaser. His fellow security officers followed suit, along with the captain and Cmdr. Melena. As the two Jam'Hadar continued to point there pistols, Lynda and the medical staff looked on in disbelief. All present wondered how these once great enemies ended up in a Federation escape pod and greatly anticipated some kind of explanation, provided of course that they weren't vaporized on the spot. As the Vortakan man stepped out of the pod and made his claim, Melena became the second to respond.

Melena: If you come as friends, as you suggest, then why are your friends pointing their weapons at us? I notice that the same can be said of us but we acted in self defence.

*Sickbay*

Upon recieving the communication from Lt.JG. Tahlandi, the Cardassian officer whom she had shared a drink with only a day before, she arrived in sickbay and immediately noticed the abscence of the CMO. Shrugging this off for now, she pushed a loose strand of hair behind her ear and smiled.

Azuma: Hello, what can I do for? You mentioned a psychological assessment?

[motom79]

((ooc: goodnight))

*Sickbay*

Tahlandi: Well I'm going to take scans of ensign Spells brain and I need him to perform certain neuropsychological tasks and next to doctor Riley you are the most qualified person to do this.

*Docking Bay Three*

Vorta: *silky sweet* Tut tut commander no need to worry. Lower your weapons First Ilka'katan.

Ilka'katan: *turns to the other Jem'Hadar* Obedience brings victory, and victory is life *the other one repeats the war cry as they both reluctantly lower their weapons.*

Vorta: There there you see we mean you no harm, the war after all has ended.

Elen gives a sign to lower their weapons too but also to keep on the alert, something isn't adding up here but for now the situation seems to be under control.

Elen: Yes indeed, but tell me how did you three ended up on a Star Fleet escape pod? And why were our sensors fooled in to thinking that you were human.

Vorta: I can explain all that captain, I'm afraid I didn't get your name.

Elen: Captain Elen

Vorta: enchanted captain Elen, my name is Edris. But I'd rather not discuss such delicate matters here.

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Goodnight.))

*Sickbay*

Mizuki furrowed her brow as she wondered what could have happened to necessitate such tests on a seemingly recovering patient. Her antennae twitched anxiously as she folded her arms and responded.

Azuma: I see. What kind of tests do we need to perform? You can start by filling me in as I think I've missed something.

*Docking Bay Three*

Eloran and the other security officers lowered their phasers almost as reluctantly as their unexpected guest. Despite what had been said, both he and Melena exchanged glances, clearly she was in agreement that they couldn't be trusted. Melena knew better than too take action, even though that sickly sweet voice alone made her want to push the Vorta, whom had introduced himself as Eris, out of an airlock. She looked at the captain, feeling it inappropriate to comment one her thoughts whilst in the company of their guests.

Melena: Yes, quite right. I am Cmdr. Melena, first officer and second in command. We could meet with them in the Observation Lounge, although we'll need a security team outside. Just a precaution, and it could be more for your protection than ours. Not everyone can forgive and forget, I'm sure it's the same on your side.

[motom79]

*Sickbay*

Tahlandi: Ensign Spell was attacked by an unknown alien, possible an enhanced species and one of the working hypotheses is that the attack was designed to store new memories into him. For now your standard memory and spatial orientation tests will suffice.

*Docking Bay 3*

Elen notices the subtle glances exchanged by her XO and chief of security, clearly they are on the alert. Elen doesn't trust the Vorta named Edris for one second but all the same she can't do anything about it now. There are too many unanswered questions, the most obvious one why are they on a star fleet escape pod masquerading as humans.

Elen: Yes I think the Observation Lounge is the best place. But first let's arrange some living quarters for our guests. I'm sure you would like to refresh yourself Edris.

Edris: *silky* You are too kind, captain. Commander let me assure you it's just a simple misunderstanding and I'm sure that an enlightened crew of starship is above petty revenge *emphasis on the last sentence*.

Elen: I'm sure you misunderstood my XO, Lt.cmdr. Hal and his team will escort you to your quarters, deck two section 3 alpha (meaning high security and constant surveillance). We'll meet in one hour.

As soon as the unexpected guest disappeared Elen turned to her XO.

Elen: Commander examine every inch of the escape pod and I know that Edris falsely sweet tones can be unnerving but make him feel that you trust him completely. *taps combadge* Lt. Zan and Lt.cmdr. sh'Raazh please report to the observation lounge. Commander as soon as you are done here report back to the observation lounge. Doctor Riley you are with me, did you scan our guests?

[Mikoyo80]

*Docking Bay Three*

As the security team left, Melena nodded and took out a tricorder to behgin her examination. She knew that the captain was right, but so was Eris in the fact that hopefully the crew wouldn't resort to such petty behaviour. Lynda nodded as she was addressed.

Riley: Yes, the reading appear to be normal in regards to their species. I would need to complete a thorough scan to determine much else. I'll need to study further what readings I did manage to obtain, just in case.

*Bridge*

Raian felt a little taken aback by his summoning to the Observation Lounge and wondered what would require his presence and not that of all senior staff. He noticed also that Tara too had been called and glanced over to her, wondering if she had calmed down, and stood up.

Zan: Well, captains orders. Are you coming Tara?

*Sickbay*

Mizuki nodded in understanding before responding.

Azuma: I see. It depends on how long we have because I think that the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale tests would suffice. That would cover memory and spacial orientation anyway, but it could take an hour or so to administer. Would you like me to prepare that? *sigh* It's all go isn't it? No rest for the wicked as they say! I wonder if they found any sign of the Rodenberry? I heard they were bringing in an escape pod.

[motom79]

*Sickbay*

Tahlandi: Yes the revised WAIS is an excellent tool. I honestly don't know I've preoccupied with trying to figure out what kind of species we are dealing with ... *interrupted*

Hrisvalar: *over the com* Sir we've had a little break through, we've been able to decipher the meaning behind some of it's color changes. Although very rudimentary it gives us some information and a basis to work with. I'm sending the information directly to sickbay, Hrisvalar out.

Tahlandi: Excellent work crewman, I'll revue it later. Let's get started shall we?

*Bridge*

sh'Raazh: Yes of course, I'm just setting up some direct links so my idiotic replacement doesn't screw up again.

sh'Raazh looks at Zan but he clearly is just as surprissed as her, what the hell is going on now?

*Corridors*

Elen: Thank you doctor, oh and transfer all the data you have on our other guest to me. *taps combadge* Lt.cmdr. Hal are our guests safe and is team theta Omega Psy in place (code for the damping field that renders the Jem'hadar weapons useless)

[Mikoyo80]

*Sickbay*

Azuma: Yes indeed, but I'll need to return to my office to make preparations. On second thought, I should probably make sure that Ensign Spell is willing to co-operate. (communication from Hrisvalar) Oh well, that can only be good news.

*Corridors*

Riley: Do you mean our friend in the science lab? I'll send everything I have to your PADD, although I should enquire as to any further progress.

Hal: (through com) Everything is in place captain and our guests have been safely escorted to their quarters. They did recieve an air of hostility from some of the crew, but no actual incidents to report.

[motom79]

((ooc: goodnight. Well it seemed to fit to confront Zan and sh'Raazh with a ghost from their past.))

*Corridors*

Elen: *over the combadge* That was to be expected, leave a security detail and report back to the observation lounge. *turns to the doctor* Thank you doctor, maybe our other guests can answer some of our questions although I doubt we'll get an entirely honest answer.

*Sickbay*

Tahlandi: I don't think that getting consent from him is a problem but it is procedure of course. We'll meet back here in one hour then? Maybe I should read up on the reports from our linguistic team, every little bit of information can help solve this puzzle.

*Observation Lounge*

Captain Elen enters the observation lounge finding Zan and sh'Raazh already there, looking somewhat confused. Deciding that it's best not to dance around the situation she gives them the one o' one.

Elen: I'm afraid that the escape pod held an unpleasant surprise, a Vorta named Edris and two Jem'Hadar soldiers, if I'm not mistaken you two have met Edris before?

sh'Raazh involuntary twitches, Edris was a name she hoped never to hear again. He or rather his clone was the administrator during the occupation of Betazed. Edris hid his true sadistic nature behind a cheerful disposition and took great pleasure in torturing people. sh'Raazh had barely survived her last encounter with him, if it wasn't for Zan's brave and cunning rescue mission she would have perished in the Dominion experimental facility on Betazed. She quickly buries the painful memories of his cruel torture devices and with a shaking voice answers the captain.

sh'Raazh: Yes he was the Vorta assigned to overlook the occupation of Betazed *looks at Zan*

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: You read my mind, lol. Night anyway.))

*Observation Lounge*

Raian's blood ran cold as the name Edris was brought up. The memories held by Zan were anything but pleasant and he remembered having to rescue Tara from his clutches. She had been barely alive, meaning that Yulia had made it just in time to save her friend. The same couldn't be said for the many Betazoid whose corpses had lined the facilty, and even the streets as the case was for those who had aided the rebellion. He caught sh'Raazh glance and spoke cooly.

Zan: Yes ma'am, Yulia Zan had been stationed on Betazed with Lt.Cmdr. sh'Raazh until and during the occupation. We aided the rebellion effort after becoming stranded and, speaking personally, Edris was a name I hoped never to hear again in Yulia's, Raian's or any other lifetime for that matter! He is a cruel and sadistic man who hides behind a mask of joyousness and goodwill. In short, he can't be trusted. Sorry captain, was there something else?

[motom79]

*Observation Lounge*

Elen remembers the reports she had read on the occupation of Betazed and the gruesome experiments that were carried out on civilians and military alike. The name Edris 4 was among the causality list so the Vorta amongst them must be Edris 5, another man but also the same. The situation in the observation lounge was tense and her next orders will do nothing to lessen the tension.

Elen: *sighs* Yes lieutenant and lieutenant commander I understand this must be hard for you both but seeing that you two know the previous clone I need you two to attend the meeting. I have a feeling he is going to try and pull the lid over our eyes, I'm hoping you two can read him better than I can.

sh'Raazh: I knew him intimately captain and I can tell you he's the kind of man who is willing to risk it all for his Gods. He uses his faith to justify every monstrous thing he has ever done. Like Lt.jg Zan said he is an extremely dangerous man so I suggest we take extra safety precautions and secure all essential area's and keep our eyes open for any Jem'Hadar activity, captain.

Elen: Agreed. Ah Lt.cmdr. Hal just the man I wanted to speak.

*Docking Bay Three*

Ensign Thellin found himself working side by side with the XO pulling apart and scanning every inch of the escape pod.

Thellin: Ma'am I think I've found something, look at the engine it's redesigned to mask warp signatures and give false life readings it's quite ingenious. With your permission I want to take it down to the engineering lab for further analysis.

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: goodnight.))

*Observation Lounge*

Raian turned a shade matching closing with that of his uniform at the thought of sitting at the same table as this man, but kept his mouth shut in order to prevent himself from saying anything inappropriate. What he really wanted to do was throw this Vorta and his Jem'Hadar cronies out of the nearest airlock, but of course he knew better. As he calmed hismelf down and returned to his normal colour, he glanced over to sh'Raazh, wondering what she made of the whole thing. During this time, Eloran had made an appearance and nodded in response to Elen.

Hal: Good afternoon captain, I overheard the last bit and can assure you all that the neccessary security measure are in place. I have guards posted outside our guests quarters, who will be escorting them here when everyone is ready. Was that what you wanted to discuss or was there something else?

*Docking Bay Three*

Melena: By all means ensign, I'll try and see if we can find any log entries or something that could turn out to be helpful. I wonder why one of our escape pods had a re-designed engine? During an emergency there is hardly time to make modifications of this sort. Hopefully our friends will give us a satisfactory explaination, although I wouldn't hold my breath. (to engineering team) Keep looking and let me know if you find anything else. I'll be in the Observation Lounge.

[motom79]

((ooc: goodnight))

*Docking Bay Three*

Thellin: The modifications don't appear to be Federation in origin ma'am.

P.O. Tigan:Aye ma'am, you heard the XO chop chop people.

Thellin hurries to the engineering lab feeling youthful excitement about his discovery the potential dangerous aren't even crossing his mind.

*Engineering*

Lt. Woods is monitoring the situation in Docking bay 3 from an engineering counsel, and at the same time working on reinforcing the shielding around their warpcore, he can feel it in his water that any moment now he's going to get an order to fortify the shields. At that moment a young engineer, whom is usually assigned to astrometics burst into engineering.

Thellin: Lt. Woods, sir I need your help with analyzing this piece of the escape pod's engine.

Woods: Of course ensign, Lt.jg Ymac run a diagnostic on our shields.

*Observation Lounge*

Elen: Excellent commander, will the damping fields blocking the Jem'hadar weapons effect our phasers? Even without their phase weapons the Jem'Hadar are threat I don't want to be in the position where they get the overhand or we need to relay on hand to hand combat.

sh'Raazh: *whispering to Zan* I'd love a change for hand to hand combat nothing will give me greater pleasure than snapping that bastard Vorta's neck.

sh'Raazh is filled with rage and hatred and she can tell that Zan is feeling the same. Even the always composed Deltan captain seems unnerved, although her voice is calm and sensual as always her body is rigid (very rare for a Deltan) and her right hand is clenched. But what betrays her the most is her eyes filled with a dark anger. Captain Elen feels nothing but loathing for Edris and if it wasn't against every moral fiber in her being she would have excuted him the moment he set foot on the Docking Bay. But she wasn't going to be judge jury and excutioner to him, she refused to sink to that level but it was hard to forget the horrible crimes he or rather his clone had commited on Betazed.

[Mikoyo80]

*Docking Bay Three*

Melena: So I noticed ensign. Be careful crewman, this stuff could be rigged to avoid anyone getting a good look. Perhaps not, but you can never be too careful.

*Observation Lounge*

Hal: Our weapons are working, but only as far as the stun setting. After that, the little extra kick needed seems to be blocked.

Raian smiled weakly and nodded in agreement. In truth, he couldn't wait for Edris to enter to see if he recognised sh'Raazh. He had a feeling that he might be disappointed, but both she and Zan had made quite an impact. He would have to be psychic to remember the latter of course, as Zan had been woman in her mid forties the last time they had met. Raian's thoughts were interupted by the entry of the xo, who straightened her uniform and took her seat.

Melena: Looks like I made it, are our guests on their way?

[motom79]

((ooc: goodnight))

*Bridge*

sh'Raazh: Stun won't work on the Jem'Hadar.

Elen: True, lieutenant commander sh'Raazh but we'll find a way around that, lets deal with our present situation first. Any idea why our phasers are disrupted like that by the dampening field, Lt.cmdr. Hal. Oh commander Melena, did you find anything helpful on the shuttle? They will be here in 20 minutes.

*Engineering Lab*

Woods and Thellin are examining the engine technology, clearly this isn't star fleet issue. The device they found in the engine sends out false bioreadings but also blocks all conventional energy signatures like warp, EM and so on. It's clearly designed to fool sensors of other ships, the ideal toy for a covert or spy mission.

Woods: It's definitely Dominion but unlike anything I've ever seen before. But the device is certainly handy for a covert mission, it hides things for sensors and at the same time it gives of false readings.

Thellin: Maybe we are dealing with Dominion spies send to sabotage our mission.

Woods: Let's not get ahead of us self ensign, but it's definitely a valid hypotheses. *taps combadge* Commander Melena you wanted an update on our findings on the engine of the escape pod. It seems we are dealing with some sort of covert Dominion operations device. I'll realign the external sensors to compensate for it's engergy signature in cause other covert ships are in this neck of the wood, Woods out.

[Mikoyo80]

*Observation Lounge*

Hal: That would be true under normal circumstances, but thanks to information provided by Starfleet Intelligence, we have made modifications which will allow us to not stun in the true sense of the word, but knock them back enough to act if we're quick. Unfortunately, we haven't had much chance to test it fully so we shouldn't rely on that as a fact.

Melena: Pity we didn't have more time before we met one of our old foes. How exactly did Starfleet Intelligence get this information?

Hal: Pass, but as you say I wish we had more chance to test the suggested modifications.

Zan: Great, so if it works they stagger for a second and we get pulverised and if it doesn't work we get pulverised anyway! Lovely. Do you mind if I ask what the heck kind of game we're playing here?

Melena: (stern) Thats enough lieutenant.

Zan: (sighs) Sorry ma'am, sir. I was just saying...never mind.

Melena shook her head and was about to report the status of the escape pod search when the communication from Woods does this for her.

Melena: (taps combadge) Thank you lieutenant, good work. Let me know if you find any of those ships, Melena out. Well captain, does that answer your question? It seems that we have a few questions for our Dominion friends.

