McFly

= /\ = USS MANTICORE BRIEFING #1017, STARDATE 51902.04 = /\ = Manticore is ordered to sector 821 just within the Federations deep space territory. Upon arrival they found a Starbase destroyed by a ship gone rogue. Now, curiously, the computer systems on board Manticore have suddenly stopped working. = /\ = END USS MANTICORE BRIEFING #1017, STARDATE 519102.04 = /\

= /\ = USS MANTICORE BRIEFING #1016, STARDATE 51901.28 = /\ = Manticore is ordered to sector 821 just within the Federations deep space territory. Upon arrival they found a destroyed Starbase and a Captain with a story to tell. = /\ = END USS MANTICORE BRIEFING #1016, STARDATE 519101.28 = /\ = Vilanne: Kansas! *hug, hug, hug, hug* Callista Tyrel: Hello! ::waves:: Vilanne: Hi Callista, we haven't met yet. Callista Tyrel: Hi I am ensign Callista Tyrel..I am a new...Assistant Engineer. Vilanne: Ahh, good, he needs help down there. Callista Tyrel: He He. I think someone else said that when I first visited a few weeks ago. Callista Tyrel: You would be the ship's doctor? Kansas Kenickie: Hello Hello Vilanne: Yes, Callista, come for your initial physical Kansas Kenickie: ::Purrs and rubs up against Vilanne:: Callista Tyrel: I typed a bio, it is on the message board if that helps. McFly: What up Vil! Gila Orrak: Greetings Kansas Kenickie: ::Stops::: Erich Jaenke: Getting ice cream Callista Tyrel: Hello Chief :: waves :: Vilanne: ((OOC: If you met or remember my youngest daughter, I am on vacation till March waiting for her baby to arrive. She's served eviction papers to him for Thursday, so he'll be moved out by Friday at the latest. I'll be staying here for a month or so to help out. If I'm too tired, I may not be here, but I"ll do my best.) Vilanne: Hey Boss, Hi Gila, haven't met you either. Kansas Kenickie: I made sure no one got hurt McFly: She used real restraint, you would have been impressed. Kansas Kenickie: McFly: Always someone missing. I'll give Bren a few more minutes. Vilanne: Sure Kansas... cept you! Vilanne: Did you hurt yourself? *eVil eye* Kansas Kenickie: nope, not a cut on me Vilanne: Wow... that's frightening. Kansas Kenickie: I was an angel Kansas Kenickie: Vilanne: Hi Gila, you'll have to stop in Sickbay for your initial physical evaluation. What dept are you assigned to? Vilanne: *cough, cough* Sure you were KK> Keb: hi Callista Tyrel: Hi Keb ::waves:: Kansas Kenickie: Gila Orrak: Science Vilanne: Ahh, nice, he heeds helpin that department Erich Jaenke: Per me not being here last week I'm in sickbay as well McFly: alrighty then, no Bren or Jack for now. They'll catch up. Vilanne: Sickbay? *perks* McFly: = /\ = USS MANTICORE BRIEFING #1016, STARDATE 51901.28 = /\ = Manticore is ordered to sector 821 just within the Federations deep space territory. Upon arrival they found a destroyed Starbase and a Captain with a story to tell. = /\ = END USS MANTICORE BRIEFING #1016, STARDATE 519101.28 = /\ = McFly: = /\ ======= BEGIN SIM ======= /\ = McFly: = /\ ======= BEGIN SIM ======= /\ = McFly: = /\ ======= BEGIN SIM ======= /\ = Vilanne: (::que of doom::) Erich Jaenke: :: Erich finds his way down to sickbay, sneezing and coughing :: Callista Tyrel: :: finishes changing a small lighting element in engineering and closes her repair kit :: There ya go! As bright as new. Erich Jaenke: Doct..... ACHOO! -tor. Vilanne: ::raises eyebrows in sickbay with Erich's entrance:: Kansas Kenickie: ::on the Bridge, arms crossed tight and looking at the screen:: Vilanne: Nurse Nancy> What'll we do for you today, Mr Jaenke? McFly: OpsGuy> Mason is ready to beam over. McFly: Excellent. Have security escort him to the briefing room when he arrives. Kansas Kenickie: ::Nods to OpsGuy:: Erich Jaenke: I have some kind of cold. Perhaps something Betaziod, perhaps COUGH... not. Vilanne: ::with the Bossman:: ::runs tricorder over him:: Callista Tyrel: :: returns repair kit to Engineering's service locker and resumes her station at the Master System Display :: Vilanne: Nurse Nancy> Well then, let's get you into a biobed, and a doctor will see you shortly. ::waddles over to biobed 3:: Right this way Kansas Kenickie: Annoying Karl> :::awaits in the Transporter room:: Gila Orrak: :: Attends to the notification on her Cardi padd about seeing medical.... enters said medical :: McFly: +senior staff comm+ This is the Captain, senior staff meeting in 10 minutes. Erich Jaenke: Oh you have to be sh ACHOO! -ing me... Kansas Kenickie: ::Stands closer to the screen, looking at the site of the Boom:: Vilanne: Nurse Nancy> ::spots another customer:: Have a seat dearie, we'll be with ya in a couple minutes. ::finishes her waddle to biobed 3 and prepares the overhead to read Erich's vitals:: Up up ... on the biobed. Erich Jaenke: :: Sits on the biobed :: Callista Tyrel: :: Listens to announcement :: Oh I hope the Chief is going to be able to attend. Kansas Kenickie: doesn't look like a trop or mine Gila Orrak: Dearie? :: sits :: Kansas Kenickie: ::Looks back at McFly:: I wish I could smell it McFly: You want to smell the debris? Vilanne: Nurse Nancy> ::watches Erich sit:: Lie back so I can get your vitals for the doctor. Any other symptoms I can record? Kansas Kenickie: KArl> ::Assumes that everyone who was going to transport over is dead:: Kansas Kenickie: ::Eyes light up:: oh yeah! it would tell me what cause was Kansas Kenickie: fuel or system failure Erich Jaenke: A headache, coughing and ACHOO! Vilanne: Vil to McFly> Well Captain, I don't see anything majorly wrong but a meeting in 10 minutes ... are you having the location changed? How are we feeling today? McFly: Thought Mason said it was another ship that destroyed it. Keb: ((I'm sorry, afk for a bit longer)) Kansas Kenickie: why would A ship fire on another ship Vilanne: Nurse Nancy> I see... haven't seen these symptoms in quite some time. I'd better sterlize the air around your biobed. ::flips a couple switches after tapping a few buttons, and the air around his bed starts to smell very clinical:: Ok, your vitals are coming up on the overhead. Dr Chalice will be with you momentarily. Kansas Kenickie: Sounds like someone doesn't want to admit their faults Erich Jaenke: Ugh, may have to :: sniff :: conference into the meeting McFly: ::looks over at Vil:: No, briefing room as usually. And I feel fine. ::leans back and ducks around trying to avoid her med tricorder:: You're just itching to get my in sickbay aren't you? McFly: Brutus> ::arrives on the bridge with Capt Mason:: Callista Tyrel: :: taps on consoles and clears her bangs while looking up momentarily :: Vilanne: Vil to McFly> Sit still Captain, or I may have to quarantine you and video you into the conference room for the meeting. Gila Orrak: :: Picks up a PADD, and old issue of TIME Traveler magazine :: Kansas Kenickie: Karl> ::Waiting in the wrong transporter room:: Vilanne: ::tries again with her med tricorder:: No moving this time. McFly: ::notices company has arrived and quickly has an excuse to escape:: Captain! ::runs up to shake his hand:: Glad to have you on board, let me show you to the briefing room. Erich Jaenke: (funny story, I actually have a cold) Kansas Kenickie: KEb, you have the bridge Kansas Kenickie: ::Whispers::Shoot something Kansas Kenickie: ::Shrugs:: Vilanne: Nurse Nancy> ::knows what the doctor will prescribe, though these types of germs have not plagued anyone in many decades:: Where do you think you were exposed to such a virus? McFly: CaptMason> Thank you Captain. Vilanne: ::hurrying after McFly:: What in the world do you think... ::doesn't interrupt:: Captain, I'll reschedule you for *later*. McFly: ::evil eyes Vil as he walks into the briefing room:: Vilanne: ::eVil eye's back at him:: I'll get with your people to get that scheduled sir. Callista Tyrel: :: feels a sneeze coming on and stops it :: Uh oh. Vilanne: Nurse Nancy> ::taps the containment field for the impending sneeze:: There there, Mr Janeke, you've caught something that... we'll need to investigate. Have you given it to your wife? Erich Jaenke: Wife! What? Erich Jaenke: You mean Keb... we have not... what have you heard? Vilanne: Nurse Nancy> Your mate... partner, wife, husband,, unioned person, whatever you wish to call it. Kansas Kenickie: ::Pats Keb on the back:: have fun Gila Orrak: :: stands up :: Doctor, am I safe here? Kansas Kenickie: ::Follows McFly at the other Captain:: Keb: ::shakes her head at KK:: Erich Jaenke: Nancy, I only have eyes for you.. you know that. :: smirks :: Vilanne: ::passes by Gila enroute to Erich, and passes to see Gila:: Yes, ::glances at Nurse Nancy:: She's got the containment field holding in any potential germs or threat. It's protocol. Erich Jaenke: :: Sets the video to his bed to display in the conference room :: McFly: ::sits down with Mason at the table:: Circumstances suck that's for sure. You seem pretty shaken up by it. Vilanne: Nurse Nancy> Don't even start your flurtations with me Mr Jaenke! I know your girl... and she knows of me... and I will not be caught in a gossip or love triangle. Keb: ::quietly adjusts the CC to her own slightly taller comfy height:: Kansas Kenickie: ::Looks outside the window at the ship's damage:: Vilanne: ::to Gila:: What are we here for today? ::taps on the front desk's monitor to see the list of patients:: McFly: CaptMason> I can't believe what happened. I hope I can offer something of value to help your people figure it out and prevent this from happening again. Callista Tyrel: :: fires up a side monitor and looks at the data ops guy sent :: Ooh...what a messy debris field. Erich Jaenke: If only it was a triangle. Kansas Kenickie: ::takes a seat::: Erich Jaenke: :: taps :: +Tyrel+ Can I get an engineering status report? Kansas Kenickie: Do you need any help with your injured? Callista Tyrel: + Erich Jaenke + Yes Chief, all systems are nominal. Opsguy sent some sensor data from the ....wreckage down to Engineering. I am currently reviewing it . Gila Orrak: I was summoned here, presumably to update your records. Vilanne: ::nods:: Well, the nurse is busy at the moment, but I'm sure she'll get you started. Why not head to BIobed 1. You'll have BB2 in between you and Mr Sneezy Engineer there. ::sweet smile:: Keb: ::swings her legs idly--not a lot to do right now, with the ship maintaining position and everyone chatting:: McFly: (( Let's go ahead and have Keb join us since if Voyager taught us anything, it's that Helm is senior staff too. )) Keb: ((Opsguy's gonna lower the CC a LOT then...but sure!)) Kansas Kenickie: OPsGuy> ::nods for Keb to go ahead to the meeting:: McFly: (( guess that means ops should be here too but OpsGuy doesn't deserve to be at the same table as everyone else.)) Vilanne: I"ll be back with you momentarily. ::motions to biobed 1:: Just relax. Erich Jaenke: +Tyrel+ Have the computer perform a standard analysis, use the engineering core Kansas Kenickie: Annoying Karl> ::Shows up on the Bridge and heads to TAC:: Keb: ::slips into the meeting without interrupting:: Vilanne: ::steps over to Erich, while Nancy waddles over to Biobed 1:: Keb: ::notes Erich's empty seat with some concern:: Vilanne: Vil to Erich> So what are you bringing to contaminate my sickbay with this time? Erich Jaenke: Some flesh eating virus probably... I tried a computer virus, but it didn't byte. Callista Tyrel: + Erich Jaenke + Aye, Chief. Just looking at the Data, I think one big explosion but some smaller ones too. We got to take a damage assessment course that was new this year in the academy. Erich Jaenke: +Tyrel+ Take back the scans as far as a week, seeing what events lead to the explosion. Vilanne: ::smirks at Erich: Ever wonder if your humor is affected by your illnesses? I would say in this case, it's true. ::rolls eyes:: Ok... so vitals. Lemme see here. Erich Jaenke: Wow, this is strange... Callista Tyrel: :: taps console :: Aye Chief. ::sneezes :: Err...sorry must be something from the Starbase...uhm..errr....Engineering computer is compiling. Kansas Kenickie: ::Looks at images, zooms in:: Erich Jaenke: +Tyrel+ Wait, you have something too? McFly: ::looks at everyone around the table:: I'd like you to meet Captain Mason of the USS Bauer. As most of you should know by now, we were sent here to investigate the destruction of Starbase 314. Evidently, these guys saw the whole thing go down. McFly: ((sorry, my fingers aren't typing well tonight)) Vilanne: Nurse Nancy> ::finishes her waddle over to Gila:: So... New Scientist, eh?? We need one so badly. Its exciting to have cultural exchanges like this. ::keeps rattling on, rather nervous with the rumors she's heard about cardassians, but doesn't mention it:: Callista Tyrel: + Erich Jaenke + uh I just sneezed sir. I haven't sneezed since I was back at the academy. Do new recruits sneeze when they come aboard Manticore? Gila Orrak: Am I not to be the Lead Science Officer here? Erich Jaenke: +Tyrel+ Unless they are exposed to me.. Vilanne: Nurse Nancy> I'm really not sure. That department has had quite a few department heads in the last 15 years. I hope we keep you for some time... so much paperwork when we have staff changes. Just relax now, I am going to set up the biobed for you. Kansas Kenickie: were we able to get security footage from the station? Erich Jaenke: +Conference Room Vid+ Any and all information would be useful. Gila Orrak: Are your systems calibrated for Cardassian? Kansas Kenickie: ::Scans over the files sent:: Callista Tyrel: :: watches the computer compile data :: + Erich Janeke + The computer is asking if we have additional data , did the two starships that survived have data available to us? Uh...well regarding sneezing should I see a Doctor? Erich Jaenke: +Tyrel+ I believe more is incoming. Vilanne: Erich, ::Vil looks at him seriously:: You have some form of contagion. I am going to have to treat you here, and keep you contained until any germs have been removed. We can't have something like a virus running about the ship. You are going to have to fill out a questionarre. Nurse Nancy will bring you a PADD.. Questions like where have you been for the last 2 weeks, who have you been in contact with, what bodily fluids have you shared with anyone, ... standard checklist. Callista Tyrel: + Erich Jaenke + I will continue to observe the computer processing data. Engineering core is healthy by the way. No sneezing computer. Just Ensigns apparently. Kansas Kenickie: ::Smiles hearing Vilanne scold Erich and not her this time:: Erich Jaenke: I figured as much... I would consider a similar protocol for Ensign Tyrel. She has exhibited sneezing McFly: CaptMason> At 0200 hours, the USS Sumadi suddenly powered up in spacedock during heavy maintenance. At which time her crew went over. The ship pried itself away from the docking clamps and began firing shots within space dock. It then made its way out where we disabled its weapon systems. From what we know the crew attempted to gain control but evidently never did. The ship went back into the station and this time we disabled its engines. That's when it used its starboard thrusters and pushed itself into the station on the inside. Didn't take long for the station to be destroyed. Erich Jaenke: Mostly with Keb, though I don't know if she has anything... I have been around both Jack and Callista.... ah crap.. Vilanne: Nurse Nancy> Well, I was just checking on that. We have a few standard body types, but... I may have to set up a full panel of scans so we have the latest physiology. I hope you don't mind. Erich Jaenke: :: Watching the video conference :: McFly: CaptMason> ::looks over at Kansas:: We weren't able to collect any data from the station. We had been scanning for its black box when your ship arrived. Gila Orrak: I am a botanist, so I am aware of complete scans. Callista Tyrel: :: looks at the Shape of the Manticore on the MSD and stifles a sneeze Kansas Kenickie: Perfect pincer move ::watches the video of the other ships:: Erich Jaenke: I mean I have not shared any bodily fluids with Ensign Tyrel, just that she has some out of the ordinary sneezing. Kansas Kenickie: ::holds PADD up and watches vid again:: Vilanne: Nurse Nancy> Good good, this will help the doctor get a good baseline anyway ,so if something happens, which it probably will around here... I mean it won't, of course not. But well, for the docs records, yeah, records. ::trying to smile:: Kansas Kenickie: ::Nudges McFly:: watch Erich Jaenke: Reading your minds in sickbay is, interesting. Perhaps this is what being drunk is like. Callista Tyrel: (omg lol ) Keb: ::winces at the descriptions:: McFly: ((For Keb's sake, I hope you haven't been sharing bodily fluids with Callista)) McFly: ::leans over to see what KK wants to show him:: Keb: And...the people? Kansas Kenickie: ::Points:: Both sides go at the same time Vilanne: Knock off the mind reading, Erich... in fact, I will numb you to it while you are in here, because Patient Medical records are off limits to non-medical staff. McFly: CaptMason> No one survived. The entire station exploded rather quickly. Kansas Kenickie: It is impressive Gila Orrak: Am I your first Cardassian? We are less intimidating without those ridiculous uniforms. Kansas Kenickie: in a bad way of course McFly: ::whispers:: A chain reaction. Must have hit the right spot. Its almost like the ship knew where to hit. Erich Jaenke: Wait wait. I am only getting emotional impressions. Vilanne: ::smirks, grabs a hypo, mixes a few meds together to treat general viral symptoms, as well as a stronger block, so he's not invading privacy:: Ok, this is just an initial treatment until I can get that PADD back with the answers to your questionarre. You may feel slightly dizzy, so ly back and relax, or even sleep after you finish that. Kansas Kenickie: I couldn't plan something this perfect... timing wise McFly: ::To Mason:: I hate to insinuate this, but are you certain the Sumadi crew had absolutely nothing to do with this? Keb: ::puts her hand over her mouth:: That's awful. ::starts to reach over to pat Mason's arm, but pulls back hesitatingly:: Vilanne: ::injects Erich:: And this will help you with that sneezing, so you aren't contaminating my sickbay! Nancy will be overshortly. Vilanne: ::places the hypospray down:: No leaving, Erich. Stay! Erich Jaenke: :: As the hypo injects the compound into his bloodstream he beings to say something :: Right aw... :: and falls unconscious, dropping the PADD to the floor ... clink! :: McFly: CaptMason> It's alright, Captain. Everyone had their doubts about the crew when this was going on. It's only because they're dead but even that isn't entirely a deterrent. I mean supposedly command codes weren't working. I just don't understand how that's possible. Gila Orrak: :: Notices the officer on the other table falling asleep. She notices the PADD landing face up :: Callista Tyrel: :: watches the computer data display pouring over records and other things :: Kansas Kenickie: Keb, work with OPS and see if you can find that black box from the station Gila Orrak: Swell :: She says to herself :: Keb: But...didn't you just say the crew disembarked to the station before the...the events? Keb: ::turns to KK:: Yessir. Vilanne: ::steps over to Gila, talks to Nurse Nancy first:: Nancy, I need you to prepare a PADD with the indepth questionarre, 4-212A, B, C and D. We'll see what his answers are then decide if we want the rest of the series and to run viral panels on all of those he's been near. Take complete fluid panelsand get them to the lab. Kansas Kenickie: That box would answer the questions about the crew] Vilanne: Nurse Nancy> Yes Doctor Chalice. ::waddles back to Erich:: Erich Jaenke: :: Erich is sleeping, apparently in a REM cycle :: Vilanne: Vil to Gila> A bit busy today, our med techs are at lunch. So... good to have you aboard, ::glances up at biobed overhead readouts:: Ms. Orrak... I"m sorry, I am not aware how Cardassians address each other in a medical, or even informal as I like to be here. I am Doctor Chalice, feel free to call me Vilanne. Callista Tyrel: + Erich Janeke + Ensign Tyrel here. The Engineering Computer Core has finished compiling the data. McFly: CaptMason> No, the crew of the Sumadi went abord the ship. They were on the station for the evening while the ship was being worked on. Then they were stuck on the ship up until the end. Gila Orrak: This is very different from a Cardassian vessel. Keb: ::nods:: Hopefully the box can tell us stuff, yes. Vilanne: Nurse Nancy> ::back at Erich's biobed now, bringing a PADD with her, starts bringing up all of the required questionarres in preparation to wake and have him fill them out:: ::clears throat:: Mr Jaenke, no sleeping on the job now. Keb: We'll get a full sensor sweep out for it. Keb: Might need to take a shuttle out to sift through debris if it doesn't show quickly. Erich Jaenke: :: No response to Tyrel :: Kansas Kenickie: With the station gone, does your ship need any assistants from damages? Callista Tyrel: Hmm, I wonder if the Two Cores on the Saucer would reach the same result. :: spoken softly to her work station :: Vilanne: ::soft smile:: Yes, we are certainly unique. I've been on this ship for so long, I've forgotten what home was like or even the medical training center back on Earth. Erich Jaenke: :: sleeping :: McFly: Keb, scan for the special material the box is made out of. The explosion could have knocked around its transmitter. Callista Tyrel: :: blinks :: Oh I wonder if the chief got my comm. + Erich Jaenke + Chief the ...computer has finished compiling the data. Chief? :: said Unaware the Chief is asleep:: Vilanne: Nurse Nancy> ::whaps the PADD onto his chest:: Excuse me... YOU are being paged. ::points at the ceiling, as if the COMs were coming overhead:: Kansas Kenickie: ::Tries to replay the vid:: Erich Jaenke: :: Still sleeping, restfully it was not known :: McFly: CaptMason> Thank you commander, we were able to get far enough away from the explosion. Just a few scrapes. Nothing damage teams haven't been able to fix. Callista Tyrel: Oh my. Hmm. Notes her concern to the ranking engineering officer who notes that it should be okay, and that if the Chief is in sickbay he may not be able to respond :: Vilanne: ::to Gila:: I have to say that our basic Cardassian medical profile left a LOT to be desired. Your scans are going to be invaluable to me here in sickbay as we step into a new era of information and crew sharing. Gila Orrak: :: a bit loud and towards Erich :: I think the injection knocked him out. Gila Orrak: Good. I know of no explosives or other devices other than my subdermal UT. Vilanne: ::turns to look at Erich:: MOre like whatever the contagion he aquired. ::smirks and whispers:: He's a frequent flyer here. McFly: ACTION> SUDDENLY EVERY COMPUTER SYSTEM STOPS RESPONDING TO INPUT COMMANDS Keb: ::stops being able to review her scan data:: Keb: ::pokes at her padd:: Erich Jaenke: (I'm sorry, but I can't help with that yet) Vilanne: Oh my... ::frowns:: Was that even a concern? ::taps on the biobed monitor as it freezes, no more heart beats, no more blood pressure, and no other readings, all of them frozen:: What in the world... Vilanne: ::glances around sickbay:: Kansas Kenickie: ::Grumbles a curse and retries to play the Vid:: McFly: = /\ ======= PAUSE SIM ======= /\ = McFly: = /\ ======= PAUSE SIM ======= /\ = McFly: = /\ ======= PAUSE SIM ======= /\ = Callista Tyrel: :: notes her screen locks up :: Hmm...what.? Vilanne: Nurse Nancy> Doctor Chalice, all of the monitors are frozen Kansas Kenickie: ::Paused:: Vilanne: ::paused:: McFly: ::evil grin:: my first cliff hanger Vilanne: Sickbay Screens> ::paused:: Vilanne: LOL Erich Jaenke: It's just a conspiracy to blame the Chief Engineer McFly: KK, komments? Callista Tyrel: Uh Engineering Master Display is locked up? Oh no! McFly: well if he'd stop swapping body fluids with people and getting sick Kansas Kenickie: nice work and Lets see some logs to get things interesting Vilanne: Seriously, can you make that an order, Boss? McFly: like, how did Erich get his cold anyway? McFly: Kansas Kenickie: I think I have the sniffles' McFly: I don't know Vil, I kind of like sharing body fluids sometimes. Vilanne: Seriously, because if he really has one... it's going to be MUCH more serious than what we currently get in this century. Callista Tyrel: Given the crisis at hand, I think we will be working sick . Erich Jaenke: He likes everyone..... Vilanne: ::smirks at KK:: Callista Tyrel: Vilanne: Well, he'll have a hazmat suit then... because I am not going to have a epidemic! Kansas Kenickie: Erich Jaenke: From KK Keb: ::pokes Erich:: McFly: TBS will be just a few minutes. Gives everyone time to see they have an issue. Callista Tyrel: are you guys normally this silly? McFly: yes Vilanne: A yep Erich Jaenke: Yes McFly: it's even worse now that I'm in charge Vilanne: Feel free to enjoy yourself too Callista Kansas Kenickie: yup McFly: Questions, Comments? McFly: If no, then there's only one thing left to do... McFly: DISMISSED! Vilanne: Night everyone McFly: later dudes Kansas Kenickie: nite everyone Gila Orrak: Nig Gila Orrak: Or night Callista Tyrel: gnight. Keb: Gnight all

