Cdr Miranda Hawthorne

MISSION BRIEF: The Vauban's fortunes have turned yet again, and again not in their favor. During an attempt to birth a starship, the Scorpiad who had been assisting them on the mission suddenly turned on the crew. Commander Admiran has been incapacitated, while Greg popped a wheelie on his way out with his new ship. Leaving the Vauban's crew once again stranded. Cptn Swain -> BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain -> BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain -> BEGIN SIM Rhan K'hal -> :: harrumphs, looking at the now empty birthing pod and over to Tandaris' unconscious form :: Hunter Matheson -> ::stare:: Hunter Matheson -> ::flatly:: Right. Jas -> ::mouth agape in shock:: Cptn Swain -> Maryse> ::Looking at Tandaris, trying to figure out if he's alive or not:: Rhan K'hal -> You need beamed over to the Vauban, Doc? Cptn Swain -> Ithene> @ ::Frowns:: Lovely. William Chocox -> @ This is most unfortunate. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> ::Furious!:: I knew we couldn't trust that bug! If we ever make it out of here, I'm going to have words with whoever set up this mission! Cptn Swain -> Maryse> ::Shakes her head:: The symbiont is in shock, I don't want to take a risk. Cptn Swain -> Maryse> ::scrambling for her medkit, trying to remember as much as she could about Trill physiology:: Rhan K'hal -> :: nods, heads over to a console to see if Greg's departure caused anything to stir out there :: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::absently:: I guess there's no way for us to hatch one of these eggs and go after him? Jas -> ::Maryse:: Anything I can do to help? Hunter Matheson -> @ ::sighs::sits:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> @ ::Runs a hand through her absent hair:: Alright you too. Keep working, keep an eye out for anything. I am going to go see what I can do. Cptn Swain -> Maryse> ::Nods:: Help me get him on his back. It will take the pressure off it. Jas -> ::carefully moves Tandaris onto his back:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> @ ::Takes a breath, assuring herself this would all work out fine.:: William Chocox -> @ Yes ma'am. ::keeps working::. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Heads for the Hatchery's command nexus:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::turns to tinker again, but that thought stays in the back of his mind:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::can't be all that difficult to fly one:: Rhan K'hal -> :: notes everything seems quiet out there for now, turns his attention back to that as yet still unknown facility out there, wondering if it will be their salvation in this mission or the final nail in their coffins :: Cptn Swain -> Maryse> ::gets a hypo out of her kit:: Alright, hold him. This should do the trick, but its going to make him spasm... just a little. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> ::Watching over Maryse's shoulder, then glances to the others.:: I don't suppose we could attempt to birth another one, could we? Though... our pilot just left us, so... Jas -> ::takes a breath before holding Tandaris down and steady:: Is this good? William Chocox -> @ This is the pits. Rhan K'hal -> There wasn't even enough power to do the last one properly, el-tee. Cptn Swain -> Maryse> ::Focusing on her patient, she injected Tandaris with the hypo. He almost instantly began a series of muscle spasms that lasted what seemed forever before settling down. His vitals began to settle, though he was still out of it.:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Magic of television, she entered the command nexus, noting Maryse working on Tandaris, but otherwise everyone else alive. She breathed a sigh of relief.:: Status report, Mister K'Hal. William Chocox -> @ ::moves on to another project:: Rhan K'hal -> We barely were able to hatch the ship, which Greg absconded with, and I think he may have taken the Commander's ship memory out the hard way to be able to do it. Jas -> ::lets out his breath after the spasms end:: Is there anything else to be done? Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> ::Grunts.:: Then we need to get back to the Vauban and hope the ship can be repaired. Cptn Swain -> Maryse> Not right now. His body has just been through a lot of trauma. We'll have to wait for a while to see how he is. I am going to keep him sedated for now. Once he's settled down a little bit we'll need to move him. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Frowns:: Lovely. Jas -> ::nods to Maryse:: I'll keep watch over him in the meantime? Rhan K'hal -> Otherwise the station is operating nominally. Not enough power or expertise to try to hatch another ship, so we're back to the Vauban. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::every ship has the same basic components..roll, yaw, pitch::: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> I am afraid that won't be so easy. The field coils on the right nacelle are toast. I don't think I can repair them, we can try though. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::still making minor tweaks to systems;:: Rhan K'hal -> There's still the unidentified facility, can it get us that far? We can try to see if there's anything there that can help us. Rhan K'hal -> We're safe here for the time being, but we can't stay here forever. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::checking::: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::frowns:: I'd rather not endanger us any further. We've already damaged our ship ossibly beyond repair. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::so, with no warp it will take... a couple lifetimes to get back to base::: William Chocox -> @ How're we looking Mister Matheson? Hunter Matheson -> @ ::shrug, muttering to himself:: Rhan K'hal -> What would you have us do then? Send a distress signal to the Excalibur and hope we don't start an interstellar incident in the process? Hunter Matheson -> @ ::jerked out of his thoughts:: Sir? Oh. The ship. Right... Hunter Matheson -> @ Well, sir, chances of warp are nil... Hunter Matheson -> @ So we have sublight, and that Hunter Matheson -> @ that's not going to get us anywhere fast, but it's still better than nothing. Hunter Matheson -> @ Unless it breaks down. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> I think we should attempt to make what repairs we can to the Vauban. Even if we did manage to get a signal to Excalibur, they're under orders not to come after us. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> They're in the middle of negotiations, it's not like they can just you know, leave. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::taps the console he's working on:: Controls are pretty good, and the ones that are fried can be worked around. William Chocox -> @ Alright. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::walks over to the console:: Klien, Jas... start scouting around the Hatchery. See what you can find in the way of polymers. I'll send you what I need on your tricorders. Hunter Matheson -> @ More power to one engine, less power to the other, and you fly straight. Mostly. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::K'Hal:: So... you're sure we can't try again? Hunter Matheson -> @ Assuming that the nav is good. But then we can always use Kentucky windage. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> ::Nods.:: Aye, sir. If we're lucky, they have something that will work for us. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::bouncing a hydrospanner in his hand:: Rhan K'hal -> We can try, but the last ship we tried to hatch was born neurologically deficient, hence the... incident with the Commander. There's less power to work with now than before. We might be able to get it to spit out a ship that'd just implode from lack of control. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::Chocox:: How far are we from friendly space, sir? Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Looks at the readings:: I want you to start downloading as much as this information as possible. William Chocox -> @ As far as I can remember, fairly. Jas -> # ::glances to Klein as he starts to head out:: Figure we should spread out or stick together, sir? Cptn Swain -> Ithene> At the very least if we can't escape, I want to be able to send as much of it as we can into a message buoy for Camelot. Rhan K'hal -> Been doing that since the beginning, that's the primary purpose of me being on this mission after all. Hunter Matheson -> @ So.. fairly far. And our comm has a range of... not that much? Rhan K'hal -> :: contemplates :: William Chocox -> @ Right. And the people we can conceivably contact can't come get us. Hunter Matheson -> @ Don't suppose we have a probe we can rig for comm that will give us a bounce to a tug. Hunter Matheson -> @ Um... Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> # Stick together. No telling what else is in this place. It's dangerous to go alone. ::Flicks his chin in the opposite direction of the Vauban, opening his tricorder to start scanning.:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> Once you've got as much as you can pull out, start working on the buoy. You should be able to convert one of the torpedoes on the Vauban. Hunter Matheson -> @ Well, there's always the possibility of using one of their ships. ::bounced the hyperspanner in the direction of the hatchery:: Jas -> # ::follows Klein, taking out his tricorder while keep one hand absentmindedly on his phaser:: Rhan K'hal -> One more idea before I start on that... considering this station is orbiting a black hole, it has quite powerful station-keeping thrusters... what do you think about seeing if we can actually just take the whole bloody station? William Chocox -> @ That may not be an option. Hunter Matheson -> @ There's a problem with that, sir? William Chocox -> @ Well, Ithene left quickly. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Lifts a brow:: Keep it in the back pocket. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::confused:: We lost a crewman? Rhan K'hal -> :: nods :: William Chocox -> @ No...Ithene departed our presence too quickly for everything to be copacetic. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> I am going to do some more digging in the datafiles. Not much more repair wise I can do for the Vauban. ::Maryse:: Let me know if anything changes for Commander Admiran. Jas -> # ::clears his throat and looks over to Klein:: So, ah, have you dealt with the Scorpiad before this, sir? Hunter Matheson -> @ ::still confused, but he'll let it pass:: Copy that. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Straightens her tanktop and heads back towards the Vauban:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::pretty sure he saw her a bit ago:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> # Not personally, no. And I'd hoped I wouldn't have to. ::Grunts.:: I read up on our encounters with them, though. Well, all of the mission logs that weren't above my pay grade. Rhan K'hal -> :: checks to see how the background download is going, grumbling a bit and using his vivid imagination to think of ways of getting Greg back for this :: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::looks up again to Chocox:: So, any ideas, sir? William Chocox -> @ She walked out of the ship Hunter. She's still on the station. Hunter Matheson -> @ And that makes her out of the picture so we can't use one of their ships? Jas -> # ::glances over to Klein as he continues to scan:: And what did you glean... from what you read? Rhan K'hal -> +Vauban+ K'hal to Vauban, whatever you end up using to try to fix that rusty bucket, save me one torpedo. Hunter Matheson -> @ : :blink:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::not gonna touch that one, he looks at Chocox:: William Chocox -> @ No, but the manner in which she left told me that something was wrong. William Chocox -> @ +K'hal+ Will do. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> @ ::Enters the Vauban, doing her best to keep up a good face, though Will could almost certainly know the look too well:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::stands, putting down the hyperspanner to brush off his uniform:: So, we're just going to quit, sir? Just put our things down and wait to die? William Chocox -> @ ::rolls his eyes:: Never mind Matheson. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> @ No. Rhan K'hal -> :: sees there plenty of download remaining, so decides to add anything on the transporter tech to it as well; if they do somehow manage to get out of this it may come in handy for Will/Ithene. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> # Nothing good. They were much like the Dominion in way, collecting systems and species. ::He turned while he scanned, passing more birthing chambers until they reached a series of rooms.:: We should check these out. Maybe some are storage. William Chocox -> @ ::notices "Ithene's" look:: Hm. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> @ Commander Admiran is stable, but he's under sedation. K'Hak does not believe we have the power to attempt another birthing. ::She paused:: I am having him prep a torpedo with all of the information we've gathered, just in case. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> @ Klien and Jas are searching for polymers so we can attempt to make repairs to the field coils. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> @ You two can also start looking. Stay together and keep an eye out. William Chocox -> @ Alright. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> @ ::she straightened the tank top again.:: William Chocox -> @ How bad is it? Cptn Swain -> Ithene> @ We're fine if we can fix the ship. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> @ If not, well. We'll figure that out when we get to it. Jas -> # ::enters a room, calling out as he scans:: What about their culture, honour... that kind of thing? Rhan K'hal -> :: at this point has little to do other than pace or browse the station's memory, decides browsing may be a more productive use of his time :: Jas -> # ::tricorder beeps:: I might have something here! Rhan K'hal -> :: even if it will bring back his headache from working with the damned Scorpiad consoles :: William Chocox -> @ Thought so. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> # ::Heads over to see what Jas discovered.:: Their culture is complicated. They have a caste system. Subspecies that focus on specific duties. Some species are considered more important than others. Sounds like a recipe for disaster, doesn't it? ::Quirks his head at Jas' scans.:: What'chu got? Rhan K'hal -> :: quickly finds the station's interior security, keeps the monitor out to keep an eye on the wandering searchers, though it's more like watching a very detailed heat map than a CCTV :: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> @ Alright. Focus on the task at hand. I'll be going through some more of their datafiles to see what I can find. Maybe I can find away to power the hatchery. William Chocox -> @ Alright. ::gets back to work:: Jas -> # Huh, interesting... ::holds up tricorder:: It looks like what we need is in here, but it's masked or.. or being lessened. That's how it seems anyways. Rhan K'hal -> :: flips through, looking for anything related to what would be their equivalent of an equipment manifest :: Jas -> # ::shakes tricorder and frowns at it:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> $ ::Nods and heads off, but in the direction of the hatchery:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> # Maybe the container is shielded. Come on, let's crack this pod open and see what's inside. Looks like more of their organic material with seams along the top that fold out and open. Jas -> # ::goes about opening the nearest pod:: Uh, these are so strange.. Hunter Matheson -> $ ::systematic search::: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> # ACTION> Almost as soon as Jas touched the pod, the top peeled open and folded back to reveal a gooey center that seemed to be pulsing. Hunter Matheson -> $ ::if I were a polymer, where would I be::: Hunter Matheson -> $ ::wandering through:: Hunter Matheson -> $ ::organic... organic...organic.. inorganic::: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> $ ::pauses at the junction that led towards the nexus and another hallway, which she remembered from the diagram led towards the other facility.:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> $ ::She headed the other:: Jas -> # ::jumps back a bit:: Yuck. Is this it? Rhan K'hal -> :: admires the Scorpiad's dedication to record-keeping but for the sake of the holy fuzzbutt, did they have to jot down every little thing? pinches the bridge of his muzzle :: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> # Just watch out for face-hugging aliens that might jump out at you. ::Scanning the interior of the pod.:: Looks like something similar, but in a raw form. William Chocox -> @ ::looks through the data:: Jas -> # ::eyes Klein warily:: They have those? Hunter Matheson -> $ ::stops::polymers are not inorganic:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> # ::He laughed.:: Let's hope not. Hunter Matheson -> $ ::checking out some of the structures in the area::: Jas -> # ::shakes his head, trying to get the image out of his head:: Can we use it in this raw form? Hunter Matheson -> $ ::flips open the engineering tric for a scan of the goo::: Rhan K'hal -> Aha. Organic inorganic material production pods. :: pulls it up on the map, notes that happens to be right where Klein and Jas are, go figure :: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> # I have no idea. We'd have to ask one of the engineering-types. Rhan K'hal -> +Klein, Jas+ Would you like me to turn them on for you? Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> # +Rhan+ These pod, things? Are you looking at them? Rhan K'hal -> :: mutters to himself :: Assuming I can find that button... stupid lateral thinking exoskeletal pains in my tail. Jas -> # ::raises an eyebrow at Klein:: Turn them on...? Hunter Matheson -> $ Hm.... Rhan K'hal -> +Klein+ I was searching the database for anything that might help, and imagine the coinkydink that you happened to be standing right by them. :: chuckles :: Those are organic pods that can produced inorganic materials. Hunter Matheson -> $ : :blink:: Cptn Swain -> PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain -> PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain -> PAUSE SIM

SD 0621.2015 The Vauban's fortunes have turned yet again, and again not in their favor. During an attempt to birth a starship, the Scorpiad who had been assisting them on the mission suddenly turned on the crew. Commander Admiran has been incapacitated, while Greg popped a wheelie on his way out with his new ship. Leaving the Vauban's crew once again stranded.