((OOC: I was thinking that perhaps Hal could be somehow connected to section 31? Goodnight anyway.))

[motom79]

((ooc: I've no problem with a connection between lieutenant commander Hal and Section 31, it could prove interesting that one of the characters has a link to the 'dark side of the Federation' p.s. does this mean our beloved security chief is somewhat evil or forced to do S31 bidding through blackmail like doctor Bashir in DS9))

*Observation lounge*

Elen: Thank you commander

sh'Raazh: *angry* What did you mean with pass Lt.cmdr., why can't you be upfront about it ...

Elen: Enough Lt.cmdr. sh'Raazh, we need to be united and come up with a strategy before Edris comes here, Lt. Woods scan for ships and keep an open com link I want you to follow this meeting.

Woods: *over the com* Aye ma'am.

Although Elen defends her security officer from a clearly suspicious and furious sh'Raazh, captain Elen herself has issues with the fact her chief of security is hiding something. There could be all kinds of explanations and as soon as they debriefed Edris she will be getting to the bottom of this. sh'Raazh antenna's point aggressively at Hal but she sits down her fist clenched wondering if the captain is a weak minded idiot for allowing one of her officers to have secrets from her. If it wasn't for the fact she wanted to confront Edris she would have spoken her mind but if a year in a penal colony learned her one thing that is better to bite ones time and wait for the right moment. She will deal with Hal later.

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Half and half really. Maybe he could have been forced to join, as they tried to do with Bashir, but decided that sometimes their methods made more sense than the Federations? He's not really evil, just has a funny idea of the right thing is sometimes. It could also cause a little conflict between him and Melena, as the two are supposedly good friends and there's as good chance that she doesn't know.))

*Observation Lounge*

Raian glanced over as sh'Raazh lost her temper and couldn't help but agree with her. Had he been his prejoined self, he might have been yelling even louder than she was out of frustration, but thankfully Zan had been so kind as to share twith him the calmness and patience of a diplomat meaning that he now knew better. He sighed as he looked up at his superior officers, wondering what they really made of the situation.

Eloran too glanced at the suddenly angered Andorian but kept his cool and said nothing. It was obvious that there were concerns as to his allegience, but wherever they may truly lie, it was with the Federation. Which part of it depended on what needed doing of course, but certain people made sure that he would be serving in the Gamma quadrant. Either way, his junior officers would be escorting the Vorta Edris into the room soon and he was very interested in what he might have to say for himself.

[motom79]

((ooc: I think this can be a great cause of conflict, the funny thing is that I was planning something similar for Mirok Elias seeing his tainted past he seemed like a good candidate but maybe I'll drop it or look for a different spin. A senior officer in league with them has so much more potential.))

*Observation lounge*

The situation in the observation lounge was tense just as captain Elen was about to say something the door buzzed.

Elen: Come in.

The Vorta named Edris walked into the room, almost 15 minutes early, escorted by three security officer. Apparently Edris decided that in order to show good faith that it was best to leave the Jem'Hadar behind.

Edris: Captain Elen I thought this was going to be a private meeting of the minds.

Elen: Sorry for the misunderstanding Edris, I'd like you to meet part of my senior staff, they will be sitting in. You've met commander Melena and Lt.cmdr. Hal of course. I'd like you to meet our chief of operations Lt.cmdr. sh'Raazh and our pilot and navigator Lt. Zan.

Edris: Nice to meet you both *his purple eyes lingered for a brief moment on the two officers* Well captain how can I help you?

Elen: *smiles* Well I'd like to know how you and two Jem'Hadar soldiers ended up on one of our escape pods and why it was enhanced with Dominion technology.

The fake smile on Edris face faltered for the thinest moment but he soon regained his teeth shattering sweet disposition that rings false. sh'Raazh is trying her hardest not to smack that wax like smile of his pasty pale white face. She resorts to an anger snore that she passes of as a violent snees.

Edris: Gesundheit lieutenant commander. captain I can assure you their is a valid explanation for all this. But I'm afraid your ship has been comprised by double agents.

This last comment clearly took captain Elen of guard and Edris took great pleasure in seeing he had managed to throw the good captain of her game but suddenly he found himself thrown against the wall with a phaser set to kill in his smug little face.

sh'Raazh: Why don't you stop playing games and spill the beans you sick bastard or I'll blast your head off.

Edris: *choking* help me, please.

((ooc: Edris remark about double agents was just a bluff, a lie to plant a seed of doubt. Goodnight))

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Easier to hide there lol! Maybe Hal and Mirok could be working together somehow? Also, a good bluff on Edris part that could make our Bajoran friends life a little difficult for a while. Goodnight anyway!))

*Observation Lounge*

Before anyone really had much chance to react, all hell broke loose as sh'Raazh lost her temper. Eloran stood and raised his own phaser, before something occured to him. At that moment, Raian quickly rose to his feet in an attempt to restrain Zan's long time friend. He threw his arms under hers and over shoulders in the hope of either restraint or surprise. As much as he would like to see the slimeball die, he didn't want sh'Raazh to suffer the consequences of those actions.

Zan: Tara, no! Honestly, he's not worth the consequences, do you really want to spend the rest of your life in prison over the likes of him? I know how you feel, I carry Yulia's memories remember, but do you really want to sink that low?

Hal: Lt. Zan is right, and need I remind you that the dampening field is currently blocking all phaser fire other than stun?

Melena: Regardless, I suggest we confine Lt.Cmdr. sh'Raazh to the brig until this meeting is over!

As the ruckus continued, Hal grew a little anxious and he wondered if somehow the Vorta had him figured out. He meant no ill will to the crew, but the organisation to which he served aside from the Federation (or part of it depending on how you looked at it) used a lot of resources to ensure that at least one of their agents served aboard a vessel headed for the Gamma Quadrant. One of his colleagues had been serving on the Rodenberry, but of course it was unknown as to whether that vessel had even survived. Hopefully, they would soon find out and he hoped that his mission remained recon.

[motom79]

*Observation Lounge*

sh'Raazh struggled with Zan for a moment not really realizing anything anymore other than her blind rage. Edris was turning purple, slowly strangled by sh'Raazh left hand. But finally Zan managed to get through her and she lets go of the panting Edris whom is left caressing his neck. sh'Raazh walked to the other end of the room awaiting to be carried of to the brig but the order never came. Captain Elen slowly walks towards Edris.

Elen: *calmly* start telling the truth or I'll let lieutenant commander sh'Raazh finish the job. If you try to lie to us one more time or hold back information or I just don't like your answer I will not doubt to execute you and your Jem'Hadar cronies. I'm making myself perfectly clear.

Before Edris had time to respond Lt. Woods interrupted the meeting.

Woods: *over the comm* Captain we've found the Rodenberry and three Jem'Hadar vessels. The Rodenberry seems to be alright but according to our bioreadings their are no life signs on either the Rodenberry or the Jem'Hadar Vessels.

Elen: Could the sensors be fooled by one of the device we found in the engine of the escape pod.

Woods: No ma'am I've compensated for it.

Elen: Alright, lieutenant Caeli set a course for the Rodenberry.

Caeli: *over the comm* Aye ma'am.

Elen: *turns to Edris* Get up what's going on?

A junior security officers approaches Lt.cmdr. Hal with a mild panic spread on his face.

Junior officer: *whispering* Sir, the Jem'Hadar are death, their Ketracel-white supply was poisoned

[Mikoyo80]

*Observation Lounge*

Melena couldn't help but wonder what Elen was thinking as she seemed to condone, and even encourage, sh'Raazh actions. She understood that this man was responsible for the deaths of hundreds of Betazoid, but surely such brutal tactics where not becoming of Starfleet. Still, not everyone was as by the book as she was and perhaps that would turn out to be more of a good thing. Still, at least the Rodenberry had been found but she held little hope for the safety of the crew if they hadn't even been detected. She would have blamed the Jem'Hadar vessels, had they not been subject to the same fate, whatever that may be.

Eloran meanwhile had risen from his seat and was about to haul Edris to his feet when the junior officer entered. He leaned closer to listen to what he had to say and shook his head. He looked over to Elen, wondering if she had heard the news also. Deciding not to take the risk of guessing, he dismissed the young security officer from the room, before leaning over to whisper the news to the captain. He then approached the Vorta once again and hauled him to his feet, keeping a tight grip.

[motom79]

((ooc: Captain Elen is playing bad cop here, she of course will not let this man die on her watch. She manipulated the situation like Edris did, she knew perfectly well that sh'Raazh would lose her head.))

*Observation lounge*

Elen gave Lt.cmdr. Hal a short nod and turned her attention to Edris.

Elen: you killed the Jem'Hadar why?

Edris: Such sentimentality for such worthless creatures captain, a moment ago you were all but ready to kill me for information *thinking he can get the upper hand again*

Elen: Lt.cmdr. Hal take him to the nearest airlock and if he doesn't give us all the information we want, blow him into space.

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: It's a good tactic, but someone as by the book as Melena might not see that right away. Goodnight anyway!))

*Observation Lounge*

Hal felt a little taken aback by those orders, but he could see pretty clearly the game she was playing. It was the same game he has seen played many times before by someone or another in his line of profession. As he escorted the Vorta from the room. Raian felt a rush of satisfaction at seeing the once powerful and sadistic monster squirming and wished that he could have let Tara finish the job there and then.

Melena kept her usual demeanor but still didn't agree with the handling of the situation. She was of course not going to say anything in front of the other officers, but then again she wondered if there were any need to as she began to see the bigger picture. Although she was still less than happy, her focus was strictly on the semmingly empty Rodenberry and the Jem'Hadar vessels fallen victim to the same enigma.

Melena: We should arrange an away team to check out the Rodenberry captain, that is of course after we have taken further scans. I assume that this meeting is now over? There seems to be very little else to discuss until our guest has been interrogated and Dr. Riley has performed a full autopsy on the Jem'Hadar, yes I overheard and I apologize. Anyway, we should consider the possibility that they were not the only intended targets.

[motom79]

((ooc: Goodnight))

*Corridors*

Edris is kicking and screaming while being dragged away by the security officers. The cocky man is reduced to a weeping puddle of misery and he screams at the top of his longs a first bit of information.

Edris: No please, please stop I'll talk I'll talk. We were to meet the Rodenberry discuss the invasion of Romulus. Some in the Federation feel and the Dominion agrees that the Romulan thread should be dealt with.

This panicked statement takes the security officers by surprise, the last thing she expected was this. Relations between Romulus and the Federation were strained but none the less cordial, Edris must be pretty desperate to tell such blatant lies.

*Observation lounge*

Elen plumps down into the captain's chair looking tired and sickly, she didn't like what she did one bit. She looks at her XO and can see that she feels the same or worse so. sh'Raazh is surprissed that a part of her pities the cowardly Edris as his pitiful screams slowly die down. She always thought she would feel great satisfaction seeing him reduced like this. The fitting punishment for the likes of him to do to him what he did to so many others but pity was never was an emotion she expected to feel. She understands the game the captain played and she hopes it pays of but all the same she feels dirty and a little betrayed at the moment. She looks over at Zan who is clearly enjoying the moment and sh'Raahz wishes that she could do the same.

Elen: Agreed commander, assemble an away team and yes this meeting has been adjourned take your stations. Commander a quick word before we go to the bridge. I have the feeling you don't agree with what happened here, or I'm wrong?

[Mikoyo80]

*Observation Lounge*

As the senior staff began to dissipate, Melena watched them leave before glancing in Elen's direction. It was obvious that she was as unhappy with her actions as Melena herself had been

Melena: It seems that I feel exactly the same way as you do captain. Hopefully we can use the term 'the end justifies the means', although it is a phrase I loathe to use or indeed act upon. It didn't seem right somehow to use the emotions of Lt.Cmdr. sh'Raazh like that, but I realise again that this was perhaps a neccessary evil. Anyway, Edris is now in the hands of security, so we should concentrate on our more immediate problem. Who will be commanding the away mission captain?

*Corridors*

Hal too felt a little taken aback by the sudden outburst of Edris but quickly regained his composure. He was well aware that Starfleet Intelligence was weary of the Romulans and their recent behaviour, but there could only be one organisation that would go too such lengths as working with the Dominion. Although a member of said organisation, he was not made privy to information not relevant to his own tasks. At the moment, his duties lay with the Radiant and her crew. He turned Edris and then to his fellow security officers.

Hal: Thats more like it, if you're telling the truth that is. Throw him in the brig where we can interogate him. I'm a reasonable man so I won't throw you out the airlock, but in return it would be nice if you could share a little more information.

*Bridge*

Raian left the Observation lounge and headed straight for his station, nodding as he relieved Korvin from the helm. He double checked their course before glancing at sh'Raazh. He noticed that perhaps she wasn't feeling so good, but for now he had to focus on the task at hand.

[motom79]

*Bridge*

Caeli: I've set a course to the Rodenberry *leans forward* what happened in there?

Caeli regrets his question the moment he slipped from his mouth but he can't deny he is desperately curious. He just hopes he isn't crossing some border or putting his noise were it doesn't belong. He also notices that both Zan and sh'Raazh look rather shaken by the events that took place in Observation Lounge. sh'Raazh takes her post and is glad to be concentrating on her work, sensor readings have a soothing effect on her at this moment. She notices that Lieutenant Caeli is nervous and annoyed by the fact he isn't in the loop.

*Observation lounge*

Elen: I'll let the away mission in your capable hands commander and believe me I didn't take these decisions lightly. I've committed every psychological profile about Vorta diplomats to mind and believe me this was the only way. But I'm sorry I didn't inform you on my tactics but there simply wasn't the time. Let's go to the bridge shall we.

*Corridors*

Edris: Anything anything please please don't hurt me.

The junior officers are still befuddled by the cowardly actions of the Vorta man, is he pulling there leg or is he just a pathetic coward. Disgusted by this sniffling man they drag him to the brig.

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Goodnight.))

*Observation lounge*

Melena: That is to be expected captain, you obviously know what you're doing when it comes to this kind of thing. Thank you, I'll assign an away team immediately.

*Corridors*

Eloran shakes his head and is about to tap his combadge when he hesitates. Perhaps it would be best not to bother the captain just yet, or at least until he has worked out the validity of the Vorta's claims.

*Bridge*

Raian couldn't help but smile at Korvins question. His curiousity was reminisent of that of his grandmother, especially regarding matters where the latter had not been included. Everything about Korvin seemed to remind him of her, or maybe that was just because most Bolians shared the same nature. The Bridge however, was not the place to answer such questions, but he replied nevertheless, although he did keep it a little vague in fear of upsetting or angering anyone.

Zan: It turns out our guest was a war criminal, and a liar at that. Lets just say things didn't quite go as planned in there. (quietly) I probably shouldn't tell you but I can later on if you ask me, not the time or place.

[motom79]

*Bridge*

Caeli: I understand, captain.

Elen: At ease lieutenant, commander sh'Raazh what's the status of the ships?

sh'Raazh: No detectable life signs, no life support on the Jem'Hadar ships and minimal life support on the Rodenberry. All ships have raised shields but the warp engines and weapon systems are powered down. Ma'am it's like nothing I've ever seen before, almost like they are ghost ships.

Elen: All senior officers report to the bridge *turns to her XO* I've got a nasty feeling about this.

Caeli: It's reminiscent of the situation with the Karemma, maybe we shouldn't bring the ship to close, captain. Maybe we should approach the Rodenberry and the Jem'Hadar vessels with one or two of the Delta flyer shuttles, they are small maneuverable and when it would come to a fight they have the advantage that they are as heavily shielded as the Radiant.

sh'Raazh: It's a solid plan except the weapon systems on the Deltas aren't sufficient to take on a Jem'Hadar fighter. I could try to beam an away team through the shields, it's just a matter of finding the right frequency.

*Sickbay*

Tahlandi was talking to Spell, who was a little disorientated and frustrated by the fact that everybody seemed to fuss over him when the captain's call came in.

Tahlandi: Sorry ensign but duty calls, oh doctor Riley it seems we are needed on the bridge.

*Engineering*

Woods: Ensign Thellin you are in charge of engineering until I get back, try not to blow a fuse.

Thellin: Aye chief. *grinning*

Woods wonders what is going on, he had followed the intense and sometimes confusing meeting with Edris through his combadge and was surprissed by the hard line his captain had taken. He was experienced enough to know that this was mostly a game of bluff and the Vorta man no doubts knows this too. So he wonders if this tactic will yield any effects. The fact that Edris had murdered his bodyguards disturbs him greatly. Also the sensor readings they are getting are unsettling all four ships appear to be death but no signs of external damage (phaser fire), biological of chemical agents in the atmosphere of any of the ships although the readings indicate that the atmosphere on the Jem'Hadar ships is nonexistent and minimal on the Rodenberry but there is no clear cause to explain this. Lieutenant Woods wonders what nasty surprises lay in store for them.