= /\ = USS MANTICORE BRIEFING #1016, STARDATE 51901.28 = /\ = Manticore is ordered to sector 821 just within the Federations deep space territory. Upon arrival they found a destroyed Starbase and a Captain with a story to tell. = /\ = END USS MANTICORE BRIEFING #1016, STARDATE 519101.28 = /\ =

= /\ = USS MANTICORE BRIEFING #1015, STARDATE 51901.21 = /\ = After a quick fill up and some new blood, Manticore is ordered to sector 821 just within the Federations deep space territory. = /\ = END USS MANTICORE BRIEFING #1015, STARDATE 519101.21 = /\ = Jack Ryan: Jack Ryan Is Half Klingon Half Human He Was Raised On Chronos until he was 14 then we went to earth where his parents told him humans are nothing but filth so jack ryan went to starfleet academy and proved his parents wrong. (This is my bio) Jack Ryan: Wooo Jack Ryan: SIM Soon Hyped BrenFaliver: Howdy howdy McFly: Bren! Are you still sick? BrenFaliver: Not so much Jack Ryan: Hey Bren! McFly: Good, I was going to have to kick you so you didn't get the rest of us sick McFly: Callista Callista Tyrel: Hello ::waves:: Jack Ryan: I Am New. Jack Ryan: ::Waves at callista:: Jack Ryan: Mcfly are there holodecks on the manticore Kansas Kenickie: Evening everyone Jack Ryan: Ello! Commander McFly: yes there are Jack Ryan: well jack might just use one today..... McFly: Don't forget to pay attention to your duties first. If you're needed for something, I'd hate to see the wrath of Erich fall on you. Jack Ryan: I wont forget. Jack Ryan: Duties come first McFly: VonDrake and Saliq, to what do we owe the pleasure? Saliq: Just watching McFly: Sounds good. Hope we don't bore you. Saliq: The last time I was here was 2006 I believe. VonDrake: Same here. McFly: Oh dang Saliq: I doubt you will bore me. Jack Ryan: I'll be on the holodeck with my bat'leth VonDrake: The just watching part, not the 2006 part Jack Ryan: Warning captain mcfly jack has a short temper... Jack Ryan: ::Is In Holodeck with bat'leth training:: McFly: As long as he recognizes command McFly: Whelp, let's give Erich a few more minutes McFly: And don't think I don't see Keb in there. Saliq: I see her Jack Ryan: Ah. Kansas Kenickie: I remember you Saliq Saliq: Do you? Kansas Kenickie: and VonDrake Kansas Kenickie: McFly: I admit, the saliq name is familiar Kansas Kenickie: right Keb: Hello the lot of you BrenFaliver: An actor, yeah? Tom Saliq? Kansas Kenickie: Kebbers Saliq: A Psychiatrist who specializes in the study of the human condition. Saliq: Merely Saliq. No Tom. VonDrake: I doubt you remember me. I just came up with the Von Drake name for a log on courtesy of Mickey Mouse clubhouse. Kansas Kenickie: maybe it was someone named Drake then McFly: Alright, let's get started. Hopefully Erich shows up later. McFly: = /\ = USS MANTICORE BRIEFING #1015, STARDATE 51901.21 = /\ = After a quick fill up and some new blood, Manticore is ordered to sector 821 just within the Federations deep space territory. = /\ = END USS MANTICORE BRIEFING #1015, STARDATE 519101.21 = /\ = McFly: = /\ ======= BEGIN SIM ======= /\ = McFly: = /\ ======= BEGIN SIM ======= /\ = McFly: = /\ ======= BEGIN SIM ======= /\ = Jack Ryan: ::Walks Into Engineering:: Jack Ryan: Ah What A Beauty. Jack Ryan: ::Gets to station near primary warp core:: Kansas Kenickie: ::Pacing on the Bridge:: Jack Ryan: ::Talking to self outloud-All by myself in engineering WHAT could go wrong!:: Callista Tyrel: :: observing the Master System Display in Engineering :: Jack Ryan: ::Doesnt notice callista:: McFly: Keb, eta on arrival? Kansas Kenickie: Keb ::Stops behind her chair:: ETA McFly: Yeah, what she said Jack Ryan: ::Station Im at beeps:: Jack Ryan: ? Kansas Kenickie: ::Smirks at Matt::: Callista Tyrel: I would not say you are alone Cadet. Hmm...appears everything is running smoothly. ::points her finger at the Display and traces an EPS shunt to the Nacelles :: Kansas Kenickie: ((PM me Jack)) Jack Ryan: ::Checks turns out to be a minor fluctuation in the matter anti matter reaction:: McFly: ACTION> MANTICORE DROPS OUT OF WARP IN ARRIVAL AT SECTOR 821 BrenFaliver: ::Fine tunes the scanners from the Science-1 seat on the bridge, a tedious task he enjoys for some reason:: Jack Ryan: Hmm... Jack Ryan: ::THinks nothing of the fluctuation:: McFly: ACTION> MANTICORE ARRIVES TO FIND TWO MIRANDA CLASS SHIPS SITTING IN AMONGST THE DEBRIS OF A SPACE STATION Callista Tyrel: :: Hears a change in the pulse of the warp core :: It appears we have arrived at our destination Cadet. Jack Ryan: Callista how are you enjoying the manticore? McFly: ((hope everyone read my log )) McFly: OpsGuy> ::whistles:: What could blow up a space station? Callista Tyrel: :: observes warp core while responding :: In awe over how big this ship is to tell you the truth. If the Commander insists we call her a garbage scowl...she is one huge garbage scowl! :::smiles :: BrenFaliver: ((Nope!)) Callista Tyrel: ( Log was a nice read.. ) Keb: ::settles us into position and snaps out of her daydreaming about her last holonovel with Erich:: That...doens't look good. Jack Ryan: Callista im reading a minor fluctuation in the matter anti matter reaction in the primary warp core. McFly: ((KK, mark Bren with a demerit!)) McFly: ::hearing OpsGuy McFly responds under his breath "maybe your breath":: Don't know Guy, had to be powerful though. Jack Ryan: Should i alert the captain? BrenFaliver: ((She's more likely to mark me with a phaser rifle)) Callista Tyrel: ::walks over to the Master System Display Diagram and starts running a diagnostic on the Main Warp Core :: I will run a diagnostic . I don't see anything dangerous. ::taps console:: Jack Ryan: Im alerting the captain. Jack Ryan: +Captain Mcfly Callista Tyrel: :: brushes her bangs from her brow ::: Uh...... Kansas Kenickie: ((Sorry, Phone call- i couldn't ignore it)) Jack Ryan: +Captain Mcfly come down to engineering we have something you need to see. Jack Ryan: What is It Callista? McFly: Ops, hail... ::hears com from engineering:: ugh, +Jack+ What is it? Kansas Kenickie: ::Glances at McFly:: would you like me to handle engineering? Callista Tyrel: :: about to say something but refrains :: McFly: ::looks over at KK:: I'd like the Chief to handle it. Jack Ryan: +Captain+ We need you to come down to engineering this is important Jack Ryan: Callista come on what did the diagnostic say.. McFly: +Jack+ Is it? Is it really? ::looks over at Keb:: Where's Erich, did he sleep in today? Keb: ::shakes her head:: He wasn't feeling well. I think he caught something on the last stop. Jack Ryan: +Captain+Captain with all due respect im not fooling around this is of upmost importance McFly: ::sighs:: So then where is our doctor to make his all better? Kansas Kenickie: +Ryan+ the captain is not able to run to engineering, find your department head Keb: ::stands up, glancing at KK:: Would you got to the doctor if it were just a little cold? BrenFaliver: Boss, they sound serious. Someone probably installed a coffee pot upside down. Would you rather I go check it out? Jack Ryan: ::The Fluctuation Duplicates itself into THe secondary warp core:: Keb: I'll head down ther eand see what's up. I've been in engineering before. Jack Ryan: +Kenickie+The Cheif Isnt Here. Kansas Kenickie: I don't get sick BrenFaliver: Kansas and I can go together; She can wreck the joint and I'll try to fix it back up McFly: ::snickers at Bren:: Only coffee pot should be in Sick bay ::to KK:: You mind handling this? Callista Tyrel: Cadet, the Computer is not warning us of an issue outside the Warp Core's normal operating parameters. If it did have an issue, we would be notified by audio alarm. I honestly am not sure you want to pull the Captain off the bridge. Why not ask for the Commander. Keb: ::stares at Bren:: Please do not wreck my ship. Kansas Kenickie: I will be in engineering Kansas Kenickie: Bren, on my 6? BrenFaliver: ::Smiles broadly back to Keb:: Never! I would never wreck your ship. Kansas will. BrenFaliver: ::Hops up sprightly and follows KK to the TL:: McFly: I owe you ::does kissy face:: Jack Ryan: ::Reads A Build up in callista's console:: Keb: ::sighs and resumes her post at helm:: You wreck it, you fix it! Jack Ryan: CALLISTA MOVE! I'd get in the way ::THe console explodes:: Kansas Kenickie: I punch people who make those faces, CO or not Kansas Kenickie: ::heads to the lift:: Jack Ryan: ::I would be on the ground in pain Jack Ryan: ::unconcious:: Jack Ryan: ::With Burns on face:: BrenFaliver: ::over his shoulder as he enters the TL:: Besides, its not your ship getting wrecked, just the heart and central nervous system Kansas Kenickie: ::Enters the lift:: Main Engineering! Jack Ryan: Commander. Kansas Kenickie: {{Think carefully Jack, we have NO medical staff}} Jack Ryan: The Warp Cores Are Fluctuating. McFly: ACTION> JACK RYAN SNAPS OUT OF HIS DAY DREAM TO FIND EVERYTHING NO EXPLOSIONS, NO INJURIES, NO NOTHING. ENGINEERING IS JUST AS BORING AS HE FEARED IT WOULD BE Jack Ryan: Its minor for now but it could get worse. McFly: ((well we do, she's just off on some tropical island somewhere)) Kansas Kenickie: ::Looks at Bren:: please don't let me hurt any of the new crewmen right away Callista Tyrel: :: Monitoring Master Ship Display Diagram ...an exhale of breath clears her bangs from her vision :: BrenFaliver: I'll do my best, but if this is a fire drill I might be distracted by... anything shiny. Oops. I witnessed nothing. Kansas Kenickie: ::tucks her knife in, to resist pulling it out::: Keb: So, Captain...shoudl we find out what's happened here? Kansas Kenickie: ::Exits the lift when the doors open:: Keb: ::gestures at the mess on the screen:: Callista Tyrel: :: walks over to the Warp Core Dash :: Kansas Kenickie: ::walks over to Ryan and Tyrel::: what seems to be the problem? Kansas Kenickie: ::Tucks hands behind her back, waits:: Jack Ryan: A Fluctuation in the matter anti matter reaction in both warp cores its minor but we thought we should alert you commander Callista Tyrel: ::turns to see the Commander and does ::AA:: :: Commander. McFly: ::realizes he hasn't had his coffee yet:: Yes, you're right Keb. Guess my first mission in command got me all flustered, didn't sleep well last night BrenFaliver: Well now, if that isn't a very shiny thing I see behind me with my back turned to Kansas.... Kansas Kenickie: ::Looks over the readings::: Ryan, how many duel cores have you worked with? Callista Tyrel: :: Looks to Jack then back to the Commander :: Jack Ryan: 1 other one in an academy simulation Kansas Kenickie: relax Tyrel McFly: Ops, hail the lead ship. Keb: Hope you won't need to visit sick bay yourself, Captain. Cuz...whatever's out there...people might need some help. Jack Ryan: How Ever I failed the simulation Kansas Kenickie: this is a normal reading for our cores McFly: OpsGuy> Aye, hailing now Jack Ryan: Oh Im Sorry Commander Kansas Kenickie: I am a security officer, at best I can put a phaser back together and get a bomb not to go boom Jack Ryan: ::Thinking to self My Shift ends at 0:700 maybe i'll go to a holodeck:: McFly: CaptMason> ::on viewscreen:: This is Captain Mason of the Bauer, to whom am I speaking with. Kansas Kenickie: I need you to follow the chain of command better Jack Ryan: Aye sir it wont happen again. Callista Tyrel: Commander, is the Chief Well? Keb: ::looks up at Mason, very confrontational, isn't he?:: Kansas Kenickie: you call the top Engineer on duty and then he or she calls me and then I get confused by engineering bable and tell the Captain Jack Ryan: Sir cheif Erich Isnt here. Kansas Kenickie: then the next officer of the day McFly: +Bauer+ Mason, this is Captain McFly of Manticore. We were ordered to investigate this sector about the destruction of a space station. Weren't given much more information than that. Kansas Kenickie: if you call Captain McFly every time a light bulb goes out, then he can't do his job and we die BrenFaliver: Like, die a lot. Die Bigly. ::Nods in support of KK's statement:: Kansas Kenickie: and if I die because of you I will kill you Callista Tyrel: ::remains quiet and AA listening to the Commander :: McFly: CaptMason> +Manti+ Not surprised. What happened here was travesty, Captain. Should never have happened. Don't know HOW it happened to be honest. Callista Tyrel: :: nods to BrenFaliver :: McFly: +Bauer+ Guess that's what we're here to figure out. Kansas Kenickie: next time if there is a problem and your boss isn't here please call me, I promise not to get to mad Kansas Kenickie: which is a step up in moods for me Kansas Kenickie: Right Bren Callista Tyrel: Yes. Sir. Commander Permission to speak Freely? BrenFaliver: Right Commander Kansas Kenickie: Go a head Tyrel Callista Tyrel: We were running the Main pretty good for the past 48 hours and just now dropped to impulse, Is there something we should know sir? Keb: ::nods as she listens to Mason:: What did happen, Captain Mason? It looks bad. Kansas Kenickie: we dropped to impulse when we reach our destination Callista Tyrel: Aye Commander. Well Engineering reports ready for the mission sir. Kansas Kenickie: if there is an emergency you will know about it, yellow alerts, red alerts, Blue alerts Kansas Kenickie: Black alerts BrenFaliver: Plaid Callista Tyrel: It would appear after my shift I have more reading to do about Manticore's unique alert system. Jack Ryan: ::It would be nearing the end of jack's shift:: Callista Tyrel: ::blinks:: Plaid? McFly: CaptMason> +Manti+ ::lowers head:: It was one of our own. But it wasn't the crew, the ship. They couldn't get control over it. ::looks up at the monitor:: We should have destroyed it when we had the chance. By the time it was back in the station we didn't have line of sight any more. I didn't want to kill the crew but, damn. BrenFaliver: We're just teasing.... there's no such thing as a blue alert on this ship. Kansas Kenickie: I know you are both excited and amped up to be on your first ship. but lets not get ahead of ourselves Callista Tyrel: ::smiles:: Aye Commander. Kansas Kenickie: ::Looks at Bren::: Blue is for landing on a planet McFly: +Bauer+ It's alright captain. Why don't you take a few and joins us on the Manticore later. You can tell my senior staff in person what exactly went down. McFly: CaptMason> +Manti+ Yeah, yeah, that sounds good. BrenFaliver: ::Looks back at Kansas:: That's the joke\ McFly: +Bauer+ Good, in the meantime if you would send your sensor logs over, I could have my science and engineer teams start looking over them. Kansas Kenickie: now if there isn't anything else, I should return to the Bridge before something happens McFly: CaptMason> +Manti+ ::nods:: I'll have them do that immediately. Keb: ::feeling a little sick to her stomach listening to just those bits:: McFly: +Bauer+ Alright, alert me when you're ready to come over. Manticore out. Kansas Kenickie: Bren, shall we? Jack Ryan: ::Jack would go to his would head to his quarters and take off his uniform and put on a traditonal klingon outfit,&Grab his bat'leth and head to holodeck 1:: BrenFaliver: ::Nods and follows KK:: Kansas Kenickie: ::Enters the lift::: Bridge Jack Ryan: Computer Load Progam Ryan Alpha 1. ::The Program would load:: BrenFaliver: Excitable, aren't they? Kansas Kenickie: ::Pulls knife out and stabs the wall, a few times:: Callista Tyrel: :: walks over to the MSD and resumes her engineering watch duties :: Kansas Kenickie: yes Jack Ryan: ::Ryan would be on chronos in the holodeck:: Kansas Kenickie: I miss being a nobody Jack Ryan: ::A klingon man would approach ryan and punch him:: Kansas Kenickie: :::Tucks knife away:: BrenFaliver: ::contemplates humorously reassuring KK she is still a nobody, but doesn't want to be a pincushion:: Keb: ::McFly:: This sounds like it was way worse than it even looks. Callista Tyrel: ( the Commander is a nobody ?? ) BrenFaliver: ((Nope. That's the joke.)) McFly: Yeah, I'm not liking the sound of any of this. Callista Tyrel: ::looks around noting Jack Ryan has departed engineering... notes a few other engineers minding their own business and she returns to her AENG activities :: Jack Ryan: ::Ryan would begin speaking in klingon-chaq jaj QaQ jajvam!:: Jack Ryan: Computer end program im not in t he mood for this. Kansas Kenickie: Bren, was I to hard on them? Keb: Captain, can I suggest that we let the ship's counseling department know they might be needed? Jack Ryan: ::Ryan would head to his quarters Put his starfleet uniform back on and head back down to engineering speaking in his native tongue klingonese:: BrenFaliver: Not at all. The stern side of a normal person, in fact, I was pleasantly surprised by your restraint. The expectations of leadership? Or are you growing soft? McFly: That's a good idea. Alert Vil about the situation and have her be available for them if necessary. Kansas Kenickie: they are new, I held back Jack Ryan: ::Ryan would arrive in e ngineering:: Kansas Kenickie: ::Sneers:: that sucked Jack Ryan: ::He would say THis in klingon-im SuDal HeghDI' vaj maH legh Action ghotvam'e' unbeliveably qetlhchugh im Suq mogh!-:: Callista Tyrel: :: Turns :: Did I hear Klingon? McFly: OpsGuy> We're receiving the sensor data from the Bauer McFly: Good, distribute it to Science and Engineering department.s Jack Ryan: :Turns to callista:: No..... Kansas Kenickie: ::Steps offf the lift and onto the Bridge:: McFly: What do you think happened here Keb? Keb: Will do. ::gets busy on her console actually *gasp* talking to medical. Jack Ryan: *Ryan would now be at his station: Kansas Kenickie: Captain, engineering is hummming away as it should be Jack Ryan: Alright callista im half klingon. Keb: From what he said...it sounded like a ship destroyed a station on its own somehow. Keb: Some kind of virus or something? McFly: ((oh hey, it's Erich, nice department you're running there mate ::that's a joke, don't take offense:: )) Callista Tyrel: :: Begins to receive Data from OPSGuy :: Well, we now have an idea about our mission.. :: points for Jack Ryan :: Omg...An entire Starbase has been destroyed. Jack Ryan: .. McFly: ((I smirked as I typed it, can't really show that in a chat room )) Jack Ryan: Seems to be from a ship... Jack Ryan: THats not possible... Erich Jaenke: Hello BrenFaliver: ((Howdy!)) Callista Tyrel: :: looks to Jack Ryan :: Will have to read up on this report after duty. Keb: ::thinking back:: I mean, our ship was able to talk to those living ships, too...viruses or something crazier like that...someone weaponized the ship. Callista Tyrel: ( hello Chief! ) Jack Ryan: ::Ryan would say something else in klingon-Doch neH Suq Daj.:: Kansas Kenickie: ::Takes the XO seat next to McFly... strange strange feeling:: Engineering is under control Erich Jaenke: Oh no, I got the time wrong McFly: OpsGuy> Captain, the Bauer is signaling they're ready to send Mason over. BrenFaliver: What if Mason blew up the starbase? McFly: Excellent. ::looks over at KK:: Thank you for doing that. Ready for our mission now? ::smiles:: Kansas Kenickie: I guess I am McFly: ::to keb:: I mean, it's always possible. McFly: = /\ ======= PAUSE SIM ======= /\ = McFly: = /\ ======= PAUSE SIM ======= /\ = McFly: = /\ ======= PAUSE SIM ======= /\ = Callista Tyrel: :::looks at data report :: It was not an alien attack...but the USS Sumadi....I did nt recall in the academy of hearing of a Starship just going rogue by itself like this. What could of done that. Keb: ::paused:: BrenFaliver: ::paused:: Erich Jaenke: Sorry all Callista Tyrel: That went too fast. I must be having fun. McFly: ::deep breath:: that was a lot Jack Ryan: me too. McFly: KK any comments? Erich Jaenke: I convinced myself it was at 11 McFly: It will be once daylight savings time resumes. Kansas Kenickie: ::Paused:: Nice work everyone Callista Tyrel: Thank you ::smiles:: Jack Ryan: ramvam sim vIparHa' 'ach 'e' neH. Erich Jaenke: Sorry other engineers Callista Tyrel: Oh Hope to see you next sim Chief! Jack Ryan: Qo'noS tul veb sim chief erich vIlegh. Erich Jaenke: I was right here for most of the hour too McFly: So TBS will be pretty immediate, maybe no more than 10 minutes at most. Mason will transport over and we'll all get to hear the harrowing tale of how the Sumadi went rogue. Callista Tyrel: I had a question. McFly: Callista Callista Tyrel: Lower deck Crew like Ensigns and Cadets, we would not have the full picture of what is going on . I got the log, and knew what the sim was going to be about, but would a cadet or Ensign at the bowels of the ship know about the Starbase being destroyed? Callista Tyrel: So I was not sure as to play as if I was compeletly in the dark. McFly: You guys would probably be the last to know as the details of the mission trickled down to you. But I'm sure you'd know it eventually. Considering our sim and that you're not as low on the ship as a guest star, you'd probably know more than your average deck hand. McFly: We'll just assume, once we all get briefed then you'll know what happened a bit later. Callista Tyrel: Okay. Thanks! McFly: And most likely you'll be used to sift through the data too. So there's that. McFly: Any other questions? McFly: Guess not. Erich Jaenke: None really McFly: Alright, Jack stay behind but everyone else... McFly: DISMISSED! Callista Tyrel: Bye BrenFaliver: Good night, good week! Keb: Gnight all! Keb: McFly: later dudes Kansas Kenickie: McFly Erich Jaenke: Night.. I guess Jack Ryan: i have to go due to family matters soon i can stay for another minute Erich Jaenke: :: waves :: McFly: ok I'll be realy quick in PM Erich Jaenke: Sorry I missed everything