SD 0614.2015 Part of the Vauban crew has continued to make repairs, futile though it might be, while the rest of the crew is working with Greg to assess the possibility of birthing a larval Scorpiad ship.

MISSION BRIEF: Part of the Vauban crew has continued to make repairs, futile though it might be, while the rest of the crew is working with Greg to assess the possibility of birthing a larval Scorpiad ship. Cptn Swain -> BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain -> BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain -> BEGIN SIM William Chocox -> @ ::working with Ithene:: This sounds insane. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::still in engineering, looking for things to fix:: Cptn Swain -> @ Ithene> ::Under hood in the Vauban's warp engine, tinkering with the alignments some more:: What part? Jas -> ::is presumably standing by Greg, keeping a careful and nervous watch on him:: William Chocox -> @ The hatching a Scorpiad ship and fly it out. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::perk:: Rhan K'hal -> :: in the command nexus with the other baby daddies and mommies, rather incredulous that he's rather get away from this place in a Scorpiad ship than that bucket of bolts back out in the hanger :: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::moving in their direction:: Cptn Swain -> Greg> ::Working on a console in the dais of the central command nexus. He seemed oddly at ease, and rather natural in the position:: Hmmm Cptn Swain -> @ Ithene> Well, unless you have a better idea -- the chances of us getting this thing flying are likely smaller than that worked. Hand me that spanner... Jas -> ::eyes Greg curiously:: Is, ah, everything alright there? Rhan K'hal -> :: glances over at Greg's translated "Hmmm." :: I hope that's not an "I've just discovered something disturbing" kind of hmm. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::comes up next to Chocox:: Uh.. sir? Tandaris Admiran -> ::Maryse:: Keep an eye on the health of the larval ship. ::points to the indicator:: You can administer a few different types of drugs from this console to help ease the hatching depending on how its lifesigns are doing. William Chocox -> @ Yes? Cptn Swain -> Greg> ::Motions for Tandaris to come closer:: Hunter Matheson -> @ I heard something about flying a Scorpiad ship? Maryse Dubois -> ::Nods as she looks over and studies the console.:: Cptn Swain -> @ Ithene> ::slides out from under the 'hood':: Tandaris Admiran -> ::approaches Greg:: Yes? William Chocox -> @ It might be our ride out. Rhan K'hal -> :: flattens ears at the lack of response, re-joins Maryse :: I give up on trying to be nice. If I had any confidence we could operate one of these by ourselves I'd say hatch two and let him have one. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::glance down at her/him:: Yes, sir. I'm just thinkin' though - does anyone know how to fly it? Cptn Swain -> Greg> ::speaking in Scorp specifically so it's not translated:: There is a small issue. How to explain -- as you know this would normally be the work of Mari or Lepterurians, not an Emri such as myself. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::then back to Chocox:: William Chocox -> @ Greg maybe. Cptn Swain -> Greg> It seems that they have modified the process for ship birthing since I was last... involved in the process. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::slow nod, then a sigh of relief:: Sure. Of course. That's... it works. Cptn Swain -> @ Ithene> That's what he told the Commander. I suspect Tandaris might know a thing or three about it as well. Something about having one of their ships inside him. ::smirks:: Jas -> ::looks from Tandaris to Greg, not understanding a word remains suitably confused as he stands guard:: Hunter Matheson -> @ Ship inside him? Tandaris Admiran -> ::peers over Greg's shoulder:: I think I see what you mean. Hunter Matheson -> @ I suppose I don't wanna ask, right? Cptn Swain -> Greg> ::waves a claw towards a readout:: The maturation process requires an incredible amount of energy, as you can imagine. Apparently they were using the system's primary to directly power the state transitions, but something... something wasn't working correctly. ::Low grumbles:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::wipes a grungy hand through his hair::: Maryse Dubois -> ::Smirks at Rhan's comment.:: Hopefully we won't have to deal with it for too much longer. Cptn Swain -> @ Ithene> ::Snorts:: Apparently on a previous mission, the Excalibur was recovering a derelict Scorpiad vessel. While attempting to salvage it, they triggered a response that caused the ship's AI to... ::searches for the words:: use the Commander's symbiont as storage. Tandaris Admiran -> I'm not surprised, considering how long this place has been shutdown. William Chocox -> @ That's weird. Cptn Swain -> Greg> We won't be able to fully maturate the ship as it was intended. Instead we'll have to progress is just enough for our purposes, but it won't be fully formed or... prepared. Scorpiad technology uses our own DNA as the basis... but... ::grumbles:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::symbiont::grin comes out awkward and unsure, and he's not sure what to say::: Cptn Swain -> Greg> I am not an engineer so this is only a theory that it will work. You should prepare your crew for that. Rhan K'hal -> :: frowns over the data, sighs :: Assuming we a) can hatch it, B) can control it, c) can get out of here and back to Fed space I'll be half tempted to try to stick with it. Though I doubt they'd let a lowly non-specialist ensign transfer to that black a project. Tandaris Admiran -> ::Greg:: At this rate, we just need to get away from here. Jas -> ::warily eyes Greg due to his grumblings:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::change of subject;: So.. anything I can do down here? Cptn Swain -> Greg> ::nods:: The disturbance you detected earlier was an unmanned drone. The destruction of the station likely triggered an automatic response from the nearest facility. It seems to have dispersed. Cptn Swain -> @ Ithene> ::Stands, stretching:: Let's see if we can bring the M/AM matrix back online. I've had to do the calculations from Will's memory. Rhan K'hal -> :: flips through the oddly formatted data on the Scorpiad consoles, fascinated with the biotech or no it was giving him (back) his headache :: William Chocox -> @ Sorry, boring class. Hunter Matheson -> @ Yes, ma'am. ::moving toward the main console:: Cptn Swain -> @ Ithene> ::smiles and gives Will a pat on the shoulder:: It's okay. We're lucky you haven't had to do the same with poly-systematic biorganic chemistry yet. Maryse Dubois -> Hmm... ::Looking over a reading.:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::poly something something something:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::Greg:: We need to get this thing hatched. Hunter Matheson -> @ Looks like we're green, ma'am. Hunter Matheson -> @ I mean.. the board is. Rhan K'hal -> :: figuring that if the doc needs anything she'd let him know, wanders over to another console to study the transporters, thinking of Mr. and Mrs. Body Swap :: Cptn Swain -> Greg> ::Waves a claw and reverts to Standard:: Yes. I agree. We should begin the primary maturation cycle/ The fetal larva appears to be intact and ready. Maryse Dubois -> ::Expands on the screen, looking over to Tandy and Greg for a moment, then back to the screen.:: Cptn Swain -> @ Ithene> Good. At least we have power. Now, using that power is an entirely different matter. ::sighs:: The plasma coils are a mess and I don't know if I *can* fix them. Rhan K'hal -> :: mutters :: Problem with being a dedicated jack of all trades is you're handier to have around than nobody but not exactly going warp 10 with the hard stuff. Jas -> ::visibly relaxes as Greg switches to a more understandable language:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::finger poised:: Ready when you are, ma'am. Unless... you'd rather...? Tandaris Admiran -> ::Greg:: Do it. Dr. Dubois will monitor the larva's status. K'hal and I will keep an eye on the station systems while you direct the procedure. Cptn Swain -> @ Ithene> ::nods:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::not sure what the nod means;: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::so he's not touching anything:: Cptn Swain -> Greg> ::rotates slightly on the dais, activating a sequence with one of his free appendages:: Cptn Swain -> @ Ithene> Let's see what happens when we fire up the mains from warp power. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::vaguely wondering if his insurance is up to date:: Aye, ma'am. Rhan K'hal -> :: swivels an ear, heads over to yet another console to do the monitoring :: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::flip:: Cptn Swain -> Greg> Primary maturation cycle activated. You should see a power surge ... now. Rhan K'hal -> This'll be interesting... :: watches :: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::strange sound:: I'm going to power it down just a bit... Hunter Matheson -> @ Get a balance here... Tandaris Admiran -> ::takes a console, monitoring station power distribution:: Jas -> ::looks over at Greg's station with interest, trying to figure in his brain what exactly he's seeing on the screen:: Maryse Dubois -> :;Calls out to Tandy.:: Did he inform you that the ship will be underdeveloped? ::Pointing at her monitor.:: Cptn Swain -> @ Ithene> Mmm... yes, something still not entirely aligned but I can make an adjustment on the fly... ::presses in a sequence:: Hunter Matheson -> @ Yeah... Tandaris Admiran -> ::Maryse:: Can’t be helped. We don’t have the power to mature that much, this fast. Rhan K'hal -> :: notes Tandy monitoring the power, so keeps his own eyes on the other fiddly bits :: Rhan K'hal -> :: hearing this about an immature ship for the first time :: And here I forgot to bring the diapers. Cptn Swain -> ACTION> The Fetal Larva begins to grow rapidly from something less than a meter large, to several meters in a matter of minutes. Rhan K'hal -> That's a helluva lot more efficient than breaking down carbohydrates, that. Maryse Dubois -> ::Doesn't comment as she turns back to the monitor, ready to assist.:: Cptn Swain -> Greg> ::seemingly fairly pleased:: Doctor... activate the hormonal sequence. Tandaris Admiran -> ::holding his breath for a moment:: Rhan K'hal -> :: looks over all the subsystems, checking to make sure the surge of power after a century is being tolerated :: Maryse Dubois -> ::Activates the sequence.:: Jas -> ::watches the proceeds with undisguised fascination and awe, his jaw probably drops a little as well:: Tandaris Admiran -> So far so good … power is steady. Cptn Swain -> Greg> Good good... the maturation will proceed a bit slower now. We should begin to see increased electromagnetic readings anytime. Cptn Swain -> @ Ithene> ::Finishes tinkering with the alignment:: Alright, how about now? Tandaris Admiran -> ::watches power draw begin to spike, faster and faster:: Wait! Tandaris Admiran -> We've got a feedback loop … one of the station capacitors is overloading. Pause the process while I reroute. Rhan K'hal -> Seeing some of these systems... organs... whatever slipping out of equilibrium here... Hunter Matheson -> @ Uh... yeah. It's closer. A little more maybe? Rhan K'hal -> :: tilts head Tandy's way :: And that's probably why. Cptn Swain -> Greg> :: Reflexively draws his caudua, though not threateningly so:: Cptn Swain -> @ Ithene> ::nods, makes another adjustment:: Hunter Matheson -> @ Whoa! There. Right there. Hunter Matheson -> @ I think we got a balance. Cptn Swain -> @ Ithene> ::nods:: That's about as good as we're going to get then. ::sighs: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::nod, checking the sine curve:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::delicately redirects power flow around injured capacitor, knowing this will strain the other capacitors, which are just as old:: Hunter Matheson -> @ The variation is within parameters, so we're good. Cptn Swain -> Greg> Adjust the hormone intermix by.. 3% Tandaris Admiran -> ::K'hal:: Any better? William Chocox -> @ Will it run? Cptn Swain -> @ Ithene> Well, see Will you paid enough attention for me to figure that out. Now, what say the three of us take a break and get some rations? Hunter Matheson -> @ Guess we'll find out, sir. Rhan K'hal -> Regaining systemic equilibrium in the ... these damn things need words. But yes, better. Cptn Swain -> @ Ithene> We have main power, but until I can do something with the damaged field coils, warp would be a little dicey. William Chocox -> @ Rations sound good. Maryse Dubois -> ::Makes the adjustments.:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::Maryse:: How's it looking to you? Maryse Dubois -> Considering I've never done this sort of thing before? Rhan K'hal -> :: admires the very organic way the station's components deal with the traumas, very much like an immune reaction, but considerably faster and more targeted thanks to the station's neural links :: Cptn Swain -> ACTION> The fetal larva is beginning to take shape. A series of "spines" have begun to emerge at the aft of the vessel. Tandaris Admiran -> Keep going … Cptn Swain -> ACTION> It has also now reached a length of nearly twenty meters. The birthing chamber has begun to expand to accommodate it. William Chocox -> @ I hope this all works. Jas -> ::whispers to self:: Wow... Rhan K'hal -> :: feels like he needs more eyes to try to watch what he's supposed to be watching but still see the hatching :: Cptn Swain -> ACTION> However, neural readings appear to be much lower than Greg had indicated. Cptn Swain -> Greg> ::Compresses his body, letting out a hiss:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::Chocox:: Well, sir, if it doesn't, we get the awesome chance to ride in a gooey, scorpiad thingamabob. Rhan K'hal -> :: what fur is visible floofs out in reaction to the hiss :: William Chocox -> @ I'd rather we not. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::nod:: Same here. Cptn Swain -> Greg> There is a problem. Jas -> ::jumps a bit at the hiss:: Hunter Matheson -> @ I mean, I'm not into creepy, but that would be... beyond creepy. William Chocox -> @ Well beyond. Cptn Swain -> ACTION> As he says that, the readings on the ship become erratic. The systems that appear to be propulsion are coming online, as are other systems much sooner than expected. Tandaris Admiran -> Power is spiking again … something's happening. Rhan K'hal -> Whoa! Birthing chamber is throwing a hissy fit Maryse Dubois -> I see it. :;Frowns.:: The neural pathways aren't developing properly. Cptn Swain -> Greg> I was afraid this might happen. ::Hisses again:: I am afraid there's no time to explain. Tandaris, hold very still. Tandaris Admiran -> Well we’ll just have to—wait, what? Rhan K'hal -> :: doesn't like the sound of this... :: Cptn Swain -> Greg> ::Swats at the console:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::glad he's not in there listening:: Jas -> ::eyes Greg cautiously, hand resting on phaser:: Cptn Swain -> ACTION> A tendril extends itself from behind Tandaris before grabbing at him. He feels something pulling at him and *at* him. Tandaris Admiran -> Whaaa— Tandaris Admiran -> NOT AGAIN Cptn Swain -> Greg> I had hoped it wouldn't come to this. ::He began moving towards the transporter console with a speed rather surprising for someone of his size:: Rhan K'hal -> :: frowns at this sudden development :: Sir? Tandaris Admiran -> ::flailing mixed with incoherent cursing:: Jas -> ::draws phaser:: Sir?! William Chocox -> @ Wonder what's happening. Hunter Matheson -> @ I'm not sure I want to know, sir. Cptn Swain -> @ Ithene> :tossing them both a ration:: Cptn Swain -> @ Ithene> This is why they used to tell men to boil water. Maryse Dubois -> ::Turns as she moves over to Tandy.:: Damnit! Not again. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::Ithene:: Right. Jas -> ::to no one in particular:: This has happened before...? William Chocox -> @ I wish I could taste these like I used too. Cptn Swain -> ACTION> Greg reaches the transporter console and activates it. Beaming him away from the command nexus. As he does, the tendril retracts itself from Tandaris. The larval ship seems to stabilize, before beginning to move towards the birthing canal. Maryse Dubois -> ::Grabs onto Tandy, looking to Jas.:: Help. Rhan K'hal -> Okay... What... the... [redacted] just happened? Rhan K'hal -> :: heads over to the hatching console that Maryse vacated :: Jas -> ::lowers phaser, but doesn't put it away; rushes over to Tandaris:: Are you okay? Hunter Matheson -> @ ::has a bad feeling about this:: Maryse Dubois -> +Other part of AT+ Does anyone have eyes on Greg? Cptn Swain -> ACTION> There goes your ride. The ship exits the canal. It pauses a moment or two outside, as if orienting itself, then "cloaks" itself in subspace. Tandaris Admiran -> ::sputters:: Tandaris Admiran -> I … Rhan K'hal -> Uh... we just had a baby. And it disappeared. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::eyes on:: +Dubois+ He's gone? Tandaris Admiran -> ::looks around:: Who? Cptn Swain -> @ Ithene> ::startled by the communicator:: +Maryse+ What? William Chocox -> @ +Maryse+ No...ma'am? Cptn Swain -> PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain -> PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain -> PAUSE SIM