*Corridors*

Edris is struggling against his captures and manages to turn to Lt.cmdr. Hal, his purple eyes filled with fear but also something else, something you can't put your finger on.

Edris: The people behind this have infiltrated your ship, somebody will betray you all are you sure you can trust your captain, lieutenant commander. *screaming* Trust no one.

[Mikoyo80]

*Sickbay*

Riley: Yes, I'm on my way. It seems that they have found the Rodenberry and they'll probably need me on the away mission. Dr. Seral, can you keep things in check until I get back?

Seral: Of course.

Riley: Alright, shall we then?

*Bridge*

Zan: May I suggest using both the ship and a flyer? We could send the flyer out to investigate the Rodenberry and use the Radiant to keep an eye on the other two? Saying that though, I'm not so sure if theres anyone watching us this time so it may not even be neccessary, although I've been wrong before. I both plans are a little risky, but i personally prefer Lt. Caeli's. Lt.Cmdr. sh'Raazh's plan is maybe a little too risky as we may not get back out easily with the shields up if we can't lower them before we run into trouble. At least with the flyers the Radiant should still be in range to back us up. I know you can find those frequencies sh'Raazh, but you never know what might come up! On a more positive note, the flyers are definately a lot more manouverable and we're less likely to be blown to pieces than being stuck or dead because something stops us from transporting out.

Melena: Indeed captain, very nasty indeed. Agreed lieutenant, although tranporting adds the benefit of leaving quickly in an emergency, provided that the shields can be taken down as our first priority, Speaking of, is there any way of disabling them from here?

[motom79]

*Sickbay*

Tahlandi: After you doctor, any idea what's going on? I've heard a rumor about Jem'Hadar being on the ship from nurse Ottoman.

*Bridge*

sh'Raazh: Well getting the shields of the Rodenberry down is simple enough, we could use the Rodenberry's Prefix code and take remote control of it. The Jem'Hadar vessels are a different story and I doubt that Edris is any mood to help us.

Elen: Make it so lieutenant commander, Lieutenant Zan prepare a flyer.

At that moment Lieutenant Woods enters the bridge, he notices that the captain and the XO are already in full planning gear. As he glances at the view screen he notices some strange markings on the Rodenberry's hull.

Woods: Any ideas what those marks are?

Elen: What marks?

Woods: On the upper left warp engine captain, it looks like minor phaser damage.

Caeli: sensors aren't picking anything up, are you sure chief?

Woods: Well the damage it's consistent with phaser burn marks, wouldn't you say Lt.cmdr. Hal

*Mirok's quarters*

Mirok is startled by the proximity alarm on his personal LCARS, although it looks standard star fleet issue it's not. Before embarking on the Radiant, captain Tsongo entrusted him a secret mission and apparently the time has come to get into action. His LCARS was designed to respond when to got in proximity of the Rodenberry and clearly the Radiant had found it's target. This couldn't have come at a worse time, seeing his little outburst has made it impossible for him to move outside his quarters. He goes to his LCARS and reads the message on the screen: 'secure the Rodenberry's captain's log.' Mirok deletes the message and begins sitting up a secure data transfer link, making it go through several loops so it can't be traced back to him. Although he has no idea why the captain's logs are so damned important he doesn't care, this mission is for the greater good of the Federation. He's aware that Captain Tsongo isn't the most ethical man but his methods, however distasteful or questionable get the job done.

((ooc: http://memory-alpha.org/en/wiki/Prefix_code ))

[Mikoyo80]

*Bridge*

As Raian left the Bridge, Eloran raised an eyebrow at Lt. Woods claim and scanned the Rodenberry's hull. The last scan had wielded no such results, but looking up at the viewscreen the markings were rather plain to see. He wondered if perhaps there was some kind of field blocking his scans looked over toward Woods and sh'Raazh.

Hal: Indeed, sh'Raazh, can you detect any kind of energy field which could be effecting our scans?

Melena: Good idea, we need to know exactly what caused those burns. We're assuming a phase weapon of some sort but it is hard to know for sure. (to sh'Raazh) Alright, see what you can do Lieutenant commander.
In the mean time, we can take the flyer and see what happened on the Rodenberry. Once you crack that code, keep a lock on us in case we run into trouble, or in the unlikely situation in which we find casualties. We should still take the flyer in case you lose us for any reason and our air runs low. Did anyone find out if the life support, and indeed othher systems, were malfunctioning or otherwise? Either way, Dr. Riley, Lt. Tahlandi, may I request your participation in this mission?

[motom79]

*Bridge*

Tahlandi: Yes ma'am.

sh'Raazh: No nothing, I've been using all standard frequency and some that I've learned during my days as resistant fighter but nothing Lt.cmdr. Hal. The good news is that I've got life support restored to full on the Rodenberry and I've started decontamination procedures just in case our sensors missed contaminants. Goddammit ever since we've entered the Gamma Quadrant our sensors are going berserk.

Woods: Commander I suggest I join the away team, we're not sure what we will encounter and you might need an experienced engineer.

*Mirok's quarters*

Mirok has disabled the door of his quarters, just in case his roommate or counselor Mizuki decided to come back at least he will have heads up and time to cover up what his doing. Well the codes provided by captain Tsongo seem to work fine as he shifts through the Rodenberry's database. If he did this right he shouldn't be detected for at least two hours. That should be time enough to get the logs, he hopes.

[Mikoyo80]

*Bridge*

Melena: Thank you Lt.Cmdr. sh'Raazh. In that case we can transport to the Rodenberry and keep the flyer in case we need to board the Jem'Hadar vessels. Quite right Lt. Woods, we'll be glad to have you with us. I suppose it's time to move out then, we'll meet in Transporter Room 2 in ten minutes. That should give you enough time to round up a couple of security personnel, Lt.Cmdr. Hal.

With that, Melena exited the bridge and couldn't help but feel an air of both anticipation and apprehension as she wondered exactly what they would find on board the Rodenberry. Obviously, something very bad had happened but hopefully nothing that would affect the crew of the Radiant.

[motom79]

*Bridge*

Elen: keep the communication lines open at all time lieutenant commander sh'Raazh. Lt. Caeli prepare a team to investigate the Jem'Hadar vessels. Counselor Azuma how is your knowledge of forensic psychology? *taps combadge* Lt. Zan is the flyer ready for take off?

sh'Raazh: communication is established between our ships sending standard greetings and instructions to their crew but no response.

Caeli: Aye ma'am

Elen fiddles with her sleeve the fact that all the ships appear to be deserted makes her feel uneasy and by the look of her senior officers she isn't the only one with misgivings about this.

*Transporter Room*

Transporter chief: Commander I've set the beaming coordinates directly to the bridge, atmosphere is breathable but it's 50°C (122°F) over there.

Tahlandi: Such a high temperature will make working over there very uncomfortable for most of the crew.

Woods: Apparently the climate regulator is whacked out, look at this commander deck 3 the temperature has fallen to -15°C (5°F).

((ooc: I don't know the Fahrenheit scale, sorry
Long live Internet found the conversion scales (which I actually learned in my first year in high school but it didn't stick LOL) http://www.mathsisfun.com/temperature-conversion.html
Haha I thought the English speaking nations of the world used Fahrenheit, my bad))

[Mikoyo80]

(OOC: Me neither, nice bit of research lol! Goodnight.))

*Transporter Room 2*

Melena: Thank you chief. Yes, very uncomfortable indeed, but we need to try and stay focused. We also need to spend as little time as possible on the Bridge, as we don't want to lose anyone to heat stroke, do we? Or of course, hypothermia should we wind up on deck three, we need to be really careful to check the temperatures before we enter new areas, for all we know we could have a deck hotter than Venus, and I'd rather no-one melted during our visit. On a more serious note, we are looking for the crew and the ships logs. Ah Hal, glad you could join us. Alright chief, keep a lock on us in case anything goes wrong. Energize!

*Docking Bay Three*

As Raian prepared one of the flyers, he couldn't help but feel a little apprehensive about the whole Rodenberry thing and couldn't help but sense some kind of conspiracy involved. It was also extremely odd that no lifesigns at all had been detected on any of the three vessels and wondered if perhaps it could have something to do with the technology used by Edris to mask his lifesigns in the escape pod. Of course, he had merely disguised them and not masked them completely, but he of course was no engineer and hadn't been in any of his lifetimes. He received the communication from Elen on the Bridge and tapped his combadge in response.

Zan: A couple more minutes and she'll be ready to fly on your command, captain!

*Bridge*

Azuma: Forensic Psychology? It's not exactly my speciality captain, but I'd say it was above average. In fact, I regard it as a rather interesting topic, a one that I rarely have the opportunity to put into practice. Why do you ask? I assume that it's based on my next orders captain?

[motom79]

((ooc: Goodnight))

*Bridge -Rodenberry*

As the away team beamed over at the bridge most of them were a little overcome by the heat. The only team member that seemed to be unaffected was their chief science officer Tahlandi, whom due his Cardassian heritage thrived in temperatures like this.

Tahlandi: No lifesigns commander but my tricorder scanning range is limited to 15 centimeters.

Woods: Something is definitely blocking or deflecting our scans *walks over to an engineering counsel* Pfff the heat is almost unbearable. I'll try to get the internal sensors to work.

Woods begins putting commands and whipping the sweat out of his eyebrows. Thick drops of sweat trickle down on the station he is working. The away team begins to spread out a little but for most every movement is like heavy exercising.

*Bridge*

Elen: Yes indeed counselor I need you to take a security detail and interrogate the Vorta named Edris

sh'Raazh: Ma'am that man doesn't need a psychologist

Elen: Yes and I agree lieutenant commander but I need somebody whom can read people and seeing my XO and chief security are obtained and I myself can't leave the bridge, counselor Azuma is the best qualified candidate wouldn't you agree?

sh'Raazh: I guess as long as she doesn't go touchy feely on him.

*Docking Bay three*

Lt. Caeli and five other officers enter the docking bay, one of them is an extremely nervous looking Hrisvalar. She is unsure she is ready for such a mission or even why she was selected by Caeli. Caeli walks over to Zan looking a little pale.

Caeli: Are you ready to rumble with the Jem'Hadar.

[Mikoyo80]

*Bridge - Rodenberry*

The heat was instantly noticable as the away team arrived. There had been no exaggeration as to the temperature, that was for sure! Melena wiped her brow as she responded to her junior officers.

Melena: Try moving around a little lieutenant, and don't forget to scan before you open any doors. That goes for you to doctor. Lt.cmdr. Hal, please accompany Lt. Tahlandi. Phew, this heat is a little to much, i hope we don't have to stay here too long. Get those sensors working Lt. Woods, and see what you can to about the environmental controls.

*Bridge - Radiant*

Azuma: From what I' have heard about the man, Lt.cmdr. sh'Raazh may be right, but it's worth a try. I'll accompany the acting chief of security to the Brig.

*Docking Bay Three*

Raian noticed the others enter and couldn't help but notice how nervous they all appeared. He smiled reassuringly as Korvin and Imaru approached.

Zan: I hope so Korvin! I also hope that I can borrow some of Yulia's experiences with our Jem'Hadar buddies as it could prove invaluable. Don't look so nervous guys, we can do this! Oh, and might I say how lovely you're looking today Imaru (flirting, despite not being the time or place)?

[motom79]

((ooc: night))

*Docking Bay Three*

Hrisvalar: Heya lieutenant, What if the Jem'Hadar decide to attack lieutenant Caeli.

Caeli: Don't worry crewman, we need somebody that can crack a Dominion code and you are the best qualified for it. We won't put you in the line of fire *giving a reassuring smile*

Hrisvalar nods but she clearly feels out of place, the not so subtle flirting of young Raian Zan has past her by without notice. She feels anything but qualified, but dares not to disagree with her superior. She begins to softly murmur her basic combat training just to keep calm. Caeli takes Zan aside and is careful not to be overheard by the other officers.

Caeli: Do you think it's possible the Jem'Hadar are luring us into a trap, I mean stealth tactics are their specialty. We should at least set our sensors to scan for subspace mines. The Radiant's sensors aren't picking them up but better safe than sorry. I just ...

Caeli stops himself, he is unsure about his decision to take crewman Hrisvalar on this mission seeing her inexperience and lack of proper training but she is the only crew member aboard the Radiant that knows Dominion languages and if their universal translator should fail she is the next best thing. Normally he wouldn't have taken a linguist with him because of the almost perfect universal translators but seeing that their technology has been fooled several times during this short mission Caeli wants to be prepared. He can hear captain Elen saying that he is over analyzing the situation but he will not be taken by surprise anymore.

*Bridge - Radiant*

Elen: *harsh* I don't want you to counsel him, I want you to interrogate him. Use your vast knowledge of human behavior to delve deep into his mind and get me some answers. *not unfriendly* I know clinical psychologist are trained to help people but to help one you need to understand their behavior, this is no different counselor except for the helping him part.

Elen is aware that she was a little blunt but she can't have a self doubting counselor now. She understands Azuma's reluctance but at the same time she believes that Azuma is best suited for this delicate task and unlikely to be taken in by his little mind games or at least she will see them for what they are. She gives her young counselor a reassuring and encouraging smile, to say without words I believe in you.

*Bridge - Rodenberry*

Tahlandi: Aye commander *scans the door of the Captain's ready room* It appears to be empty and the temperature is the same as in here. Ensign Ymac, crewman S'tek let's have a look.

Woods: I've got partial sensors, the warp drive is powering down. It will be off line in 3 hours commander. I can't get to environmental control, it could be that sh'Raazh commands are limiting my operating room. Wait, commander look at this, somebody is hacking into the database of the Rodenberry.

[Mikoyo80]

*Bridge - Rodenberry*

As the Radiant crew struggled under the intense heat, Melena sat herself down at the ops console to see if she could find any sensor logs. As the two security crewmen accompanied Rann into the ready room, Hal and Dr. Riley not far behind. The formers full attention was aquired, along with Melena's, when Woods made his revelation and the two accompanied him at the engineering console.

Melena: Are you sure? Can you trace it lieutenant?

*Docking Bay 3*

Zan noticed that both Lt. Caeli and crewman Hrisvalar seemed very nervous and unsure of themselves. He knew that he would have to encourage them somehow, but for now he nodded at Korvin's suggestion.

Zan: Good idea, get to work. Just waiting for the rest of our company and we can be off. Relax people, we're going to need everyone to pull together. We need to keep cool, calm and focused. If we concentrate on those things them we shouldn't have time to worry!

[motom79]

*Bridge -Rodenberry*

Woods: Yes ma'am and I'm afraid it's bad news the signal originates from the Radiantbut I can't pinpoint the exact location *taps combadge* Lt.cmdr. sh'Raazh are you downloading logs from the Rodenberry.

sh'Raazh:*over the com* Of course not lieutenant.

Woods: *over the com* than we have a security breach because somebody on the Radiant is hacking into those files.

Elen: *over the com* Can you trace from where on the Radiant? We'll do the same here. Commander Melena whats your status?

Woods: *over the com* Aye ma'am. *turns to his superior officers* I can send a feedback pulse to whomever is stealing the files, it will cause a cascade effect on his or hers computer rendering it useless. The downside is that the files that are already downloaded on that computer station will be lost.

*Docking Bay 3*

Caeli: Well lieutenant we are ready when you are. You heard lieutenant Zan people we have work to do, lets get to it.

Caeli smiles clearly Zan is in his element and for a moment he almost forgot that Zan wasn't the officer leading this mission, he was. Although he would never say this out loud, secretly he thought that Zan would have been the better choice to lead this mission seeing he has more experience in matters such as this. Before his post as strategic operations officer he was a legal adviser and most of his battles were fought out in boardrooms not on the battlefield itself. But he quickly bans this thoughts as he gets into the flyer.

Caeli: I see you redesigned the navigation to standard Star Fleet issue, didn't like the Paris design?

*Brig*

Edris is staring at the wall, his purple eyes transfixed on it. Suddenly he's aware that somebody new has entered the brig, a purple Andorian women in a blue science officers uniform is standing on the other end of the forcefield. His gaze is now transfixed on her.

[Mikoyo80]

*OOC* Sorry, I've been a little hung up the last couple of days.

*Bridge - Rodenberry*

Melena: We have partial sensors and the warp core should power down in around three hours. We haven't found any crewmen as of yet, but Lt. Tahlandi is leading a search team. Unfortunately, the environmental controls are down and the temperature seems to differ from deck to deck. The operations and helm stations appear to have taken some damage. We'll see if we can repair them and find the navigational and ships logs, that is of course, whats left of them.