= /\ = USS MANTICORE BRIEFING #1015, STARDATE 51901.21 = /\ = After a quick fill up and some new blood, Manticore is ordered to sector 821 just within the Federations deep space territory. = /\ = END USS MANTICORE BRIEFING #1015, STARDATE 519101.21 = /\ =

Starbase 392, on the edge of deep space. A mother-station to short range science vessels and a couple of mid-range escort ships. To those who saw the station for the first time, it reminded them of the flying saucers so heavily reported from Earth’s past, a round dome floating in the middle of space. But as they got closer they realized it was more like the top portion of Earth Space Dock. Sometimes it would take them a minute to see it with the spire missing. But after it caught their eye that’s all they could see and thus it became affectionately referred to as “DSD” or “Deep Space Dock”. Most ships sat parked for the night, reloading and offloading, refueling and standard maintenance. The station remained quiet with most personnel sleeping in the late night hours and not a blip to register on the sensors. Earlier the USS Sumadi, a Nova class ship, had docked inside the station. A small collection of science ships would come and go on week long, sometimes month long missions, studying the archeology of once inhabited planets. The Sumadi had just returned from such a mission and was in need of the maintenance team’s complete package. Only the bare minimum was activated on the Sumadi. Much like an office complex at night with the one light on, the maintenance team just needed to see what they were doing and the computer to respond. Everything else was unnecessary. But without any provocation, the Sumadi began to power up systems all across the ship. The few maintenance personnel looked at each other in confusion as the warp core began to hum and vibrate. The empty bridge came to life as if expecting the senior staff to begin piling out of the turbo lift. Coms, navigation, engineering, tactical all came online and the maintenance team soon realized they had zero control over any of it. The station’s night crew noticed the commotion but they too had no effect on the ship. Senior station personnel and the Suamdi’s senior staff were all woken out of a dead sleep. People raced down empty hallways towards station ops to see a seemingly ghost ship come alive all on its own. With the ship not responding from ops the Sumadi senior staff fled to the dock and onto the ship to take control within the ship itself. Engineering would not respond to any of the chief’s command codes. The same results happened for the Captain on the bridge. Were they locked out? Not according to the ops officer. The ship simply wasn’t responding to any commands given by anyone. Suddenly, the crew inside the Sumadi felt the ship shudder and jerk and could hear the hull strain. Alerts went off all over the bridge and on the station. It happened again, this time with much more force along with the loud sound of metal scraping. The station Commander yelled at the Captain over his com badge. Why was he trying to tear the ship out of the docking clamps? The Captain replied he did no such thing and explained their continued lack of control of the ship. The ship jerked again with increased force. The station maintenance team explained to Ops that unless they release the docking clamps either the ship or the station, or possibly both, would be heavily damaged. The Commander mulled it over just as the ship jerked again. This time the Sumadi’s hull ripped open as the ship slipped slightly out of the grip of the clamps. The Commander ordered the ship’s release and to guide it outside of the station with tractor beams. The oscillating blue light filled the docking bay of the station as the Sumadi cascaded along a series of internal tractor beams. As it did the ship’s weapons systems came online. With just enough time for the crew to react to their uselessness the ship fired a phaser beam inside the station. Explosions erupted and the entire station shook. Now everyone inside the station was awake and running to their posts. The Sumadi fired again and knocked out the tractor beams, then again at the station’s bay doors. The Sumadi slowly pushed its way into space where it was met by the station’s two escort ships. They first tried to talk the crew down only to learn they were never in control to begin with and that’s when the ship fired another shot, this time at one of the escort ships. The small science ship’s weapons had little effect on an escort with shields at max. But on the inside of a space station where little is protected from such things, monstrous damage had been done. One of the escorts fired at the Sumadi and disabled its weapons. The crew inside frantically tried to retake control with complete futility. The chief engineer then made the suggestion to disconnect the main computer from the rest of the ship. Only problem was it was locked up tight and no one’s command codes were working. The chief and a small team began using a phaser cutter to cut through the door. They worked as quickly as possible before something else could happen. The Sumadi began to spin around and it stopped at a 180 degree turn. The ship was now facing the station. With no weapons available the Captain wondered what could possibly be happening. The engineering team cut through two of the internal locks on the door to the computer. The last one was the largest and was taking more time. The Captain encouraged the team to work quickly as something was going to happen, though they didn’t know what. The Sumadi’s impulse engine then engaged and the ship moved towards the station. Its speed picked up quickly and the Captain suddenly realized what the ship was planning to do. He called for one of the escort ships to disable the Sumadi’s engines. The Sumadi was at half impulse and just past the station bay doors when one of the ships fired a direct shot at its impulse drive. The drive exploded shaking the entire ship but it stopped just inside the station. The engineering team, having just cut through the last lock, was knocked to the floor. The chief got up first and pushed the door open. He now had physical access to the main computer. The problem now was how to disconnect it from the ship. He took one of the phaser cutters and started cutting conduit lines. One by one system’s began shutting down all over the ship. Consoles all across the bridge turned dark as emergency alerts went off in their place. Soon even the lights began to flicker. The chief started cutting through the last conduit trunk and the ship made one final push. Its starboard thrusters went off and the ship pushed sideways towards the common viewing area, a section of the station where people could relax and look out at all the ships in the docking bay. A few people had gathered in there to see the chaos in the bay. Now they saw the Sumadi barreling towards them as if a bulldozer was pushing it from the other side. The chief cut through the last conduit and the entire ship went dark and the thrusters cut out. But momentum carried it the rest of the way. The Sumadi crashed into the large windows of the station’s viewing area. A chain of explosions rippled across the station. The two escort ships backed away as they saw the bursts of fire pop through the station’s hull. Suddenly and magnificently Starbase 392 exploded.