MISSION BRIEF: The Vauban's away team is stranded in the Scorpiad hatchery. Repairs are being attempted while part of the team is hoping to hijack a baby ship. There's also something possibly dangerous outside circling. cptn swain -> Questions? Hunter Matheson -> The baby ship is like a normal ship, only smaller? cptn swain -> Well... something like that. Likely more like their scout ships. cptn swain -> BEGIN SIM Hunter Matheson -> @ ::still messing with the Vaubaun::: Rhan K'hal -> :: heading to the command nexus :: Tandaris Admiran -> ::catching up to Rhan with Maryse:: cptn swain -> @ Ithene> ::With Will working on the engine:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> ::Outside the Vauban, wary that *this* part of the station might suddenly start to fall apart, keeping an eye on those outside the shuttle.:: Rhan K'hal -> :: walking with a deliberately slow pace to allow them to catch up :: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::sitting cross-legged next to a panel, checking isochips::: Maryse Dubois -> ::Meets up with Rhan.:: cptn swain -> @ Ithene> ::Frowns:: Hand me that spanner... Tandaris Admiran -> ::looking around, trying to look like he still has it mostly together:: Should be around here somewhere. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::and since they all seem to be in order, he moves back to the connecting apparatus, hoping the lines he already replaced are the only ones that need repair::: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::and all the while, in the back of his mind, is the prospect of having to fly a clicky ship::: Rhan K'hal -> Just about 20 more meters. I suppose with having that many big legs they would make extremely long corridors. cptn swain -> @ Ithene> ::Hunter:: How does the nav deflector controls look? cptn swain -> @ Ithene> I had to reconfigure them from Will's memory. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::looks up:: Haven't had a chance to take a look, ma'am... er...sir. I was working on the main battery, but I sure can slip over there and give 'em a closeup. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::stands for a brushoff, and moves to nav to run a diagnostic::: Rhan K'hal -> How's your head, sir? Hunter Matheson -> @ ::muttering:: Hm... that's green... and green... and... green. Good. ::shifts:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::deep breath:: Green... and...:::waits::: cptn swain -> @ Ithene> ::nods:: Good. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::please please please::: Green. ::whew::: Tandaris Admiran -> Much better. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::Ithene:: They're all green, sir. Rhan K'hal -> Good. We're keeping the Doc busy so far. Tandaris Admiran -> I'll feel even better once we're out of this place. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::opting for the generic as opposed to the gender specific, given the circumstances:: Tandaris Admiran -> It gives me … there was a good expression I picked up from humans … “the creepies,” I think. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> ::Shifts his phaser rifle a bit as they walk, eyes shifting about the corridor.:: If we have to switch ships, how's your pet Scorpiad going to handle it? cptn swain -> @ Ithene> Good. Rhan K'hal -> :: nods :: Sounds about right. :: walks up to the entrance to the command nexus :: I suppose you know how to get in without setting the place on alert better than I do. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::Ithene:: Anything else you want me to check? cptn swain -> @ Ithene> Thruster control should be next. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::nod:: On it. cptn swain -> @ Ithene> I have the computer bypassed like a christmas tree. Tandaris Admiran -> ::Klein:: I expect Greg will be much happier to have more space. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::eyes sweep the board as the diagnostics run::: cptn swain -> @ Ithene> ::Pauses:: What;s a Christmas tree? Tandaris Admiran -> ::touches the entrance nodule on the command nexus door:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::grin:: No problem, sir. ::Ithene:: I'm a seat-of-the-pants guy anyway. Maryse Dubois -> ::Watches the interaction.:: Hunter Matheson -> @ And computers...::watching the board slowly light up:: they're good until they aren't. Hunter Matheson -> @ And we're clear across the board on thrusters and navigation. Now all we need is the propulsion it's connected to. Hunter Matheson -> @ Which is.. kind of what I was working on, sir. Hunter Matheson -> @ There's a connection misfiring somewhere. Just got to find it and patch it with some bubblegum. cptn swain -> @ Ithene> ::Nods:: The intermix chamber is still at least largely intact. Tandaris Admiran -> ::steps in as the door opens with no apparent issues:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::nod:: Yes, sir. Tandaris Admiran -> We need to find the controls for ship hatching, as well as controls for the hatchery transporters. Hunter Matheson -> @ [Rank] Chocox still working on the rest? cptn swain -> @ Ithene> ::Nods:: Yes. Rhan K'hal -> Fun, fun. :: starts checking out consoles with his tricorder :: Maryse Dubois -> ::Starts scanning consoles.:: Hunter Matheson -> @ So.. I'll just get back to the connections, then. Maryse Dubois -> I think I found the hatching controls. Tandaris Admiran -> ::joins Maryse:: Good. And that looks like a list of the ships. K'hal, can you show us the one you were looking at? Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> ::Surveys the room, peering at the consoles and corresponding ship maps.:: They certainly were organized. Rhan K'hal -> :: wanders over to the console in question, peruses the selection a moment, then points :: This one. Tandaris Admiran -> ::Klein:: The Scorpiad caste—subspecies, in fact—is quite different from the warriors and rulers who dominate most of the interactions with the Federation. They are more scholarly—at least from the perspective of the other castes. Rhan K'hal -> :: goes back to looking for the transporter controls :: cptn swain -> @ Ithene> ::nods:: I'm going to see what I can find out about our shadow out there. Tandaris Admiran -> ::Maryse:: See if you can make sense of the status report on that ship and ascertain what procedures we'll need to activate to hatch it, please. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::digging into the relay system:: Rhan K'hal -> Ah, here we are, transporters. I suppose you want me to nip Greg over? Hunter Matheson -> @ ::trying to remember the engineering part of SWCC training, not exactly his area of expertise, he's better at flying and shooting;:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::Rhan:: Yes—I suppose I should warn everyone first, so as not to cause an incident. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::lightbulb::shooting::weapons::: Rhan K'hal -> :: chuckles :: What, disappearing Scorpiad is the latest party sensation. Tandaris Admiran -> +Vauban, Greg+ Admiran to the shuttle. We made it to the command nexus and are hoping to hatch a getaway vehicle. We are going to beam Greg here to assist us with this. Maryse Dubois -> ::Looks over the console.:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::figures that getting the hell outta dodge is more important than blowing them to smitherines::: cptn swain -> @ Ithene> +Admiran+ Go ahead. Tandaris Admiran -> ::nods at Rhan:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> ::Grits his teeth at the news of the incoming Scorpiad, but tries not to get defensive.:: Rhan K'hal -> :: sets up the transport, double checks a few times as the kitty has not had the best of luck with trasnports lately, the energizes :: cptn swain -> ACTION> Greg materializes much quicker than they'd expect as Scorpiad transporter technology is very advanced. Hunter Matheson -> @ Ha! Gotcha, you sneak. Thought you could hide from me, eh? Rhan K'hal -> :: nods at Greg :: Tandaris Admiran -> Greg> ::flexes and shifts his bulk, tail swinging in a disconcerting but unthreatening manner, is clearly pleased to have more room:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::wiggles his fingers into the opening to pull out the defective relay::: Rhan K'hal -> :: goes back over to join Maryse at the hatching console... just thinking that makes him mentally double-take :: Tandaris Admiran -> ::Greg:: Glad you could join us. I know this isn't your specialty, but do you have any advice? Maryse Dubois -> Looks like everything is intact. It's just currently dormant, waiting for activation. Rhan K'hal -> About time we got some luck. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::slips in a new one from the locker::: cptn swain -> Greg> ::Clicks something out entirely unintelligible:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::checking it with the relay checking thingamabob::: Tandaris Admiran -> ::Greg:: No need to be rude. cptn swain -> Greg> ::Clicks again:: The situation is much... this is positive. Maryse Dubois -> Well maybe. Remember we're birthing a ship. I imagine it still takes time for it to fully be ready for use. Even one of our ships can't go full speed right away newly out of the docks. cptn swain -> Greg> The hatchery is fully functional. ::Moving towards en empty dais:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::hops up, moving to the control panel:: Rhan K'hal -> I imagine it would take time for the neural connections to mature in the ship, yes. cptn swain -> Greg> ::Lets out what almost sounds like a laugh:: Our technology is... different from yours. More organic, more advanced. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::hovering over the panel:: Check... check... and check again... yeah, Baby! Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> ::Keeping to the perimeter of the room, with an eye on Greg. Hopes a 'puny human' speech isn't forthcoming. That never bodes well.:: Rhan K'hal -> :: looks over the data on the ship :: I imagine it's a bit like a newborn deer. Probably a bit wobbly for a few moments, then be able to get on its feet. So to speak. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::moving aft to check on engineering progress:: cptn swain -> Greg> The birthing process is relatively quick. Tandaris Admiran -> Newborn ships are, physically, almost fully functional upon hatching. They require careful and expert attention until their minds mature to the point that they can take over the autonomic functions. Rhan K'hal -> That's good, because something tells me that we'll probably end up being in a hurry. cptn swain -> Greg> ::Nods:: And a series of hormones and nutrients at various times. They metabolize quickly. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::in engineering, mostly watching, fetching tools, holding things:: Rhan K'hal -> "Careful and expert attention?" :: looks around, then cocks an ear :: cptn swain -> TWO MINUTE WARNING Tandaris Admiran -> ::nods:: Between the two of us ::obviously means Greg:: we can handle most of the more detailed tasks. We'll show the rest of you what you'll need to do. Maryse Dubois -> Yeah I heard it too. ::Smirks as she checks the controls.:: Well I think we can begin whenever. Tandaris Admiran -> Unless there are any more questions, I think we should get started. cptn swain -> PAUSE SIM

SD 0607.2015 The Vauban's away team is stranded in the Scorpiad hatchery. Repairs are being attempted while part of the team is hoping to hijack a baby ship. There's also something possibly dangerous outside circling.