*Docking Bay 3*

Zan: It's not that, I just found it easier to maneuver using what I'd been trained with. I just haven't had time to familiarise myself with the 'Paris' way of doing things. Are we ready to go then 'boss'?

Raian noticed that the the Bolian seemed a little more sure of himself now, which was good considering he was the commanding officer on this away mission. Still, he hoped that speaking casually as he had been doing would help put him at ease, unless of course he was asked to start speaking formally.

*Brig*

As Mizuki entered the brig, she had noticed that the Vortikan man known as Edris had spotted her. As their eyes locked, she couldn't help but pick up on a wide variety of things. Just by looking at his eyes, she could tell some of the things he had seen and emotions. He appeared to be a little frightened but somehow confident in his ability to manipulate people into his way of thinking. The Andorian woman made her way over to the cell as the security ensign who had accompanied her, the assistant chief of security having been called to accompany Lt. Caeli's boarding party, and looked over to him with a smile.

Azuma: Good day, Edris is it? I was hoping to stop by for a chat and to ask you a few questions.

[motom79]

((ooc: don't worry about it, it's not necessary for us to post every single day. It's a game not an obligation :-) ))

*Bridge - Radiant*

Elen: *over the com* Understood commander, is there anyway you can stop the process (downloading the files) and find the culprit *turns to the security junior lieutenant* do a full security scan and look for any unauthorized com links.

Security officer: Aye ma'am

sh'Raazh: *over the com* I'll try to restore environmental control from here commander. I suggest you try the same thing on your end.

*Bridge - Rodenberry*

Lt. Woods and Lt.cmdr. Hal are buzzy setting up a firewall to prevent anymore theft but whomever is stealing the files has done his homework and is sending them on a wild goose chase through the Rodenberry's computer system. Sending a feedback pulse will be more tricky than Lt. Woods thought. He turns to Lt.cmdr. Hal, frustration all over his face.

Woods: Dammit if we send a feedback pulse we risk a cascade effect in the Rodenberry's main computer core. Whoever did this has set up one tricky link I've never seen anything like it.

On the other end of the bridge Tahlandi is surveying the captain's ready room. Tahlandi's notices a blood like substance on the captain's LCARS. Tahlandi scans it with his tricorder, his fears are confirmed the substances is definitely human blood.

Tahlandi: Commander I've found something.


*Docking Bay 3*

Caeli: Yes we're ready I'll take ops. Crewman Hrisvalar prepare a direct com link to the Jem'Hadar Vessels. Lt.jg Hitchcock take your station and familiarize yourself with the targeting sensors. Lt.jg. Zan take us out.

Hrisvalar and Hitchcock: Aye sir.

*Brig*

Edris: And what will you do to me if I don't feel like it, doctor?

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: I know, just in case you thought I'd forgotten about you, lol! Did we decide that Hal and Mirok were working together or seperately?))

*Bridge - Rodenberry*

As Melena acknowledged and got to work, noting that Joshua was now busy attempting to stop the downloading, Eloran furrowed his brow as he recognised the technique being used to prevent them from stopping, or even tracing, the download sequence. It was a trick he himself had been taught, but surely it couldn't be, could it?

Meanwhile, upon Rann's discovery, Lynda immediately took out her tricorder and began to scan the substance, which she could confirm at this moment. She narrowed her eyes in concentration whilst she read the results before turning to Melena, who had had partial success in restoring the envionmental controls on the Bridge at least.

Riley: Commander, this is definately human and would suggest that someone, presumably Cpt. Chenowitch although I can't confirm that due to the level of degradation and the fact that I don't currently have a sample to compare. I'll take a swab and see if that will help us to identify the blood and help us piece together what happened here. There seems to be a lot of blood here but no body. I wonder what happened to him?

Melena: Indeed, and with the rest of the crew as well doctor. Keep looking, I'll get back to the environmental controls, it seems that Lt.Cmdr. sh'Raazh and I are starting to get somewhere. (taps combadge) Captain, we've found a significant quantity of human blood on the captains LCARS, please standby.

[motom79]

((ooc: They work separately from each other. Mirok is such a loose canon that them working together would be a bit of a stretch. But this could spell trouble for our beloved security chief seeing something like this could jeopardise his own mission. Thanks for being so thoughtful :beer:. Anyway goodnight I'll post a reply tomorrow))

*Radiant -Bridge*

Elen: Commander be careful, I've got a back-up security team standing by in transporter room 1. I'll send them over now. Lt.cmdr. sh'Raazh any progress in getting the environmental controls fixed?

sh'Raazh: Almost captain but somebody is putting up firewalls in the Rodenberry's system. It's coming from our ship but I can't pinpoint the location. Lt.jg. Satik have you found the source yet?

Satik: No sir, according to my readings the signal is coming from science station Zero Alpha Theta *points at a bridge science station. But that's impossible nobody is manning it.

sh'Raazh: Captain I could try and lock that station out.

Elen: Do it, Lt.jg Satik do a manual ship wide search if needed, I want to find whoever is doing this.

*Rodenberry - Captain's Ready Room*

Tahlandi is still scanning the captain's ready room for clues when suddenly a security crewmen lets out a loud yelp. Tahlandi is startled by the sudden noise and almost drops his tricorder.

Tahlandi: What happened ensign Sims?

The ensign is standing nailed to the ground pointing at an obscured object perched between a vase and Bolian virility statue. At first Tahlandi doesn't understand why the ensign is so shocked but when he gets closer for inspection he feels his blood going cold: they are looking at a severed limp drained from all it's blood.

Tahlandi: Doctor Riley, ensign Sims pull yourself together *ensign faints*

Meanwhile Lt. Woods is trying desperately to find a way to block the hacker out of the Rodenberry's computer core and preventing him to cause anymore damage. Lt. Woods also begins to wonder if the perpetrator has any idea of the damage he is causing because he or she seem to be only interested in certain files. Apparently the program they are using is designed to throw the ship's system into chaos. He also notices a very strange look upon Lt.cmdr. Hal's face surprise but also something else, could it be recognition? Woods quickly shakes this thought it couldn't be.

Woods: Lt.cmdr. Hal I need some help. I'm going to try and access the main computer core from here. I need you to monitor my progress you can use the security station.

[Mikoyo80]

*OOC* Ensign Sims = lol! Oh well, this is a sims forum I suppose...

*Rodenberry - Bridge*

Melena: Thankyou captain, Lieutenant commander, we'll see what we can do from this side too. Melena out.

Eloran nodded as he was spoken too, despite being preoccupied with his own thoughts regarding the matter. He knew the technique as he had once used it himself and then he suddenly remembered being shown the neccessary commands needed to override such a procedure, or at least to halt further dowloading. The information would probably still be lost and they wouldn't have an exact trace, but they would have a good idea of where to look. Although such knowledge could possibly expose him, though there was very little chance, it would greatly hinder him in his assignment. Although he too required the files in question, as chief of security he would have had access to these with very little trouble or suspicion. He made his way over to the security station whilst replying to his fellow officer.

Hal: Or I could go to the Security station and use these codes that I just remembered coming across in case of such an event. Now, lets see if this works...

*Rodenberry - Captains Ready Room*

Upon discovery of the severed limb, it appeared that only Lynda was not the slightest bit squeamish. This of course wasn't true, but she had learned that as a doctor one couldn't falter until the task was completed. She dashed over with her tricorder and began to scan the arm, just as Melena left her station and entered, gasping a little at the sight before her.

Melena: Wh-what have you got doctor?
Riley: The tissue appears to be human, although the remnant blood traces don't match that of the blood on the LCARS. The limb appears to have been torn from the body as opposed to being cut or hacked. It's like some sort of wild animal was behind this, in fact I might even be able to confirm that as I'm detecting traces of something else that I don't recognise. I would like to run further tests in my laboratory.
Melena: Perhaps it is not safe to remain here any longer. Woods, Hal, I hope your nearly ready, I think it's about time we left. I hope we have what we need to piece together what happened, although that information could well be in the hands of our perpetrator by now.
Riley: Commander, we didn't detect any lifesigns before boarding. It would be safe to assume that whatever this is is long gone. Besides, we might not even be talking about an animal.
Melena: I'm well aware of that doctor, and never assume anything, you could pay for it with your life. (taps combadge) Captain, we will be returning shortly. I'll deliver a full report upon our return.

*OOC* I wonder why, lol. Goodnight anyway!

[motom79]

((ooc: Yeah I know, I needed to name the ensign and the first thing that popped to mind was Sims LOL. Hope this isn't to graphic.))

*Rodenberry - Ready Room*

Tahlandi: Commander shouldn't we try and find the crew, we haven't left the bridge yet.

Although Tahlandi felt the same way as the commander, he also felt they needed to do everything in their power to assist the crew of the Rodenberry. But the fact that the limb was tore out was disturbing.

*Rodenberry - Bridge*

Woods: Understood commander, I'm almost finished.The code you used seemed to have done the trick Lt.cmdr. I've got internal sensors. I even got visual contact with engineering, oh my god ...

Woods eyes are glued to the sight of his view screen. He can't almost not believe what he is seeing. The sight is like something out of a nightmare: the engineering crew of the Rodenberry are disemboweled, and put on display in some bizarre ritual way. It reminds Woods of the gruesome pictures he once saw of a 20th century slaughterhouse.

*Bridge - Radiant*

Elen: Commander, what is going on? Have you made contact with the crew yet.

*Shuttle Paris*

The shuttle is approaching the silent Dominion ships. The crew is feeling a little apprehensive at the sight of the ships that once belonged to one of the Federations greatest enemies.

Caeli: Take us to a parallel course of the lead ship, Lt.jg. Zan.

Hitchcock: Weapons are powered down on there ships, no warp signature Sir.

Hrisvalar: Communication systems are also down, Sir.

Caeli: what do you make of this Zan?

((ooc: I wouldn't know, goodnight anyway))

[Mikoyo80]

*Bridge - Rodenberry*

As the communication came through from Captain Elen, Eloran had very little time to be pleased with his efforts as he saw the sight upon the viewscreen. Everyone present stopped in their tracks and gagged at the gruesome sight laid before them. Melena turned a paler shade of green as she covered her mouth and one of the security crewmen vomited upon the system he was working on. Melena's voice trembled as she replied to the captains question.

Melena: I-I think the crew are d-dead captain, very dead. We should return now to debrief before we conduct any further in-investigation. Oh g-god.

Hal leaned forward and uttered a silent prayer to the prophets as he wondered what, or the prophets forbid who, could have done such a thing. As he pulled himself to his senses, he checked his console to see if the data transmission had been halted. Melena, still pale, turned to Joshua, speaking solemnly.

Melena: Turn the viewscreen of lieutenant. Did we get the remainder of those logs? Crewman, are you alright?

*Shuttle Paris*

Zan: Probably the same thing that you do Korvin, what the heck is going on? (to Hitchcock) Don't you have anything lieutenant? No lifesigns or nothing? I'm starting to wonder if the crews where kidnapped or something. Taking us on a parellell course with the lead vessel. Hey, whats that? Theres a hole in the hull dead ahead. It seems like a big one, can we scan it? Man, it looks like something chewed right through.

[motom79]

((ooc: Goodnight))

*Bridge - Rodenberry*

Joshua's eyes are transfixed on the gruesome sight, commander Melena's voice barely registers. He turns towards his commanding officer as if in trance.

Woods: *flat voice* Lt.cmdr. Hal stopped the download of the files and I managed to obtain 29% of the data. Shouldn't we try and rescue those poor souls commander. I ... *turns of the viewscreen* Or at least leave a security team to search for survivors commander?

Tahlandi's eyes are filled with tears as he silently says a prayer for the death. He turns away because this gruesome sight is bringing him back to a place he longs to forget, the place where his nightmares dwell. His mind wonders of to the past and once again he can hear the screaming and crying of orphaned children, pleading for their life while Cardassian soldiers brutally beat them and torture them before execution, their only crime was they were at the wrong place at the wrong time. He had survived the massacre by hiding in a closet with three other children, something he still felt guilty about although he was powerless to stop them. Tahlandi is unaware that he let out a loud pitiful whale and that several eyes are now turned upon him.

*Mirok's quarters*

Mirok is a little startled when his computer goes blank, somebody had shut him out of the computer. How was this possible? Was he found out? He has no time to waste he should get rid of any incriminating evidence and store the information he obtained in a safe place. Mirok begins erasing the evidence.

*Bridge -Radiant*

Elen: understood commander standby. sh'Raazh can you get any life readings?

sh'Raazh: no ma'am something is still deflecting our shields, I suggest we pull out our away team and regroup and rethink our options.

Elen: Agreed Lt.cmdr. beam them back. *taps combadge* Counselor have you got any answers from Edris on how he ended up on a Federation Rescue Pod.

sh'Raazh: aye ma'am, commander we are beaming you back to the Radiant.

*Shuttle Paris*

Caeli: Why didn't our sensor pick that up before. Man, the scans are going berserk. According to my readings it's an acid all right but I've never seen anything like it. And according to the scans the hole originated from inside the vessel, like something eat it's way through the hull

Hitchcock: No sir, but I think something is deflecting our sensors I'm getting mirror readings.

Hrisvalar: I'm getting something on the com, it sounds like static but it has almost a musical quality. I'll try and analyze it sir.

Caeli: Raise shields and take us to a safe destines Lt.jg Zan.

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Goodnight))

*Rodenberry Bridge*

Melena shook her head sadly.

Melena: Even if someone had survived this massacre, we can't risk the lives of any of our own personnel on a slim chance. Once we conduct further scans then we may be able to send a heavily armed search party. Until then, we should do as the captain says and return to the ship, is everyone ready to go?

*Radiant Brig*

Azuma: (taps combadge) captain, we've managed to find out that the Jem'Hadar and Edris had some sort of a arrangment with the Rodenberry, although what exactly he won't say. He also mentioned his escape pod was not the only one to leave the Rodenberry and there may be more survivors, of what again I cannnot say. He gave us some co-ordinates to a planet where they may have been able to land. I need to talk to you in prvate though captain.

[motom79]

*Rodenberry - bridge*

Woods: I understand *walks towards Lt.jg. Tahlandi* Are you feeling alright lieutenant?

Tahlandi: I'm sorry I ...

At that moment the crew feels the familiar sensation of being beamed away. The away team finds itself back on the Radiant, a feeling of relief but also guilt flushes over Woods. Tahlandi tries to regain his cool, but the images are burned to his cornea. He looks at commander Melena, whom is visibly shaken by the whole ordeal.

Transporter chief: Commander the captain expects you and the senior staff on the bridge for debriefing.

*Bridge*

Elen: Understood report to the my ready room counselor.

sh'Raazh: the away team is back aboard the Radiant.

Elen: thank you *taps combadge* Lt. Caeli what's your status?

Caeli: *over the com* We are investigating the lead Jem'Hadar ship. It has been damaged by some sort of acid, Lt.jg. Zan and Lt.jg Hitchcock are examining the results.

Elen: Keep me posted Lieutenant but by the first sign of trouble I want you to get back to the ship, understood.

Caeli: Aye captain.

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Goodnight))

*Transporter Room*

Melena nodded solemnly to the transporter chief before making her way to the bridge, Eloran not far behind her, in heavy silence. Although she had regained her composure somewhat since her return, what she had witnessed would haunt her forever. As Melena arrived on the bridge with Hal, Mizuki following shortly after, she took a deep breath and faced the captain.

Melena: Captain, do we have anything from Edris? I assume that you would like a full debriefing? It may be best to take it to the observation lounge ma'am, what needs to be said isn't going to be pleasant.

*Shuttlecraft Paris*

As Caeli cut the transmission from the Radiant, Raian had set the shuttle to auto-pilot and was looking over Hitchcock's shoulder at the results of the scan. Although the results were as yet inconclusive, Raian couldn't help but wonder if he, or at least Zan, had seen something like this before. It seemed strangely familiar although he couldn't recall from where. Whilst puzzled with this enigma, he returned to his station to see if he had any luck with his own station.

[motom79]

*Shuttlecraft Paris*

Hrisvalar: Lieutenant Zan, sir do you have a moment? I've found a patron in the static, it's almost like a flight plan but I'm not sure. I'm not really familiar with star charts.

Caeli is looking at the damaged ship in front of them, wondering what could have happened to cause such damage. He begins running the data through their databases to narrow down the causes. Some interesting results are showing up, the acid's molecular structure resembles the venom of a Cobra, an snake indigenous to Earth. Caeli wonders if they are looking at an experiment gone bad and if so what's the connection with the Rodenberry?