= /\ = USS MANTICORE BRIEFING #1014, STARDATE 51901.14 = /\ = The Manticore and her crew have received a thorough outfitting at Starbase 214. Now they get prepared for their next mission. = /\ = END USS MANTICORE BRIEFING #1014, STARDATE 519101.14 = /\ = McFly: Meet Commander Kansas Kenickie, first officer of Manticore. Kansas Kenickie: Helllo Jack Ryan: Hello Sir I Will be Joining aboard the manticore McFly: Yes, you'll be able to play with all of us tonight. Jack Ryan: as apart of the engineering staff Jack Ryan: I Am Cadet Jack Ryan Callista Tyrel: I enjoyed your Log Captain. That was very helpful. Kansas Kenickie: Welcome, normally Kansas looks like she wants to kill you.. all the time BrenFaliver: howdy McFly: Thank you. Took me a couple of days to finish it. Keb: Hihi Gila Orrak: Greetings Jack Ryan: Who Is Chief Engineer Since im gonna be working with them i might aswell find out McFly: Erich Jaenke, who isn't here yet BrenFaliver: I am laying in bed with flu-like symptoms. If I disappear or go silent, dont take it personally Keb: He's pretty cool Keb: I'm recovering from ick myself and considering bed strongly McFly: That sucks, I like the commitment though. Jack Ryan: Were about to start Keb: But there is my man Erich Jaenke: Ah, chrome updates Keb: ::snuggles Erich:: McFly: Firefox for the win! Erich Jaenke: :: snuggles, then runs upstairs :: Kansas Kenickie: Mac update, Ipad Erich Jaenke: Oh I have that too Kansas Kenickie: everything is sooo tiny’ McFly: Alright, we'll give Vil a couple more minutes but I think she started her vacation already. McFly: Alright, might as well get started. McFly: = /\ = USS MANTICORE BRIEFING #1014, STARDATE 51901.13 = /\ = The Manticore and her crew have received a thorough outfitting at Starbase 214. Now they get prepared for their next mission. = /\ = END USS MANTICORE BRIEFING #1014, STARDATE 519101.13 = /\ = McFly: Oh, just before we being... Jack Ryan: *I Would Be Walking aboard starbase 214 Looking for the USS Manticore The 1st Ship I would be serving on* Jack Ryan: Where Is The Manticore Where Is It... McFly: Jack Ryan is another brand new human being that is looking to join our sim. He's new to STSF so he'll join us for a underermined about of time before joining the cew. McFly: crew McFly: And we haven't started yet Jack Jack Ryan: (Oh) BrenFaliver: woo Keb: Welcome, Jack! McFly: He'll be going into Engineering so Erich, you get two new recruits. Have fun Callista Tyrel: ::waves:: Jack Ryan: So Do We Begin Now McFly: Alrighty then... McFly: = /\ ======= BEGIN SIM ======= /\ = McFly: = /\ ======= BEGIN SIM ======= /\ = McFly: = /\ ======= BEGIN SIM ======= /\ = Jack Ryan: *I Would Be Walking aboard starbase 214 Looking for the USS Manticore The 1st Ship I would be serving on* Jack Ryan: Where Is It... Jack Ryan: Cmon USS Manticore Where Are You Callista Tyrel: ::approaches Jack Ryan from behind looking out the viewport:: There she is....cadet. BrenFaliver: ::Sitting in Sciemce Kansas Kenickie: ::Leaning on the airlock door, arms crossed...... waiting:: BrenFaliver: ::Sitting in Science:: rather Jack Ryan: *I would have a bag packed with my things* McFly: ::loafing in his RR after getting his ass chewed from the Consul General; drink in hand:: Jack Ryan: *I´d be armed with a phaser* Callista Tyrel: # ::: extends hand to Jack Ryan :: Ensign Callista Tyrel....I just got assigned to the Manticore as well. ::smiles:: Jack Ryan: Oh Hello *Shakes Hand* Jack Ryan: Could you show me where it is? Keb: ::walking with Erich somewhere, enjoying not being at helm:: Callista Tyrel: # ::smiles:: According to my PADD here....Dock 2. It's the Nebula Class Starship. Follow me. Kansas Kenickie: # ::Frowns:: Jack Ryan: *Follows* Erich Jaenke: :: Walking around with Keb :: We don't get to do that that often... Callista Tyrel: #::walks over and approaches a female wearing commander Pips at the Airlock tube :: Jack Ryan: Im Nervous Jack Ryan: My 1st starship. Kansas Kenickie: # Tyrel, Ryan? Gila Orrak: :: Checking her pack and looking at her PADD one more time :: Manticore... what a name. Callista Tyrel: # :: to Kansas Kenickie :: Hello Commander.. Ensign Callista Tyrel.. My Assignment orders. ::hands PADD to Commander Kenickie :: Jack Ryan: Yes This Is Ryan Here\ Kansas Kenickie: # it’s a garbage barge and you are both late Gila Orrak: (oh, should be station, we using #?) Keb: ::smiles at Erich, squeezing his hand:: Well, we get to do it now. Gila Orrak: # :: Making her way to the airlock connected to the Manticore :: Callista Tyrel: # :: stands at the ready with Jack Ryan :: Oh a Garbage Barge. I was told a Space Tug. Was I misinformed? Callista Tyrel: #:: holsters her bag over her shoulder :: Erich Jaenke: A planet would be nice...many would say Risa, but that is a challenge for telepaths. Kansas Kenickie: :::# Takes the Padd::: Jack Ryan: #::Hands PADD over to Comander Kenickie:: Gila Orrak: # :: Approaches the airlock and sees there is some kind of line :: Jack Ryan: I was to be assigned here im an engineer Kansas Kenickie: # welcome to the Manticore, I am Commander Kenickie keep up Jack Ryan: Aye Sir Callista Tyrel: # Yes Sir. Kansas Kenickie: # ::turn quickly and walks down the hall’ Keb: I think we should find a deserted planet somewhere and have a real vacation, just you and me. Gila Orrak: # :: Gets in the back and hope she is just allowed in without a lot of questions. Why would Starfleet question a non-aligned person getting on board? :: Kansas Kenickie: ((BRB Switching to laptop))) Callista Tyrel: # ::follows The Commander....a brief friendly smile to Jack Ryan :: Jack Ryan: Castilla where are you assigned? Jack Ryan: Im Engineering Erich Jaenke: Would be better to find a small moon. Jack Ryan: ::Follows COmmander:: Gila Orrak: # :: Checks in at the airlock, giving her pass to whomever would accept it :: Callista Tyrel: ::to Jack Ryan :: I am an Engineer as well. I am not sure where they will use me. I am sort of a Jack of all trades, but I specialized in Shuttle and Small Craft Maintanence. Kansas Kenickie: # ::Takes Orrak's PADD:: BrenFaliver: ::Feeds the Science Bio lab animals:: Jack Ryan: Me Aswell Im Good With Warp Core And Impulse Mechanics Jack Ryan: those is what im specialized in Callista Tyrel: #:: looks at Gila Orrak :: Hello. Erich Jaenke: :: Holds both of Keb's hands and plants a kiss upon her lips, one that goes past that just long enough phase to people will talk phase :: Keb: ::kisses Erich's cheek:: Are you nervous about the new recruits? Erich Jaenke: I still feel like a recruit.. Keb: *lips then Kansas Kenickie: ::walks quickly down the hall to the lift:: Keep Up!! Keb: I'll come with you to meet them if you want. Jack Ryan: ::Runs to the lift with the commander:: Gila Orrak: :: Walks, waiting for some line of questioning :: Callista Tyrel: :: follows and spies the outline of a Nebula Class Starship out the Viewport which solicits a grin from the Ensign :: Erich Jaenke: That could be good. :: Enters the lift :: Main engineering. Jack Ryan: Callista Isnt This Ship Beautiful Kansas Kenickie: ::walks into the lift:: I don't give many invites Gila Orrak: :: Enters the lift :: Yes Commander. Gila Orrak: :: She tries to hide her features, but not sure anyone cares just yet :: Kansas Kenickie: ::holds the door open for Ryan:: are you joining us? Jack Ryan: Sorry Yes Jack Ryan: ::Enters Lift:: Erich Jaenke: :: The lift moves to engineering :: Gila Orrak: :: Looks at Callista :: Greetings. Callista Tyrel: ::smiles at Jack with a reference to the Manticore. He first assignment she is...naturally beaming :: Kansas Kenickie: Bridge! Jack Ryan: ... McFly: Brutus> ::in Main Security; looks over at Karl:: I'm glad we're not getting any new recruits this time. I'm not sure I could put up with another one of you. ::Snears at Karl:: Jack Ryan: ::Whispers Callista were going to the bridge arent you nervous:: Gila Orrak: :: Gila feels a bit uncomfortable, her first foray into something non-Cardassian :: Kansas Kenickie: ::Steps off the lift:: Erich Jaenke: :: The lift stops at main engineering :: Callista Tyrel: Greetings Gila...:: smiles:: Kansas Kenickie: Karl> The truth of death is a hard fact Keb: ::staying close to Erich:: Jack Ryan: ::THinks to self Im Half Human Half Klingon i wonder how the bridge crew gonna react:: Kansas Kenickie: ::hit the RR button 3 times to signal McFly:: Erich Jaenke: :: stands at the core :: They are not here yet. Callista Tyrel: :: follows Commander Kenickie and the site of the bridge awes the Ensign a bit :: McFly: Crystal> Wish you'd learn it sooner than later. Jack Ryan: ::Follows COmander kenickie:: Gila Orrak: :: Follows behind the group :: McFly: ::sighs; takes his feet off the desk and downs the rest of his drink:: Come Kansas Kenickie: So when people ask where you work, this ship tug's trash Kansas Kenickie: So if people tease you for working on a garbage scowl, smile and be proud of our scowl Gila Orrak: This appears to be a typical Starfleet Nebula-class vessel. Kansas Kenickie: no, it is a scowl ::Scowls at Gila:: Keb: ::grins at Erich:: Good, more time to be unprofessional. ::smooches him quite unprofessionally:: Callista Tyrel: ::listens to the Commander and straightens up further in the presence of the Captain. :: Kansas Kenickie: ::waves hand and the RR door opens:: Please met the Captain Jack Ryan: ::Gets Nervous Because Ryan Would Be Metting the captain:: Erich Jaenke: :: kisses :: I mean there arr stilll peopl here Jack Ryan: Hello Captain Callista Tyrel: Ensign Callista Tyrel reporting sir. McFly: ::stands up as the new people walk in to his RR:: Gila Orrak: :: Enter the ready room after the others :: Jack Ryan: Ensign jack ryan reporting sir Gila Orrak: Scientist Gila Orrak, on assignment from Central Command on Cardassia. Jack Ryan: I Am An Engineer sir sent from starfleet academy Jack Ryan: Top Of My Class McFly: ::gives everyone a once over:: McFly: You're a little eager beaver aren't you Cadet? Jack Ryan: Yes SIR! Callista Tyrel: I confess Captain, being my first assignment I am a bit excited sir. Erich Jaenke: Keb, no on really cares... frankly if you and I are doing well work goes better for everyone here. Jack Ryan: I would like to get to work at engineering as soon as possible SIR! McFly: ::sighs; grabs a padd with the new assignments:: Engineering? Good, you'll annoy Jaenke not me. Kansas Kenickie: ::Misses picking on Keb:: Keb: Yeah, well, it's not my fault half of engineering would prefer fiddling at their stations to ::raises her voice slightly:: enjoying some time off. McFly: ::looks over at Tyrel:: Yep, we're all excited at first Erich Jaenke: They all got time off.. Keb: ::grins, knowing she's done her fair share of fiddling:: Kansas Kenickie: Ryan, you tied for first place ::holds up PADD:: Keb: ::smiles at Erich:: I'm glad we're good together. Gila Orrak: I am...looking forward to working with a multi-species crew that is not solely Cardassian. McFly: ::walks over to Orrak; take a deep breath:: It's unusual to see a Cardassian on a Federation ship. We've had one before. I didn't like him. Am I going to like you? Callista Tyrel: :: not certain what to make of Gila Orrak :: Kansas Kenickie: ::Sneers Faldek:: Gila Orrak: That is entirely dependent upon how you take my outspokenness when it comes to my work. Gila Orrak: I will do what is asked of me, but I will make my opinion known when I feel it is necessary. McFly: If you're good at your job then there's only one way to take it. I just hope you use this opportunity to learn and not feign superiority. Callista Tyrel: Captain I have a question if I may. McFly: Yes Ensign Callista Tyrel: My Introduction PADD, the Manticore....We have Two? Warp Cores sir. Keb: Manticore needs her chief engineer at his best. She's a good ship. Kansas Kenickie: ::Fiddles with her knife:: it does? Erich Jaenke: My best? :: grins :: I'm sure you can help in that regard. McFly: That's right. Chief Jaenke can explain it better but we have a redundant back up for those just in case moments and it's also used to help power our planet killer. Something else you'll eventually learn about Jack Ryan: Captain What did i tie For? Kansas Kenickie: +Jaenke+ (m) get up to the RR Callista Tyrel: ::Blinks and wonders...Planet Killer ? :: Aye sir. Jack Ryan: Captain May I Ask Erich Jaenke: +KK+ I was waiting for them here. Very well. Jack Ryan: What did i tie for Kansas Kenickie: First in your class, you tied Jack Ryan: Oh Kansas Kenickie: Lucky for me, I didn't place Callista Tyrel: Wow. Jack Ryan: Well May I Head Down To Engineering McFly: ((if you break the tie does that make you a "tie fighter"?)) McFly: ((rim shot)) Jack Ryan: (XD) Erich Jaenke: :: to Keb :: Let me test the site-to-site transport. "Computer, beam me directly to the ready room." Erich Jaenke: :: Energizes away to the ready room :: Keb: ::watches him shimmer away, feeling a little emptiness as he does:: Kansas Kenickie: Wait here for your chief Jack Ryan: ::Whispers to Callista Your Pretty Nice:: Callista Tyrel: ::smiles and remains quiet with the Captain right there:: Erich Jaenke: Ah, the transporters work. :: Walks up to the new recruits :: Erich Jaenke: I am Chief Jaenke. :: Extends his hand :: Callista Tyrel: ::notes the arrival via transport ::: Kansas Kenickie: ::Small smile::: Jaenke, these are yours Jack Ryan: :Shakes Hand: Jack Ryan: I Am Cadet Jack Ryan Reporting For Duty Sir Erich Jaenke: I've always wanted kids, they grow up so fast. McFly: ::looks to everyone:: You are now on a Federation Special Ops vessel. You are here because you have something to offer Special Ops. We are a private group, we do what the Federation can't in open light. Remind yourself why you are here because at some point you will question it. And when that happens you need to suck it up and do your duty. We will all depend on you at some point in the future. Callista Tyrel: Ensign Callista Tyrel ::extends her hand and smiles :: Jack Ryan: ::Ryan would chuckle a bit at that comment form cheif engineer: Keb: ::decides to head to the bridge to meet the new recruits when they are released:: ::goes by the usual way:: Callista Tyrel: ::turns attention to the Captain who is giving an address :: Erich Jaenke: :: shakes their hands, though the Cardassian is holding back :: Erich Jaenke: :: eyes her before they turn their attention :: Kansas Kenickie: when you write home, you tell them you are on a "Garbage Scowl" Jack Ryan: Aye SIr Gila Orrak: :: Has no one to write :: Kansas Kenickie: I will know if you tell them different McFly: ::nods at Jaenke:: Two of these are yours to keep. Maybe introduce them to the torture chamber so they know why to fear it. ::winks at Jaenke:: Kansas Kenickie: then I teach you a lesson no one likes Jack Ryan: ((RIP Gila´s Social lifeXD)) Callista Tyrel: Garbage Scowl Aye sir. Jack Ryan: Wait captain Jack Ryan: torture chamber? Keb: ((scow, I'm pretty sure--no L)) Gila Orrak: :: Was not told this part of the assignment, did CC know Kansas Kenickie: no, I have a very sharp knife Jack Ryan: ::Ryan would have a worried expression on his face:: Callista Tyrel: ::ponders the potential hazing :: Callista Tyrel: Err umph. Thank you Captain. Erich Jaenke: Our special guest must be in another department. Kansas Kenickie: and an airlock to dump the body ::wicked smile::: Jack Ryan: ::whispers to callista i think comander kenickie wants to murder us:: Gila Orrak: Science Commander.. :: gives him a look :: Kansas Kenickie: ::wants to murder everyone::: Callista Tyrel: ::just remains calm until the captain dismisses them :: Erich Jaenke: I may remind our new guests that I am Betazoid, no whispering has varying effects. Callista Tyrel: ::looks at her chief and notes the black colored eyes :: Yes sir. Jack Ryan: ::Whispers to callista Come to my quarters after hours Smiles:: Kansas Kenickie: ::Looks at McFly:: Jack Ryan: Cheif Sir Callista Tyrel: ::steps a bit from Jack :: Jack Ryan: Im half klingon half human McFly: ::Looks back at KK:: Yeah, no one knows discipline like the Commander. I would know. ::winks at KK:: Erich Jaenke: Kansas here is a teddy bear. McFly: ::looks over at Jaenke:: Chief, they're all yours. Jack Ryan: ::Whispers to self thank chrimmeney!:: Kansas Kenickie: ::holds up her knife:: no threat right now, this is my best friend. it keeps me happy Kansas Kenickie: when I am happy, everyone is happy Kansas Kenickie: except Keb Jack Ryan: :Thinks to self Please say 3 to beam to engineering already pls kenickie is gonna kill me: Callista Tyrel: :: a bit off balance :: Aye Commander. Erich Jaenke: Very well. Let us walk back to main engineering. Jack Ryan: ::Follows Chief Erich:: Callista Tyrel: :: nods to the Commander and Captain and turns to follow the Chief:: Kansas Kenickie: Orrak, Science is a little light right now. you are science right? Gila Orrak: Yes sir. Callista Tyrel: :: follows the Betazed Engineer...:: Sir may I ask you a question. Keb: ::doors open to the bridge on the TL just as everyone emerges from the RR:: Gila Orrak: Is there work to be done at this moment Commander? Jack Ryan: ::Whispers to Callista Kenickie is gonna kill us...Im Just Sayin..:: Erich Jaenke: :: walks towards the lift :: You may ask any question. Kansas Kenickie: I will bring you to science, lets take a walk Callista Tyrel: Uhm Engineers have hunches...uhm you as a Betazed, you would like us to voice concerns or ...do you ...pick up on ...concerns. Keb: ::smiles as she sees Erich and steps back into the lift:: Jack Ryan: :Enters lift: Callista Tyrel: ::follows:: Gila Orrak: Given the vessel's assignment.. as a garbage hauler, I am not sure much science is performed here. McFly: OpsGuy> ::receives an encrypted message for the Captain; sends it to RR:: Erich Jaenke: Main engineering Kansas Kenickie: you will be more busy than ever Keb: ::gives Jack and Callista a bright welcoming smile:: You must be the new crew members! Hi! Jack Ryan: Ah Engineering Shes A Beauty! Kansas Kenickie: ::opens the door:: lets take a tour Jack Ryan: Yep Jack Ryan: I Mean Aye Sir Erich Jaenke: Two cores, twice the work Callista Tyrel: Oh hello I am Ensign Callista Tyrel. ::extends hand to ...Keb :: Kansas Kenickie: ::Points at McFly with the *you owe ME* finger:: Keb: I'm Keb. Keb Mizu. Helm. I started out in engineering though, and you won't find a more beautiful ship to work with. McFly: ::walks back to his desk to take the message; uses his new data crystal to decrypt:: Erich Jaenke: This is Keb, Commander and helm McFly: ::watches KK exit:: I mean it is your job now. ::smirks:: Keb: ::shakes Callista's hand, dimples glowing with delight:: Callista Tyrel: :: this place is huge..To Keb :: Gila Orrak: :: Watches KK and McFly interact :: Jack Ryan: With All Due Respect Chief I Think I Can Handle It i specialize in warp core Mechanics Keb: You'll figure it out in a few weeks. Keb: ::touches the trim of the lift affectionately:: Kansas Kenickie: sleep with one eye open Jack Ryan: ::God I Cant Wait to Callista:: Erich Jaenke: I was in waste and recycling before I offed those ahead of me... so many officers, so few airlocks... McFly: ::reads message; intrigued by it:: Callista Tyrel: ::turns attention to the Chief:: Jack Ryan: So Cheif Where Do You Need Me? Keb: ::shakes her head at Erich, but doesn't say anything:: Kansas Kenickie: ::steps to the lift, holds the door open:: I am not on for Science Gila Orrak: :: Walks with KK :: May I make an observation? Kansas Kenickie: please do Callista Tyrel: ::hands behind back listening to the Chief :: Gila Orrak: If I am reading non-Cardi body language correctly you and the Captain are...involved. Erich Jaenke: Two cores... not sure who's idea it was, someone that had two of everything I think. Keb: ::pushes her dark curls back behind her shoulder, ready to listen to Erich too, though with amusement on her face:: Kansas Kenickie: involved as in, friendlier than we are with others? Keb: Probably was A9's idea. Sometimes you need more than one. McFly: ::gets up and walks out to the bridge:: Erich Jaenke: It allows us to seal up the secondary core to bring it out when the main one is lost...or we can use it's power for the long gun... some call it a planet killer. Erich Jaenke: I do not.. I call it insurance. Jack Ryan: ::Whispers to Callista I Think Something is going on with keb and cheif erich:: Callista Tyrel: I take it we will be given some PADDs to read to get up to Manticore's unique specs Chief? Kansas Kenickie: We are, I let him think he is the Boss Gila Orrak: :: Looks at her :: Correct, more adversarial, and coming from my people that means you do more than share a drink together. Kansas Kenickie: you and me both know women keep things running the right way Callista Tyrel: Enough Whispering.....:: kind of mutters to Ryan :: McFly: ::sees Keb interacting with the new recruits; doesn't wait for a respectful opening:: Keb, we have our new mission, set course for sector 821 Gila Orrak: Just an observation, I do not intend to complicate matters. Kansas Kenickie: ::Steps off the lift:: Jack Ryan: *Goes to station near primary warp core* Gila Orrak: Oh I have my faults, as anyone does, but a Cardassian ship ran by the females runs...smoother. Kansas Kenickie: the Captain and myself have been together for to many years. Things just turned out how they turned out Erich Jaenke: About me.. I do have a rather...extended ability... so much so I take medication for it Jack Ryan: Um Cheif Jack Ryan: You Might Want to take a look at this Callista Tyrel: You would encourage speaking our minds sir rather than...just thinking stuff? Keb: ::glances up at McFly from Erich:: Oh--okay, excuse me then. See you later, Chief. ::gives him an encouraging smile:: I'll get right on the coordinates, Sir. ::to McFly:: McFly: = /\ ======= PAUSE SIM ======= /\ = McFly: = /\ ======= PAUSE SIM ======= /\ = McFly: = /\ ======= PAUSE SIM ======= /\ = Jack Ryan: Im Reading A Flux In The Matter Anti Matter Reaction Erich Jaenke: It is up to you. I am not one to dictate how you communicate. Kansas Kenickie: ::Paused::: Jack Ryan: (Whats going on?) Keb: ::paused:: Keb: The end is going on Keb: for tonight Jack Ryan: (Awww) McFly: it's only an hour Gila Orrak: ;Thanks KK McFly: KK, Koments? Kansas Kenickie: welcome Jack Ryan: I Like it Keb: Sometimes the mods pause sim in the middle if there is an important announcement or adjustment, but that's how we always end our hours too Callista Tyrel: Thank you. ::smiles:: Jack Ryan: I think i´ll definitely be comming back Kansas Kenickie: I hope everyone looks over the Message boards. There is helpful posts McFly: We pause the sim because we'll be continuing the story next week. McFly: speaking of which, TBS (time between sims) will be 2 days as we reach sector 821. It's at the edge of deep space. Not near DS9 Erich Jaenke: So...deeper space? McFly: No, more like 90 degrees from ds9 McFly: if you're look down on the map McFly: makes sense to me Erich Jaenke: That's my favorite boy band Callista Tyrel: ? McFly: Callista Callista Tyrel: Will there be a brief to tell us what we are doing next sim? McFly: The brief I send usually just gives us a recap of what happened the week prior. I actually plan to send out a prologue for this mission this week. Callista Tyrel: Oh thanks. Also Should I email my bio..or is the message board sufficient? Erich Jaenke: Often he'll give one-liners for what everyone did McFly: Usually we don't know what's going to happen until it happens. And yeah go ahead and email it to our group. McFly: Or send it to me and I'll email it. McFly: Anymore questions/ McFly: ? McFly: Alright then. McFly: Jack, stay behind but everyone else... McFly: DISMISSED Kansas Kenickie: Good Job everyone! Callista Tyrel: Goodnight! Gila Orrak: Night all Keb: Gnight all! McFly: Later dudes Keb: and welcome!

= /\ = USS MANTICORE BRIEFING #1014, STARDATE 51901.13 = /\ = The Manticore and her crew have received a thorough outfitting at Starbase 214. Now they get prepared for their next mission. = /\ = END USS MANTICORE BRIEFING #1014, STARDATE 519101.13 = /\ =

McFly sat casually in the chair in front of the desk in the empty office as he waited for Consul General Elaine Jaffe to arrive. He’s only had a handful of interactions with her previously and was not a fan of her sternness. He tapped his finger on the arm rest while he waited. Without warning, a holographic display of Jaffe beamed into the room. First filling the room with light then dulling as the image focused and she appeared as if physically sitting in the room. She fidgeted with multiple padds and never looked up to see McFly sitting in the chair in front of her. McFly sat up straight as soon as he saw her appear. He wasn’t used to holographic communications and had to calm his heart down from the suddenness of her arrival. He also didn’t like the tightness of her hair bun since to him that indicated a larger than normal stick up ones rectum. “Since when did we get holographic coms?” He asked. “Space stations have used holo-coms for many years now.” She said very matter-of-factly. “Oh. Why don’t we use them on star ships?” “Enough of that.” McFly looked away and took a deep breath. “I trust Atragon 9 discussed procedures with you?” She asked again without looking up from her padds. McFly began to slouch in his chair losing interest in formality. “Uh, yeah.” “And the data crystal?” “Yep, that’s where I get all my super-secret messages from.” “Understand the crystal is just a decryption device. Messages will be delivered encrypted on standard top secret channels.” “Oh, ok.” “And I must reiterate, messages and orders you receive through such communique are for your eyes only. Any information you relay to your crew, including your first officer, are on a need to know basis and you are urged to use proper judgement on what is “need to know”.” He eyes glanced upwards towards McFly to help emphasize the point then back down to her pile of padds. “Of course, well I guess that explains why we never know what the heck our missions are till we actually get there.” McFly chuckles quickly then turns it into a cough when he sees the CG’s lack of personality. “And speaking of which, the fleet counsel will have a first officer assigned to your ship within the week.” “I uh, I already have a first officer.” Jaffe looks up from her stash of padds for the first time. “Excuse me?” McFly furrows his brow in confusion. “Didn’t you get the paper work?” “No. I didn’t.” She says sternly. “Guess someone’s getting some lashings when you get back to the office.” He again laughs to himself then quickly hides it. “Who is your first officer, Captain?” McFly feels like a dog about to whimper as Jaffe stares him down. “That would be Commander Kenickie, new pip and everything.” Jaffe begins to look through one of her padds. “Are you two still in a relationship?” “I mean as far as I know. Why did you hear something?” He chuckles to himself. “Captain, who authorized you to promote your XO?” He raised his eyebrow. “I did? I’m allowed to make promotions and assign senior staff.” “You said Atragon briefed you on procedure and protocol. It doesn’t seem like it.” “I never said protocol.” Jaffe is not amused. “The Executive Officer position aboard a star ship is just as critical as its Commanding Officer. And is thus assigned and or approved through Command. This goes double for Special Ops where everything and everyone is tightly controlled due to the outside scrutiny put upon us.” “I don’t understand the problem.” “The problem is you failed to follow protocol, Captain. Special Ops is not Section 31 that does whatever it wants under everyone’s nose. We have rules that must be followed to maintain order within our organization.” McFly straightens himself to a more formal position. “Now wait a minute, Kansas Kenickie is a fine officer who has proven her worth more times than is accounted for. Not only has she earned the position but she’s proved critical to the wellbeing of the ship.” “That is not for you to decide. You are exactly the reason we have such procedures in place so the Captain can’t put his girlfriend in the seat next to him.” “Atragon and Sovak both had their spouses in ranking positions next to them at one point.” “Exactly my point. Look at the history of those relationships and their eventuality… And they are much more meritorious than you have proven yourself to be.” “Fine, then why am I even here?” “It’s because you have two officers who were able to convince the SO Fleet Command that you were worthy of an opportunity. Left up to me the Manticore would be decommissioned.” “Damn, sucks for you don’t it?” “Careful McFly, Command is honoring a request, not an order.” “Alright let’s cut to the chase. I know I’m no one’s first choice for anything. I know Atragon and Sovak are largely the reason I’m even here. If you could find someone else to take on this ship they’d be here. Whether it’s due to lack of man-power or disinterest in this motley crew I don’t know. But here we are. So don’t assume I’m completely inept, or ignorant. You need us, we get results, despite our methods or meritorious or whatever big words you have. We’re probably one of the few able to get the job done. Which means despite your contempt for us, you can’t get rid of us. And what’s even better is it’s probably out of your control, which just pisses you off.” McFly leaned back in his chair, his heart racing and holding back a smile. Jaffe carefully laid the padd she had been hold on the desk. She straitened her tunic and folded her hands together on the desk. “Thank god I don’t have to work with you Captain.” She said quietly and calmly. “As Consul General, my duties go above and beyond what you’ll ever experience. Our meeting today is a courtesy so I am able to know my Captains and how best to use their skills in the field. Your skills don’t give me a lot of promise. Your ship is only one out of an entire fleet. Your Admirals, which I hold in high regard, have been reassigned to best utilize their skills. I don’t need you. What I need are ships able to follow orders and maintain stability in the quadrant.” Jaffe leaned in closer on her desk, “You’re not special. Not to me, not to the fleet.” McFly takes a deep breath and straightens himself in his chair. Jaffe returns to her upright position. “I already regret allowing Manticore to remain in service but out of loyalty to Atragon and Sovak I will let it continue… for now. Manticore will be under probation until it is deemed by Fleet Command that it is able to preserve the dignity befitting Special Ops and you are able to maintain the order and stability of a Starfleet Captain. Failure to do so will result you and your crew being spread out amongst a fleet of waste reclamation ships. Am I clear?” Trying not to feel one inch tall McFly responds promptly, “Yes sir.” “Very good. Dismissed.” And with that, the hologram of Jaffe disappeared and McFly sat in an empty office.