(No sim 05.10 - 05.24.15) Excalibur Mission Briefing - SD 0531.2015 - After escaping the main Scorpiad station just before it fell apart, the crew has taken refuge in the undamaged ship hatchery in hopes of repairing their own ship or finding another that could get them home. Tandaris has been injured, but is still conscious, if someone muddle-headed. Also, the station's AI program may or may not have (but probably did) send out a signal to any nearby Scorpiad vessels to inform them of the AT's intrusion. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> BEGIN SIM Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> BEGIN SIM Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> BEGIN SIM Hunter Matheson -> (There was a blinking red monitor? Scorpiad ship?) Rhan K'hal -> :: finished up with the inspection of the Vauban, and besides a few large holes in the outer hull there appears to be nothing that will breach... so long as we don't get shot at again :: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> (unidentified as of yet, I think. too far to be sure.) Hunter Matheson -> ::staring at the blinking red monitor:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::re-enters the cockpit after his conversation with Greg:: William Chocox -> How can I help you K'hal? Hunter Matheson -> ::on the TAC console:: Rhan K'hal -> I don't suppose you know enough about Scorpiad biotechnology to be able to graft some biohull over those big holes? William Chocox -> Not mine, nor Ithene's area sadly. Hunter Matheson -> ::Dubois:: So, what do you think they'll do if they find us in their hatchery, ma'am/ Hunter Matheson -> I mean, if it's one of theirs. Rhan K'hal -> :: looks around :: They probably don't have a nice passenger shuttle ready to hatch around here either. Not that Hunter would know how to drive it anyway. Tandaris Admiran -> ::looking around the cockpit:: Any sign of the Scorpiads? William Chocox -> True...Greg might? Hunter Matheson -> Not sure, sir. Blinking red light on the TAC console, but can't ID it. Tandaris Admiran -> ::sighs:: Hunter Matheson -> 'Course, there's always a chance that it's a console malfunction, seeing all the damage we have. Tandaris Admiran -> We need to open a channel on this frequency ::keys it in:: and transmit a burst encrypted with the following algorithm ::begins keying that in:: Rhan K'hal -> Well, let's see what we've got. We're supposed to be here to see what's what with this hatchery anyway, no point in standing around moping. :: heads off to scan the nearest growth pod, or whatever the Clickies call it :: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> ACTION> Blinking red light is still getting closer, but long range sensors are getting interference from the gravity well of the system's black hole and can't get a good reading. Tandaris Admiran -> It will mimic the backchannel communication Scorpiad ships use for long-distance telemetry scans. Maryse Dubois -> ::Looking to Hunter.:: Probably kill us in a plethora of manners, but I'd rather not think about them. Hunter Matheson -> ::gonna pretend he didn't hear that from MD:: Maryse Dubois -> ::Goes over to check on Tandy.:: William Chocox -> ::walks with K'hal:: Hopefully we find something useful. ::starts scanning:: Rhan K'hal -> :: arrives at the nearest unhatched ship, tilts head after looking over it :: I expected more goo, honestly. :: starts scanning :: Hunter Matheson -> ::and while he watches Admiran, his brain is prioritizing the repair list:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::finishes entering the encryption algorithm, then begins composing a message:: Hunter Matheson -> (This is not the ship you are looking for...) Tandaris Admiran -> ::Hunter:: Once this is finished encrypting, direct it towards where Excalibur should be, on the frequency I've entered. Rhan K'hal -> Hmm... appears to be a tactical scout variant from what the database tells me. Hunter Matheson -> Yes, sir. Tandaris Admiran -> ::hopes Corizon recognizes it as more than random Scorpiad background noise:: William Chocox -> Interesting...not useful to us though. Rhan K'hal -> About 4/5 of the way through the development cycle before growth was stopped. Rhan K'hal -> Moving on. :: heads toward the next pod :: William Chocox -> Huh. William Chocox -> ::follows:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> ::Leans on the bulkhead, watching Tandaris.:: What are you sending to them? Rhan K'hal -> :: arrives at the next pod, whistles :: Now this is interesting. Hunter Matheson -> ::pulls up Excalibur's last known location as he watches encryption progress:: Hunter Matheson -> ::quick mental calculation as to their present position:: William Chocox -> How so? Tandaris Admiran -> ::Klein:: They need to know what we've found out and what's happening. Maryse Dubois -> ::Checks on Tandy's injuries.:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::sighs:: Corizon is so going to lord this over me…. Tandaris Admiran -> ::Maryse:: How am I doing? Hunter Matheson -> ::verifies the mental calc, then plugs it in:: Encryption complete. Sending, sir. Rhan K'hal -> Same... 'family' I suppose you could say, compared to the last one. But this one seems to be a stealth variant, which is saying something for a Scorpiad vessel. Maryse Dubois -> Better it seems. How do you feel? Rhan K'hal -> Almost fully grown too. Hunter Matheson -> Delivery complete. William Chocox -> We may want to take good notes on this one. Hunter Matheson -> ::lets out a breath as he moves aft to work on the rest of the technical damage:: Tandaris Admiran -> I'm ::nods:: fine. For now. I expect I’ll crash, whenever whatever you gave me wears off? Rhan K'hal -> It's propulsion organs are quite refined compared to the other as well. Bet this one can really fly. William Chocox -> Probably...too bad it's not big enough. Maryse Dubois -> ::Nods.:: Probably. And I don't have an unlimited supply of it unfortunately. Rhan K'hal -> +Admiran+ K'hal to Admiran. Cptn Swain -> ((I am a terrible person)) Rhan K'hal -> It has room for 10... assuming we don't mind a bit of canoodling. Tandaris Admiran -> +K'hal+ Admiran here. William Chocox -> ((If the worst thing you've done is be late for a sim I think you're fine.)) Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> Well, let's hope they get it, though I don't think it will do much good for us know. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> *now William Chocox -> Room for 10 what's? Hunter Matheson -> ::priority one: weapons? propulsion? figures they're outgunned anyway:: Rhan K'hal -> +Admiran+ How would Starfleet feel about data on a nice stealth scout/incursion vessel that practically just needs someone to crack the shell on it so it can hatch? Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> I doubt we'd be able to fix this ship before the Scorpiad get here, if that sensor blip happens to be them. Hunter Matheson -> ::better get this bucket moving, at least:: Hunter Matheson -> ::if they're going to shoot us, they'll shoot their babies, too:: Rhan K'hal -> :: Will :: Well, it can fit 5 Scorpiad so 10 humanoids should be able to fit. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> But, if there is another ship around here that we can hijack, maybe we can do repairs on the fly. Surely one of them has to be big enough to hold this shuttle. William Chocox -> Ah. Hm...interesting. Tandaris Admiran -> +K'hal+ ::mock horror:: Are you proposing we _steal_ a vehicle from the Scorpiads? Tandaris Admiran -> +K'hal+ That would be _wrong_. Rhan K'hal -> Plus, you see the little grabby doohickeys at the front? Useful for holding incursion pods. Or broken Starfleet vessels. Maryse Dubois -> I'm fine with that. :;grins.:: Rhan K'hal -> +Admiran+ So is invading their territory and poking about their stations. Why stop now? William Chocox -> ::rolls his eyes at Tandy:: That would be really useful. Tandaris Admiran -> ::nods at all:: Agreed. Maryse Dubois -> How fast can we get it working? I don't think we have much time left. Tandaris Admiran -> +K'hal+ Locate the control nexus, then, and ascertain where the transporters are. We should beam Greg off the Vauban. William Chocox -> Do we have anyone that can y it K'hal? Rhan K'hal -> +Admiran+ Okeydokey, for once I'll be glad to see him. Tandaris Admiran -> +Chocox+ I need you and Ithene to make any further emergency repairs to the Vauban it needs before we take it with us. William Chocox -> fly* Rhan K'hal -> :: pokes at tricorder a bit to do a wider field survey to find the control nexus, which hopefully won't be much different in design if not scale to the one at the other station :: Hunter Matheson -> ::elbow deep in the propulsion system:: William Chocox -> +Tandy+ On my way back sir. ::walks back to the Vauban:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::Maryse:: Excellent question. Tandaris Admiran -> ::Maryse:: Would you care to assist in the birth of a starship, Doctor? Rhan K'hal -> Aha! There you are. :: starts slogging way toward the CN, glad that the footing here is at least reliable if not exactly as firm as he'd care for :: Maryse Dubois -> That will be something interesting for my resume. William Chocox -> Starfleet, it's truly an adventure. ::has come back in:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::Hunter:: Now, if we can't get the ship hatched for some reason … be ready to make a run for it in the Vauban. William Chocox -> Where do you want me sir? Maryse Dubois -> ::Heads off to find K'hal and Will.:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::Chocox:: Full systems check, fix what you can and bypass what you can't. Rhan K'hal -> :: takes cursory scans of other growth pods until he gets to the lift, which works far too much like an esophagus for his taste but when in Clikky Rome... :: Hunter Matheson -> ::looks up from beneath a panel:: Sir? One of their ships? ::running that through is brain:: Tandaris Admiran -> I'll be with K'hal and Dr. Dubois in the command nexus. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Is knee deep into some repairs:: Hunter Matheson -> ::pulls himself up, hands brushing off his hands:: It's a bio ship, correct, Lieutenant? Rhan K'hal -> :: sees Tandy and Maryse coming, waits :: William Chocox -> ::starts helping Ithene:: Maryse Dubois -> ::Quietly to Tandy.:: If Greg for some reason isn't able to work this ship, will you? Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> ::Walking outside to watch the others, and the hatchery. No telling what other defenses might be on this part of the station.:: Maryse Dubois -> I doubt anyone else will be able to interface with it. Tandaris Admiran -> ::starts:: William Chocox -> How're your repairs going Ithene? Hunter Matheson -> ::then watches the El Tee disappear into the command nexus:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::Maryse:: I don’t think that’s a good idea. You know what happened the last time I "interfaced" with a ship. Maryse Dubois -> Which is what I'm afraid of. We need to be able to keep it from perceiving us as hostile. Cptn Swain -> ...AND... Rhan K'hal -> :: Maryse :: Well, maybe being it's mama will help. Maryse Dubois -> ::paused:: William Chocox -> ((There's a visual.)) Tandaris Admiran -> Better get your baby names ready, people Cptn Swain -> PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain -> PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain -> PAUSE SIM