*Bridge*

Elen: Only the device in engineering why counselor. Commander I'll be with you all in a minute. Counselor my ready *entering her ready room* What have you found out counselor?

Elen feels her head spinning in the short time, they spend in the Gamma Quadrant she had to deal with crisis after crisis. To make matters even worse all these crises were wrapped in mystery and they haven't found any satisfying answers yet. Hopefully the tide will turn very soon. She looks at her counselor wondering what she found out.

*Observation lounge*

Nurse: Doctor Riley you had specimens you wanted analyzed in he medical lab, doctor are you feeling sick.

The fact that the away team was shaken by the events on the Rodenberry hasn't gone unnoticed. All of them looked in shock

*Jefferies tubes*

Mirok has managed to give the security guard posted at his quarters the slip. But now he is trapped in the Jefferies tubes, apparently his covert operation has drawn attention and several security officers are searching the ship. The only good thing about his situation is that they couldn't trace his actions to the source but if he doesn't get back to his quarters he'll be in trouble or worse found out.

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Is Dr. Riley supposed to be in the Observation Lounge or did you mean Sickbay? I though only the captain and counsellor went in there, either that or I'm having a funny turn, lol!))

*Shuttlecraft Paris*

Raian made his way over to Imaru where he surveyed the pattern apparently resembling flight plans. He grimaced as he realised that although she had been right, the pattern was so faint and staticy, as if someone had tried and failed to fulyl delete it for whatever reason, that he could not make heads nor tails of it. Still, he had every confidence in his ability to clear it up, but it could take some time.

Zan: I think you're right, but it's all mangled so we're gonna have to try and clear it up. Can you? You look like you've got something Korvin.

*Observation lounge*

Melena bit her lip as the captain exited with Counsellor Azuma, but took her seat regardless. Eloran also took a seat but was rather anxious to join the search for offending downloader. Although he was sure that they were already handling it, he felt particularly obliged to find him, or her, as they had interfered with his mission by taking the downloaded logs that he has intended to copy and send to his 'boss'. He wasn't sure of his intent once he had but it was imperative he recovered those files as he wasn't looking forward to telling his cohort the bad news should he fail. Lynda was sat in silence when the nurse entered and jumped a little as she suddenly spoke, for she still felt quite shaken by the events on the Rodenberry although like the others, she tried to remain calm whilst she was still on duty. In order to do this, she avoided the nurse's question and smiled weakly as she replied.

Riley: Oh yes, sorry you startled me! Take these down to the medical lab and prepare for those tests. I'll join you as soon as I can.

*Captain's Ready Room*

Mizuki followed the captain into the Observation Lounge and let out a deep breath before speaking.

Azuma: As I said before, we have been given co-ordinates that will supposedly lead to survivors. While I believe that he was telling the truth in that case, I also believe that it could be some kind of trap or equally unpleasent outcome should we investigate. There was a strange sort of arrogance about him which led me to believe that he has some kind of trump card. Whatever we do captain, I suggest we proceed with caution.

((OOC: Oh yeah, of course they are! Maybe its time for me to go to bed now lol! Goodnight!))

[motom79]

((ooc: goodnight))

*Shuttlecraft Paris*

Hrisvalar: I can try sir, but I going to need some help with the algorithms. I'm afraid I'm no good at maths.

Caeli: Well I think I've discovered something interesting, the hole was the result of a potent neurotoxine, and according to our database it's designed by a Federation scientist called Mort. Mort used to teach at the Trill Science Institute before he was booted out because of his controversial work with biological weapons. Apparently he found willing clients in our Dominion friends.

*Captain's ready room*

Elen: *looks at the coordinates and sighs* Well we should check it out, anyway. We can't risk not to act, if there are survivors we need to help them. But first we need to resolve the mess here. Any ideas to what his trump card may be, counselor?

Elen wonders why counselor Mizuki choice this secrecy isn't she telling something or did she underestimated Edris manipulative power on her counselor. Elen looks at her counselor with a puzzled expression.

Elen: Is there something you aren't telling my counselor?

*Observation lounge*

nurse: Yes doctor right away

[Mikoyo80]

*Shuttlecraft Paris*

Zan: No problem Imaru, lets take a look. Hang on a sec, did you say Mort? I've heard of him, in fact Yulia had a run in with him on one occasion to many. It certainly sounds like it could be his work but if he's working for the Dominion then why attack the Jem'Hadar? Maybe it was for the same reason that Edris killed his own bodyguards, whatever that may have been. You know, last I heard my mother was working at the Trill Science Ministry and I also heard that she and Mort were working together until he left. I don't think she could be involved but then again we haven't spoken properly in years! We spoke briefly a few months back but it was a transmission and she didn't say where she was.

Back on topic though, that looks a little better! Just one more thing and...bingo! Looks like the Jem'Hadar paid a visit to out Karemma friends before coming out here and meeting with the Rodenberry. Looks like they came pretty much straight here from the wormhole but hang on...thats weird...I'm picking up traces of four vessels, all converging on this point at pretty much the same time and they all seemed to have stayed a while. Theres no other traces after this and only three vessels here. I couldn't tell you what the vessel was though, the pattern is to degraded, but its definately four seperate vessels.

*Captain's Ready Room*

Mizuki thought for a moment, allowing her antennae to twitch a little.

Azuma: I agree captain, but I can't think of any reason why I would hide anything from you, although I can see why perhaps you concluded such. Anyway, I wasn't able to find out the exact arrangement between the Rodenberry and the Dominion but he did mention some kind of plot to incapacitate the Romulan and Klingon governments, although I'm not entirely sure I believe him when he says the crew of the Rodenberry was ready to aid them.

I can usually tell when someone is lying and he whilst not all of what he said was lies, there was something in there he was trying to use to cover his own skin. Perhaps the Rodenberry happened to meet the Dominion vessels and some sort of arrangement was discussed, but obviously it didn't go in favour of either party. He mentioned a fourth vessel on the scene as I was leaving, but he clammed up when I attempted to question further. I would like to carry on with questioning Edris and I also on plan reviewing Captain Chenowitch's personnel file if I get the chance.

[motom79]

*Captain's ready room*

Elen: Thank you counselor, I think that further questioning is in order but I'd like you to do it with the assistance of Lt.cmdr. Hal seeing he has more experience in matters such as these. I'd like you to press him further about this so called deal and that forth mystery ship, I doubt there is any truth in it but we should investigate every venue however unlikely or propitiousness it may seem.

Elen's face is neutral and although she doesn't let on, counselors Azuma's statements have shocked her to the very core. She knew captain Chenowitch, he was a spineless coward unfit to were the uniform but a personal friend and protégé of captain Tsongo. Although the Federation was mostly a meritocracy, sometimes people did get positions because of whom they know not because of talent and captain Chenowitch is or was a tragic example of that. Also knowing Tsongo like she did, this was definitely something he would try to pull of. Tsongo had been very vocal about a strong military response against the Romulan Empire after the incident with the Enterprise almost a year ago and even gained some support for this within the Andorian government, but eventually the plan died when the Federation Counsel decide on tightening the diplomatic relations. The only thing she didn't understand if Tsongo is behind this, why go after the Klingon Empire?

Elen: Let's go the observation lounge counselor. We need to deal with our present situation.

*Observation Lounge*

Ensign Thelin is talking to Lt. Woods about the device that was found on the escape pod. His antenna's twitch nervously as the emotions of the senior staff wash over him. Usually he can filter his telepathic impressions but the emotions of the senior officers are so strong that this is very hard to do.

Woods: Ensign you were saying you found a way to completely neutralize the effects of the device.

Thellin: Yessir, it's pretty straight forward actually. We need to send out an electromagnetic pulse with a frequency 0.05 Sv

Woods: Do it and good work ensign.

As Thellin leaves the observation lounge captain Elen and counselor Azuma enter. The officers present begin to rise to their feet but Elen doesn't feel like protocol at his moment, they need to cut to the chase here.

Elen: At ease, commander do you have any idea how the crew died on the Rodenberry?


*Shuttle Paris*

Hrisvalar: Thanks Raian, I mean Lt. Zan. I could run the patron through our database, maybe the analysis of the degradation patron could yield some results.

Caeli: Don't worry Raian, it's unlikely that your mother is involved. Keep in mind that Mort was a respected member of the scientific community until some of the more unsavory aspects of his work came to light. *turns to Hrisvalar* Good thinking Crewman. I think we should take some more scans and download their databases and head back to the Radiant. It doesn't seem there are any survivors, what do you think Zan.

Caeli isn't sure he is doing the right thing but he also doesn't want to put his team in any unnecessary danger by beaming over on the Dominion ships, there is no atmosphere on any of them and the closest one has a giant hole in his side. The changes that anybody is alive over there are nil.

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Goodnight))
*Observation Lounge*

There was a solemn silence in the room up until the captain's arrival and although they began to rise as per protocol, it seemed that neither they nor the captain really had their hearts in it. As everyone took their seats once again, Lynda began the report.

Riley: Well ma'am, we don't know the exact cause of death as of this moment, but they butchered in a rather unusual fashion.

Melena: Quite, we found a severed arm in the ready room and the engineering crew have been (gulps) disemboweled and strung up.

Riley: Yes, and I already have my team analyzing the blood and tissue samples taken from the blood that we found on the LCARS and the severed limb also found in the same room. I hope to join them after this and hopefully find out what coulld have caused this. The limb seemed to have been torn rather than cut or hacked, which was concerning and a little strange.

Hal: Not to mention damn right horrific! We thought it best to pull out until we had a better idea of what we were facing so we could be better prepared. I hate to look like a coward but discretion is the better part of valour, as they say.

Melena: Agreed. I gave the order ma'am, it was my belief that remaining, as unprepared as we were for what we faced, would have been nothing short of suicide. It might seem cold, but I wasn't willing to risk our crew when whatever caused this could still be there and eluding sensors. Any word from Lt. Caeli's team?

*Shuttlecraft Paris*

Zan: Good idea. Whos worried anyway? I very much doubt there are any survivors on those ships, not if theres no life support systems or anything anyway! I don't like this, who would attack Dominion and Federation vessels, in fact what were they even doing here together in the first place? I wonder what could have caused a hole like that, it's not consistent with weapons fire as it's the wrong shape and, as you pointed out, substance. It looks like something could have literally eaten it's way inside, or it's some sort of biological weapon that neither I nor Yulia's ever seen before. What you described sounded rather like gastric acid or something. I can't help but get a bad feeling, we should hurry up and get the scans we need before heading back. I've got a hunch that whatever caused this is still around.

[motom79]

((ooc: goodnight))

*Observation lounge*

sh'Raazh: They haven't reported back commander. I think it was the sensible thing to do commander *emphatic*, something over there blinded our instruments. What about our spy any word on that?

Woods: Maybe we should recall them, just in case. Like Lt.cmdr. sh'Raazh pointed out our instruments didn't work properly. But I've got some good news according to ensign Thellin my engineering staff has found a way to rectify that problem I probably should head back to engineering to oversee the procedure.

Elen listens carefully as her senior staff fills in the blanks. Normally she would have preferred a more structured way of working but times change and they needed to act quick.
Elen: *standing* Agreed doctor you should get back to sickbay. Lt. Woods see to it that our instruments work properly, you have 15 minutes. Once we have a better sight on the situation we can formulate a rescue plan or a salvage mission. Commander I know leaving those people behind must have been hard but I agree that we were unprepared and that staying was too risky. But I need you to stay on focus and recall the Paris. Lt.cmdr. Hal I want you to put together a strike team, just in case that whomever or whatever is responsible is still there, you have permission to use deadly force if necesarry. Lt.cmdr. sh'Raazh you are in charge of apprehending the person responsible for the information theft on the Rodenberry. Something tells me those stolen files may be crucial.

*Paris*

Caeli: I've got no idea and that's what I don't like. This whole situation gives me the creeps. Can you beam over a sample of the acid Zan. It could be helpful to analyze it further on the Radiant there we have access to the complete Federation library.

Hrisvalar: Sorry to interrupt Sir but we've got the databases.

Caeli: That was quick.

Hrisvalar: Well the Borg enhancements boost the uploading power by more than a 125%.

*Mirok's quarters*

Mirok crawls out of the ventilation shaft into his quarters, luckily his roommate hasn't returned nor has the security teams scurrying down the corridors come barging in. Suddenly the doors open, he quickly restores the isolation plate and jumps into a nearby chair. Moments later two security officers walk into the room.

Mirok: Can I help you?

[Mikoyo80]

*Observation Lounge*

Melena: Yes ma'am, of course.

As everyone went their separate ways, Eloran decided to check up on the situation as regards to their spy before heading to security to assemble his team. He noticed Counsellor Azuma and held the turbo life for her before moving off.

Azuma: Thank you sir.
Hal: My pleasure. Good day counsellor? I personally have had better but nothing to worry too much about. I'm just going to check up on the spy situation before put togther my strike team.
Azuma: Of course, and to answer your question it's certainly been interesting. I see headaches and a full schedule in my future.
Hal: At least you'll be kept on your toes counsellor! Speaking of which, this is my stop. Time to check on the investigation and then get cracking!
Azuma: Alright, good luck sir and be careful out there!

*Sickbay*

As Lynda entered the lab in sickbay, she turned to the vulcan doctor studying the samples procured ffrom the Rodenberry.

Riley: Anything so far?

*Shuttlecraft Paris*

Zan: Wow, guess which crewman is on the ball today! Alright, transporting now. Done, now it might be a good idea to...
Melena: (com) Radiant to Paris, it's time you were coming back.
Zan: ...come about. We're just turning around now commander.
Melena: (com) See you when you get back then, Melena out.
Zan: Ok, now to...

Raian was interrupted once more by an almighty bang and shudder. It felt like weapons fire and he ran a scan to confirm it. It had come completely out of the blue, as up until now there had been no other vessels present and it definately hadn't come from the other ships. There was only one explanation he could come up for it, but for now he engaged evasive maneuvers as he hoped that his console, or indeed the entire shuttle, blew up on him.

Zan: Damnit, must have been some kind of cloak, initiating evasive maneuvers! Lieutenant (Hitchcock) hows our shields? Looks like they're not hitting the Radiant yet but they're heading that way! I don't recognise the ship, but thats the least of our worries right now! You think we should warn the Radiant sir? Then again, they probably know by now!

[motom79]

*Shuttlecraft Paris*

The sudden jolt knocks Caeli out of balance and the unfortunate lieutenant bangs his head against a counsel knocking him out stone cold. Hrisvalar rushes to his side, the other officers are to engaged with the sudden appearance of the enemy to notice that their senior officer is out of commission.

Hitchcock: Shields are holding at 81% sir. *another blast* Shields are holding sir but they took out communications. Shall we return fire.

Hrisvalar: Lieutenant Caeli are you alright

Caeli: *mumbles* hmm

Hrisvalar: *To Zan* Sir, Lieutenant Caeli is unconscious *Another strike*

Hitchcock: I've got a lock Sir, I can return fire.

*Radiant-Sickbay*

Saval: Well the DNA is human but we also found traces of alien DNA. Doctor it resembles the DNA of our mysterious guest in the science lab. *said in a typical Vulcan manner*

*Radiant-bridge*

sh'Raazh is talking with the security officer in charge of the investigation of their internal spy but so far the investigation has come up on death ends.

sh'Raazh: So your telling me that you've found nothing

Ensign: I'm sorry ma'am, the last person we interrogated was ensign Mirok Elias, but he's clearly not in any position to pull a stunt like that he hasn't left his quarters and his computer is as clean as a whistle.

Tahlandi is manning the ops station and feels a little like a fish on dry land when all of sudden his station lights up with alarms.

Tahlandi: Captain, commander the Paris is under attack. It's taking heavy fire.

Elen: are they in weapon range lieutenant?

Tahlandi: Yes ma'am

Elen: fire. Captain Elen to shuttle Paris what's your status. *gets static* Dammit communications are down. Can we get a transporter lock on our away team?

Tahlandi: No ma'am their weapon fire disrupts our sensors, we can't get a clear reading.

sh'Raazh: The weapons they are using, I've never seen anything like it. It creates some sort of electromagnitic disturbance field. But their shields are relatively weak. I can take out their weaponsystem easily. (almost to easy sh'Raazh thinks to herself.)

sh'Raazh mans the security station and sends a message to Lt.cmdr. Hal before opening fire on the enemy ship. After the first two shots the unknown ships disappears from sensors. Cpt. Elen turns towards her XO.

Elen: did you get a clear reading on that ship? How could we have missed it?