I like Nemesis and am a little pissed they're acknowledging the destruction of Romulus as prime cannon. And mine's a Blu Ray not a DVD.

= /\ = USS MANTICORE BRIEFING #1013, STARDATE 51901.07 = /\ = Admiral Sovak and the now Commandant Atragon-9 have been reassigned after 20 years on the USS Manticore. In their place Captain McFly has been named commanding officer and now Commander Kenickie ships First Officer. The crew arrives at Starbase 214 for rest, resupply and maybe some new personnel. = /\ = END USS MANTICORE BRIEFING #1013, STARDATE 519101.07 = /\ = BrenFaliver: Heyo McFly: sup Kansas Kenickie: Bren Callista Tyrel: Hello May I watch tonight's sim? McFly: Yeah, aboslutely Kansas Kenickie: Of Course! McFly: If you have any questions feel free to PM me or Kansas McFly: Hey it's Keb BrenFaliver: Hi Keb! Kansas Kenickie: Kebbers Erich Jaenke: Hello McFly: Sup Erich Erich Jaenke: Are we starting at the station? Keb: Good evening McFly: We'll be arriving at the station Erich Jaenke: kk Kansas Kenickie: I find myself replying to people in text messages with KK's Erich Jaenke: Shorthand for okay Erich Jaenke: Not implying KK is KK... Kansas Kenickie: I am KK :-P McFly: I'd like to give Vil another minute Kansas Kenickie: k BrenFaliver: kk Callista Tyrel: ::takes a seat in the gallery:: McFly: Alright then, maybe Vil will join us soon. Kansas Kenickie: :::Tosses Callista a poncho:: BrenFaliver: Whoa, I thought we agreed to stop the watermelon smashing? Erich Jaenke: :: Tosses her a trident :: Kansas Kenickie: incase I use my knife tonight McFly: FYI, Callista is just an audience member tonight and going to check us out. So everyone be on their BEST behavior... Which honestly all we have to go is up. Callista Tyrel: Uh Thank You. A Poncho? Kansas Kenickie: just incase BrenFaliver: Kansas Kenickie: McFly: And with the flood of blood we shall begin McFly: = /\ = USS MANTICORE BRIEFING #1013, STARDATE 51901.07 = /\ = Admiral Sovak and the now Commandant Atragon-9 have been reassigned after 20 years on the USS Manticore. In their place Captain McFly has been named commanding officer and now Commander Kenickie ships First Officer. The crew arrives at Starbase 214 for rest, resupply and maybe some new personnel. = /\ = END USS MANTICORE BRIEFING #1013, STARDATE 519101.07 = /\ = McFly: = /\ ======= BEGIN SIM ======= /\ = McFly: = /\ ======= BEGIN SIM ======= /\ = McFly: = /\ ======= BEGIN SIM ======= /\ = Keb: ::finishes docking procedures at Starbase 214:: Captain...we're here. McFly: ::sigh of relief:: Why is it that felt like my first docking? Kansas Kenickie: because is was your first solo one Keb: ::smiles at McFly:: Well, it went pretty smoothly. Erich Jaenke: :: Stands up from the engineering console next to the core :: Keb: Don't think she even got a scratch on her. McFly: yes, yes it did McFly: ((ugh, it's so hard to think when you have "why should I worry" from Oliver and Company stuck in your head)) Kansas Kenickie: ::Takes a deep breath:: Keb: ((that movie is srsly underrated)) Kansas Kenickie: Shore Leave Captain, or is this a working vacation McFly: Well, I have a meeting with the Consul General and we need to resupply but if people have the time let them play McFly: ::hands KK a padd:: I also put in for some new recruits to fill in some holes. I hope they get approved. That's your department now. ::cheeky smile:: Erich Jaenke: :: Getting the ship hooked up to the station :: Kansas Kenickie: ::Hits the big Mic button::+ Once your resupplies are in their proper homes you may par-take in some shore leave+ BrenFaliver: ((Im delayed sorry)) Keb: ::fist pump:: Kansas Kenickie: you are the one sitting in a room with old people... have fun Erich Jaenke: :: Making sure the shuttle bay can accept cargo running :: Kansas Kenickie: ::Looks over supply orders and personnel needed:: Lovely Erich Jaenke: :: Typing commands into his console while the other engineers shuffle around :: McFly: I'm expecting to get chewed out but, ya know. Whatev Kansas Kenickie: I don't have to go... do I ? McFly: Nope, it's just my ass getting bit. Kansas Kenickie: ::Smiles:: I will be right here Keb: ::satisfied that the ship is safely in dock, closes her eyes and thinks to Erich: Shore leave! Wanna see if they've got some unique holonovels?:: McFly: Ensigneer> ::complains under his breath about Chief Jaenke sitting a pile of corn nuts and drinking beer while he forces everyone else to work through text messages.:: McFly: ::sighs:: don't I have some captainy thing to do or something? Erich Jaenke: I am a Betazoid :: to that engineer, smiles :: If you wish to say something by all means we can talk about my drinking problem. Kansas Kenickie: nope, you get to sitting in meetings and pretend I am awesome and qualified for this Erich Jaenke: :: Gets up and goes to scan the warp core assembly :: Kansas Kenickie: I like to hide from the Brass in there McFly: ::sighs again:: I don't know how i"m going to be able to lie for two hours. ::winks at KK:: Kansas Kenickie: Annoying Karl> she means she doesn't want to shoot them on "accident" Erich Jaenke: Bah, micro fractures... :: Looks down at his padd :: Kansas Kenickie: ::Watches the Bridge clear out:: McFly: Ensigneer> ::in the cargo bay; looks up and around thinking Jaenke was in there; panic subsides as he doesn't see him anywhere:: Erich Jaenke: :: Nods to another engineer before he leaves main engineering :: Keb: ::heading off the bridge to find Erich for some holodeck fantasies:: Erich Jaenke: (is that what we decided to call them?) McFly: ::mcfly gets up and shuffles his feet as he walks to the TL; mutters under his breath the whole time:: McFly: ((no that's just my name for him; didn't want to reuse A9's departmentguy names. )) Kansas Kenickie: Man up McFly McFly: You man up! Kansas Kenickie: I thought you were a bad boy, not s sissy Kansas Kenickie: *a Callista Tyrel: ( ::observes an old droid offer peanuts:: Thank you. ) BrenFaliver: ((Aaaand back, catching up)) Erich Jaenke: :: Finds the lift :: Holodeck 2 Kansas Kenickie: ::opens up the arm-rest to see if Sovak left anything behind:: McFly: The consul general is a butt! Crap! ::looks around:: You don't think she heard me do you? Kansas Kenickie: yes' McFly: ::sighs and lets the TL doors close:: Erich Jaenke: :: Approaches the Holodeck 2 door :: Erich Jaenke: :: Taps commands on the access panel and enters the holodeck :: Kansas Kenickie: ::Looks over the list of supplies:: (m) we need some real Alcohol on this boat McFly: Brutus> ::hoping to make a good impression to maybe get the CSEC position; finishes any overdue paper work; sets weapons maintenance and guard schedules; cleans the main security toilet:: Kansas Kenickie: ::Looks over her shoulder at Karl:: how about a milk run for me? McFly: ::doesn't take the transporter, instead walks the entire length from the ship, through the docking port and through the station:: BrenFaliver: ::Asks the computer, nicely, to download a variety of scientific data that is not urgent enough to merit transmission but will roundout the libraries:: Kansas Kenickie: Karl> Same place? ::Sighs:: Kansas Kenickie: ::Tosses Karl a Data crystal:: it's an even trade, don't let him talk you down McFly: ::arrives at a non-discript office; checks in with the clerk and waits in a chair:: Kansas Kenickie: Karl> ::Goes off on his quest:: Gila Orrak: :: Meanwhile, at the far end of the station, sits a stranger in a strange land, out of her element. She raised eyebrows as personnel caught a glimpse of someone clearly non-Starfleet and worse...non-Federation :: BrenFaliver: ::Says outloud to no one in particular:: Is it shore leave if I stay on the Manticore while everyone leaves? I could get so much research done... Keb: ::shows up at Holodeck 2 but it won't let her enter:: Keb: ::pokes at the panel:: I know someone's inside. That's why I'm here. Gila Orrak: :: A beep on her wrist communicator caught her attention, drawing out a long sigh :: Erich Jaenke: :: The holodeck door opens to blackness :: Kansas Kenickie: ::Looks around the empty Bridge:: McFly: ::mcfly hears his name called and is guided into a small empty office:: Gila Orrak: :: Gila takes a drink from her canar, not real of course, how could or why would it be? :: McFly: Clerk> Please have a seat and they'll be with you in a moment ::walks out:: Erich Jaenke: :: A wind blows across the holodeck, but without any source :: McFly: ::looks around the room waiting for the chewing:: ((to be continued in a log)) Kansas Kenickie: :::gets up and loosens the bolts on Keb's seat:: Kansas Kenickie: ::hums and gives it a good wiggle:: Erich Jaenke: (Computer. remind me that KK likes cold showers) Keb: ::enters at last, and looks for Erich:: Kansas Kenickie: ::doesn't shower::: Erich Jaenke: :: His voice bellows :: WHO DARES ENTERS THE VOID? Kansas Kenickie: ::returns to the CO's seat:: Gila Orrak: :: Gila supposed someone would come to get her eventually. She wondered how closely security was to follow her. With the way Starfleet operations, anyone could be watching on their behalf :: Keb: ::looks around, jumping but then laughing to herself:: Me! Kansas Kenickie: ::Looks over the security Cam at the airlock, balances her knife on the back of her hand:: Gila Orrak: :: The view out the station was pleasantly empty devoid of anything other than the distant points of light. Their lack of twinkle was disconcerting. Sure thing of being on a station rather than a planet :: Erich Jaenke: :: Voice :: WHO BE YOU? Kansas Kenickie: ::catches knife, heads to the lift:: get me to the airlock BrenFaliver: ((You two are into some weird stuff, Erich)) McFly: ((you should read some of my and KK's old logs)) Erich Jaenke: :: Voice :: YOU MUST CHALLENGE THE KEEPER OF THE VOID... DEFEND YOURSELF, IF YOU ARE ABLE :: Kansas Kenickie: (( you think that is weird ::Glances at McFly:: that is a Sunday afternoon)) Erich Jaenke: :: A weapon of ancient design appears before Keb, lying on the ground waiting :: Kansas Kenickie: ::Steps off the lift and walks to the airlock:: BrenFaliver: ((::Notes to himself that Keb and Erich are apparently into some weird Klingon beat-your-mate-before-you-mate business::)) Keb: ::grins and grabs the weapon, ready to play:: I've been dealing with KK all this time--I think I can handle a bit of shadow. Kansas Kenickie: ::Stands on the steps, glares:: McFly: OpsGuy> ::sitting at a bar with his cousin SciGuy; takes a sip; winces as it burns on the way down:: I'm telling you, with the Admiral here I'm going to get transferred. McFly hates me. I didn't even do anything to him. He just hates me. I'm pretty sure Kenickie feels the same. Gila Orrak: :: Gila reviewed her alien tablet for her orders, the script a comfort to her. Learning Federation standard had been a challenge :: Erich Jaenke: :: Out of nowhere a long staff sweeps Keb off her feet :: Kansas Kenickie: ::Looks over her PADD, and the list of new personnel:: I am the welcome wagon.... Keb: ::tumbles to the ground and then scrambles back to her feet as quickly as she can:: Hey, that was cheating! ::pokes out with the weapon into the darkness, but carefully:: Kansas Kenickie: (m) I miss killing people Erich Jaenke: :: A dimly glowing form peer out two meters in front of her, now behind her :: AHHH.... :: the form floats around Keb :: Erich Jaenke: :: The staff goes for her midsection :: Keb: ::smiles softly, adjusting her stance to face the form, turning as it does, and jumping back just at the right moment:: McFly: SciGuy> ::pats Ops on the back and takes a drink:: Well if you didn't suck at your job so badly. ::shruggs:: Erich Jaenke: :: The staff spins from end to end, with a strike coming down for her head :: McFly: OpsGuy> ::slams fist on the counter and yells:: I don't suck! ::realizes he's making a scene and quiets down:: I don't suck, I don't know why people keep saying that. And you're family, you're supposed to be on my side. Gila Orrak: :: How was she chosen for this mission? The Science Council assured her this was only a temporary assignment, but she had heard that before :: Erich Jaenke: (Is this Space Olive Garden?) BrenFaliver: ::Replicates some hot chicken ramen, sits back at his console reading the latest journals:: Kansas Kenickie: ::looks across the walkway, notices a few people in the lounge. Tucks back into the airlock more:: McFly: SciGuy> I am on your side... Just don't suck. McFly: OpsGuy> ::sighs; takes a drink:: Erich Jaenke: :: Floats around her again :: McFly: = /\ ======= PAUSE SIM ======= /\ = McFly: = /\ ======= PAUSE SIM ======= /\ = McFly: = /\ ======= PAUSE SIM ======= /\ = Kansas Kenickie: Olive Garden Chic> ::Hands out bread sticks to All::: Kansas Kenickie: ::Paused:: Erich Jaenke: Floats like a wraith McFly: KK, comments? BrenFaliver: ::pauses:: Kansas Kenickie: if it snows on friday I will blame all of your Kansas Kenickie: *you McFly: I would like some snow Erich Jaenke: That was fun Callista Tyrel: Oh my. I think Ops guy needs a counselor. Kansas Kenickie: and Keb needs a better weapon to win that game BrenFaliver: He has one, his cousin SciGuy. Not all advice is pleasant McFly: well if he didn't SUCK SO BAD, he wouldn't have to worry about his job! Keb: Yeah, probably. But it's in the next level. Keb: It hardly ever snows in Houston Keb: and when it does, it melts as soon as day breaks Keb: ...it was 72 degrees today. Kansas Kenickie: back space backspace A B A B, cheat codes McFly: Alright so TBS will be 1 day and it will give us time to get resettled and get our new mission. McFly: So some good news, Callista is an actual human that will be joining the sim! Kansas Kenickie: ::Clapps:: I didn't shot anyone!! Kansas Kenickie: Yaaaa!! Welcome, I don't shoot people McFly: She'll be joining Engineering so Erich doesn't have to be all alone down there. BrenFaliver: Woo! BrenFaliver: Does she know what she's getting into...? Erich Jaenke: Callista.... you say McFly: However, Keb might want to keep an eye on her, cause you know, close workmates and all. McFly: just putting that out there Kansas Kenickie: Super Fun Awesome Time Bren Callista Tyrel: Lol Thank you. I will try to....write a small bio this week. Erich Jaenke: Let me show you my engines... Kansas Kenickie: we don't know anything about that kinda stuff McFly Callista Tyrel: Just an ensign with a repair kit. Keb: Yay welcome! Also ::possessively grabs Erich and smooches:: McFly: Also Gila is one of the new NPC's that will be joining. Just a reminder if anyone wants to make an NPC to help fill out the roster just let me know. Doesn't have to be this week or anything either. But if you've been wanted to try a different department this is a great way to do so McFly: ::winks at KK:: McFly: ok then, any comments or questions? BrenFaliver: AH, cool BrenFaliver: I was VERY confused where Gila was coming from McFly: she was coming from your dreams, bren BrenFaliver: That makes a lot of sense Callista Tyrel: You guys ship on this ship I see. Kansas Kenickie: I will protect you Gila Orrak: Should have said where I was Erich Jaenke: We ship it out to the ship Callista Tyrel: Thanks McFly: Well if there's nothing else... I failed to find dismissing pictures on our break. I might do it later. Or i might be lazy and not do it at all. Gila Orrak: I'm out o' here. Night McFly: DISMISSED! Keb: Gnight all Kansas Kenickie: Good nite Peeps >O_. BrenFaliver: Goodnight and Good week Erich Jaenke: Night all and Keb Callista Tyrel: Goodnight. McFly: later dudes Erich Jaenke: Welcome Callista

= /\ = USS MANTICORE BRIEFING #1013, STARDATE 51812.17 = /\ = Admiral Sovak and the now Commandant Atragon-9 have been reassigned after 20 years on the USS Manticore. In their place Captain McFly has been named commanding officer and now Commander Kenickie ships First Officer. The crew arrives at Starbase 214 for rest, resupply and maybe some new personnel. = /\ = END USS MANTICORE BRIEFING #1013, STARDATE 51812.17 = /\ =

Congrats! I didn't realize any new people were even coming in.