MISSION BRIEF: Due to a combination of factors, most of which can be blamed on Tandaris, the actual station part of the shipyard has been destroyed. The crew managed to escape, but the shuttle took heavy damage -- again due to Tandaris, who took a bump on the head. They have sought refuge on the seemingly undamaged hatchery section of the station. They are alive, no thanks to Tandaris. Are you seeing a theme? Cptn Swain -> BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain -> BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain -> BEGIN SIM Hunter Matheson -> ::wheels down:: Cptn Swain -> CardboardMaryse> ::Making sure Tandaris lives:: William Chocox -> Ok...so, what's our plan? Hunter Matheson -> ::checking systems:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Frowns as they touch down:: Hope there's breathable air on the other side of this? Rhan K'hal -> :: muttergrumbling :: Tandaris Admiran -> ::is unconscious:: Hunter Matheson -> ::blows out a breath, biting back several very bad words:: Tandaris Admiran -> Greg> ::hanging out in his old bachelor pad, having somehow managed to completely avoid taking blame for anything, despite supposedly being their ace in the hole:: Cptn Swain -> CM> ::Waving her magic tricorder over Tandaris:: He's mildly concussed, but he'll live. ::Takes out a handy dandy thing and shoots it into Tandaris' neck:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> Someone go check on Clicky. William Chocox -> Our clicky expert is out like a light. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> Just make sure he's alive. Hunter Matheson -> ::fiddling, checking, swearing, shaking his head:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> And if he's not, well, I dunno. We'll figure something out. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> ::Still focused on long-range sensors, waiting for any bleep or blip that might indicate converging Scorpiad ships.:: Well, if the station did send out a signal, there's no sign of anyone answering. Yet. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Running a hand through Will's much shorter hair and wondering, briefly, what he'd look like with long, flowing locks of hair:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::sits up:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::yawns:: That was a strange dream. I almost thought for a moment Starfleet had approved that plan to go to the shi— Tandaris Admiran -> ::looks around:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Glances over to R'han:: The station had working atmosphere, so I guess there's no reason not to believe the hatchery does too. Rhan K'hal -> The station was also decaying, so let's hope the hatchery isn't. Cptn Swain -> CM> ::Smiles:: Don't move too much Tandaris. You have a mild concussion. I gave you something to help with that, but still. Hunter Matheson -> ::secures from helm, stands, and moves aft to systems access::: William Chocox -> So...who checks on the spider? Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Nods:: The data we got from the AI seemed to indicate the hatchery had its own systems. Maybe they cared enough about the hatchery to leave it running, whereas the station was less vital? Who knows. Well I guess, Greg might not. Hunter Matheson -> ::removes the access cover and scoots his upper body in to take a look:: Rhan K'hal -> :: turns to look at Will/Ithene, tilts head as if the answer to that should be obvious: him :: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Klein:: You and Will go check on the Cliky. Tandaris Admiran -> Quick, don’t set course for Excalibur! Tandaris Admiran -> We need to go to the hatchery! Cptn Swain -> CMaryse> ::Pats Tandaris again:: Shhhh Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> I'll check on the beastie. ::Finally stands from his console and claps a hand on William's shoulder.:: I think Chocox should get to work on our repairs. Our weapons aren't functional at the moment. William Chocox -> We're already there. Rhan K'hal -> :: swivels to look at Tandy, then Maryse - shakes head :: Cptn Swain -> CM> We're not going anywhere anytime soon. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::nods to Klein:: Hunter Matheson -> ::mutter:: fried chips... busted life support... scrambles ODN lines... super duper buffet in here. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::looks over to Hunter, whose name she didn't really remember:: William Chocox -> Alright...what is most pertinent repair wise? Cptn Swain -> Ithene> Life support, but I don't know if we can do that here. Hunter Matheson -> ::moves farther into the engineering access hatch so only his legs stick out, from the knee down, and a muffled shout it heard:: We have an engineer around? Tandaris Admiran -> Good. Tandaris Admiran -> I feel mildly concussed. ::CM:: I think I might have a concussion. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::snorts:: Well I think between Will and I, we count as one. And then Tandaris if his brains get unscrambled anytime soon. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> Yes, life support. Weapons. Our propulsion seems to be fine. Go give Matheson a hand. ::Points William in the right direction.:: Hunter Matheson -> ::pulling himself out, taking a beating on the way, but not as much as the systems did::: Cptn Swain -> CM> ::Smiles, gently, in that way that only a doctor can.:: Yes. I just told you that. You should start to feel a little better soon. Tandaris Admiran -> We also need to ::frowns, searching look on his face:: need to … something important. Hunter Matheson -> ::sitting on the deck, dejected, worried, younameit:: Cptn Swain -> CM> Right now, we just need you to rest. Ithene and the others have everything under control. Rhan K'hal -> :: mouths "liar, liar pants on fire" at Maryse :: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Nods to Klein:: Hunter and Will, you two see what you can do inside. Klein, look at the beasty. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> Kitty, you and I are going to take a look outside and see how badly we're damaged. Hunter Matheson -> ::glances fore and aft and spots a locker:: Hunter Matheson -> ::then looks up to Chocox:: You're an engineer, sir? Rhan K'hal -> I thought the smell of acrid, burning ship parts was a good clue, but if you'd like to take pictures to jam down someone's throat if we get home, I'm game. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> ::Heads for the cargo hold to check on their Scorpiad guest, hoping the blasted thing wasn't hungry again.:: William Chocox -> Alright. Let's go Matheson. Tandaris Admiran -> ::smiles:: Oh, good. For a moment I was worried that we were stuck here, the ship badly damaged, with the Scorpiad possibly on the way. Tandaris Admiran -> ::lies back:: I’ll just let the rest of you handle things then…. Hunter Matheson -> ::pushing himself up from the deck:: Yes, sir. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Shoots Kitty a glare before holstering a phaser and slapping on a new hand lamp:: Tandaris Admiran -> Greg> ::rustling around ominously:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::is on the really good drugs:: Rhan K'hal -> :: follows :: Cptn Swain -> CMaryse> ::Nods, and give Tandaris another injection to help with the concussion symptoms:: William Chocox -> ::pulls his/her hair back:: Hunter Matheson -> ::wants the really good drugs:: William Chocox -> Anyone have a hair tie? Hunter Matheson -> ::blink:: Hunter Matheson -> Fried ODN line work? Hunter Matheson -> ::holds it up:: William Chocox -> Um...Ithene? Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::snorts at Will as she heads to the airlock, which, of course, needed to be manually opened, because of course it didn't work.:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> Sure. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> I've used worse before. William Chocox -> Alright. ::takes the ODN line from Matheson and ties their hair back:: Hunter Matheson -> ::blank look as he watches:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> After you kitty. William Chocox -> Is there a problem Hunter? Rhan K'hal -> :: huffs out a breath, opens the airlock and steps through :: Hunter Matheson -> ::snaps out of it:: Uh.. no, sir. Cptn Swain -> ACTION> The hatchery landing alcove is dark, and warm. Moist almost. But the air, heavy though it might be, is breathable. William Chocox -> I'll be sure to pass Ithene your regards once everything is put back to normal. Cptn Swain -> ACTION> The floor is squishy, but a healthy squishy. Like a firm sponge. Hunter Matheson -> ::humoring:: Yes, sir. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> ::Steps into the cargo hold and makes sure Greg isn't in any trouble or causing any trouble.:: Rhan K'hal -> :: sniffs, makes a face :: Like breathing gelatin, but at least this place seems in better repair... health, whatever. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Nods:: I think this is more "normal" for their ships. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> Which, steamy as it is, is good for us. Though likely not your fur. Rhan K'hal -> What I have left of it anyway. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> Or my hair. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> Well... Will's hair at the moment. William Chocox -> So...let's get to work. I'll try to remember as much as I can. I've found though that many of my skills are stuck in my body. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> Alright... let's start visual inspection. Tandaris Admiran -> Greg> ::perks up when he perceives Klein:: You. Soldier-caste-human. Hunter Matheson -> ::deep breath:: Yes, sir. Well, from what I saw back there ::jerks his thumb toward the open access hatch:: we're in deep doodoo. Rhan K'hal -> :: turns around, looks back at the ship :: Eep. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Frowns:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> That's not supposed to be missing. Hunter Matheson -> Fried chips, scrambled ODN lines, a few cracked conduits. Well, at least they look cracked. Rhan K'hal -> From a purely aesthetic point of view it looks better without it but you're right, it should still be there. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> Ah... yes. I suppose that's correct. ::Still a bit uneasy about a giant talking scorpion, but rolling with it.:: Are you alright? Anything you need? Rhan K'hal -> purely* Hunter Matheson -> I'm gonna say that the shuttle didn't like the shock wave? William Chocox -> Probably not, but do they ever? Hunter Matheson -> Uh.. no, sir. Tandaris Admiran -> Greg> Where is Admiran? Rhan K'hal -> @ :: pastes on an @ for good form as he takes a few steps further along and continues to look over the ship :: Hunter Matheson -> Something they tell us to avoid. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> Yeah. ::makes a note on her tricorder:: And that is certainly not supposed to be missing... ::points:: but oh hey, the extra armor plating they applied did manage to deflect damage from the... uh what part is that? Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Points to something that looked entirely cosmetic:: Cptn Swain -> @Ithene> ::Frowns, making more notes in the tricorder:: Rhan K'hal -> @ Uh... Hmm. I'm used to looking at schematics, not the actual exterior. William Chocox -> Ok...life support is first. Hunter Matheson -> ::nod:: Life support. Cptn Swain -> @Ithene> Bright side, looks like sensor and communications array aren't damaged too badly. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> He's on the ship, recovering from an injury. He's fine. He'll be fine. Just took a bump to the head, I think. We humans are a bit more fragile than your kind. Rhan K'hal -> @ So we'll see when they come to kill us and be able to not make any calls because we're not supposed to be here. Super. Cptn Swain -> @Ithene> You always have a perpetual rain cloud over you. Cptn Swain -> @Ithene> ::He was right of course.:; Rhan K'hal -> @ Being a realist has its gloomy disadvantages at times. Hunter Matheson -> ::thinking they picked a good place to land, all things considered:: William Chocox -> ::starts to poke around:: Hm... Tandaris Admiran -> Greg> I must speak to Admiran. Now. Rhan K'hal -> @ :: tilts head :: Good news, the tractor beam array is there. Bad news, it's hanging out in four different pieces. Cptn Swain -> @Ithene> Can you run a dermal scan of the hull. I hate to say it, but I want to make sure after what it's been through, we need to make sure there aren't any microfractures in the hull that could, you know, turn into something worse when/if we're able to escape. Rhan K'hal -> @ Even without being an engineer I know a tricorder isn't the most suitable tool for that, but I'll see what I can do. :: pokes at it for a few moments :: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> Sure. I'll pop out and go get him. Anything I can help with? Hunter Matheson -> ::moves farther aft, past Chocox, to what looks like another access hatch:: Rhan K'hal -> @ :: starts slowly moving down the ship, tricorder slowly going up and down :: Hunter Matheson -> ::and aft starboard it's a bingo:: Cptn Swain -> @Ithene> ::Kneels down to take a closer look at the nacels:: William Chocox -> Found it? Tandaris Admiran -> Greg> ::does not exactly _growl_, because he does not have the apparatus for that, but it makes a noise by rubbing together two of its claws in such a way as to suggest growling:: Hunter Matheson -> Yes, sir. Engineering aft starboard. Lessee... ::logs into the console::: Hunter Matheson -> ::or not::: Hunter Matheson -> hm... Cptn Swain -> @Ithene> Gods I hope we got the collision coverage. Hunter Matheson -> ::checking for systems emergency power:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> Ah, alright then. ::Backs out and secures the cargo door behind him. Tugs at the collar of his uniform, suddenly hot all of a sudden.:: Admiran! Where is he? ::Returns to the front of the ship in search for the engineer.:: Rhan K'hal -> @ :: gets halfway around the ship, emits another "Eep." :: Hunter Matheson -> ::manual switch:: Hunter Matheson -> :::flip:: Cptn Swain -> CMaryse> ::Waves:: Here... why? Cptn Swain -> @Ithene> What's up Kitten? Hunter Matheson -> ::ducks under the console:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::hears Klein, calls out in a super-relaxed voice:: Klein? Lieutenant Klein! Kleiny my man. Hunter Matheson -> ::then up, looking for the locker:: Hunter Matheson -> ::read..read..read:: Hunter Matheson -> ::jerks one open:: Cptn Swain -> CMaryse> ::Stands and meets Klein half-way, and in a low voice:: He's medicated, what's the issue? Hunter Matheson -> Yeah... ::slides out a tray:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> Is he... ah... ::Peers at Admiran.:: Does he have his wits about him? The Scorpiad is asking for him and is very insistent. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> *t Rhan K'hal -> @ Well, it's not a microfracture. It's more of a gaping hole. The ablative armor ripped off along with the exterior access plate to the top of the warp core. Hunter Matheson -> Replacement parts here, sir. Grab a tray. ::hands it to Chocox:: Rhan K'hal -> @ Well, "top" as in where it'd come out if we ejected it. Cptn Swain -> CMaryse> ::Frowns:: He's... a little out of it. I can give him something to make him a little more... uh with it, but ::frowns:: he Cptn Swain -> s not going to like it. Tandaris Admiran -> ::beneficent smile:: Don’t worry, Klein. It’s all good. Cptn Swain -> @Ithene> Lovely. Add it to the list. We should be able to pull something off the hull somewhere else to patch it, but glad we did a visual inspection. Tandaris Admiran -> ::swings legs around and slides off the bed, stands:: Rhan K'hal -> @ I might need a tricorder with more memory, the list is getting pretty long. Hunter Matheson -> ::notes Chocky's blank look:: You *are* an engineer, right sir? Cptn Swain -> CMaryse> ::Goes to her kit.:: And... uh... I don't have the second dose to make him feel better, so he's just goingt o have to live with a headache for a while. ::Hesitates for a moment before giving it to Tandaris.:: William Chocox -> I was...but then I switched bodies with Ithene. Hunter Matheson -> ::after a few seconds:: Right. Cptn Swain -> CMaryse> ::The last thing they needed was a doped up Tandaris talking to the Clicky:: Rhan K'hal -> @ :: moves on to finish the rest of the hull scan :: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> ::Moves to offer Tandaris a hand, supporting him to make sure he didn't fall.:: Alright, let's get you in there, then. Just keep your answers short. Tandaris Admiran -> ::wrinkles nose, seems to have a bad taste in his mouth:: Hunter Matheson -> Okay, then... this tray has isolinear chips in it. Go under the consoles and if you find anything that looks like these but they're burned, pull them out and put in a new one that's the same color... Cptn Swain -> @Ithene> ::She took a deep breath, remembering her promise to Miranda.:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::shakes Klein off:: Right, fine. I'm fine. I'm very fine. Everything is fine! William Chocox -> Will do. I remember that. Tandaris Admiran -> ::walks away:: Hunter Matheson -> And don't worry, 'cause they only fit one way. Meaning, if it's red and you need green, it won't fit. William Chocox -> ::takes the tray and starts looking:: Cptn Swain -> @Ithene> Would you believe me if I said I'd been in worse fixes than this? Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> Hey, don't go shouting at me. I didn't smack you upside the head, though I can. ::Glowers and stalks after him.:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::turns around, muttering:: Cargo bay is the other way. ::keeps walking:: Hunter Matheson -> ::poking around, he spots a roll of ODN line, and, after checking the connections, he begins on those:: Rhan K'hal -> @ I thought you were more of a lab rat before you had the shared misfortune to join the Excalibur. William Chocox -> ::is busy working on the isolinear chips:: Cptn Swain -> @Ithene> ::Smirks:: You'd be surprised how much trouble a little old lab rat can get into. Hunter Matheson -> ::pulls the covers on all the access hatches::: Tandaris Admiran -> ::enters the cargo bay:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> ::Follows him into the cargo bay, lingering behind.:: Cptn Swain -> @Ithene> There was a tim... wait... that is definitely not *my* memory. Oh for hells sake... now I have his memories of things in his life. Tandaris Admiran -> Greg> ::does the growling thing again:: Admiran. Rhan K'hal -> @ Remind me to talk to my brother Hakran... assuming we live and get home. Cptn Swain -> @Ithene> We're going to get home. Cptn Swain -> @Ithene> I am not dying in this body. Tandaris Admiran -> Greg> You have endangered the mission! Cptn Swain -> @Ithene> With this hair. Rhan K'hal -> @ :: snorts :: Good to know you've got a solid motivation. Tandaris Admiran -> I— William Chocox -> ::hums as he continues to replace the isolinear chips:: Hunter Matheson -> :::disengage lines, plug new ones in, check::: Tandaris Admiran -> Greg> ::interrupting:: Your mismanagement and incompetence destroyed the command node, and if I am to understand the situation correctly, you have alerted the Empire to our presence. Tandaris Admiran -> ::holds up a finger:: Now, just wait a moment. Where were _you_ when I had to deal with that … that … jumped up librarian software? Hunter Matheson -> ::Cho:: How you coming? Cptn Swain -> CMaryse> ::Notices something:: Uh... is that supposed to be beeping red? Tandaris Admiran -> You were supposed to have _codes_ for this sort of thing. You assured me that we could move around without hindrance. Rhan K'hal -> @ :: reviews the data on the tricorder :: Well, quite a few weakened spots but no microfractures. Everything else was big enough to see with the naked eye. Cptn Swain -> @Ithene> ::nods:: Good. I didn't find anything too bad either. There's a small stress spot on the nacel, but nothing we can't deal with. William Chocox -> Coming along fine. Tandaris Admiran -> Greg> And if you had waited for me, perhaps the situation would be different. But we do not talk of alternatives. We speak only of the now. William Chocox -> ::replaces the last one:: Think I've got it. Rhan K'hal -> @ Minus the fact that we won't have any air to breathe, we're all good. Hunter Matheson -> ::nods, though he knows he/she can't see him:: Good. Tandaris Admiran -> Greg> What is the status of this vessel? Cptn Swain -> CMaryse> ::Says it again louder so that Hunter or Will can hear her:: Is that status monitor supposed to be blinking red? Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> ::Crosses his arms over his chest, head cocked at the conversation.:: Hunter Matheson -> ::replaces the cover and moves on to the next access point:: Take the tray forward, and on the left hand side you'll see a hatch. Take the cover off and look in there. Hunter Matheson -> That area took quite a hit. Tandaris Admiran -> ::glances at Klein:: What _is_ the status of the Vauban? William Chocox -> Alright. Hunter Matheson -> ::stands:: What status monitor? Where? Hunter Matheson -> ::moves toward Maryse:: Cptn Swain -> CMaryse> ::Points to one on the tactical console:: Hunter Matheson -> Holy sh** ... Cptn Swain -> PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain -> PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain -> PAUSE SIM

SD 0510.2015 - No Sim (Mother's Day) SD 0517.2015 - No Sim SD 0524.2015 - No Sim (Memorial Day) SD 0531.2015 After escaping the main Scorpiad station just before it fell apart, the crew has taken refuge in the undamaged ship hatchery in hopes of repairing their own ship or finding another that could get them home. Tandaris has been injured, but is still conscious, if someone muddle-headed. Also, the station's AI program may or may not have (but probably did) send out a signal to any nearby Scorpiad vessels to inform them of the AT's intrusion.

SD 0503.2015 Due to a combination of factors, most of which can be blamed on Tandaris, the actual station part of the shipyard has been destroyed. The crew managed to escape, but the shuttle took heavy damage -- again due to Tandaris, who took a bump on the head. They have sought refuge on the seemingly undamaged hatchery section of the station. They are alive, no thanks to Tandaris. Are you seeing a theme?