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Goodnight.))

*Shuttlecraft Paris*

Raian hadn't noticed Korvin until Imaru had brought it to his attention. He looked down at him and then quickly realised that he was now in charge. He turned back to his station, continuing with his maneuvers as he reeled from another strike.

Zan: Ah damnit. Whats the status of the rest of our systems? Hrisvalar, I'm sure Lt. Caeli will be fine, we need you at your station and we need you to try and hail them. Hitchcock, fire at will, try and find the weapons systems! I meanwhile, will try and get us out of here in one piece.

*Bridge*

As the vessel disappeared as suddenly as it had appeared, Melena turned to her console to check the readings that had been taken.

Melena: I would guess that they were using some sort of cloak. Lt. woods migth have an idea as to how we can track it down, but I wonder why did they fired on the shuttle and not us? Unless it's our turn next, but I'm guessing that the Paris got a little too close to something for comfort. Could this be our mystery fourth vessel?

[motom79]

*Engineering*

The engineering team is working hard to cut through the interference on the Rodenberry that affected their instruments when Woods attention is drown to station alpha 01 and the readings they are getting from their unknown assailant, he had noticed similar readings only a few hours before (when the searched the area for the Rodenberry) but had mistaken them for a Dominion experiment with a badly functioning Romulan cloak. Clearly he had misread the readings there was still a vague resemblance to a Romulan cloaking device but the ship definitely wasn't Romulan nor Dominion in design. Could their long range sensors been fooled, it wasn't exactly unthinkable seeing that something is blocking and deflecting their scans. He begins calibrating a likely flight course and a runs a diagnostic on the cloak's engineering signature.

Woods: Ensign Thellin reset our sensors we should be getting a clearer view by now. I'll be on the bridge.

Thellin: Aye sir.

*Paris*

Hrisvalar: Aye sir, I'll try and bypass communications. It's no use sir but I can send a Morse code message. It's a little archaic but it gets the message across.

Hitchcock: Sir the ship has disappeared, it was hit by the Radiant.

*Bridge*

sh'Raazh takes ops again and Tahlandi shifts over to the science station to analyze their scans as does sh'Raazh. Moments later the chief engineer walks in, Joshua nods to the captain and commander and takes the engineering station.

Woods: I've begun scanning for the cloaked vessel, it uses a cloak that is vaguely similar to the Romulan variation but more effective. Engineering is ready to begin scanning the Rodenberry.

sh'Raazh: I'm getting a message from the Paris in Morse. Systems are okay, minor causality, it's Lt. Caeli. They will be ready to dock in 1 minute but I can extend our shields to them.

*sickbay*

Saval: Doctor should we inform the captain now of our findings or do you want to wait for more definite results?

[Mikoyo80]

*Shuttlecraft Paris*

Zan: Good idea, no way I'd have though of using morse code! Heres hoping we can get back home before they come back. Hows Caeli?

*Bridge*

Melena: Do it, lets get our people back in one piece. Run those scans lieutenant, lets see what we've got. I don't get this, why fire on the shuttle when we're practically shadowing them? They seem a little reluctant to fire on the Radiant, but I think theres more to it than the fact we're bigger.

Hal: Quite a bit bigger, but smaller isn't neccessarily weaker commander. Sorry I'm late captain. I'm picking up another energy signature, possibly another vessel on an intercept course.

Melena: What kind of vessel?

Hal: Not one in our databases, but the warp signature is very similar to the readings taken from the other vessel while decloaked.

Melena: Looks like their friends have arrived. How much trouble are we in?

Hal: Indeed. Looking at the weapon systems of the ship that attacked the Paris, I'd conclude that they could have destroyed her by now if they wanted to. It's probable that whoever this is is giving us a kick up the rear end. They clearly don't want us here.

Melena: Meaning that they probably know whats going on. Their information could be valuable, but I highly doubt they'll share willingly.

Hal: The other vessel is locking on weapons, suggest we do the same. So much for the kick in the rear end theory, looks like the larger vessel is looking for some action unless we leave quickly.

Melena: If we have to fight them then can we win?

Hal: It's possible, but it'll be pretty close. Their weapons are stronger but our shields can last a little longer, from what I can gather. It doesn't seem as though all of their weapons are online either.

Melena: Then I suggest we hurry up with those scans. Captain?

[motom79]

*Shuttlecraft*

Hrisvalar scans Caeli with a medical tricorder, her hands tremble slightly but all and all she is in control of herself. She was a little shocked by the sudden attack but to her own surprise she operates well under extreme stress.

Hrisvalar: He has a MTBI (concussion) nothing serious but he still needs medical attention.

The shuttle gently flies into the docking bay.

*Bridge*

Elen: Lt.cmdr. sh'Raazh hail them. Lt.cmdr. Hal target their weapon system and shields. If they want a fight we'll give them one. We use their weaker shields to our advantage I will not leave our fellow star fleet officers behind.

sh'Raazh: they are not responding to hails, ma'am

Tahlandi: captain they are generating some sort of disturbance field.

Elen: be more specific Lieutenant.

Tahlandi: I've never seen anything like it, I can't begin to speculate.

Woods: Captain according to our scans several aliens like the one we have in sickbay are in engineering. They are the only life signs, the crew is either death or missing.

sh'Raazh glances over at Eloran, it would seem their gut feeling about their alien guest was right, it's a danger to them.

[Mikoyo80]

*Bridge*

Eloran felt a sinking feeling in his gut as he exchanged glances with the captain. After a moment both he and Melena sprang into action. They could mourn their fallen comades later but right now they had a job to do.

Melena: Intruder Alert, seal off main engineering.
Hal: I'll take a security team down there immediatley.
Melena: Remember, don't let them touch you! What happened to Ensign Spell was from fear but who knows what these people are capable of when they're in this sort of mood!
Hal: Aye sir!

As the Bajoran security officer entered the turbo lift, Raian stepped out and immediately took his station. He had left Imaru with medical personnel in the shuttlebay as he and Lt. Hitchcock had hurried off to their stations. Raian quickly surveyed the situation, as another shot was fired causing the ship to shudder violently. He had arrived in time to hear that they had been boarded by what was possibly the same species as their 'guest' in the lab. All he had to concentrate on flying in an attack pattern and coming up with some way of gaining an advantage.

((OOC: Whoops, that was confusing, lol! I can change the post if you like but it'll have to be tomorrow. It's probably not a good idea to wipe out the entie engineering crew when they're going to be gone a while. Goodnight!))

[motom79]

((ooc: damn I meant the Rodenberry but actually your post makes the situation more urgent plus we killed a good portion of our engineers. Could give us a headache along the way. No leave it some engineers escaped the slaughter, sometimes misunderstandings can make things a tad more interesting. Plus it gives us a change to examine the crew's reaction to the situation))

*Engineering - Jefferies tubes*

Thellin and five other engineers have managed to escape the sudden invasion of octopus like aliens and have locked themselves into one of the Jefferies tubes. Thellin hopes the sensors are working properly, he had started on the task but the sudden invasion had forced him to flee. He can still hear distant screaming as he and a young crewman are working on setting up a damping field around engineering, he hopes that others have managed to escape.

*Bridge*

Elen acknowledged her chief of security's stare and she wonders if she made a judgment error not to listen to him and sh'Raazh when it came to the alien. Had her moral code prevented her from seeing the truth and the danger and did her crew pay the price for it. But she can't dwell on these thoughts they needed firm action. Mourning and blaming oneself shall have to take a backseat for no.

Elen: Lt. Zan evasive maneuvers buy us time but calculate an escape route to these coordinates *transfers the escape route provided by Edris*, Lieutenant Commander Hal use any force necessary to stop those aliens.

The other ship began realizing salvo after salvo but the patron was erratic missing them nearly as much as hitting them. The Rodenberry was also taken heavy fire and the small Federation science vessel began losing structural integrity.

sh'Raazh: Scans of the Rodenberry indicate they have boarded them too. I'm not picking up any survivors captain. The Rodenberry can't take much more of this. Captain, commander look at this according to our sensors their phasers act as transporter device to board our ships.

Tahlandi: Captain a group of six engineers has made it to the Jefferies Tubes. they have managed to erect a level 10 forcefield around engineering containing them.

Elen: Tell them help is on the way. Can we block it, prevent them from beaming through our shields?

Tahlandi: Yes ma'am *sends a message to the surviving engineers*

sh'Raazh: I can try captain but the weapons are ....

A violent blast throws the Radiant of course and if it wasn't for their capable pilot they would have collided with the Rodenberry. Elen is flown through the air and lands with a violent smack against the ground. She stirs a little but it's clear that the command has fallen upon the shoulders of commander Melena for now. Tahlandi rushes to the captain's side.

Tahlandi: *scans her* She has a fractured skull and three broken ribs. She needs immediate medical attention. Doctor Riley to the bridge, we have causalities.

Woods is staring at his counsel, he feels defeated and tears are burning in his eyes from utter shock. The always calm engineer feels like he is spinning out of control, the entire alpha shift death. It takes him a moment to come out of his trance but another jolt wakes him up.

Woods: Target their aft shields Lieutenant Hitchcock, they are the weakest there. One photon torpedo should be enough to trigger a cascade effect.

sh'Raazh: The Rodenberry is barely holding itself together, we need to distance ourself before it blows itself and us apart. Shields are holding on sixty procent.

The situation was getting more and more dire for them, with the captain out of commission, an invasion that killed almost one third of their engineering staff, the constant barrage of fire upon them and the Rodenberry's imminent destruction.

((ooc: hope you don't mind me boosting about Zan's piloting skills. Goodnight))

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: No Problem :)))
*Bridge*

As the ship shuddered violently once again, Raian found himself having to act quickly to avoid a collision with the Rodenberry. A bead of sweat trickled down his brow as it was becoming increasingly difficult to fly the ship out of the way of some of those shots. He was concentrating so hard that he hadn't noticed the captain becoming incapacitated behind him. As Riley entered the bridge with a medical team to deal with casulaties, Melena had no time to worry too much about the unconscious Deltan as she continued where the captain left off.

Melena: Our weapons are what lieutenant (sh'Raazh)?
Hal: (com) Hal to the bridge, our guests are putting up a fight but it seems that they are contained for now. We think we may have one more heading to the science labs, We've warned them and I'm taking a team to pursue.
Melena: Right, keep me posted and don't let it reach the lab, Melena out. Is there any chance of beaming them back to their own vessel? Or perhaps we could decompressionise main engineering, I believe that deck has already been evacuated? Lt. Zan, prepare to jump out at warp 9. Either way we can't stay here.
Zan: Aye, sir.
Melena: How long until destruction of the Rodenberry?

[Mikoyo80]

Name and Rank: Lt. Loral

Age: 32

Species/Homeworld: Klingon, Qo'Nos

Position: Klingon Liasion Officer

A brief sentence or two describing your personality: Loral, daughter of Ma'Qeth of the House of Ma'Qeth, is a highly respected warrior and holds the Klingon rank of lieutenant. Although females are rarely chosen for political positions, she has proven her worth on more than one occasion and has earned her right and the respect of 'people in high places'. Her personality is typical of all Klingons, although she does respect the cultures and ways of others to a point. This doesn't mean of course that she agrees with them though! Loral allows her opinion to be voiced, sometimes even when it is not welcome.

http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q126/Mikoto80/Star%20Trek/snapshot_16015603_b6029d76.jpg

[motom79]

((ooc: Love your Klingon Liaison officer))

*Bridge*

sh'Raazh: Our targeting sensors are being effected by some bizarre electromagnetic field rendering them almost useless.

Woods: One more direct hit to the Rodenberry and she's done for, I suggest we spread out photon torpedo's like a minefield creating a barrier between us and them.

sh'Raazh: I could send the Rodenberry on a collision course commander. But the more pressing problem is their weapons, they depolarize our shields making them ineffective and ...

the ship shook violently as the Rodenberry explode.

sh'Raazh: Hull breaches on deck 5, 7 and 2 We need to get out of here.

*Science Lab*

The Alien creature is becoming more and more agitated and is throwing itself against the forcefield, disturbing it. All of a sudden one of his fellows slitters into the lab killing one of the science officers instantly.

Science ensign: We need help intrud ... argh *falls on the ground*

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Ta, tried my best to make her actually look Klingon. Now to make her sound like one, lol!))

*Bridge*

Raian nearly fell from his station as he wasn't quite quick enough on the thrusters to get them out of there before the Rodenberry exploded causing a heck of a lot of damage and perhaps casualties. He silently cursed as he was finally able to get enough power to warp them out of there as ordered. Once they were at a safe enough distance, and it became apparent that they hadn't been followed, Melena shook her head violently and turned to her subordinates.

Melena: They haven't followed us? Good, damage and casualty report? (taps com badge) Hal, how are you doing down there?

*Corridor - Science Labs*

As Eloran and his team charged through the corridors in pursuit of the surviving creature, who was heading toward the science lab, presumably to look for it's friend, the team made it around the corner just in time to see their Klingon liasion officer finish it off with a bat'leth. Clearly it had attempted to battle the wrong person and there was only one possible outcome in a battle against a fully armed Klingon with good reflexes. As the decimated creature breathed it's last, the Klingon woman, Loral, spat upon it before noticing Hal's team. Although it was clear that there had been some kind of a struggle, Loral brushed it off in the way that only a Klingon can.

Loral: P'tak! Not even worthy of battle!
Hal: Indeed (responding to Melena) the last creature is down commander, with a little help from our liasion officer.
Loral: Where is your captain?
Melena: (through com) I'm afraid the captain is unavailable, as am I at the moment. I need you at the Bridge lieutenant commander, and you are more than welcome to join us Loral.
Hal: I'll need to get the team organised and I'll be right with you. Hal out. Wonder what happened to the captain? Alright, lets clean up back here. Theres just the one in the lab to worry about now. Are you alright, Loral was it?
Loral: I am Loral, daughter of Ma'Qeth of the House of Ma'Qeth! I do not require assistance nor concern!

As Hal was about to reply, and remind her that she shouldn't have been carrying a blade weapon though the corridors, he received the communication from the Science Lab and swallowed as the communication was cut off. There was no time to mourn a potential death though as the team, now accompanied by Loral, made their way quickly to the main lab as Eloran contacted the Bridge once again.

Hal: Hal to Bridge, I think our guest might be loose in the Science Lab, we're expecting casualties and fatalities.

[motom79]

((ooc: A proper Klingon would never don on a Star Fleet p'taq uniform LOL. Great how you worked her into the story very Klingon. Goodnight))

*Bridge*

sh'Raazh: Understood Lt.cmdr. Hal. Causality reports are rolling in commander, 20 people are severely wounded, 11 life treating, 9 minor injuries and 3 person unaccounted for and 59 people are death.

Woods: I should get down to engineering undone some of the damage, ma'am. All engineering teams have been dispatched to deal with the hull breaches.

Tahlandi: do you need assistance doctor with transporting the captain to sickbay?

Hitchcock: Still no sign of pursuit, sir. I'm running a diagnostic on why our weapons were so infective against them.

*Corridors*

Thellin is standing in the corridor shaking, the horror that had taken place in engineering hasn't settled in yet as he and the other survivors begun working on the damage caused by the aliens,luckily no major systems were effected. Suddenly a gentle hand touches his shoulder it's counselor Azuma.

Thellin: I'll be alright I think, I just need a moment to myself. Can you hand me the hypospanner.

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: True, true. Thanks anyway! Goodnight!))

*Bridge*

Melena: Damnit. Yes lieutenant, I would be very curious indeed to know the reason behind that. Let me know the second you have something! The captain?
Riley: We need to get her to sickbay immediately. Thank you lieutenant, you're help would be appreciated.
Melena: (sighs) Lt. Zan, ETA to reach these co-ordinates?
Zan: At present speed we'll be there in...two hours and thirty seven minutes.
Melena: Alright, I'll be in the Ready Room.

As Melena entered the Ready Room, Raian looked down to notice his hands shaking with built ip nerves. This reminded of the incident in which a boarding party had killed Yulia, and almost Zan too. The Symbiont wouldn't have lasted the day, never mind the trip to Trill, if Raian hadn't been on board and been willing to join with it. He tried to block Yulia's last moments, from his and her point of view, for he had been present at that moment, from his mind as he gripped the console tightly and took deep breaths.

*Corridors*

Mizuki wanders the corridors now that the battle is over, and is pained to see the state of complete shock that the crew is in, particularly the remaining engineering crew. It had been a sudden and senseless act of brutality and nearly 60 people had dies for no good reason. There was a chance however that there was a reason for them wanting to be in Main Engineering, but it would take a full diagnostic to determine to find out if there was anything missing or tampered with. She sighed as she turned and noticed a fellow Andorian who had seemed to take it particularly badly. She placed a gentle hand on his shoulder and waited for him to respond before picking up the hypopanner and holding him out to him, speaking gently.