= /\ = USS MANTICORE BRIEFING #1012, STARDATE 51812.10 = /\ = ((My first time running the sim. Be gentle.)) Admiral Sovak and the now Commandant Atragon-9 have been reassigned after 20 years on the USS Manticore. Now the crew must forge on into the "Undiscovered Country"... Aka Starbase 214. = /\ = END USS MANTICORE BRIEFING #1012, STARDATE 51812.10 = /\ = Kansas Kenickie: Captain McFly: what up McFly: I forgot to mention to meet at 8:30 before the sim. Kansas Kenickie: Potatoes Kansas Kenickie: I think we are on different times Zones LOL McFly: right, you're in new york country, 9:30 for you then. Kansas Kenickie: it is 9:56pm here McFly: Think anyone will show up or have they already regretted their decision to continue? \ Kansas Kenickie: I meant to sign on earlier Kansas Kenickie: here is the Ribbon McFly: no worries, not much to go over anyway Erich Jaenke: If there was an earlier time to meet I did not see it Kansas Kenickie: nope McFly: I burnt the top of my mouth with chili tonight. Now I can't stop licking it. Kansas Kenickie: ice cream will help McFly: Ooh, that would help. Just wish I had some McFly: I have hot chocolate. Would that work? Kansas Kenickie: Ice cream fixes everything Vilanne: I heard ice cream and came running... hot chocolate too McFly: McFly: Nice, just need one more Vilanne: and 3 minutes to spare! (Since I seem to have started a pattern this last year of being late) McFly: I'll give Bren another minute before we start McFly: So I just wanted to take a quick second before we begin. As it's painfully obvious we only have 6 people in our sim now. And I don't see anyone joining in the near future. With that in mind, I wanted to encourage the creation of more permanent NPC's. We're going to need at least two of them for senior staff not to mention the ship itself feeling a little empty. This could be a great way for everyone to branch out in other areas as well, especially during those plots that are focused towards one department. It also gives us a chance to play around if we're starting to get bored with our character perhaps because of said plot line not being in our chosen field. Of course no one is required to do any of this. If you're happy playing the way you are then leave it that way. This is just a suggestion to help make the ship feel more alive. McFly: and... here we go. Keb: Okay. McFly: = /\ = USS MANTICORE BRIEFING #1012, STARDATE 51812.10 = /\ = Admiral Sovak and the now Commandant Atragon-9 have been reassigned after 20 years on the USS Manticore. Now the crew must forge on into the "Undiscovered Country"... Aka Starbase 214. = /\ = END USS MANTICORE BRIEFING #1012, STARDATE 51812.10 = /\ = McFly: = /\ ======= BEGIN SIM ======= /\ = McFly: = /\ ======= BEGIN SIM ======= /\ = McFly: = /\ ======= BEGIN SIM ======= /\ = McFly: ACTION> THE BRIDGE CREW WATCHES THE PEGASUS ON THE VIEWSCREEN AS IT DISAPPEARS INTO TITAN McFly: ::mcfly looks around the bridge:: So... I guess we're on our own now. Vilanne: ::stoic and quiet on the bridge:: Kansas Kenickie: You are the key holder ::Smirks:: try not getting us killed. that is mine Keb: Not really on our own. We have each other. And Manticore herself. McFly: Now you know I can't guarantee that Kansas Kenickie: *job Erich Jaenke: :: on the bridge "" McFly: True that keb Keb: ::smiles at Erich, still dealing with missing A9:: Erich Jaenke: :: Looking at engine status from his station on the bridge :: Vilanne: ::turns towards Captain McFly:: Captain, do we have any indication from StarFleet if our general orders have changed or not McFly: Keb, Set a course for Starbase 214. We'll take a few days to recoup there. Kansas Kenickie: Kill things Vil McFly: ::turns to Vil:: As far as I know we keep doing what we always do. Kansas Kenickie: ::pokes her console:: McFly: ::gestures to KK:: Yeah pretty much that Erich Jaenke: Full engine capacity available. Kansas Kenickie: ::Shakes her head at the screen, mutters::: this isn't right McFly: You heard him Keb, let 'er rip. McFly: Right or not, these are our orders. Erich Jaenke: It does not rip space-ti... oh yes, McFly: ACTION> MANTICORE TURNS AWAY FROM TITAN AND WARPS TOWARDS STARBASE 214 Kansas Kenickie: 214? is this a vacation or a roll up to clean house McFly: A little of both. We could use some R&R and need to stock up. Keb: 214. Got it. On our way. Keb: ((sorry, grading while simming)) Keb: ((last week of classes, finals start friday)) McFly: ::looks back at KK; speaks more quietly but not whispering:: Join me in the Ready Room? Kansas Kenickie: ((everyone gets an A!!)) Kansas Kenickie: Aye Sir ::Sneers at calling him Sir:: Cmdr Rinax: ((Didn't take the test, love gree grades!)) Kansas Kenickie: ::Follows him with her hands behind her back:: McFly: ((No worries Keb, work before pleasure )) Erich Jaenke: Helm, what is our ETA? Cmdr Rinax: ::smirks at Kansas:: I know... you are happy.. kill stuff, our norm Kansas Kenickie: Annoying Karl> I bet we get killed there Kansas Kenickie: ::Fingers her blade:: how can I be of service Captain? McFly: ((FYI Rinax is an Jaenke NPC)) McFly: Keb, you have the bridge ::enters RR:: Keb: Should take us about 6 hours if we don't have to adjust course. Cmdr Rinax: ((Who? LOL) Keb: ::nods to McFly:: Kansas Kenickie: ::Flicks Kebs Bow, follows:: Keb: ::is wearing a new one since A9s departure:: McFly: ((hmm, maybe not. Having too many things happening at one time )) Keb: ::looks at Karl:: If we leave Kansas on the ship, we'll be fine. We're just going to a starbase. Kansas Kenickie: Karl> She will kill who ever is here on the ship as well McFly: ::doors close:: By the way, you don't have to be so formal. Keb: Well, she hasn't quite killed me yet. Drawn a weapon on me a few times. Keb: Let's give her the benefit of the doubt? Kansas Kenickie: shouldn't I be Kansas Kenickie: we share quarters Vilanne: ((back)) Keb: ::feels weird defending KK, but dangit Karl's annoying:: Kansas Kenickie: ::Pushes the lever and opens the hidden bar:: Ice? Kansas Kenickie: Karl> Are you drinking? Keb: You know I hardly ever drink anything but water. Keb: Besides, I'm on duty. Keb: And Erich's watching, anyway. ::gestures at her beloved:: Vilanne: ((Sorry, all my horsing around, I don't know where everyone is)) Kansas Kenickie: ::Pours McFly a drink::: I am getting this is a business meeting Erich Jaenke: (I'm sitting on the outside of the ship, letting the warp field blow through my hair) Kansas Kenickie: ((again)) McFly: You know nothing is ever business with me. McFly: And yes, Ice Kansas Kenickie: ::Drops ice in the cup and some in her own:: Keb: ((McFly and KK are making out in the RR, Erich, Karl, and Keb are on the bridge)) Erich Jaenke: I'm trying to get her to experience other beverages. Keb: ((not sure about you and Bren)) Keb: Tea's nice. Keb: especially mint. Kansas Kenickie: ((is that what everyone thinks when we are locked in a room together?)) Keb: ((duh)) McFly: ((we are in the RR right?)) Kansas Kenickie: ::Swirls the cup::: Erich Jaenke: I should create a repair schedule... Kansas Kenickie: ((sup)) Kansas Kenickie: ((yup too)) McFly: So now that A9 is gone how's all that, you go where he goes, thing going to work? McFly: You still on this ship or are "they" moving you? Vilanne: ::having finished transferring all of the staff that left's medical files back to the FLeet, her work is done, inventory is being taken by Nurse Nancy, and Vil is kinda enjoying not being alone in sickbay since she claimed a seat on the bridge to babysit KK, even though she's not being babysat anymore:: Kansas Kenickie: They have been silent, so I can only guess I am here McFly: ::lifts eyebrow:: Do you want to be here? Keb: ::looks over at Erich:: You know, we'll probably have a bit of time to explore the base while we're there. I bet they have some new holonovels. Kansas Kenickie: I miss the hunt, I won't lie.. but I am here Vilanne: ::taps on the empty station, logging into Sickbay, pulls up another memo, and writes to Starfleet... her mouth moving as she types the words, since she doesn't want to do the verbal commands and disrupt the bridge activitiy:: Kansas Kenickie: Karl> ::reads over Vil's shoulder, lips move as he reads:: Erich Jaenke: Another ancient fantasy Keb? McFly: I know we've had some differences lately. But I still need you here... I want you here. Vilanne: ::mouthing:: ~ Starfleet Medical, ::looks up current admin head at SFM, but feels hot breath on her earlobe, turns VERY quickly and whaps him with her ponytail:: Excuse me, did you need something:? Kansas Kenickie: ::Gulps drink:: are you hitting on me? McFly: You know it babe. ::winks:: Keb: Those are the best. THe costumes are wonderful. Kansas Kenickie: Karl> I can't read Keb: ::blushes slightly and glances down at the cleavage that isn't visible in uniform:: Vilanne: ((And I thought this was going to be General Hospital... now it's Nights of our LIves, starting the steamy McFly, and the wild and wicked KK)) McFly: Look, ::leans on the desk:: I talked a little with A9 before he left. He gave me some good advice... You've been my rock for a long time. I've been able to lean on you in some of the worst times. And I realize I could't think of anyone else I would want by my side Kansas Kenickie: :O McFly: ::grabs a box from the desk and kneels down in front of KK:: Erich Jaenke: :: Turns to Keb, smiles :: Kansas Kenickie: I will state you if that is a ring Vilanne: Great, I will set up a set of training sessions for you, and let your Chief know that you slipped through SFA somehow... I{m' sure she'll find many ways for you to make up for that... ::raises brow, waiting for any response:: Keb: So it's a date? Kansas Kenickie: *Stab McFly: So I'm asking you, Kansas Kenickie, would you do me the honor... ::opens the box to reveal a Pip:: of being my XO? Erich Jaenke: :: Almost chokes :: McFly: ::smiles even knowing she's going to hit him hard:: Kansas Kenickie: a hoss Keb: ((sonds like he'll stab you)) Kansas Kenickie: *Boss Vilanne: ((Only if you, McFly, promise never to be unconscious or have major surgery... because she'll ALWAYS go for the jugular!)) McFly: (( He always sleeps with one eye open)) Keb: ::checks our flight pattern in between fantasizing:: Vilanne: ((Gonna prop one eye open too )) Kansas Kenickie: I am not right for the job, I kill people.... like A LOT Vilanne: ((Awww... I was hoping it would tame KK a bit)) Keb: ::notices something's not quite going right:: Um...Er--Chief Jaenke? Erich Jaenke: I'm fine.. fine.. medication is wearing off and I'm feeling everyone on the ship. Kansas Kenickie: ::opens the bottle of the real stuff, skips the ice::: McFly: ::gets up:: I know, i know, you'll have to reign that in a little. Just a little. But I can't think of anyone better for the job ((no offense everyone )) Plus, I like knowing you'll be by my side for everything Keb: No--that's not it, Erich. There's something wrong with how Manticore's flying. Keb: I'm adjusting for it, but we're not flying true. Kansas Kenickie: ::Whispers, knowing everything is heard by someone/something:: no really. I have killed innocent people, only because I was told too. I don't have a pause button McFly: Look, I know this a huge change. It's changing for everyone. But I could really use you next to me. Erich Jaenke: Let me look. :: taps :: Keb: We keep tracking to the starboard side, no matter how I recallibrate things. Kansas Kenickie: Karl> Looking in someone's window Keb? Vilanne: ::waves hand in front of Karl's face:: Maybe we need some Welbrutin prescribed ... Karl how long has it truly been since you've had a physical? ::taps her PADD:: Wow... I"ll say that's a LOT of years. I will schedule one for you tomorrow (or next sim date) at 2200. Keb: It's not much but it adds up over the parsecs. Kansas Kenickie: Karl> So you can kill me? Keb: ::looks back at Karl:: Shut up, Karl. ::rather likes the CC sometimes, even if she didn't bother moving into it:: Vilanne: ::nods:: Something like that... it's an order. ::sweet eVil smile:: See you then. Now, quit reading my mail! Erich Jaenke: Adding additional power to port Kansas Kenickie: ::Looks in the box:: McFly: We both have been on this ship for a very long time and we've both killed a ton of people. Enough that should keep us awake at night. But here I am, Captain of a starship. You're Chief security. Very high positions that neither of us would otherwise hold if we weren't in Special Ops. ::raises eyebrow hoping the SpecOps card can convince her:: McFly: I don't know what I have to do to convince you. McFly: I'd hate to have to ask OpsGuy. Keb: ::shakes head:: I think it's something off in the sensor array, or maybe even at the nav level. Kansas Kenickie: ::Snaps the box closed:: everyone will think I slept my way to that seat Keb: I can compensate for it, but it's a lot of nudging back into place. Kansas Kenickie: then I will have to smack them or worse Vilanne: ((Order her McFLy... just stand on the other side of the conference room table)) McFly: I mean... you kind of did. But purposefully of course ::he says quickly:: Erich Jaenke: Sensors could be feeling false readings to navigation. Vilanne: ::notates calendar for sickbay, for Karl's appt, and CC's Nurse Nancy:: Kansas Kenickie: I did... didn't I ::Smirks:: McFly: ((you're trying to get me killed aren't you VIl?)) Vilanne: ((No but just looking for a few patients... oh, whoops! I mean, is it that obvious)) McFly: ::smiles back:: Keb: Yeah, that's probably the first thing we should test...darnit, that's going to take a while, too. It's slowing us down already. Kansas Kenickie: I will take the seat until Fleet sends you a replacement, how is that? Keb: I wonder if interfacing with the other ships affected Manti somehow... McFly: ::smirks:: Sure. I'll have them get on that as soon as possible. Kansas Kenickie: who knew you would be CO one day... I mean Accidents don't happen accidentally.. right? Erich Jaenke: I need to consider an independent sensor system. Vilanne: ((Smooth Mf. LOL... nice-n-smooth) Kansas Kenickie: ((he is a smooth operator)) McFly: I know, right? Desperate times and all Vilanne: ::finishes memo to the CMO of SFM..:: ~ Please send replacements for the following officers ::attaches quit a list that was never replaced:: and I will be eternally grateful ~ ::closes and sends::: McFly: ( )) Vilanne: ((::McFly breaks out in a "Smooth Criminal" dance across the RR to impress KK::)) McFly: (( ::does the moonwalk:: )) Keb: I know A9 had to interface with the ship as part of that, too--there might be some risidual...I guess it's code...something. Kansas Kenickie: ::Pours another drink::: I thought keeping A9 alive was going to be my hardest job Erich Jaenke: That's why things like that are not a good idea. :: typing :: Keb: ::looking through the nav systems in between making corrections back to port:: Kansas Kenickie: Karl> PPpsssst Keb... what do you thinking they are doing in there for soooooo long? Keb: I dunno...it was kind of neat to see how a ship might think if it were alive. Sometimes when you're sitting in the engine room, with all the life of the ship throbbing around you, doesn't it feel like that anyway? McFly: ::walks over to KK; takes the pip out and snaps it to her uniform collar:: That's going to be nothing compared to servicing that Captain every night Keb: ::looks up at Karl having entirely forgotten about McFly and KK:: Probably making tiny murder machines. Keb: ::goes back to her console completely deadpan:: McFly: Shall we inform the crew? Kansas Kenickie: ::Covers her face with her hand::: Gods tooth this is going to be harder McFly: ::winks:: Shall we inform the crew? McFly: ::activates the door open; gestures for her to go first:: Kansas Kenickie: yes yes Kansas Kenickie: ::still face, walks out of the RR... buzzed::: Kansas Kenickie: ::Wishes she finished her other drink and his:: Keb: ::glances back at the sound of the door:: Captain. Commander. Vilanne: ((Is that Pip broken? No blood No gun to send it? No sickbay to patch her up?)) Kansas Kenickie: ((for ONCE!!)) Vilanne: ((::murder machines LOLOL)) McFly: ::follows KK:: Attention! As of 21:57 It is recorded that Kansas Kenickie is the new XO of the USS Manticore. Kansas Kenickie: Karl> That was quick McFly: ((this is a slow acting pip, the blood comes later when she's least prepared for it)) Kansas Kenickie: ::now wants to deck him:: Vilanne: ::turns towards them, and a broad smile comes across her face, noticing it almost immediately:: Keb: ::jaw drops slightly at McFly--not who she would've gone with:: Vilanne: ((Or preggers, McFly)) Keb: Okay..con...congratulations, Commander. Kansas Kenickie: ((I thought that to Vilanne LOL)) McFly: (( )) Vilanne: Congrats Kansas... that's wonderful! Keb: ::turns to McFly:: We have a small situation with navigation. I've got Chief Jaenke on it. Kansas Kenickie: :::Total fake smile that everyone can tell:: thank you Vilanne Vilanne: Wait, now I have to call you Commander all the time since you outrank me... but not in Medical situations. ::winks at Kansas:: Commander. Keb: Manticore really wants to fly to starboard for some reason I haven't been able to track down. McFly: = /\ ======= PAUSE SIM ======= /\ = McFly: = /\ ======= PAUSE SIM ======= /\ = McFly: = /\ ======= PAUSE SIM ======= /\ = Keb: ::paused:: Vilanne: ::paused:: Kansas Kenickie: ::Paused:: McFly: Thought about doing the cliff hanger, decided against it McFly: KK, any comments? Kansas Kenickie: drinks are on me? McFly: Sounds good to me Erich Jaenke: Erich is still choking McFly: Erich Jaenke: I can bring in someone I have a login for Vilanne: ((Sorry for messing up with Rinax tonight... I thought I could get both accounts logged in, but it canceled VIl. *smirk*)) McFly: Yeah I think on here you can only do one at a time. Might be able to do it if you use two different browsers though. Keb: I'm thinking about a new character. What do we need most? Vilanne: Erich, I can get you in... ::flips screens on her pad:: I have na opening after Karl next Monday evening. Vilanne: I"ll try that Matt Vilanne: Yeah, where do you want Rinax? Kansas Kenickie: maybe put feelers out, any nerds that want to job in McFly: Well about that. We will need a Security Chief and Ops. Now about that, if anyone wants to switch to a different position they can do that too. But you can just do NPC's if you want. Erich Jaenke: Captain open? McFly: Not yet but give it a week Erich Jaenke: :: sharpening knife :: I can wait. Kansas Kenickie: less then a week Keb: Helm is fun Vilanne: Ops sounds interesting, only played those in the academy Keb: I think I'll stick with it for now Vilanne: Keb, did you want to do Hops? McFly: I know we have OpsGuy but I didn't know if we should steal him from A9 or just let him go and use someone else Kansas Kenickie: Keb can do both, helm is easy Keb: I think HelmDude and Opsguy would miss each other McFly: Whatever NPC you come up with just let me know species, position and if they're an odd species how they are in starfleet. Kansas Kenickie: she has all that extra bow tie on her hands Kansas Kenickie: *time Vilanne: Ok... Hmm... every dept is 1 person right? So we need some people in those depts McFly: So Security and Ops are important since they're senior staff but if you want to NPC for anything else please do. Kansas Kenickie: I can float karl to Tac or Spock it and do both because I am awesome Vilanne: LOL KK McFly: Spock did do both Vilanne: Maybe I could put Rinax in Sci as an assist to Bren... McFly: And yeah, Karl is available for Security or Tac if no one wants it, and I have 3 security NPC's I can use too McFly: I'm sure he would like the company Kansas Kenickie: Karl doesn't likeanyone McFly: Any other NPC questions? Vilanne: Or the XO could be restrained to doing BOTH jobs! *evil laugh* McFly: and anyone doesn't like Karl Kansas Kenickie: or dooms everyone Kansas Kenickie: hold back Vilanne!? Never McFly: if you think of a question feel free to email me. Vilanne: ? McFly: Vil Vilanne: Just confused at KK's statement, maybe she didn't get my crackup. Vilanne: Maybe SF downsized us intentionally, to save money. Kansas Kenickie: which one Vilanne: or budget Vilanne: Yeah, I know KK... you don't like understanding me. Ok... sorry Matt, go ahead. *blushes* Kansas Kenickie: I didn't see thst McFly: I wouldn't be surprised by that, our budget gets lower every year McFly: Alright so TBS is 2 hours, I think that's good. We'll be arriving at 214 next sim. Maybe it takes us so long because of the engine lag. Good thing we're going to a starbase, eh? McFly: Any questions? Kansas Kenickie: it has been well over 10 years since I have O'd anything.. so PM me if I miss anything or email Vilanne: Yep yep Vilanne: Wow really KK? I thought you had one in that sim where your char slapped me silly Kansas Kenickie: nope Vilanne: Or was that a punch. Kansas Kenickie: KK is my only butt kicker Kansas Kenickie: the rest were all engineers Vilanne: lol... gosh who was it then? Now I gotta know! McFly: Alright then, if nothing else... McFly: um... I haven't thought of a good outro yet. Maybe I'll think of something during the holidays. Kansas Kenickie: when I watch Jessica Jones all I hear is KK out of her mouth McFly: Jessica Jones is awesome. Kansas Kenickie: Keb: Back when I was in engineering A9 asked if I was playing Keb as Kaylee Keb: I hadn't seen Firefly yet Keb: ...but he was dead to rights McFly: Oh that's funny McFly: Alright then. DISMISSED! Keb: Gnight all! Vilanne: G'night everyone! Kansas Kenickie: Nite nite Peeps McFly: I'll come up with something better soon McFly: later dudes Vilanne: Awww... nic eheart, thank you Kebbers Kansas Kenickie: Kansas Kenickie: those are my hearts McFly: Erich Jaenke: night McFly: later

= /\ = USS MANTICORE BRIEFING #1012, STARDATE 51812.10 = /\ = ((My first time running the sim. Be gentle.)) Admiral Sovak and the now Commandant Atragon-9 have been reassigned after 20 years on the USS Manticore. Now the crew must forge on into the "Undiscovered Country"... Aka Starbase 214. = /\ = END USS MANTICORE BRIEFING #1012, STARDATE 51812.10 = /\ =