MISSION BRIEF: Cephalon Tsudere (the holographic AI existing on the Scorpiad station) has allowed the crew to ask THREE (3) not 2 or 4 only THREE questions about the knowledge contained in his data banks. Cptn Swain -> BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain -> BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain -> BEGIN SIM Rhan K'hal -> :: still covered in muck from his Indiana Jones adventure getting to the library, waits off to the back of the group with barely contained snarl livening up his features :: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::watching the video feed, still wondering what that thing is they are talking to:: Cptn Swain -> Cephalon> Now... you have `one` question left, ::clicks out something almost taunting, but Tandaris isn't able to catch what it means, or at least the context:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Frowns, she didn't like the tone of the AI.:: Tandaris Admiran -> This one might require some mathematics. Tandaris Admiran -> Let’s see. ::pacing around the room:: We’ve asked for medical information. ::nods at Maryse:: Tandaris Admiran -> And we’ve asked about the status of the hatchery. Cptn Swain -> Cephalon> ::Lifts what appears to be a brow:: Maryse Dubois -> ::Nods as she glances over the data.:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::notices R'han and waves him over:: Tandaris Admiran -> This is certainly an impressive little place you have for yourself. Rhan K'hal -> :: sticky-squelchy-steps over to 'her' :: Cptn Swain -> Cephalon> Most Scorpiad enclaves contain an archive, such as this. Tandaris Admiran -> I like the moulding. ::points at the somewhat extraneous material where wall meets floor by Rhan and Ithene:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::kind of trying to figure a back door into the AI:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Smirks, adds lowly:: You look like a drowned cat. Rhan K'hal -> Let's just say I've seen tidier space stations in the control of Orion pirates. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::frustrated 'cause it's not happening:: William Chocox -> That's...a very apt comparison. Tandaris Admiran -> Anyway Cptn Swain -> Cephalon> ::sighs:: Might I remind you... fh'ggggi''lkkk that it was you who said the power supply would limit how much you used me? Tandaris Admiran -> My last question … Hunter Matheson -> @ ::mouth hangs open at the translation that comes through:: Tandaris Admiran -> Let’s say you’re a snappy artificial intelligence of Scorpiad creation. Cptn Swain -> Cephalon> I am. Tandaris Admiran -> And you’re extremely clever. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::snort:: Cptn Swain -> Cephalon> Again. Tandaris Admiran -> And you find yourself activated by a mixed-species group who appear to have some kind of authentication, but when you check the status of the station, you discover it should have been shut down, so we are probably up to no good. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Watching Tandaris closely:: (w to Rhan and Bill) What is he doing. Rhan K'hal -> :: mutters something that sounds suspiciously like "I thought he was Commander Admiran, not Captain Obvious" :: Cptn Swain -> Cephalon> Are you asking me what I am doing behind the curtain? Tandaris Admiran -> Not asking yet. William Chocox -> (w)F*** if I know. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::cough:: Tandaris Admiran -> Hypothetically speaking, you might have a protocol in that little organic brain of yours to sound an alarm. Cptn Swain -> Cephalon> I see. Continue. Cptn Swain -> Cephalon> I might. Maryse Dubois -> ::Wondering where he is going with this.:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::glance to Klein, with that "I don't think they know we're watching and listening" look::: Tandaris Admiran -> Now, I know that your information on local Scorpiad ship assignments is woefully out of date. Tandaris Admiran -> So I won’t blame you if you can only give me an estimate, say, in an order of magnitude. Tandaris Admiran -> Even your capabilities are, sadly, limited. Cptn Swain -> Cephalon> Cute. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::pretty cool strategy:: Cptn Swain -> Cephalon> Are you going to get around to asking me the third question, or simply continue to try and provoke me? Rhan K'hal -> :: has to admit he appreciates Cephalon's snark :: Tandaris Admiran -> Here’s my question: if you sent such a signal, and the Scorpiads receive it and care to send a response, what is your best estimate for how much time we have before they arrive? Cptn Swain -> Cephalon> That depends. William Chocox -> (w)Damnit. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> (w) Heck of a use of a third question. William Chocox -> (w)If you say so...I'm still trying to figure out what he asked. Cptn Swain -> Cephalon> And I have to admit, I assumed that with the brains of a G'jak-class battlestar in you, that you'd not have to ask such a question, or at the very least that you could sense that this is a focal system. William Chocox -> (w)That doesn't sound good. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> (w) He's trying to make sure that the AI didn't send a message to the Scorpiads. Hunter Matheson -> @ :checking the external sensors now, looking for tactical threats:: Cptn Swain -> Cephalon> If I had sent such a message, they could arrive at their leisure.. once it arrived. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::at their leisure...::: William Chocox -> (w)What does he mean by "focal" system though? Tandaris Admiran -> That’s what I wanted to hear. Tandaris Admiran -> ::Maryse:: You got the data you wanted? Cptn Swain -> Cephalon> ::Lifts a brow:: Rhan K'hal -> :: remembers an old video clip from some British show of the 20th Century where various people including a deity yell "get on with it!" wishes he had it to play :: Maryse Dubois -> I sure did. Cptn Swain -> Cephalon> And what is that supposed to mean. Tandaris Admiran -> +Hunter+ Matheson, I assume you’ve heard all that? Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> ::Leans over to watch Hunter's console for a moment, scowling a bit.:: Hunter Matheson -> @ +Admiran+ Aye, sir. Cptn Swain -> (( Tandy, give me a number 1-100 )) Tandaris Admiran -> +Hunter+ Get us ready to flee the system immediately. We’ll return to the ship as soon as we rendezvous with Jas and Greg. Tandaris Admiran -> ((29)) Hunter Matheson -> @ ::mutes the com, turns to Klein:: So I'm thinking more along the lines of slipstream. Cptn Swain -> **NIGHTMARE MODE IS ACTIVE** Hunter Matheson -> @ +Tandaris+ We're on hot standby, sir. Ready on your command. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::checking systems, configuring for the most obvious direction to leave, then takes another vector::: Tandaris Admiran -> ::Cephalon:: So, are you going to turn yourself off now? Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> I'm thinking it really doesn't matter what they have, so long as we can outrun them. And in this thing... I'm not so sure about that. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::Klein:: Ready to go, all systems on standby. Hunter Matheson -> @ No, sir. Not with slipstream. And we'd never know where they came from. Maryse Dubois -> ::Has everything packed and ready.:: Cptn Swain -> ACTION> A tentacle springs out of the floor and aims for Tandaris, but he sees it just in time to dodge it. Tandaris Admiran -> Aaaah! Tandaris Admiran -> ::moves out of the way, losing his balance:: Rhan K'hal -> I'm guessing that our welcome has been worn out. William Chocox -> Run? Hunter Matheson -> @ But if we go down, it'll be spectacular.... Cptn Swain -> Cephalon> ::Glowers:: Well... I was going to download myself into you, just in case they didn't arrive in time... Maryse Dubois -> Lets go. We don't need a station stuck in your head too. Cptn Swain -> Cephalon> ::turning a shade of red:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> I think it's time we exit, stage left. Tandaris Admiran -> Agreed. Tandaris Admiran -> Before we go, however … Tandaris Admiran -> ::smiles:: Make sure you all turn on all the lights as you leave. Cptn Swain -> ACTION> Another tentacle reaches for Tandaris... Tandaris Admiran -> ::beats a hasty exit:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::looking for the station's internal defensive systems:: Cptn Swain -> ACTION> Almost as suddenly as he appeared though, the Cephalon vanishes, and throughout the station, systems begin turning off again. The Vauban detects multiple hull breaches. Maryse Dubois -> Already on it. ::Pulls out a PADD.:: I anticipated you would want to do that, so I rigged something that would essentially turn everything on. William Chocox -> ::follows Tandaris:: Hunter Matheson -> @ +Tandaris+ The station's getting ready to blow! GO GO GO... Tandaris Admiran -> We are now going to run very fast for the Vauban. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Following along:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::implements this plan immediately:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> ::Hisses.:: And there's the other shoe dropping. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> He must have tried to do something with the station's defenses... Hunter Matheson -> @ +Tandaris+ Take the next left, then down two levels, then a right. Tandaris Admiran -> +Jas+ Wherever you are, get back to the command nexus, and use its transporters to beam you and Greg back to the ship. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> We're going to have a hellova time flying out of here. Rhan K'hal -> :: follows along, pulling out one of the rather nifty little biobatteries he found on his solitary journey; even with his rudimentary Scorpiad knowledge figured out enough to know how to make one blow up if needed; holds it in reserve :: William Chocox -> Running! Why so much running?! Maryse Dubois -> ::Runs with Tandy, initiating her program.:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::Klein:: Yeah, it's always that way. Maryse Dubois -> Less talk, more run. Tandaris Admiran -> ::Chocox:: Now, now. You have to keep Ithene’s body in shape while you’re in it. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> I think it's tjhe other way around... Hunter Matheson -> @ ::watching the clock:: +Tandaris+ MOVE! Hunter Matheson -> @ ::as the hulls continue to breach:: Rhan K'hal -> :: calls out :: Don't go left at the next corridor, the floor is rather not there anymore. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::Klein:: Lieutenant, you're on tactical? William Chocox -> Thank you K'hal. Tandaris Admiran -> ::diverts according to Rhan's instructions:: Cptn Swain -> ACTION> The station is beginning to fall apart more and more. The hatchery, however, seems uneffected. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> Yes, already monitoring this sector. Weapons are on standby. Hunter Matheson -> @ Copy. Tandaris Admiran -> We must be getting close … Cptn Swain -> Ithene> Hard point should be just up ahead. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::stops to watch their progress, and notices:: Tandaris Admiran -> There! Hunter Matheson -> @ ::Klein:: Sir, there's one section of the station that isn't blowing. William Chocox -> Oh thank goodness. William Chocox -> The sooner we get to the Excalibur the better. Hunter Matheson -> @ +Admiran+ All aboard? Tandaris Admiran -> ::crosses over to the Vauban:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::William:: Um … about that. William Chocox -> What? Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::aboard:: Rhan K'hal -> :: follows into the ship, immediately strips down to his skivvies to get out of his sticky apparel while still on the way to the cockpit to join Hunter :: William Chocox -> ::glares at Tandy as he boards:: Maryse Dubois -> ::Follows in.:: Hunter Matheson -> @ +COM+ ::after counting:: Hold on! Cptn Swain -> ACTION> The station is literally falling apart, and the crew manages to escape just in time as a shockwave smacks them exceptionally hard.. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::slams the hatch closed, disengages, and shoots off::: Rhan K'hal -> :: hops into the second chair just in time to get shot right out of it again by the shockwave :: Rhan K'hal -> :: curses in a few different languages :: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::hollers:: If you got it, strap it! Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> ::Holding on at the tactical station, grits his teeth as the ship is tossed about.:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::pitch, then roll, riding the wave::: Rhan K'hal -> Little late for that... ::grumbles, claws way back into chair and straps in :: Cptn Swain -> ACTION> The Vauban goes dark for several long seconds as the shockwave impact causes damage to the already damaged systems. William Chocox -> Commander, I thought you had a way to put Ithene and I back to rights. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::riding it out, like a ship at sea:: Rhan K'hal -> :: is about ready to push a button when it goes out :: This is really getting old. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::pulled, rolled, and spun in several directions, he slams down on emergency power:: Cptn Swain -> ACTION> The chemical batteries kick back on. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Picking herself up off the floor:: Eight hells... Hunter Matheson -> @ ::all:: We're going to ride this thing until it dissipates, then take our exit vector. Rhan K'hal -> :: as soon as the batts kick in, pulls what little power is left over to the inertial dampening field so they can stop being shaken like a James Bond martini :: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Frowns:: That's not a good idea. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::um... martini sounds good right about now:: William Chocox -> ::groans from the floor:: William Chocox -> If we make it out of this I'm going to kill you Commander. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Looking at the status monitor on the engineering console:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::Klein:: What's your weapons status, sir? Hunter Matheson -> @ ::pulling up as the wave dissipates:: Rhan K'hal -> There's probably a line for that Will Cptn Swain -> Ithene> Double check me on this R'Han, but it looks like the life-support systems are off-line. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> I am showing red on both air-scrubbers. Rhan K'hal -> :: checks :: Oh pluck a duck. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> Chocox! Are you dead? If not, get up and get on secondary tactical! Cptn Swain -> Tandaris> ::knocked out for the moment:: William Chocox -> Alright... William Chocox -> ::shambles over:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::messing with flight control:: Rhan K'hal -> ::Ithene, after looking at the unconscious Admiran :: Looks like you're our Chief Engineer at the moment. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Frowning:: Hunter... you said the Hatchery was unaffected? Hunter Matheson -> @ We have power.. ::Mutters:: such as it is... William Chocox -> Uh...hm... Hunter Matheson -> @ ::Itnene:: Yes, ma'am/sir. William Chocox -> This is going to get interesting. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> Weapons are offline for the moment. Sensors still active. ::Punching buttons firmly.:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> Good... set us down on one of the landing terraces. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::as he continues to mess with flight ops:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> We can't make much of an escape without lifesupport, and I don't know if we can make these repairs while afloat, and gods help us if the Scorpiads show up in this state. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::checks for a course in:: Yes, ma'am. Soon as I get this thing under control. Rhan K'hal -> :: unstraps, heads toward the engineering space to look at the life-support :: Hunter Matheson -> @ Okay. Here we go. ::Immelmann:: Rhan K'hal -> :: looks over it, frowns :: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> Maryse, take a look at the commander. Make sure he's not dead. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::major Han Solo maneuver after that, taking us back to the station's hatchery::: Hunter Matheson -> @ Hold together, baby. Hold together... Hunter Matheson -> @ Approaching the station... Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Heads back to the MSD and engineering section with R'han:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::expletive:: We're comin' in hot.. Rhan K'hal -> :: Ithene :: Completely DOA, looks like we've got 15 minutes before the CO2 levels get dangerous. Hunter Matheson -> @ Brakes.. brakes... where're the breaks.. Hunter Matheson -> @ Here we go... on approach. Hunter Matheson -> @ Lieutenant, which of those landing pads looks most intact? Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Nods:: As soon as we get on the landing terrace we should be fine. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> There. ::Pointing one out to Hunter.:: Take us in there. Readings show it is stable. Maryse Dubois -> ::Checks on Tandy.:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::zooms over the area, putting on the brakes::: Rhan K'hal -> Now I'm not Mr. Fix-It but I don't know if these are even repairable, and I certainly doubt if the hatchery's going to have compatible replacements. Hunter Matheson -> ::hovers:: Down in five.. four.. three... two... Hunter Matheson -> ::settles in::: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> I doubt it will, but we might be able to... ::grins:: secure us a new ride? Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> Lt. Klein> Replacements? Probably not. But maybe a ship? That's possible. Hunter Matheson -> ::sigh of relief:: Hunter Matheson -> ::checking systems;:: Rhan K'hal -> Oh goodie, I've always wanted to ride in a Scorpiad ship. Oh darn, I'll have to get the mop, I'm dripping sarcasm all over the floor. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> It could be worse kitten. Cptn Swain -> PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain -> PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain -> PAUSE SIM

SD 0425.2015 Cephalon Tsudere (the holographic AI existing on the Scorpiad station) has allowed the crew to ask THREE (3) not 2 or 4 only THREE questions about the knowledge contained in his data banks.