Azuma: Here. Perhaps you should take a few minutes before you start repairs? Your shaking ensign. I know it's hard, and that you'd rather take your mind of this...incident, but apart from anything else, you can't conduct repairs like this. If you need to talk, you know where my office is right?

[motom79]

*Bridge*

sh'Raazh: Are you feeling alright Zan, you are shaking.

Everybody on the bridge was in a state of shock, about what just transpired. Rann is helping the doctor and the medical staff with transporting captain Elen. He is doing this in sort of a sleepwalker mood, registering what is happening but barely able to react to it.

*Corridors*

Thellin: Thank you counselor.

At that moment the medical team begins to bring out the death, a severed limp rolls of one of the bio stretchers, a young engineer loses her
head at the side becoming hysteric, screaming and whaling. Thellin's stomach gives a violent surge and the content of his lunch end up on his
uniform and boots.

Thellin: Sorry.

*Bridge*

Caeli enters the bridge closely followed by their Klingon Liaison officer, he still feels dizzy from the blow to his head but he wants to be on the bridge, he couldn't stay in sickbay when everything was coming apart.

Caeli: Captain, doctor what's wrong?

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Goodnight))

*Bridge*

Zan: I'll be fine Tara, just a little shaken up. This whole thing is bringing up things I'd rather forget, and I don't really mean from my own past. The last time Zan saw something like this was when Yulia was killed...Anyway, we should be arriving at wherever it is we're going within the next few hours. Hopefully, that'll give us enough time calm down a little. We lost some good crewmen back there.

Riley: The captain is one her way to sickbay with a fractured skull and three broken ribs. Alright people, lets go. Gently now.

Melena: Lt. Caeli, Lt. Loral, glad you two could join us. What can I do for you? Apparently Lt.cmdr. Hal has 'subdued' our guest in the science lab and we're not to expect any more trouble from it. He also mentioned a certain liasion officer whom should have been in her quarters?
Loral: To cower in the face of peril would be dishonourable, commander.
Melena: Of course, but the Klingon High Council would have our heads if we all got careless. Speaking of heads, I need everyone thinking clearly otherwise we won't get anywhere. I know it's going to be hard considering all thats happened and the injury to the captain but we need to focus. Really, we could do with a break but chances are that the stand in crew are in a worse state than what we are.

*Corridor*

Mizuki too paled at the sight of the mutilated body being carried from Engineering and barely registered her fellow andorian's 'accident'. She gave a faint smile and nod before rushing to the screaming crewman and gently leading her away from the sorry scene. She did this silently and in the hope that poor Sorjei would be able to sort himself out for the time being.

((OOC: Good point, I'm not using my brain again lol!))

[motom79]

((ooc: Night))

*Main Engineering*

Woods is looking in horror at his 'home and workplace', one of the death creatures is laying behind a pile of standard work kits in it's tentacles something vaguely familiar but before Woods has time to take a closer look a medical technician covers up the creature. Woods pulls himself together and begins investigating the damage. the creatures didn't bring technology with them but there must have been a reason why they targeted engineering of all places, the heart of a Star Ship. Within mere minutes Woods finds the reason.

Woods: Commander Melena, the Aliens tried to infect the ship with a virus from the influenza strain, it already has affected 3 bio neural gel packs in main engineering. I'll isolate it, before it can do any real damage. Medic I need some assistance, I need you to administer an antiviral agent.

Medic: In a gel pack sir?

Woods: It's living tissue, and in need of medical assistance.

*Sickbay*

Hrisvalar has volunteered to help with the minor injuries and is helping a surly and fairly hostile young ensign named Mirok Elias. The young man seems agitated and nervous.

Hrisvalar: Please sit still, sir.

Mirok: I want to go to my quarters, it's just a cut.

Hrisvalar: Well you still need to see a doctor, to be cleared it's ....

Mirok: I don't need a crewman to remind of procedure.

*Bridge*

Caeli: *to doctor Riley* But she will be okay.

sh'Raazh: *addressing Raian* I'm not sure. What if this new coordinates sent us straight into a trap or worse. They have cloaked ships it's not because sensors say they aren't in pursuit that they aren't following. *notices Loral* Lt. Loral what do you know of cloaking devices, more specifically how to track them.

Several people on the bridge look stunned, this was a serious breach to involve a third party into internal Federation affairs, it could cost ones career. But sh'Raazh didn't care if they wanted to stay alive they needed to stop thinking as well oiled officers and start thinking out of the box and Klingons had a damn side more experience with cloaks that the Federation did. Of course sh'Raazh wasn't unfamiliar with tracking cloaking device, she was pretty good at it but surely a Klingon Warrior like Loral would have some interesting insights.

((ooc: I'll post a summary (log) soon, after the good doctor has patched up captain Elen LOL))

[Mikoyo80]

*Bridge*

Melena frowned as sh'Raazh involved Loral in what was clearly a Federation matter but understood the need to involve a third party in what was a dangerous and unfortunatley fatal situation. The Klingon meanwhile, wasn't too keen on sharing information that would be potentially harmful to the Klingon Empire, should their shaky alliance with the Federation fail, but she had been authorised to do so, at least to a point. The potential of a Dominon reformation was a threat to them too after all and to die on a Starfleet vessel when she could have prevented it would be most dishonourable.

Loral: There are many ways to detect a cloaking device. They can be detected as sensor echos or as a high concentration of tetryon particles. An anti-proton beam could detect Romulan cloaking devices.

Melena: I suppose we are dealing with a modified version of the Romulan Cloak. sh'Raazh, work with Lt. Loral and see what you can come up with, and quickly. I will be in the Ready Room conducting a report for Starfleet, as well as assess the casualty report... Let me know if anything comes up and keep me updated on progress.

[motom79]

*Sickbay*

Sickbay is crowed with patients when captain Elen is brought in, a stern looking Vulcan physician walks towards doctor Riley.

Saval: Doctor Riley, sorry to disturb you but we have a problem, engineering send us a disturbing report about the bioneurological gel packs. Some of them have been contaminated with an influenza virus of type A. I think it's logical to start decontamination procedures. Also we should isolate contaminated packs so the virus doesn't spread any further. Nurse Weitz has begun replicating inoculations. *looks at the captain* Do you require assistance?

*Bridge*

sh'Raazh: Thank you Loral, but the problem is that we got several sensor echoes even when they weren't cloaked. They have technology that can fool our sensors. We could scan for high concentrations of tetryon particles. But I'm not sure an anti-proton beam would give us all that much information. *shows the scans at Loral* Look at this. Tell me what do you make of this? It is a scan of when the ship cloaked I've never seen energy signatures like this before, these spikes are very unusual.

Hitchcock: Commander I think I've got an got an answer why are weapons were so ineffective, their shields generated some sort of subspace field deflecting our weapons. The good news is that we can correct for it.

*Science Labs*

Tahlandi walks towards the science labs, Lt.cmdr. Hal and his team is still there but the situation seems to be in control. He notices that one of the aliens has met their Klingon liaison officer.

Tahlandi: Is this the one from the lab, how did it escape Lt.cmdr. Hal?

((ooc: there were two in the labs, one was killed by Loral, I assume Lt.cmdr. Hal took care of the other one?)

[motom79]

((ooc: I thought I post a list with some NPC's, the list can always be updated))

*NPC's*

Name and Rank: Lt.jg Charles 'Chip' Hitchcock
Age: 25
Species/Homeworld: Human, Alpha Centauri
Position: security officer
A brief sentence or two describing your personality: Sportive, fun loving, laid back and suave ladies man. At first glance Chip is your typical spoiled rich and privileged jock. But don't be fooled Chip is smart as a whip and his athletic abilities make him an ideal security officer.


Name and Rank: Edris
age: unknown
Species/Homeworld: Vorta
Position: diplomat
A brief sentence or two describing your personality: Edris is a master of manipulation with fuzzy allegiances. He's previous clone was known as the butcher of Betazed. Like all Vorta he is deeply devoted to his Gods.


Name and Rank: Lt.jg Satik
age: 66
Species/Homeworld: Vulcan
Position: Security
A brief sentence or two describing your personality: Logic and dutiful Satik is your typical Vulcan officer.


Name and Rank: Lt. Saval
Age: 117
Species/Homeworld: Vulcan
Position: Physician
A brief sentence or two describing your personality: Doctor Saval's expertise in exobiology, pharmaceutics and traditional Vulcan medicine make him an important part of doctor Riley's team.


Name and Rank: ensign Bella Sims
Age: 24
Species/Homeworld: Human/Earth
Position: Security
A brief sentence or two describing your personality: Bella hasn't quite find her turn in Star Fleet and considers the Radiant her last change.


Name and Rank: Ensign Yael Weitz
Age: 23
Species/Homeworld: Human/Earth (North America)
Position: nurse-practitioner
A brief sentence or two describing your personality: Gently and soft spoken are words best to describe Yael Weitz.


Name and Rank: Ensign Ymac
Age: 29
Species/Homeworld: Tellarite
Position: Strategic operations
A brief sentence or two describing your personality: Impatient, argumentative and stubborn ensign Ymac is your typical Tellarite officer.


Name and Rank: crewman 1st class S'tek
Age: 45
Species/Homeworld: Vulcan/Romulan hybrid
Position: medical technician
A brief sentence or two describing your personality: Rejoined Star Fleet 2 years ago as a medical technician. Served as a soldier during the Dominion Cold War on Alpha Celti Prime.


Name and Rank: ensign Anwar Spell
Age: 23
Species/Homeworld: Human/Moon Colony
Position: Security
A brief sentence or two describing your personality: Anwar always had a knack of attracting bad luck and bizarre accidents. Will his luck turn on the Radiant?


Name and Rank: crewman 3rd class Andreas Omer
Age: 30
Species/Homeworld: Betazoid
Position: Linguist, expert in telepathic communication
A brief sentence or two describing your personality: Joined Star Fleet six months ago to qualify as a professor at the Academy.


Name and Rank: Master Chief Petty officer Said El Maliki
Age: 46
Species/Homeworld: Human/Earth (Egypt)
Position: Astrometrics
A brief sentence or two describing your personality: Enlisted during the height of the Dominion war. Before enlisting in Star Fleet he was a professor of mathematics at Yale.


Name and Rank: Ensign Iliya Petrova
Age: 25
Species/Homeworld: Human/Earth (Russia)
Position: astronomy
A brief sentence or two describing your personality: Iliya Petrova is a dreamer and somewhat naive and idealistic. She loves writing poetry.


Name and Rank: Petty officer Abhay Patel
Age: 39
Species/Homeworld: Human/Mars colony
Position: Science; department biological research
A brief sentence or two describing your personality: Enlisted in Star Fleet at the tender age of 19. Took a leave when he was 27 to get his master degree in biology with the intent to work as a private citizen. The Dominion Cold war made him come back to serve Star Fleet as a soldier and he has served aboard several Star Ships ever since as science crewman.


Name and Rank: Chief petty officer S'Pauk
Age: 50
Species/Homeworld: Vulcan/Tellarite hybrid
Position: Communications
A brief sentence or two describing your personality: S'Pauk is a very argumentative but logical man. He holds a bachelor degree in computer sciences and a master degree in exo-linguistics.

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Good idea, then we know more than just their names. I assumed that the creature had been dealt with seeing as Loral had accompanied the security team and then turned up on the bridge. It seems I might have misunderstood somethign again though, looking back! Sorry about not posting by the way, computer was playing up :(.))

*Sickbay*

Lynda had been doing her best to keep up with the wounded, with the help of her fellow doctor, but had inevitably lost two crewmembers whom had made it to sickbay before dying of their injuries. After returning from the Bridge with the injured and semi-conscious captain and was about to move in when Saval approached her.

Riley: I see. I entirely agree, make sure it doesn't infect the other systems or we'll have another big problem. On our hands. Nurse, can you give me a hand? Can you hear me captain? I'm going to use a Bone-Knitting Laser to repair your damaged bones and run a few scans to check for any further damage.

*Science Labs*

Hal: I'm not entirely sure but I think one of it's friends was in here before it leaving and bumping into Loral. We had no choice but to kill this one too. Seems a little wrong, but it was killing our people so we had no choice.

*Bridge*

Loral: I assumed there would have been modifications made or we would have detected them. Indeed they are unusual, perhaps we could use this to our advantage.

Melena: Very good Lieutenant, get started. I'll be in the Ready Room.

[motom79]

((ooc: Or I'm mistaken, don't worry. I was thinking wrapping part of this mess up and concentrate a little on the after effects this tragic turn of events will have on our characters. Argh computers can be so annoying at times *smashes head against keyboard* :smash:))

*Sickbay*

Weitz: of course doctor.
Elen: What happened, are we still under attack
Weitz: please lay still captain, doctor Riley will explain everything *turns to the doctor* The swelling of the brain is going away.

*Bridge*

sh'Raazh: Agreed maybe we can set up a detection grid, care to join me to astrometics Loral. If they want a fight let's give them a glorious one. Hmm I think I've found the answer why they didn't follow us. Zan look at this, they can't even reach warp five with those engines.

Ensign Ymac steps on the bridge, She walks towards Lt. Caeli with a padd and a curious expression on her pig like face.

Ymac: Sir, I think you should see this, it's from the Ferengi Database
Caeli: Commander, may I join you? My team has uncovered some interesting information in the Ferengi Database

*Science Labs*

Tahlandi notices the sorry state of the science lab, crewman Omer is nursing a cut on his arm but seems otherwise fine. A Catian crewman is cleaning up some soil samples, her tail flicking nervously. As the death crewman is being carried away, Tahlandi can't pitty the alien he stares at the corpse before turning his attention to Lt.cmdr. Hal

Tahlandi: I'm sure the profets understand this was an act of self defence sir. *scans it* Well we should put it in stasis. Damn I should analyze our scans see if I can find anything that would help us. I hope we can find a way to prevent them from beaming throw our shields. What I don't understand is how they managed it, when they invaded engineering they ... The shuttle Lt.cmdr. Hal has anybody inspected the Paris. Remember Lt.cmdr. sh'Raazh said that their weapons also beamed them (the aliens) in, well they didn't fire at us when they beamed into engineering they fired upon the Paris what if they used the Paris to invade us. *said in rapid manner*

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Too true, allthough it would also help if learned to read properly, lol!))

*Sickbay*

Riley: Thank you nurse. The initial attack is over but we lost a lot of good people. Unfortunately, I don't have much more information than that as I've been concentrating on treating the injured. I'll should probably do an autopsy on the two remaining creatures. I did hear that the Rodenberry was destroyed.

*Bridge*

There was a rather solemn atmosphere, not only on the bridge, but thoughout the ship as the aftermath of the encounter with the alien beings was being dealt with and the crew began mourning their friends. There would be

Zan: Well thats good, means we can outrun them. Must be building their ships for fire power and defense rather than speed. Who are 'they' anyway and what the hell did they think they were doing(slightly angry)? We were no real threat to them, or were we? (a little calmer) Maybe there was something we shouldn't have seen or something? Ok, you go see how we can track these ba...people. Good luck Tara.

Melena: Interesting information you say? Thank you ensign, lieutenant you may join me.

As Melena entered the captain's ready room, she sighed heavily as she sat in front of the LCARS and studied the latest reports. It turned out that they had lost a further two people since the mid-crisis casualty had come in but the rest seemed to be making a recovery. Things should be calmer in sickbay now at least, but for now she was very curious as to what the Tellarite ensign had found. She sat back in the chair, and invited Caeli to sit on the other one, before facing him.

Melena: Alright, what have we got lieutenant?

*Science Lab*

Hal: It's possible, that would explain why the shuttlecraft took so many hits, and why they didn't destroy it, but something doesn't fit. I think we need to find out how they kept themselves from rematerialising until they were on board the Radiant and didn't appear on the Paris. There should be an engineering team down there already fixing her up, we can give them a heads up so that they can check out the other systems if they're not already. I'll head down there in case they need some tactical expertise.

[motom79]

*Science Lab*

Tahlandi: *contemplating* Well their energy patrons could have been hold in some sort of stasis, using the Paris as a piggyback ride to get onto the Radiant. Once the Paris entered our shields the Aliens could have materialized anywhere on the ship. But your right sir, we are missing pieces of the puzzle I think we should be looking for some sort of tracking device.

*Sickbay*

Elen: My place is on the bridge *tries to get up but falls back* oh.