Three men, each on a gurney, were wheeled into a small room. Quickly all three were connected to IV’s and two were stripped of their uniforms. The third man’s exoskeleton suit proved to be difficult to remove. Three more men followed into the room and each carried large metal cases that they placed onto tables. On the side of each case read “IMF Certified”. When opened up they revealed a blank face, like a mannequin head. The men removed a scanner from each case and went to the three on the gurneys. One of the men grabbed his scanner and walked to the gurney on the far side of the small room. His body looked more youthful than his face, worn and tired. He looked like he’d been through hell and back many years ago. His hair was dark, almost black and his eyes were a soulless dark brown. He looked down at the younger man lying on the gurney and studied him for a moment. He looked at the pips on the side of his collar, “Commander,” he thought to himself. The man had a fire in his eyes as he looked down at the young Commander. He had never seen this man before but glared at him as if he just finished the last brownie the man’s dead grandmother ever made for him. He looked down and was surprised to see his own hand around the young Commander’s neck. He couldn’t remember bringing it up there. It was an instinct and he didn’t fight it. Slowly he let his hand squeeze his neck. He began to feel the Commander’s pulse on his fingertips. Suddenly he then heard the voice of one of the other men he walked in with and instantly pulled out of his trance. “Hey Xavier,” the man said. “You sure you don’t want to take the Admiral?” “I’ve already told you yes”, he responded. “I need the mobility the Commander provides. People might get suspicious seeing the Admiral everywhere and not on the bridge.” The third man looked up at him, “Tell me again why I have to be the Vulcan?” “Because you’re his size,” Xavier responded annoyed. “That and your ears are kind of pointy anyway.” The third man sneered and went back to scanning the Vulcan with his device. One of the officials attending to the three men up righted himself after spending an extended period bent over. He arched his back snapping the air out of his vertebrae. Sweat dripped from his forehead and he let out an exhausted breath. “This exo-suit is being one hell of a bitch to get off,” he said. Xavier looked up again from the Commander. “He got it on there you should be able to get it off.” “You’d think that but it’s on there tight.” “Can’t you just cut it off him?” asked the man scanning the Admiral. “No you idiot,” Xavier responded. “You’re going to have to wear it yourself when you take his place.” He walked over to the two men and the Admiral on the table. He examined the suit, lifting an arm, turning the head and with the help of the other two men rolled the Admiral on his side to look on the back. “Maybe if we pulled right here…” he said then drifted off. Xavier and the two men each grabbed a piece of the suit and stated pulling and yanking. Xavier yanked on a piece next to the neck. He used the Admirals head for leverage and cricked it to one side as he pushed with one hand and pulled the suit with the other. The attendant grabbed an area of the leg that looked like it could detach and began pulling. He propped up his foot on the table for leverage and pulled with enough force to start sliding the Admirals body down the table. Xavier compensated by pulling him back up his direction. They each tugged at opposite ends. The man who had been scanning the Admiral pulled on a piece on his arm. He pulled, yanked and flung the arm around without so much as loosening the exo-suit from the arm. Suddenly he heard a pop as he flung the arm back. He stopped and held the arm delicately. He slowly moved the arm up and down and around checking the shoulder. Then he moved the forearm back and forth checking the elbow. The man shrugged then went back to flinging the arm around. The door opened and another man walked in. He was in his late 50’s, balding with short white hair wrapped around the back and sides of his head. He had a stern, assured look on his face. He saw the three men pulling on the Admirals exo-suit contorting him in the process. He quickly moved over to them and pulled each one off the defenseless man. “What do you think you’re doing?” he barked. “Trying to get his exo-suit off,” Xavier responded. “I think it’s glued on there or something.” “You’re not going to get it off him by pulling his limbs off!” He reached behind the Admirals neck and pressed a small button. The suit clicked and suddenly pieces that had clung to the Admiral like claws were now loose and open. The man looked at the official who had been attending to the Admiral from the beginning. “Get it off him.” The attendant nodded sheepishly and began removing the suit. He coward and remained quiet as if he was just yelled at by his father. The man then looked up at Xavier. “What’s wrong with you?” he said. “I told you I didn’t want anyone harmed.” “look at him he’s fine,” Xavier said and gestured to the sleeping man on the table. “He may not be when he wakes up.” Xavier walked back to the Commander and finished his scanning. “You know it would have been a lot easier to just chop him up and pull the pieces out of the suit.” He smiled and laughed as he spoke. The man looked at Xavier. He took a deep breath and slightly shook his head. “I truly wonder if meeting you was a big mistake.” “It’s no mistake Ben. You want people dead and I want to see people die.” Xavier looked up from the Commander. “That’s why we make such a great team.” He flashed a bright cheery smile. The man scanning the Vulcan finished and was over at the metal case with the blank faced head. He tapped some buttons on the LCARS display inside and pressed start when he was ready. A laser beam began carving definition into the blank face starting from the top. The beam swung from one side to the other expertly printing out an exact replica of the Vulcan’s face. The man began working with another device that displayed a waveform on the small screen in front of him. The computer analyzed it and small sound clips could be heard that sounded exactly like Admiral Sovak. The computer gave a confirmation and the man grabbed a small thin metallic strip with a tiny dimly lit light from it. He placed onto his throat just above his Adam’s apple. He then uttered a few phrases and quickly his voice changed from his own to sounding like Sovak’s. The man scanning the Admiral began the same process. The blank head soon formed into an exact replica of Atragon’s face and he too placed a small metallic strip on his throat that soon made him sound like the Admiral. Xavier finished scanning the Commander and began having the computer carve into the blank head the face of Commander McFly. “Seriously though,” Xavier said without looking up from his work, “We should have just killed them all.” “I told you I don’t want anyone on that ship killed,” the man said. Xavier turned to look back at him. “This entire ruse is doing nothing but wasting time and resources.” “We are only after those that are guilty. These people haven’t done anything-“ “No Ben!” Xavier said interrupting, “Everyone’s guilty! It’s pointless to save a single ship full of people so you can lie to yourself that you’re not committing genocide.” The man folded his arms with one hand up at his chin. He shifted where he stood and didn’t respond to Xavier. Xavier placed the metal strip on his throat and turned around to the man. “Just remember, we’ve already started. It’s too late to turn back now.” As he spoke his voiced quickly changed from his own to that of McFly’s. The three men fitted their respective masks with the help of the attendants then put on the StarFleet uniforms and the exo-suit for the one man posing as Atragon. As they stood in the room, all three men looked like exact replicas of the three men on the gurneys. They each grabbed a rifle and started for the door. Before they could exit the older man looked at each of them. Hand still on his chin, his eyes conveyed the same assuredness they did when he first walked into the room. “No one from that ship is to die,” he said slowly and definitively. His eyes shifted toward their rifles. The three men nodded and switched them to stun then walked out the door. They walked down the hall and Xavier, now looking like McFly, switched his rifle back to kill. They looked over at him. “But he said not to kill them,” one of them said. Xavier smirked, “We’re going to be attacking the guards not the hostages, right?” The two men acknowledged. “Well he said not to kill anyone from that ship. He didn’t say anything about killing people from this ship.” They smiled back at him, wide eyed, as if their parents just told them they could eat both pizza and ice cream on the same pancake for both breakfast and dinner.

Matt McFly stood outside the childhood home of Kansas Kenickie. She had left with her father and brothers. Matt stayed behind, a little quiet time away from the rambunctious family. He was surprised with how well things were going. More specifically, he was surprised he was still alive. The idea of coming to see her family hadn’t been very appealing to him but it seemed important to her. After spending a couple of days there he could see why. Standing outside in the open air was peaceful. The flaky snow crunched beneath his feet. A soft wind blew across the field. His warm breath fogged in the cold winter air. He gazed out at the forest in the distance. He could see the sharp mountains shoot up from behind the trees blanketed in snow. All of it was a radical yet pleasing change from what he was used to. He was amazed how much he enjoyed it there, even the mucked up horse stables. If this was the place Kansas wanted to make a home he didn’t mind at all. He also got a cheap thrill out of being the one she wanted to make a home with. He remembered the hysterics she went into every time the subject of a life long commitment came up. He wasn’t sure what happened that made her change her mind like that but he was damn sure he wasn’t going to screw it up. From behind Matt heard steps echoing off the wooden planks of the porch. Thinking it was the old man he turned around. His stomach dropped when he saw Ian’s face. Oh crap. He looked cocky and smug like a bully meeting in the playground after school. Matt stood a tall six-two but Ian seemed to tower over him. It was the porch Ian was standing on that accentuated his height but Matt still felt a lump in his throat and reminded himself of the large open field behind him. “I thought everyone had left.” “I came back a little early, just wanted to have a heart to heart with the guy that’s screwing my baby sister.” Matt raised an eyebrow looking him back. “Excuse me?” “I already told you once to keep your hands off her and you didn’t listen. What you think I can’t touch you because you’re higher in rank? Or maybe you think you can hide behind Kansas and be immune from the rest of us.” Matt steps closer to Ian. No intimidation just rage. “Where do you get off--” Ian cuts him off. “Obviously my three other brothers already know. With one snap of my fingers the only thing they’ll find of you is a skeleton. If you break her heart we’ll break yours, the hard way.” “You know what forget you, I don’t need this.” Matt says trying to walk away. “Why don’t you just leave?” Matt stops in the snow feeling himself being coaxed on. “She’s already been hurt enough.. Just cut it now before it becomes unbearable when you actually do leave.” Ian walks closer to where Matt is standing, the soles of his shoes pounding on the wood. “I could see it in your eyes. You’re just going to take what you want and then leave when you’ve had enough.” Ian steps off the porch looking Matt in the eye. Even without the planks suspended three feet off the ground he still stands above Matt. “You need to do yourself and her a favor and just leave now before you cause her some real pain. Don’t you dare let her get too attached to you.” They stand in silence. The cold winter air biting the tension. Matt looks up at Ian, bewildered at his actions. He thought this was over after not hearing from him since that one transmission. Ian stares down Matt long enough to make sure the point sinks in then turns to leave. As he does Matt reaches out grabbing firmly on his arm. “You know I’ve been getting a lot of weird stares since I got here but none more so than from you. I’ve had to do everything I can to earn her trust, I’m not going to waste my time trying to earn yours.” Ian starts to speak but Matt quickly catches him. “No no no, you don’t speak now, it’s my turn! On our last mission I nearly destroyed my career for her. I put everyone on the ship at risk for her. I would give my life if all she did were wish it. Do not threaten me with your overprotective machismo.” “She’s too good for you.” “Don’t you think I know that? But why don’t you let her make her own decisions instead of driving people away. You are the one that’s going to hurt her if you keep doing that. You can’t scare me into leaving, I’m not going anywhere until she tells me to, and even then I will fight tooth and nail to change her mind. ” Matt’s adrenaline level slowly declines. He feels good hopefully having proved he’s willing to fight for Kansas. Matt turns to walk away but as he does he catches a glance in the window leading into the kitchen. Inside the old man stares out having watched the entire episode. The sides of his lips are curled into a smile and he nods to Matt granting his approval.

It had been nearly a day since Kansas woke up. Matt had been by her side the entire time refusing to leave for a moment. The stress of the mission had worn on him but nothing compared to almost losing her. To know that his actions were what caused that thing to grab her. Why her? How did it know that’s what would get him to talk? The fact that he did talk he didn’t care about. If anything he was sorry for disappointing Kansas but that’s as far as it went, as long as she was alive. Matt continued to sit next to the bio-bed. He wasn’t concerned about anyone else. They were alive and well on the ship, he did his job… for the most part. Even Brutus would pull through. He may have gotten a short circuit but it’s nothing Matt didn’t already figure about him. Someone with that size and ego couldn’t—wouldn’t be taken down so easily. The situation made him think. Why exactly was he chosen anyway? Was there something I missed about him? Didn’t Brutus burn his remaining brain cells on their last trip to Risa? All of it was confusing and he didn’t really care all that much so Matt just shook it off. Dr. Sloan walked in to the section Kansas and Matt were in. Sloan pulled Matt aside to a private area and immediately he became chilled with fear. “What’s wrong? It’s not about Kansas is it? She looks fine, they said she was going to completely recover.” Matt spoke quickly his voice barely shaking. Sloan replied that it had nothing to do with Kansas. “It’s Brutus.” He said somberly. “I don’t know what happened to him but he’s not coming around. His nervous system has been completely fried. Everything I throw at him has little to no effect.” Matt listened but the words weren’t registering, he wasn’t allowing them to. “Wha-what are you saying?” “I’m saying he’s not going to wake up.” “What? No, that’s not right, it’s Brutus. He once owned a Yorlian death worm as a pet until you know he squashed it for trying to kill him. He’s not going to let a Borg wannabe take him out like that.” Sloan stayed silent with his head down. “Everyone else came through fine he just needs more time than the others. I bet he’s faking, thinking the longer he doesn’t wake up the more down time he gets. He’s a good worker but he does like his playtime. Did you smack him around a bit? I’ve had to do that a couple of times when he wouldn’t wake up for his shift. He’ll just lie there ignoring you until you leave. I caught him one time and he said he just woke up. Then the Yeoman walked out of the bathroom. She was fine too. I understood and let him continue, then I gave him the graveyard shift for a month.” “Commander.” Sloan said interrupting him. “He’s not going to wake up.” Matt stopped talking. The doctor was sure about it and Matt had to accept it. They both stood there in silence for only a few moments but what seemed like hours. He didn’t know what to say. His mind had been completely focused on Kansas he wasn’t expecting something like this to happen. Nothing truly terrible ever really happens to anyone so why now and why Brutus? Matt finally broke the silence asking to see him and Sloan led Matt to his bed. The screen was lit up above his bed displaying vitals and information that Matt had no clue how to read. What he did understand was the slow steady beep heard in the room. They were farther apart than they should have been. The deafening silence was steadily interrupted with each pass. Sloan left the room leaving Matt standing next to the bed. He looked down at Brutus seeing him for the first time since they were separated on the planet. He’s never seen him like this, utterly debilitated. It was unnerving for him to see Brutus taken down so easily and completely. Matt stood dumbfounded scanning him up and down powerless to do anything. Matt struggled to say anything but he finally spoke up. “I don’t know if you can hear me, Brutus, but I just want to apologize. I’m so sorry. I’m sorry I let this happen. I’m sorry I didn’t come for you sooner— at all. I know I haven’t always been there for you but… Who am I kidding? You’ve stayed in the background the entire time on this ship and that’s my fault. You should have been on more missions, you should be higher in rank, you should have had more responsibility. I focus my time on Kansas I don’t take my job seriously and now you’ve had to pay the price for it. You’re a good officer, one of the best, better than me. You’ve been one of the craziest SOB’s on this ship, man, it’s not going to be the same without you… You’ve been a better friend than I deserve and I’ll never forget you. And no worries, I kept my promise, no one knows your first name and they never will… Yancy.” Matt held himself at the bed taking deep breaths. He turned to walk away and the beeps stopped replaced by one long unending tone. Dr. Sloan walked in as Matt walked out. He stood in the middle of sickbay looking around seeing the other three core members laughing and chatting, so happy to be back safe and sound. Kansas sat up in her bed looking at Matt across the room. “What’s wrong?” She said concerned. At hearing her voice Matt walked over briskly. He grabbed her tight and fell apart in her arms.

McFly stands at a distance watching the Oppoian people. He’s yet to talk with them but it’s become apparent that his team has become familiar with at least one of them. The one called Connor seems to have an answer for everything. Perhaps he can answer what exactly happened here. Hmm, interesting name, Connor, at least for an alien species. McFly starts walking up to Connor but he seems jumpy, jittery. “Look I’ve had enough of you people! It’s quite fine if you don’t want to listen to me, you seem very capable of figuring out how to kill yourselves all on your own.” McFly stops short of reaching Connor. “Yeah I admit, desperation and suicide look very similar in certain situations. Can we talk for a minute? Just you and me.” Connor hesitates, thinking it over. One of them has already hit him what’s this one going to do? But against his better judgment he gets up and joins McFly. The two of them walk over to a private area. Let’s just say it smells worse than the rest of the camp. McFly breaks the awkward silence and extends his hand, “I never got your name.” “Connor, John Connor.” He says completely ignoring McFly’s hand. McFly thinks; Really? “Alright, well first let me just apologize for my officers’ behavior-” “Save it,” He interrupts, “I’ve already heard it from him. Some apology too.” “Yeah don’t put too much thought into it, he’s just… confused.” “About what?” “Uh, you know… life, the universe, everything.” Connor folds his arms, cocks his head to one side and stares down McFly. “Alright forget about all that. I just want some answers about what happened here.” “Fine,” Said Connor. “Tell me who you people are.” “But… but I asked you first.” “I don’t care.” “Look we came here to help you.” “And you’re doing a wonderful job of it. But first I want to know who you people are and where you came from. It’s obvious you’re not from this planet so if you don’t mind I just want a little indulgence.” McFly thinks it over. “And how do I know I can trust you?” “You don’t.” Replied Connor. “But if you want me to trust you, you’re going to have to be the first to talk.” McFly still hesitates. After all, how does he know the machines aren’t listening or that Connor isn’t an informant of some sort? The risk is high but right now it’s more important to gain the trust of someone who knows what’s going on. Besides their only current options are die now or die later, telling them a little something isn’t going to change their fate all that much. McFly sighs, “Alright, my name is Matt McFly. I’m from the USS Manticore, a Federation starship sent to investigate the disappearance of life on this planet.” Connor digests the information for a minute. “A starship… are you the captain?” “Oh god no!” McFly replies quickly. Connor nods. “So you’ve been spying on us.” Caught off guard he stammers, “Wel- no- um… no-not perpetually.” “But basically you’ve been watching us.” “Uh… yeah.” “…Then why the frul didn’t you do anything to help us!” McFly thinks; Frul? “We’re not allowed to interfere with civilizations that haven’t achieved light speed travel.” “You’re here now, what does that say?!” “Look, I don’t know what happened here, no one does. We didn’t even know there were people on this planet.” “Well there are, and we’ve just been to frul and back warring with these metallic demons! Imagine how it must feel to have your people nearly annihilated off the face of the planet only to find that a seemingly more advanced species has been watching over you the entire time and did nothing to help!” “Uh, I’m sorry.” McFly says sheepishly. “Yeah you bet you are.” “Look this isn’t my fault.” “It might as well be.” Connor snaps back. The two stand in silence. Connor fuming, McFly not sure what to feel. What was he to do? He only knows what the Admiral lets him know and even he didn’t know what happened. McFly looks back up at him meeting his eyes. “Honestly, no one knows what happened here. One minute life signs are being seen on scanners and the next the planet is completely barren. Tell me what happened here. Maybe we can work together to find a way out of this mess.” Connor sighs feeling better after venting. “It all started ten years ago. My species is highly advanced. That’s not bragging it’s a fact. We choose not to travel through space. Not haven’t learned to, choose to, despite your inane reason for not helping us. Anyway we made incredible advances in A.I.-” “Artificial intelligence.” McFly interjects. “Wow, the spaceman knows what I’m talking about. Guess I don’t have to bore you with my primitive explanation of artificial intelligence then.” McFly rolls his eyes, “Continue.” “Thank you.” Connor scoffs. “Not only did we advance in AI but robotics as well. Initially they were used as helpers. Everyone was too involved in their work. People made new discoveries everyday so the robots were mainly used to perform the mundane tasks that no one else had time for. Eventually, as A.I. advanced further, the robots were programmed with personalities. Soon they became more like colleagues and helped in research.” “Couldn’t they have done that before?” “Sure but this time people actually wanted them around. So the most significant part of this is when the global network was built. See people got to the point where they wanted everything now. They wanted to know about the latest scientific achievement exactly as it happened. Note this wasn’t so they could praise the creditor, it was for more selfish reasons… But no need to get into that.” McFly looks back thinking; Sure let’s not shed light on your mistakes, no time for that. “So this network connected everyone in the world. People could even work together on opposite sides of the globe. It was one of the biggest achievements in our society. And then… the network became sentient. It started pitting people against each other. It created tension, animosity and rivalries between people that had been friends since childhood. Then it took over everything with a computer.” “What does it want?” Connor shakes his head, “No one knows. First we thought it wanted knowledge but it was the entire global network, it had all the knowledge in the world. Then we thought that maybe we did something to it that turned it this way. But we’ve talked extensively about it and no one really knows how or why it became… I suppose evil is the only word.” McFly takes a minute to compute everything he’s been told. An evil computer with no objective or goal? There must be more to it but what it is he may never know. Regardless, a way out is the priority. “You mentioned were warring with the machines.” “Oh yeah, that lasted for all of a few months.” McFly looks at him confused. “I don’t get it, if you’re so advanced why didn’t you have the technology to defeat your own creation?” “Look, Matt is it? We’re not a violent people. Literally everyone spent their entire time studying and researching to even have time to figure out a weapon. It’s not that we didn’t have our problems, or even crime. But everything was on an academic level. People stole designs and research and revenge was met in kind. Really, true violence had been all but foreign to us, except in the arts, until the network decided the populace should be destroyed. We barely had the ability to fight back, let alone battle against a full out attack.” “So why are you still here?” “You mean why are there still people on this planet? The network learned that there was one thing that technology still couldn’t compete with…” He taps his head, “The brain. It conceived a way to connect directly into the memory center and processing abilities of the brain. It can’t read anything created by the host but it can read everything it itself has dumped in.” “How do you know this? Were you connected?” “No but the fact that it’s asked so many questions and took so long to find every last one of us made it quite simple to figure out. The fact is it uses those with the most complex brain structure and storage capacity as part of its network infrastructure. The rest of us are used as caretakers. Cleaning, feeding, and the only part bearable, breeding.” McFly listens to his words realizing where the other half of the team is. “When we arrived at this facility there were four other members of my team that were told to go through door number one.” “I hope you didn’t say anything to them you regret cause you’re never going to talk to them again.” “…Is there any way to get them out of there?” “Depends on how you view death.” McFly snaps his head up to Connor, “What?!” “No one has ever been disconnected and lived.” “Are you sure, have you even tried to get anyone out of there?!” “No this is just a hypothesis we came up with after sucking on the trough over there.” “Well you know you’re supposed to be the super advanced race that created the apocalyptic network.” “Listen to me, my wife and son are connected to that damned thing. Do you really think I wouldn’t claw my way in there if I wasn’t absolutely sure they’d die?” Surly there’s others that think exactly like him, McFly thinks. He feels defeated, maybe this is hopeless after all. McFly looks up at Connor, “Wouldn’t death be better than what they’re going through?” “I’ve asked myself that same question, but they don’t feel anything. The network uses a surgical technique designed to numb a person’s entire body. They’re barely conscious and only the most basic bodily functions are active. It’s a procedure designed to, ironically enough, experiment and learn more about a brain while it’s alive and active.” McFly stares down at the dirt. “So what about escaping this prison?” “If you found a way out that we overlooked please let us know.” McFly turns around, cracks a few joints and hopes he doesn’t cry. He turns back to Connor, “So new topic, how is it you speak English?” “English?” Connor asks. “Yes, you know the language we’re speaking now?” “You mean Cresh?” “Uh… I suppose.” “Cresh is the dialect my race speaks. There’s about three hundred dialects across the globe.” “What are the odds of two species from completely different worlds speaking the same language?” “I’d have to do the math but I’m sure it’s rather great. I have a question for you though. It seems your team is made up of different species. What are all of you?” “Well, me and the really, really pretty one over there are Human. The angry reptilian looking one with the wide neck that hit you is Cardassian. And the one over there sleeping that looks like he’s in a lot of pain, both physically and emotionally, is Klingon. We’re part of a multi-species federation whose goal is to explore and learn about the universe.” Connor seems impressed with how much there really is outside his planet. Maybe they should have taken the time to look into the galaxy and see what’s really out there. “Well I’m sorry you have to be stuck here with us. But since you are you should learn how to farm.” He walks over to the farming area that Kansas and Faldek so readily destroyed. “Why don’t you tell me more about this federation while we’re working.”