MISSION BRIEF: The Vauban crew have activated tome sort of AI Library program. There is a fear though that it could accelerate the stations decay. Cptn Swain -> BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain -> BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain -> BEGIN SIM Hunter Matheson -> @ ::still dazed by the bright light, like it was some kind of flash-bang without bang, which is fine with him::: Cptn Swain -> Cephalon Sundre> ::Continues talking to Tandaris in an unusual dialect of Scorpiad that none of the UT's can even begin to try and decipher.:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> What's going on in there? Tandaris Admiran -> ::wondering why this AI has a weird accent:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::Klein:: Good question. Maryse Dubois -> ::Watching the hologram for a moment, before she checks on how much power it is draining.:: William Chocox -> Anyone else confused? Tandaris Admiran -> ::Cephalon:: Get off your high horse and speak so the rest of them can understand. Cptn Swain -> Cephalon Sundre> ::Frowns, well frowns as best as a disembodied giant, talking cephalon headed thing can:: Disappointing. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::eyes finally focus, but still seeing big orange dots::: Tandaris Admiran -> ::has about had it with smartass AIs:: Rhan K'hal -> :: decides it’s about time to try to figure out where the heck everyone else is :: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Will, lowly: I am assuming he was talking to the ship part of your boss. William Chocox -> (w)Ah, makes sense... Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> ( Rhan - heads or tails ) Rhan K'hal -> (( tails, of course )) Cptn Swain -> Cephalon Sundre> Very well. Since it seems you're all very concerned about the status of this station -- which I suppose I should be as well -- instead of being able to grant you unlimited access to my plethora of data... Cptn Swain -> Cephalon Sundre> You will be allowed to make three... it’s always three in your cultures apparently... inquiries. William Chocox -> ::keeps a smart remark from coming out of his mouth:: Maryse Dubois -> I always preferred 20 questions myself. Tandaris Admiran -> This is a bad idea. Maryse Dubois -> ::Looking at her scanner.:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> ACTION> Rhan is able to pick out the location of the away team on his tricorder. They were on the same level, two corridors over, and at the far end of the hall. The map, linked with the station's computer, showed a direct route from his current location, or he could backtrack the way he'd come, traveling through the command center and following the away team from there. (Pick one -- direct or indirect) Cptn Swain -> Cephalon Sundre> We could play spin the bottle, but I think two of you already have, yes? Rhan K'hal -> (( indirect )) Maryse Dubois -> I'm surprised he knows that one. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Rolls her eyes:: Cptn Swain -> Cephalon Sundre> I have scanned your brain waves and assimilated cultural information about each of your species. Rhan K'hal -> :: decides to go back the way he came, not trusting this station any further than he could spit :: Tandaris Admiran -> ::has no idea what "spin the bottle" is:: Cptn Swain -> Cephalon Sundre> So...I will let you ask THREE questions contained within my data banks about the makers, then I will shut my program down if you want. Maryse Dubois -> ::Looking to Tandy.:: It's your call. Cptn Swain -> Cephalon Sundre> I would, selfishly, prefer to be downloaded into a storage device so that I might continue to exist but... I might lose some of the data that I have stored. Tandaris Admiran -> Well, we will see how useful you prove to be. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> ACTION> Rhan chooses wisely, backtracking his progress through the station and reaches the command center without incident. From the command center, there are two corridors that the team could have possibly taken to reach their current location. (Left or Right, Rhan?) Tandaris Admiran -> ((This is like watching an adventure game.)) Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> Who are they talking to over there? I don't see any other life sign readings on the sensors. Rhan K'hal -> :: glances at the corridors, goes left, following his nose -- as much as he can over the stench of the station :: Tandaris Admiran -> ((Beware the grue.)) Tandaris Admiran -> ::holds up a hand:: Just … give us a moment to talk amongst ourselves. Tandaris Admiran -> Huddle up. Cptn Swain -> Cephalon Sundre> As you wish. Cptn Swain -> Cephalon Sundre> ::Pretends not to be listening:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::backtracks:: (mutter) Sure would be great if we had video feed. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Keeps a wary eye on the hologram:: Tandaris Admiran -> OK, proposals for question time. Maryse Dubois -> ::Walks over to Tandy.:: Maryse Dubois -> I wouldn't mind getting a hold of their medical database. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::since the UT is lost in translation, with very little making sense, he switches over to fiddle with accessing other things::: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> I think we should ask him for all the relevant information about their biomechanoid ships. Maybe if we ask vaguely enough he can give us lots of information. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> ACTION> Rhan's chosen corridor was not a straight shot to the away team, but required several turns at various intersections. Unfortunately, his powerful sense of smell was a bit overwhelmed by the rotting organics of the station and he suddenly found himself ankle deep in decomposing floor and was beginning to sink. Rhan K'hal -> Son of a... :: takes a quick check over his options :: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::instructs the UT to search for anything that could possibly, remotely, maybe say "hey, get yer video feed here!::: Tandaris Admiran -> ::Ithene:: Or it might give us nothing useful. Tandaris Admiran -> Good point though … we have to be careful about how we phrase the inquiry. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::blink:: Rhan K'hal -> Well, this is why I keep 'em sharp. :: stretches his arm out over to the wall, clicks out his claws and digs in, hoping to pull himself out of the muck... something he thought he'd never have to do on a spacestation :: Maryse Dubois -> ::Nods.:: You should speak for all of us then. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> ( Heads or tails, Rhan? Btw, this torture comes to you specifically at Swain's request. :D ) Rhan K'hal -> ( tails again and ::glares at Swain, is gonna leave dead rodents in his shoes first opportunity :: ) Maryse Dubois -> ((lol)) Tandaris Admiran -> We also need a way to restore the two of you. ::pointed look at Will/Ithene:: William Chocox -> I thought you said you had a way to do that. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> ACTION> Rhan digs his claws into more rotten organics. He scrambles for a moment on the right wall, trying to get traction, but slides right back down into the rotting floor. His fur is getting quite mucky. (Pick -- Left, Forward, or Back ) Hunter Matheson -> @ ::pages down to something called "oculus augment":: Hunter Matheson -> @ Huh... Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> ::Keeping an eye on Hunter's progress as well as the long range sensors. The last thing they needed was someone sneaking up on them.:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::Chocox:: We can do it using a transporter, yes. Hunter Matheson -> @ Uh.. Lieutenant, I think I've found something that might let me into their video system. Tandaris Admiran -> But the transporter on the Vauban is broken, and we can't use the one here without using too much power. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> I am not sure I trust the ones here anyway. Rhan K'hal -> :: grumbles and swears, adds this to the list of things to pin on the admiral that came up with this damned fool mission - decides to try to go back to ground that was a bit more solid :: Cptn Swain -> Cephalon Sundre> ::still pretending he isn't dropping in eves:: Cptn Swain -> any=in Hunter Matheson -> @ It translates really roughly into "oculus augment" so it's either eye enhancement or something that gets you into the occult. William Chocox -> And you think he's going to have a better idea? Hunter Matheson -> @ Or it could be an eye implant for their medical staff. ::shrug;: Hunter Matheson -> @ Want me to try it? Tandaris Admiran -> ::shrugs:: If you wish to forfeit your question in the name of pure exploration and knowledge, I’ll duly note it in the mission report. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Looks to Will with a glance that seemed entirely her, and entirely disapproving:: William Chocox -> I'm just saying, if we know how to fix this then use the question for something more useful. Unless Ithene/me objects. ::looks over at "her":: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> ACTION> A wise decision. Rhan's claws dig into solid ground and he manages to pull himself out. He's still left with a choice -- attempt to jump over the soft portion of the ground (which, as a cat-man, he totally could) or go back and pick the other path. Tandaris Admiran -> Very well Tandaris Admiran -> ::turns back to the AI:: Oh most wise and august intelligence … Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> I say go for it. If it is their video systems, we could definitely benefit. Tandaris Admiran -> We have our five questions. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::plotting the pathway:: Yes, sir. Hunter Matheson -> @ I guess if it's not their video there's not much lost and we find out it's not the video. ::finishes up:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::then realizes how dumb that sounded:: I have the path set and we're... in. Rhan K'hal -> :: checks the map, decides between his prior injuries, his current state of stickiness and his general mood to not risk any further incidents, doubting the rest of the crew would've gotten past this and heads back to take the other corridor :: Cptn Swain -> Cephalon Sundre> ::Rolls what appear to be his eyes at Tandaris, and clicks something out that wasn't entirely flattering:: Yes, oh small and puny? Tandaris Admiran -> First question … Hunter Matheson -> @ ::stares at the screen:: Guess it would help to actually get the feed from wherever they are. ::goes back to work::: Hunter Matheson -> @ (m) Stupid big stations.. Tandaris Admiran -> What is the status of the hatchery mechanisms and biomechanoid production line? Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> ACTION> And as Rhan takes the safer path, the rotten floor he'd just dug himself out of completely fell away, leaving a gaping hole to parts unknown. From the command center, the right-hand corridor led to the away team without further incident. How boring. Cptn Swain -> Cephalon Sundre> On this station or in general among the Scorpiad ... ::clicks, but it seemed to be almost a verbal tick:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::search, watch, search, watch:::: Rhan K'hal -> :: clomps into the library room, stops and blinks seeing them talking to a holoscorpiad Hunter Matheson -> @ Hey, Lieutenant! We got 'em. Tandaris Admiran -> Here. At this shipyard. Tandaris Admiran -> I don't see how you could possibly know the answer to the second, considering you've been on ice for at least a century. Hunter Matheson -> @ Kinda grainy. I'll clean it up as best I can. Tandaris Admiran -> ::beginning to have doubts about that:: William Chocox -> ((Hitting the enhance button Hunter?)) Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> What is that? Where are they? ::Squints.:: Hunter Matheson -> (Yes, sir. Enhance what is the kicker.) Cptn Swain -> Cephalon Sundre> Little changes among the Scorpiads. They live hundreds of years, you should respect that. Hunter Matheson -> @ Looks like they're talking to someone or some...thing. Tandaris Admiran -> I'm not really … not really one for the respect any more, little program. Hunter Matheson -> @ Station level ::checks:: 16, the way we count, to the right of our docking area. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::sets the UT to translate:: Rhan K'hal -> :: tries to quietly join the rest, but his usual kittystealth is rather diminished by the squishy sound of his paws unsticking from the floor every step :: Hunter Matheson -> @ Looks like "library." Tandaris Admiran -> ::while he talks to Cephalon, he motions behind his back for Will and Ithene to move around the edge of the library:: Cptn Swain -> Cephalon Sundre>BUt as you wish... ::produces the information on one of the screens:: you may download the information. Hunter Matheson -> @ Now for the audio feed... Hunter Matheson -> @ ::hunt, hunt, hunt::: William Chocox -> ::moves quietly:: Tandaris Admiran -> Thanks. Doctor, if you wouldn't mind? Hunter Matheson -> @ Looks like.... this one. ::access, looks up:: Tandaris Admiran -> Next question: can you show us all medical information pertinent to the affliction this station suffers? Hunter Matheson -> @ We have audio. Maryse Dubois -> ::Downloads the info.:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> Just keep an eye on the station power levels and make sure this isn't having a negative impact. I don't see why it should, but you never know. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::nod:: Yes, sir. ::pulls it up on the engineering screen:: Cptn Swain -> PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain -> PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain -> PAUSE SIM

SD 0419.2015 The Vauban crew have activated tome sort of AI Library program. There is a fear though that it could accelerate the station's decay.