Elen loses her consciousness, the head trauma she sustained is severe and although the swelling is subdued and the risk of bleeding is minimal at this stage of the treatment, captain Elen is in no way fit to return to duty. Even with advanced medicine and Doctor Riley's superior care, captain Elen will be out of commission for at least a couple of days.

Weitz: captain, doctor Riley her paracortex (telepathic center of the brain) is in overdrive, she's going into telepathic shock.

*Ready Room*

Caeli: I haven't got the time to make a full review of the report but look at this commander. It's about a faction within the Dominion, the True Way. They have been experimenting with genetic modification on the Stakorons and look at this visual, familiar isn't it.

Although still shocked about what happened and by the picture of the familiar octopus like Alien, he's also glad that they finally had some answers on what they are dealing with.

Caeli: Maybe I should review this report further with my team and security. Apparently this information was hidden in a recipe about tube worms.

*Bridge*

sh'Raazh: Thanks Zan, I don't understand why didn't they destroy the ships earlier if they wanted to cover up ... *notices Loral listening* We'll talk later.

Although she asked the Klingon liaison officer for help in this matter, she didn't feel comfortable discussing what exactly happened openly in front of her. She was sure that Loral didn't fully disclosed all her knowledge about tracking cloaked ships, but at the same time sh'Raazh wonders how long they can play hide and seek with their Klingon companion before she gets fed up with it and demands answers in a way that only a Klingon can. As the two women leave the bridge and walk towards Astrometics, there is an uneasy silence between them. Both of this temperamental women seem to wait for the other one to speak first.

*Docking Bay*

A team of engineers is working on the Paris dismantling it, when the call from Lt.cmdr. Hal reaches them to investigate the shuttle for energy patrons and alien devices. The grieve stricken engineers are shocked by this announcement and wonder if they are working on an instrument of death. One young engineer actually backs away for a moment before regaining his composure, the atmosphere in the docking bay is a mixture of grieve, mild panic and resolve.

((ooc: I posted in the planning thread, once again inviting other people))

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Cool, I assume you meant inviting :)?))

*Sickbay*

As the captain went into what had been described as a telepathic shock, Lynda wasted no time in asking her nurse for and then administering the correct medication. Of course, it had only really been tested on betazoids so she silently prayed that it would be effective on Deltans such as Elen. She began running a scan to make sure that her patients paracortex had not been damaged in any way, as this would of course explain the reason behind it. Another possible cause would alss have been the presence of the aliens, as she remembered what had happened on the alien vessel when they had first discovered one of these. Not only the telepathic species had been effected by this though, although she wondered if perhaps there was some deeper connection with telepathic species.

*Corridor*

As the two potentially aggressive women strode through the corridor, many a crewman grew nervous at their presence. Both Klingon and Andorian women were known for the aggressive streak and a combination of both could surely only spell trouble. Loral was feeling it a little herself as she had noticed sh'Raazh and Zan abruptly halt their conversation as she waited for the Andorian Starfleet officer to follow. As they entered Astrometrics, she made her way to the main console.

Loral: We could perhaps modify a detection grid to work in a similar way to that of a tachyon detection grid. The latter would be impossible without the presence of other starships or sentry posts.

*Ready Room*

Melena: The True Way. Sounds like the Dominion mark two, never mind a faction of it. Alright, work with Lt.Cmdr. Hal and study these reports further. Check every piece of data, no matter how insignificant it may look. I'll attempt to compile a report for Starfleet, although we may be too far from the Wormhole by now. We also need to recover the stolen information.

[motom79]

((ooc: Yes I did, I confuse the letters I and E sometimes because of my native tongue (Dutch) plus I didn't notice my mistake inventing versus inviting it does make a world of difference LOL))

Head of Strategic Operations log:

Our search and rescue mission of the Rodenberry is getting more and more complicated as we encountered a new hostile species named the Stakaron. Apparently a group within the Dominion named the True Way has begun experimenting with genetic modifications to enhance the Stakarons as their soldiers. We can only assume that they are behind the attack on the Rodenberry and the Jem'Hadar vessels. Of interest is that one of the Jem'Hadar vessels was affected by a biochemical weapon that was developed by a Trill scientist. During our investigation one of our shuttles and the Radiant were attacked by two cloaked vessels and took heavy damage. Unknown to us was that the aliens have technology that allows them to penetrate our shields, they managed to kill one third of our engineers and infect our bioneural circuits with a virus, but Lt. Woods and Doctor Riley's team have managed to stop the spreading of the virus. Not only engineering was struck by tragedy during the attack we had several hull breaches and we've lost many good men and women. Our captain was wounded in the attack but is expected to make a full recovery. I hope the investigation of the Ferengi logs will bring some answers. Also finding the stolen personal logs of captain Chenowitch of the Rodenberry could shed some light on what is happening. But so far that investigation has come up on death ends and I must say that the idea that one of our own is capable of stealing such crucial information is unnerving to say the least.

*Astrometics*

sh'Raazh: Well we could use our communications satellites to create a tachyon field but I'm sure our Dominion friends will see this as a provecation. I hope you don't mind stepping on some toes. The nearest Federation ship is the Boudica but at maximum warp it would still takes us three weeks to reach them. So we are virtual only.

sh'Raazh looks at Loral, she knew that a Klingon wouldn't mind stepping on few toes but she wonders if she is willing to go on the offense not knowing the full extend of what had transpired.

*Sickbay*

Captain Elen is in a deep sleep, the treatment is working but the medical staff is a little baffled on why she had the attack. Luckily there doesn't appear to be any permanent brain damage.

Weitz: the latest scans doctor, the treatment seems to be successful. Also I have a preliminary autopsy rapport on the aliens, it appears that the death aliens were emitting a faint telepathic pulse. Doctor Riley are you feeling alright.

((ooc: I'm aware that Caeli doesn't mention the disclosures Edris made towards Mizuki Azuma in his log. He isn't aware of them as yet))

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Makes sense. No problem, I know you have trouble with english spelling :).))

*Astrometrics*

Loral: It could work but you are right. I will do whatever is neccessary to complete this mission but I believe you are withholding vital information. Before we begin, I demand to know what exactly has transpired.

*Sickbay*

Riley: I'm fine thank you. Good work, but I wonder if there's a reason for that telepathic pulse. Perhaps now would be a good time to find out exactly how they were able to injure Ensign Spell and the others in case we come across them again. We were able to help our first patient as he was brought here immediately after his injury but there was very little I could do for some of the others. Perhaps now would be a good time to join Dr. Saval and see if he has uncovered anything else.

*Security - Office*

Eloran was now in his office using every trick in the book to trace those missing logs. Not only could they be vital to the crew on board the Radiant, but they were required and promised to his collaborator. The plan had been to get a hold of the logs and to send on a copy, easy for a chief security officer, but without the rest they would be of little use. Using tricks he had learned from the organisation, he had narrowed the search to the junior officers quarters and hoped that it would only be a matter of time and effort before they could be recovered.

[motom79]

((ooc: Well I'm really careful and proofread my posts but sometimes things do slip through the cracks, it's not my first language after all (plus I've the annoying tendency to switch between American standard spelling and British standard spelling because we are required to learn both. Although I do try to be consistent).))

*Astrometics*

Thellin slips into astrometics immediately sensing tension between their Klingon Liaison officer and chief of operations. He was ordered to go to his quarters but he needs to do something so he decided to work on the sensors in astrometics. Unfortunately for him he now finds himself in the company of these two highly volatile women. He tries to bloke their strong emotions but is rather unsuccessful in this endeavor.

sh'Raazh: You know I can't disclose sensitive information about Star Fleet security issues to you. *quickly adding, before the situation comes to blows* But I agree you are entitled to the truth. *taps combadge* Commander Melena could you please report to astrometics. It's time we do the honorable thing.

sh'Raazh knows she is taking a huge gamble here but Loral deserved to know the truth plus the last time she found herself in a fight with a Klingon Woman she ended up with two broken ribs and a missing antenna. The biggest problem here was loyalty, they needed to appeal to Loral's sense of honor or risk a full report to the Klingon High Counsel about this rather delicate matter. Maybe a colored version of the truth would be best. Another problem was that sh'Raazh feared that commander Melena might not want to share sensitive information with Loral. The commander was an excellent XO but sh'Raazh found her a little to much by the book so sh'Raazh prepared herself for a fight against regulations. Thellin has taken a station at the far end of astrometics and notices a familiar energy reading on class M planet, it matches the energy signature of two Federation runabouts, this strikes Thellin as odd.

Thellin: Sorry to disturb you lieutenant commander, Lieutenant Loral but I've found something.

sh'Raazh is a little startled by the young ensign, she didn't notice him come in earlier because she was so preoccupied by what happened and how to deal with Lt. Loral that she lost track of her environment. It takes her a moment to regain composure.

sh'Raazh: *agressive* What, how long have you been standing there.

*Security Office*

Caeli walks into the security office of Lt.cmdr. Hal, he needed to discuss the findings of his team and a course of action. He notices that the security chief is buzzy so he clears his throat to let him know he is here.

Caeli: Sir sorry to disturb you but I think we've got a breakthrough *hands over the PADD with the information discovered about the aliens in the Ferengi database*

*Mirok's quarters*

Mirok has retrieved the logs but is unsure what to do with them. The death is sickbay are haunting him, what if him holding on to this information causes more death. He's loyal to captain Tsongo the man who helped him when things looked bleak, if it wasn't for him Mirok would have been booted out of the Academy. He owned him, but what if the price was to high. Maybe it was time to come clean with his past face up to what he had done.

*Bridge*

Hrisvalar enters the bridge with some emergency rations and begins handing them over to the bridge officers. She spots a very concentrated looking Zan; her heart skips a beat to see that he is unharmed. She walks over to him.

Hrisvalar: Would you like something to eat, lieutenant?

*Medical Lab*

Tahlandi is talking with doctor Saval about the autopsy reports and neurological findings as they wait for doctor Riley and counselor Azuma to arrive. Tahlandi isn't sure if the counselor had found the time to conduct a full neurological assessment of ensign Spell with everything being so hectic. He nervously clicks his fingers and even the stoic Vulcan doctor seems to be uneasy.

[Mikoyo80]

*Astrometrics*

Loral glanced briefly behind her as the Starfleet enign entered the room. She gave a small smile as she noticed how nervous he looked in her presence but her attention was quickly returned to sh'Raazh. She regarded the Andorian woman and bared her teeth briefly as she appeared to deny her request. She then regarded the other Andorian in the room and made her way to his console.

Loral: The energy signatures seem to match Federation runabouts. The counsel has no knowledge of another Federation vessel in the Gamma Quadrant. I hope your commander would be willing to explain.

*Ready Room*

Melena sat at the desk studying the LCARS. She was proof reading her report to Starfleet on the latest incident and contemplating as to what would become of the crew once they reached their next destination. She felt uneasy as there would undoubtably be a trap or of some sort but hopefully there would be at least an element of truth in Edris' words and that they would find some more answers. She then received the communication from sh'Raazh, as well as a one from Hal explaining that they may have found something vital. She tapped her combadge in response to them both.

Melena: I'm on my way sh'Raazh. Hal meet me in Astometrics, Melena out.

*Bridge*

Raian had been lost in his own thoughts as he concentrated on navigation to make sure other thoughts and memories didn't resurface. He jumped a little as Imaru appeared offering him rations and flashed her one of his boyish grins. Despite being a joined Trill and therefore supposedly rising above the temptation of 'juvenile crushes' but he couldn't help but fall for the beautiful young Andorian. The Yulia in him, as well as the Yulia he had known personally, probably wasn't surprised as she had spent a lot of time with Andorians such as Tara and he could just see one of her knowing smiles.

Zan: Would I 'crewman'? Thanks, there's so much going on that I forgot how hungry I was. I see you're still alive then? I'm glad.

[motom79]

*Astrometics*

Thellin is a little taken aback by the aggressiveness of sh'Raazh and the barely concealed anger of Loral. He managed to make a tense situation worse, the deployment of other Federation Star Ships wasn't a secret so how come their Klingon liaison officer is unaware of it?

sh'Raazh: What do you mean? We've upfront about our ships in the Gamma Quadrant *looks at the screen* But you are right these ships shouldn't be there. And I'm sure commander Melena will be honorable enough to keep up our part of the arrangement

Thellin: *nervously* I recognize the registry number of one of the shuttles. It's the private runabout of captain Chenowitch: the Scheldt. Maybe survivors of the Rodenberry have found a way to escape with those shuttles.

Thellin is surprised that a science vessel would carry one Runabout let alone two but he doesn't dare to speak his mind freely at the moment.

sh'Raazh: Maybe but the other shuttle isn't in our database. Keep your cool Loral, *reaches for her phaser and sets him to stun, just in case* But clearly something is wrong here that can have implications for both the Federation Counsel and the High Counsel

Thellin feels that the situation can come to blows any minute seeing that both woman are highly aggressive, his antenna's twitch nervously as he stands between them.

*Bridge*

Hrisvalar: *weak smile* I'm glad you aren't hurt, well we have ration number two or four. I'd take four number two is grouse tasting even for a ration pack. *plays with her silver hair.

((ooc: I'm keeping with the tradition set in DS9 where all the Runabouts were named after famous Rivers))

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: Makes sense. Sorry I haven't been posting much but I've been a little stuck as to what to actually right, something I call 'writers block'.))

*Astrometrics*

Luckily for Thellin, Melena entered at that moment with the ships chief of security right behind her. She frowned slightly as she felt the intense atmosphere in the room, although she had expected it knowing that sh'Raazh and Loral were in the same room. Eloran decided that it would be a good idea to set his phaser to stun. discretely of course.

Melena: I hope there isn't a problem down here people. So what do we have?

Loral: We have detected two Federation Runabouts on the planet. One of them appears to belong to your Captain Chenowitch.

*Bridge*

Zan: Yeah, I know thanks. Number two always tasted kinda like gagh to me, and yes I do know what that actually tastes like. I ate it once for a dare back in the academy and Aeryn ate it once or twice too. I seem to remember her enjoying it for some reason but Yulia couldn't even look at the stuff because of the memory. You know, I don't feel very good about this but I'm sure I'm not the only one. Take care of yourself then Im-I mean crewman, heh heh.

[motom79]

((ooc: that's too bad, but I understand so take your time to get out of this rough patch, and I hope you find your groove back real soon. :))

*Astrometics*

sh'Raazh: The other one doesn't exist according to our database, but another pressing matter is that Lt. Loral feels we are keeping secrets from her. Maybe it's time for a full disclosure commander.

Thellin takes this opportunity to get out of the way from Loral and sh'Raazh. He notices that Lt.cmdr. Hal is looking with interest to the screen and also senses something, vague and undescript but all the same weird. The Lt.cmdr. is strangely closeminded almost like he is trained to close his mind for telepaths. Thellin thinks nothing of it, his telepathy isn't exactly spot on and some people are more resiliant than others.

Thellin: *to Hal* Sir, maybe we can cross reference the second energy signature with those from missing Runabouts.

*Bridge*

Caeli enters the bridge and walks towards Raian and Imura, the two young officers are having a little moment and Caeli hates to break them up but he needs the symbiont's expertise.

Caeli: Lt. Zan, Crewman Hrisvalar. Lieutenant can I have a moment of your time?

((ooc: I hope you don't mind what I did with Lt.cmdr. Hal, I just figured that a double agent of S31 needs to know how to shield himself from telepaths. Of course if I overstepped my boundaries I'll change the post))

[Mikoyo80]

((OOC: No problem, it would definately make sense otherwise it would be too easy to tell the double agents. You always seem to manage to think of things that I dont and should lol! Thanks anyway :).))

*Astrometrics*

Eloran looked at the screen with great interest as he surveyed the findings of the team in astrometrics. It all seemed very strange and it was going to be a long report to his friend back home. Melena meanwhile sighed as she realised that it was about time that they filled in their Klingon friend on what had been going on. She didn't like disclosing what would probably be sensitive information applying to Starfleet personnel only. Still, Loral was technically a part of the crew although she kind of wished that the explaining had been left to someone else, the captain for example. Still, she wasn't in the slightest bit a coward and tried to make her explanation concise whilst telling their Klingon friend only what was deemed neccessary.

*Bridge*

Raian's attention was drawn from the beautiful Imaru as Caeli approached with a look of slight concern. He sighed a little as he glanced from one to the other. Reality had a funny way of catching up when you strayed just a tiny bit from its path.

Zan: Hi, no problem. It was nice talking with you Imaru, or crewman or whoever, maybe I'll see you later? Stay safe! Right, what can I do for you then lieutenant?