Wow am I the only one that absolutely loved this show?! I watched maybe one or two episodes of SG1 and Atlantis but just couldn't get into them. However I love Universe. And as for not just dialing back home that was an energy issue. The planet they dialed in from was nuclear so earth can't call themselves. Likewise the ship is in such bad shape that it can't dial anything too far away and I'm sure outside the galaxy would require long distance charges.

For those that don't know the song - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FlvYoD1RXWA Matt walks into his quarters immediately throwing his bag on the bed and activates his log. “Wow, what an incredible vacation! Not to mention the most fun I’ve ever had with Kansas. What an amazing girl, I can’t believe I get to be with someone like her. With everything I’ve done I know I don’t deserve her. I mean I have nothing to offer so why does she stay with me? A far off guitar begins playing. A light shines on Matt standing in the center of the room, everything around fades to black. He looks off into the distance. ♪ “She’s like the wind – through my tree.” A flashback shot to Matt and Kansas falling from the top of the hotel. Matt’s singing head is faded in over top. ♪ “She rides the night – next to me.” A flashback shot of Matt and Kansas walking along the dark narrow path, Kansas’ shoes in Matt’s hand. ♪ “She leads me through moonlight –” ♪ “Kansas and Matt on the roof of the hotel sun bathing.” ♪ “…Only to burn me in the sun.” A flashback shot to the scene of Matt and Kansas on the stairwell to the roof of the hotel. ♪ “She’s taken my heart but she doesn’t know what she’s done.” A steamy flashback scene too hot for TV. (Use your imagination… pervert.) ♪ “Feel her breath on my face – her body close to me. Can’t look in her eyes – she’s out of my league.” Matt stands in the middle of his room light still shining. Wind is ruffling his cloths and blowing his hair. ♪ “Just a fool to believe I have anything she needs - She’s like the wind.” Another light fades in behind Matt. Brutus stands in the back with a saxophone. Slowly zooming in on him while performing a short solo. Matt stands in front of a dresser with a tall mirror above it. ♪ “I look in the mirror – and all I see.” Matt reaches out touching the reflection. ♪ “Is a young old man – with only a dream.” He pushes off the dresser spinning around and landing his back against the wall. He stands on one foot while the other is up rested against the wall. He lays his head down face first into his hands. ♪ “Am I just fooling myself – that she’ll stop the pain.” He looks up fist clenched. ♪ “Living without her –” He drives his fist down hitting against the wall. ♪ “…I’d go insane.” Matt brings his other hand up touching his face. ♪ “Feel her breath on my face –” His arms cross over his chest. ♪ “…Her body close to me.” He looks over at a picture of Kansas on the table. ♪ “Can’t look in her eyes – she’s out of my league.” He picks up the picture looking down at it. ♪ “Just a fool to believe I have anything she needs.” He cradles the picture. The wind picks up blowing his cloths and hair again. ♪ “She’s like the wind.” Brutus again with a shorter solo. Another steamy scene this time custom and generic with nothing else but a bed and a black backdrop. Matt is faded over top. ♪ “Feel your breath on my face – your body close to me. Can’t look in your eyes – you’re out of my league.” Matt back in his quarters still holding the picture. ♪ “Just a fool to believe” Ensign Crystal is now lit up standing next to Brutus. The wind extends to both Crystal and Brutus now. ♪ “Just a fool to believe” ♪ “She’s like the wind.” ♪ “Just a fooooool to believe” ♪ “Just a fool to believe” ♪ “She’s like the wind.” Matt slides down the wall. He sits in the corner of the wall and dresser still holding the picture. Wind still blowing Matt, Brutus and Crystal. ♪ “Just a fool to believe” ♪ “Just a fool to believe” ♪ “She’s like the wind.” Zooming out through the door into the hallway. People look over at Matt’s door as they pass hearing the noise coming from the room.

It’s night on Risa. The moon rests high above lighting the land in a soft blue glow. The cool air gently blows across the beach, between the buildings and through the trees. The sound of crashing waves fade off into the distance. Kansas and Matt walk hand in hand down a dark narrow path away from the bustle of tourists. “Where are we going?” Kansas asks with a very subtle irritation in her voice. “I told you it’s a surprise.” Replied Matt. “I hate surprises.” “I know and I don’t care, you’ll see when we get there. Besides, I really wanted to see you in that little black dress one more time.” He says with a smirk. She looks over at him, “Yeah I bet.” As they walk along the path Kansas catches herself from stumbling in her high-heeled shoes. “You alright?” Matt asks in concern. “Yeah, it’s just these stupid shoes that are trying to kill me… You know what, screw it.” She removes her shoes and walks barefoot. “Here.” She says handing them over to Matt. Cooperatively he grabs her shoes and she retakes his hand continuing down the path. They reach an opened meadow with just enough trees to provide shade but not block out the sky. It’s a park, deserted by the peoples who would rather embrace the nightlife instead. At the edge sits a small table lit by a single candle in the middle and a string of dim lights above. An ancient Earth song, “Sweet Child O’ Mine” is playing softly in the background. A sharp dressed waiter stands next to the table along with a bottle of champagne chilling in a bucket of ice. He looks at Kansas and, in an obviously fake yet surprisingly well performed French accent, invites her over. Kansas wants so bad to sock Matt in the gut right now but instead puts on a smile and walks over to the table. Matt places the shoes by the table and pulls out a chair for her to sit. The waiter then pours the drinks and brings out an elegant hearty meal. They finish up eating. The night is not going at all how Matt envisioned, it’s dull and quiet. He looks over to her, “Are you alright, you haven’t said much tonight..” “Yeah, I’m fine.” She says softly.. He can read in her eyes what she’s truly thinking. “You hate it don’t you?” He says deflated. She felt bad after all he was really trying. “What, no-no it’s wonderful, really.” He looks back at her calling her bluff. “Yeah, ok. It’s just… I’m not in to any of this.” “…I know, I suppose between the two of us I am the most girly… I wonder if that’s part of my issues.” He shakes it off. “Anyway, I just wanted to have one last quiet night out with you before we have to leave. Under the stars, in the moon light, I mean I doubt we’ll be able to do something like this again any time soon.” “I’m sorry. This is really nice what you did. Thank you.” She leans over the table to kiss him. “But, this isn’t the only reason for tonight.” Kansas looks back confused. “Look, you know how I feel about you, I’m crazy about you and all I ever want to do is make you happy no matter what I have to do. And despite what you THINK I’m eventually going to do, I want to be the one to make you happy forever.” Matt gets out of his chair and bends on one knee in front of Kansas. She’s both shocked and appalled! He’s doing exactly what she feared he would do ever since the last proposal on the ship. She grows tense and nervous not from excitement but anger and apprehension. Matt continues, “But until the day you let me do that, Kansas Kenickie--” She cuts him off right there before he can do any more, “Matt no, please, we talked about this!” She pleads to him, wanting to get up and run away from the scene of the crime. He grabs from the waiter who is standing behind her…… A phaser rifle. “…Will you do me the honor of standing by my side and shooting the hell out of holographic bad guys? …Safety off of course.” Kansas sits there in silence, stunned and bewildered. Out of nowhere she slaps Matt across the face! “Ow! What was tha--” She cuts him off grabbing his face kissing him. She grabs the rifle out of his hand and jumps out of her chair. She looks back at him seductively, “Let’s kick some ass.” Matt smiles back at her then nods to the waiter who activates a holographic projection of multi-species enemies. He grabs another rifle and together, Kansas and Matt, transform the deserted park into a small battlefield

The hour had become late and grew into the early morning. The air was becoming crisp as the landscape cooled. Matt was on the roof of the ridiculously high hotel preparing an extravagant gesture for Kansas. Matt realized he probably sounded like a crackhead earlier when they were talking. All he wanted was for her to start opening up to him, to trust him but that’s probably not how it sounded. Kansas had wandered off and he was afraid he pushed her too hard and then pushed her away. Two backpacks had been brought up. What they were for only Matt knew. He lit some candles to make it look at least semi-romantic. He looked around and everything seemed perfect until he realized one simple flaw… It might be best to make the hotel privy to his plan just in case someone would want to ruin the moment by alerting security. Being a security officer himself he knew how eager those people are to do their jobs, especially in a place where they’re probably not needed all too much. In the distance through the glass doors of the lobby he could see the group of people at the fire. Matt hoped Kansas was out there enjoying herself and he hadn’t ruined her vacation. He turned his attention back to his pursuits and found the hotel manager to discussing his arrangements. Little did Matt know, Kansas was not out with everyone else but by herself walking along a strip of stores as they were closing. Shopping usually makes her feel better but this isn’t the kind of place to sell too much assorted weaponry so it wasn’t working as well as she had hoped. The large departing crowds weren’t helping either it almost made thing worse. Droves of people were being ushered out of closing stores and packed into the street. The exiting tourists trying to leave at the same time didn’t exactly make for the best situation to clear ones mind and Kansas just wanted to get out of there as quickly as possible. Eventually Kansas squeezed her way through popping out the nearest exit. She found herself on the beach not far from the rest of the crew. She got closer walking along the shore. Kansas looked on the group at the fire considering joining them. More people is not what she needed right now. She was enjoying the solitude she found in such an open atmosphere. The water looked so inviting right now. She dropped her things on the sand and walked in just enough to get her feet wet. The water was cold but it felt good. She took a deep breath filling her lungs with the cool, crisp air. It truly was nice to be away from the ship, to have something different from the norm. She looked up at the sky. The stars twinkled displaying an amazing show of light. Even though Kansas lived in that empty sea above it still made for a beautiful sight. Finally Kansas was able to clear her mind. She thought about life, the universe and everything. She tried to figure out what the hell Matt was talking about and why he keeps seeing the need to change her. She changes for no one he should know that by now. Thinking about it was just going to make her crazy. She took another deep breath and just focused on the wind spilling across her face. She could hear someone getting closer and looked back to see it was Sovak… Matt was pleased with himself. He had gotten the hotel manager on board with his plan, after a bribe of course, and he and Kansas were to have no interference by the hotel staff. He walked out the door towards the fire hoping to find Kansas there. As he got closer he saw her talking with Sovak. He was eager to get his plan in motion but thought it best to wait for her. Instead, he watched and locked away in memory what would be the greatest scene of public debauchery he would ever witness… Faldek drunk in front of the entire crew. Matt noticed Kansas walking over. She felt somber like she wasn’t sure about anything anymore. She really envied Vulcans and their control over their emotions. She walked up to Matt and put a happy face on for him. He wrapped his arm around her feeling a bit better that she actually came over to him. “You alright?” She nodded with an “Mhmm..” Matt tried not to look too much into her response. “You sure?” “I’m Fine.” She said assertively. “Okay… Hey you wanna talk for a minute?” “Actually I don’t really want to talk anymore. Let’s just go to bed.” Matt’s excitement becomes deflated, “Okay we don’t have to talk but I got something I really want to show you.” “Can it wait till morning I’m pretty tired.” “Well technically it is morning.” She pauses for a moment, “…Fine.” “Excellent!” He says dragging her off to the hotel. “…But it better be good.” They exit the elevator to their room at the top floor. They start up the stairs to the roof. Matt stops half way up. “Wait!” He blurts out. “Alright look, I know you don’t want to talk but I just want to say I’m sorry for sounding like a fool earlier.” Kansas looks down at him standing a couple of steps above. “I didn’t mean it the way it sounded I just… I’m doing everything I can to prove myself to you, to prove that I’m not going to run off the first chance I get. I’m just looking for you to open up to me more, to trust me you know.” She looks at him discerning the sincerity in his eyes, and felt guilty. She walks down a couple of steps to his level and wraps her arms around him embracing him. “I care about you, more than I thought I would.” She looks up at him gathering her words. “I am doing the best I know how. My Dad showed me how to get by on my own, not to count on anyone. You are the first I let myself care about. It's not easy for me, it chills me to the bone.” Matt looks into her eyes, for the first time truly feeling so close to her than he has their entire time together. He brings her in tenderly kissing her on the lips.. “Come on, still got my surprise for you.” He takes Kansas by the hand and they continue up the stairs. On the roof she looks around to see many unlit candles. “You know, fire works best when either it can’t be blown out or in less windy conditions.” “Yeah, that’s not what I wanted to show you.” He points over to the two backpacks. Kansas walks over and looks down at them. “We’re taking a trip?” “Oh yeah.” He says looking over the wall of the roof. “Down there.” She becomes confused and excited at the same time. “You said when we got here you wanted to jump off the top of this very, very high building. I pulled some strings and they’re letting us." She stands there looking between Matt and the packs. She can’t believe he actually got permission to jump off the roof. A tear almost wells up but is quickly sucked back down. She kisses him, more passionately than she ever had before. They both strap on the parachute packs and stand on top the ledge of the roof. Matt looks down now reconsidering his decision. “You know, maybe I should leave you another pack in case you want to jump again.” Kansas looks at him smiling with almost an evil hint to it. “There is no way you’re getting out of this. On the count of three, jump.” “You know I don’t think I really want to. I keep forgetting I’ve been wanting to live lately.” “Oh but you don’t mind me plunging to my death?” “What? No I didn’t mean that.” He says stammering. “Uh huh. One… two… three!” Kansas jumps off and pulls Matt down with her just in case he was going to chicken out last minute. They free fall from the skyscraper like building. The wind rushes past so quickly but it feels like floating in nothing. The fall down feels like forever but within seconds they both throw their chute. The heavy wind carries them around the beach before setting them down in the sand. Matt lays on the ground for a moment so thankful his parachute opened. Kansas jumps to her feet completely exhilarated. She throws off her pack and tackles Matt who had just gotten up himself. “Oh my god that was incredible!” She says screaming loud enough for the entire beach to hear. Matt slowly gets to his feet. “Yeah I’m not forgetting that one for a while.” He looks over at Kansas, “Did you pull me off the ledge?” She giggles excitedly, “Yeah I did.” All he can do at this point is laugh. The tip of the sun peaks out over the horizon. Matt looks at Kansas in the dim light realizing he’s in love with a complete psychopath and has never been happier. “You know at this rate we’re going to be sleeping well into the afternoon.” She looks back smiling mischievously, “No no, we’re not sleeping at all.”

::Minutes pass after Precip and Farrington leave for the dorsal module. Matt keeps a tight eye on the Romulan Warbirds patrolling the area. The silence on the bridge is deafening. Everyone waits anxiously to find out who sent that distress signal exposing Manticore’s existence in Romulan space. The reality of the situation is becoming apparent. Matt’s chest tightens and he becomes short of breath but keeps his composure on the outside. With no one talking, he’s alone with his thoughts:: What the hell were those jackholes thinking? They’re trying to expose us I know they are. They thought we’d get cold feet so they rigged the damned thing to get the Romulan’s attention and start the fight that way. @#$% StarFleet! ::Matt takes slow deep breaths so as not to attract attention from the bridge staff:: …What the hell’s wrong with me? Why am I so nervous? ::He keeps his eyes trained on the tactical display:: This is really happening isn’t it? And we’re all about to die doing it. Is that it am I afraid to die? It must be, I get tense whenever I think about it. That doesn’t make sense, why am I afraid to die? I was fine with it earlier, in fact I encouraged it, I’ve been waiting to die my entire tenure here. Just yesterday I was so ready to fly this ship in and stick one up those friggin Romulans. I’ve downright expected to die since I first heard the details of this mission. Some would say I was hoping for it… I would say I was hoping for it. I don’t get it, why do I all of a sudden care? And why do I keep thinking of Kans-- Ah hell! Damn girl put a spell on me. Now I know what that song means. Crap, I want to live now, and I want Kansas to live too… Yeah I really don’t care what happens to anyone else, but I really want me and Kansas to live. I think I want to grow old and have lots of babies with her too… Yeah I’m probably just making that part up but the rest is true that much I know. Wow, this is a milestone for me, for once I’m actually hoping we don’t screw it up and die in an obviously obliterating yet visually spectacular explosion. ::Matt rubs his face and refocuses his attention:: Alright, if we’re going to make it alive I need to do my job. I suppose saving me and Kansas means I gotta keep everyone else alive too. Well if that’s the way it’s gotta be… focus! ::Matt slows his breathing but still feels tense:: I’m still pumped, I need to calm myself down. What’d my therapist say? Think of luscious meadows… a warm breeze… fluffy bunnies-- No bunnies! Crap I forgot! Something else, maybe a joke, a good laugh will do me good. All right, two Bolians walk into a bar and ask for Tholian herb tea… Wait I’ve heard this before it’s not that funny. That’s all right I’m feeling calmer anyway. I just need to focus on my job and keep the ship in one-piece… one big piece… Damnit I hope I get over this will to live crap.

Written By Kansas Kenickie Matthew McFly walked lazily down the hall, the tension on the ship wore heavy on his shoulders as he entered his quarters. He had been looking forward to down time, getting the chance for a distraction from the up coming mission a head. The doors to his quarters slid shut behind him making the room dark once again; Matt removed his tunic and stretched. Before he could fully register what was happening, Matt could feel himself being tackled to the ground and pinned. He tried to toss the person off of him, but felt his attacker was applying weight to pressure points, making movement impossible. “You are supposed to be on tactical alert…” was whispered into his ear and then the pressure was lifted, releasing the pressure allowing him some movement. McFly knew who was on top of him before she had spoken, when she leaned in to whisper, her scent had reached his nose before her words hit his ears. “Maybe I let you get the drop on me; I wouldn’t want you to think I was taking advantage of you.” He smirked recalling a certain communiqué. Kansas sat back a little and smiled devilishly. “Oh, goodie… I get to take advantage of you then!” “By all means.” He smiled, moving his arms up and behind his head. He looked up at her and noticed that there was no worry or concern in her eyes about the up coming mission a head of them… “How is it you look as though you don’t have a care in the world?” Kansas tilted her head to the side and shrugged, “Why worry about something beyond your control? I’d rather live in the moment and enjoy myself. I’ll let everyone else freak out.” She leaned in and kissed him, and smiled… “Come; let me help you forget your day… and what may come.” Matt looked up at her and returned the smiled; he had to admit getting lost in her arms sounded like the perfect end to a stressful day.