(No sim 04.05.15) MISSION BRIEF: "Greg" has been transported to the Scorpiad station and the crew of the Vauban have broken into smaller teams to conduct their original mission: gather valuable intel about the Scorpiads. Cptn Swain -> BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain -> BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain -> BEGIN SIM William Chocox -> ::is looking for stuff with Ithene:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::Vauban, filing stuff he finds on the station as per K'hal's orders:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Frowning, this was going to ruin her hair and she knew Billy had no idea how to condition it. Maybe she'd help him later.:: William Chocox -> Problem? Hunter Matheson -> @ ::all the who, what, when, where, why and otherwise, if there is an otherwise::: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Forces a smile:: It's nothing. Rhan K'hal -> :: wandering, trying to find something interesting and hopefully non-lethal... at least to himself :: William Chocox -> I can tell when I'm forcing a smile. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> What's he got you looking for? ::Curious about the data scrolling on Hunter's screen.:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::absently, to Klein:: So, they don't use slipstream. Subspace, maybe? Tandaris Admiran -> ::has a vague idea of what he is looking for, but with the technology centuries out of date, it won’t look precisely like what he has in mind:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::he'll know it when he smells it:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::looks up:: Oh, anything we can find in the station's database. I have some of it translated, but not all. Hunter Matheson -> @ So it's pretty iffy at this point. Maryse Dubois -> ::Checking a small room with her light.:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::sits back as the computer works its mojo:: When they come out of warp they mess everything up? Hunter Matheson -> @ Or... you mentioned subspace. So, they do use subspace? Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::forces another smile: This technology is years ahead of what the briefings thought. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::stops the data flow, shifts to file something, then looks back:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::in the same area as Maryse, a little bit behind Ithene and Will, but not in the same room per se:: William Chocox -> Indeed. If I'm doing something wrong you need to tell me. Tandaris Admiran -> ::thinks Greg and Jas are somewhere nearby, but isn't really sure where they wandred off to:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> Yes, in their own way. Never had a look at their propulsion systems. Wouldn't be able to figure them out if I did. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::mulls that one over:: Maryse Dubois -> What exactly do we expect to find? Cptn Swain -> Ithene> It's nothing Will. I am sure you're not exactly happy about me being in your body either. Tandaris Admiran -> ::hears Maryse, calls back:: Interesting things. Shiny things. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::watching... watching.. filing... getting to know what a file clerk feels like:: William Chocox -> Not particularly, but I'm less picky about what happens to it. I don't spend a lot of time on personal style and such. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::looking for the who... what.. .when...:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> I know... ::does that "woops face.":: Tandaris Admiran -> ::picks up something that looks like an old-style Earth coffeemaker, shakes it:: Maryse Dubois -> ::Not sure if they will find many shiny things with all the decay. But keeps looking.:: Rhan K'hal -> :: enters another room, shines lights over what appear to be cabinets snicked together like armor :: Hmm... Cptn Swain -> ACTION> Coffeemaker falls apart. William Chocox -> Alright. ::continues poking around:: Rhan K'hal -> :: tugs at one of the "doors" :: Tandaris Admiran -> ::frowns:: I guess we're not going to hear Scorpiad music in its original format. Tandaris Admiran -> ::will have to find some downloads later:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Smiles, sheepishly:: When we get back to our own bodies. I'll give you some pointers on hair care. Who knows maybe we can get you a date with that Ensign down in relay processing. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> Oh! I remember what I wanted to know... from their archived sensors... can you find the last readings of ships in this area? I'm curious to know how long this station has been abandoned. Maryse Dubois -> What about this? ::Points at a metallic object she finds, but refuses to touch it.:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::shifts the search:: Sure can try. William Chocox -> Thanks. Hunter Matheson -> @ Okay... going back to... hm... William Chocox -> I'll have to take you up on that. Rhan K'hal -> :: has no luck with tugging, so gives it a good tric scan :: Hunter Matheson -> @ Found the sensors, I think. This looks like tracking records... routes. At least coordinates. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Smirks:: You're really not so bad... a little awkward maybe. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::throws them up on the screen:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::joins Maryse:: Hunter Matheson -> @ Wait a minute... ::he grabs the science database, then overlays the star chart from the data with the present configuration:: Tandaris Admiran -> Which? ::sees what she's pointing at:: Oh, hmm. ::approaches it but also doesn't touch it:: Hunter Matheson -> @ I'm going to say it's been a couple hundred years, sir. William Chocox -> Thanks. Means a lot to hear that. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> :Lifts a brow at something on her tricorder:: Oh... I wonder what that is.. Tandaris Admiran -> ::scans the object:: No power signature, but definitely some solid-state subspace technology. Rhan K'hal -> :: finds a week spot, literally dying space stations can be helpful at times, and manages to claw open of the armored cabinets :: William Chocox -> Let's find out. Tandaris Admiran -> It’s either a sensor device or a portable food heating unit. Tandaris Admiran -> ::looks around:: This could be a kitchen … or a lab … or a tort—uh, interrogation room. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::pointer on the screen:: This is the star present star chart. The overlay is the one from their visual tracking. Everything has shifted that much. Maryse Dubois -> Right. Not sure I care for any of those options, considering where we are. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Nods and leads on:: Hunter Matheson -> @ :::he gets a thought;: And... with this star chart and that exit vector, we get... the last ship that arrived came from this direction ::cursor point::: Tandaris Admiran -> Good point. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> That's fascinating. Always curious to see how things can change so much when they look like they've hardly changed at all. Still, with a singularity in the center of the system, it isn't surprising. William Chocox -> ::follows:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::sudden turn to him:: Did they harness the singularity? Rhan K'hal -> :: looks over the items inside the cabinet :: Hunter Matheson -> @ If they did, that would explain a lot. It's a great source of power, and if they used that in their starships.. or starvessels... that means they used something close to transwarp drive. Quantum slipstream drive. Kind of like the Rihan, but not quite. Hunter Matheson -> @ :;apologetic:: It's.. uh.. complicated. Hunter Matheson -> @ But it also explains why everything went wonky when they came out of subspace. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> Well, it is known that they use the power from the singularity to power the stations here and the shipyards. I haven't heard of them using it in their ships, but Admiran would be the one to talk to about that. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::nod:: Yes, sir. This is getting reeeally interesting, here. Hunter Matheson -> @ Not... that it wasn't interesting before, just.. ::shrugs, going back to work:: Cptn Swain -> ACTION> Will and Ithene enter a strange room with several display boards. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::mutters:: awesomely cool... William Chocox -> Weird. Tandaris Admiran -> ::Maryse:: Let's see if we can find Greg and Jas, then. I have an idea about possibly uncovering the source of this virus. We might not be able to stop it—but if we knew how to, say, trigger it…. Maryse Dubois -> ::Nods.:: Hunter Matheson -> @ :;takes a deep breath to settle down, going back to the data streaming weird signs and symbols with an occasional translation:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> I think... ::frowns:: I am wondering if this is sort of like a library? ::Points to the numerous stations around the circular room:: William Chocox -> Maybe. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> ::Taking the data that Hunter found, he started mapping out a star chart, overlaying it with flight paths from the archives. The data was two centuries old, of course, but it gave them an idea of when the ships left the system and where they went.:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::leaves the room and backtracks towards the main corridor, looking for Greg and Jas:: William Chocox -> Wonder what kind of library. Maryse Dubois -> ::Follows after Tandy.:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Considers:: Likely their entire database. Though given the status of their computer core... Tandaris Admiran -> ::Maryse:: Oh, and it would also be great if we could learn more about how they encode information through biological storage. I know very little about that, even considering … well, you know. William Chocox -> Well, let's see what we can recover...we may have to just take the chips. Tandaris Admiran -> From what I’ve seen so far, it's entirely unlike how some of the species in the Alpha Quadrant who use organic storage do it. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> We should tell Admiran. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> +Admiran+ Ithene to Tandaris... William Chocox -> Aye. He'd probably be really excited. Tandaris Admiran -> +Ithene+ Tandaris here. Found anything? Cptn Swain -> Ithene> +Tandy+ Maybe. Maryse Dubois -> ::Nods.:: I'll need to find an intact database. Hunter Matheson -> (bak) Tandaris Admiran -> +Ithene+ Is that … is that your attempt at sounding coy with Chocox's voice. It's not great. William Chocox -> I agree. Sorry. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> +Tandaris+ I know. It's so much better in my own. Like most things. Anyway... we might have found something interesting. I think we've discovered something of a library. We won't know until we bring it online. Tandaris Admiran -> +Ithene+ Look at the bright side. This way you get to admire yourself as everyone else sees you without having to load up a hologram. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> ::Noting a little blip in the sensor readings, Klein made soft noises of interest under his breath.:: Hmmm... Tandaris Admiran -> +Ithene+ Send me your location and I'll join you. ::glances at Maryse:: Fancy a library visit? Cptn Swain -> Ithene> +Tandaris+ That's an idea. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::without turning:: Find something, sir? Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::sends him the data:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::watch...watch...watch::: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::picking out a word here, a word there:: Maryse Dubois -> Sure. Tandaris Admiran -> ::begins heading for Ithene and Chocox:: +Greg+ Seems like we've found a library access station. Any thoughts? Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Turning to Will:: I am a little concerned about firing up this operation. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::targeting repeated symbols, he catalogues them, cross-referencing to connect it to other data:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> That appears to be holographic projector... ::points to a dias in the middle of the room:: Tandaris Admiran -> Greg> +Admiran+ I occupy my time with more worthy pursuits than scholarship. However, I am familiar with the idea of the system. Tandaris Admiran -> ::approaching the entrance:: +Greg+ I see. How much power would this thing consume if we activate it? William Chocox -> Yeah. It'll take a lot of power in here...and might take up the rest of our time here. Tandaris Admiran -> Greg> +Admiran+ Almost none. The retrieval systems are very efficient. Tandaris Admiran -> ::reaches the entrance of the library:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> Yes, actually... Two hundred years ago all the ships left this system. Sensor readings between then and now were mainly of spatial anomalies, except... these readings. ::He pulled up sensor readings from the last year.:: A small fleet of ships a few months back. Not Scorpiad, nor Federation. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Leans down and starts tinkering with it to see what exactly they were dealing with:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::looks:: Maryse Dubois -> ::Enters the library as well.:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::steps into the library:: So, what do we have? William Chocox -> We think it's a data center/library thing. Tandaris Admiran -> Greg> +Admiran+ Unless, of course, one activates the holographic assistant. That would consume great amounts of energy. Cptn Swain -> ACTION> Ithene's tinkering turns the silly thing on. Cptn Swain -> ACTION> A bright, blinding orange light suddenly fills the room, and the people in the room feel a small wave of energy pass through them. Tandaris Admiran -> Whoa…. Tandaris Admiran -> ::blinks:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> Welp... Tandaris Admiran -> Ithene … Maryse Dubois -> What the? Cptn Swain -> Ithene> I didn't do it on purpose... Tandaris Admiran -> ::moves to the control console:: Wasting power … Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> Doesn't look like they stayed long or really explored the shipyards, but they were taking sensor readings nonetheless. And knew how to avoid the security measures. ::Thinking.:: Cptn Swain -> ACTION> A hologram appears on the dias. Tandaris Admiran -> ::attempts to turn off the system:: William Chocox -> Oh for pete's sake. Cptn Swain -> Cephalon Sundre> Greetings, creatures of much lower intelligence. I am Cephalon Sundre. Tandaris Admiran -> The command overrides are malfunctioning. William Chocox -> Hello Cephalon, can you turn back off? You being on is going to destroy the station. Cptn Swain -> Cephalon Sundre> Or working perfectly, depending on your point of view. Cptn Swain -> Cephalon> ::Turns to face William:: I am ... aware of the stations fragile situation. However I am also aware of your mission to uncover knowledge about my creators. Tandaris Admiran -> ::narrows eyes:: This isn't good. Rhan K'hal -> :: still off exploring on his own, seeming to have good luck finding a bunch of empty pantries, and apparently otherwise forgotten :: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::blinks, looking at the monitor from the AT::: Maryse Dubois -> ::Watching the hologram for the moment.:: William Chocox -> No...no it is not. Cptn Swain -> Cephalon> ::Is really a disembodied head that looks something like a trilobite face:: Hmmm you... ::looks at Tandaris, and begins speaking in a dialect of Scorpiad:: Cptn Swain -> PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain -> PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain -> PAUSE SIM

SD 0405.2015 - No Sim (Easter) SD 0412.2015 "Greg" has been transported to the Scorpiad station and the crew of the Vauban have broken into smaller teams to conduct their original mission: gather valuable intel about the Scorpiads.

MISSION BRIEF: The Vauban crew is preparing to beam over Greg. Hopefully this ends well. I hear Scorpiad is a mess to clean up. Cptn Swain -> BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain -> BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain -> BEGIN SIM Hunter Matheson -> @ ::doin' his thing:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::with Chocox and Ithene, running one last check:: Maryse Dubois -> ::Keeping an eye on the deterioration.:: Tandaris Admiran -> +Vauban+ One of you might want to inform Greg that we're preparing to transport. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::leans back, looking to Klein:: Jas -> ::scanning through security system for any disturbances:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> ::Grunts as he rises from his chair.:: I guess that's me. +Tandaris+ Hold on a sec and I'll do it. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Frowns, looking at what passed for a status monitor:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::goes back to the status monitor:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> ::Walking to the cargo hold, he opened the door and popped in, disengaging the forcefield. He rubbed the back of his neck, peering at the Scorpiad. Did it understand basic?:: They are... ah... on the station and think they have the transporter working. Admiran wanted to make you aware that you're about to beam out. Rhan K'hal -> :: still looking through sensor data :: Jas -> ::continues to scan the security system:: Tandaris Admiran -> G'jj;k> ::shifting restlessly:: Ah, good. That is long overdue. I have been unable to find a position that does not place uncomfortable pressure on my gullashnik. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> Good. Good. Hopefully there's a chair or something over there you can rest your... ah... exoskeleton. +Admiran+ Vauban to the Away Team. Gregg is ready and waiting. William Chocox -> Let's get this done as fast as possible. Tandaris Admiran -> G'jj;k> Ah yes, chairs. You humans have invented many fascinated frivolities, but chairs are among the most bizarre. Maryse Dubois -> ::To Tandy.:: Make sure Gregg understands not to turn everything on when he gets here. Tandaris Admiran -> +Klein+ Thank you. ::nods at Maryse:: Energizing when ready. Tandaris Admiran -> ::gestures at Ithene to throw the metaphorical switch:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Nods:: Activating now. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::as he waits, his mind wanders to what it must be like to be a scorpion... scorpiad::: Cptn Swain -> ACTION> Its not quite the same shimmer as our transporters, more of a phase in and out kind of thing. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> Well, our gullashnicks get kinda sore if we don't have chairs to sit in. ::He held his breath as the transporter took hold and let it out when the Scorpiad disappeared.:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> ::Climbing his way back to the command center, he sank into his previous seat next to Hunter.:: Scorpiad away. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::and he is drawn back to the console when the transporter cycles::: Hunter Matheson -> @ Yes, sir. And I don't hear any screams. Jas -> ::looks over his shoulder to observe the phasing in:: Hunter Matheson -> @ So.. is this a transporter like ours? Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Watches as Greg phases in:: Hunter Matheson -> @ I mean, the odds of them having one like ours are pretty slim. William Chocox -> Exciting. Tandaris Admiran -> ((This will be the first time most of you have seen a Scorpiad at full height, rather than crammed into the back of a cargo hold.)) William Chocox -> Big bug. Jas -> ::head is tilted upwards, is a bit awestruck:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Lifts a brow:: Welcome home, Greg. Hunter Matheson -> @ (so we're talking one-mouthful hors d'oeuvre for them if they're hungry?) Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> Check and make sure they got him, will you? All of him. ::He leaned forward to make some adjustments to the tactical readout.:: William Chocox -> +Vauban+ Away team here, we have him. Hunter Matheson -> @ Yes, sir. ::leaning forward, checks transport status:: +COM+ Vauban here. Confirm transport status. Hunter Matheson -> @ +COM+ Copy... Tandaris Admiran -> G'jj;k> ::stretches himself to his full height, rather imposing with his tail and stinger quivering and moving:: Aaaaaaahhhhhh. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::a little slow on the uptake:: +COM+ And he's okay? Tandaris Admiran -> G'jj;k> ::looks around, clicks foreclaws together:: This place … is rancid. William Chocox -> +Vauban+ I'm assuming. Maryse Dubois -> ::Checks the monitor again.:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::glance to Klein:: +COM+ Sir, I don't suppose we could get a little more assurance? ::tentative:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::Greg:: Welcome aboard. And yes. It appears that the former tenants didn't want anyone moving in. Rhan K'hal -> :: glances at Greg after the rancid comment :: For once we agree on something. Tandaris Admiran -> +Vauban+ Thank you. For now, remain on standby in case we have to leave. Can you access the station's external sensors through the data link? Hunter Matheson -> @ +Admiran+ Copy, and checking on the external sensors. Tandaris Admiran -> Greg> ::begins moving, towards Jas and the security station:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::flip..flip...shift::: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::muttering:: A little off frequency.... Jas -> ::clears throught a bit; Greg:: Uh.. hi there, do you need assistance with anything? Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> Well, that's one thing to check off our list. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::and again:: External... external.... ::figuring out the encryption:: Tandaris Admiran -> Greg> ::moves surprisingly fast considering his size, seems to ignore Jas' query and just keeps approaching:: Hunter Matheson -> @ Got it! ::breath out;: Jas -> ::eyes widen and backs up a little but hits the consol:: Uh.... Maryse Dubois -> You're standing in his way. ::To Jas.:: Hunter Matheson -> @ +Admiran+ Station's external sensors are feeding through, Sir. Jas -> ::clears throat again and moves to the side:: Tandaris Admiran -> Greg> ::continues ignoring Jas, reaches the console and touches it:: It is good to breathe pure air once again. It has been … too long. Hunter Matheson -> @ ...and I have no idea what they're reporting... Tandaris Admiran -> +Vauban+ Well, you'll need to figure it out. We are going to be too busy to monitor them from in here, and I need eyes watching for anything inbound. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::he scours Vauban's systems for a decode algorithm:: Hunter Matheson -> @ +Admiran+ Aye, sir. Maryse Dubois -> ::Looks to Tandy.:: You need to tell him before he turns a bunch of systems on... Jas -> ::scratches back of his neck and shifts around, letting Greg do his thing:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::moves closer to Greg:: Right, so, before we start powering everything else on … Tandaris Admiran -> Greg> You are concerned about the … ::pauses to search for word:: time bomb. Hunter Matheson -> @ ..wait... wait... ::slips in a modified UT::: Tandaris Admiran -> Yes. Can you … do you know how we can arrest it? William Chocox -> Wait...time bomb? Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> ::Watching Hunter's progress while keeping an eye on their own long range sensors.:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::will:: I assume he means the system shutdown virus. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::the perils of taking helm on a craft you've never flown before and weren't trained for except for the workarounds they pounded into your brain::: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::workaround...workaround::: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::geek-out triumph:: Got it! Tandaris Admiran -> Greg> ::waves foreclaw dismissively:: It is a Lepterus concern. I do not know of these things. We will have to work around it. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::Klein:: We're in.... ::throws up the display::: Maryse Dubois -> More like a virus Ithe...Will. Tandaris Admiran -> ((Hunter gets bonus points for using the requisite TV/movie hacker achievement phrase!)) Hunter Matheson -> (sweet) William Chocox -> Oh... Tandaris Admiran -> ::to everyone:: To clarify … the station has an engineered virus designed to scuttle it, biologically speaking, if it's not regularly deactivated. According to Dr. Dubois, we've come across it in its later stages. So the more power we use, the faster the station will degrade. William Chocox -> Ok. Tandaris Admiran -> The good news is, we don't actually need to stay here very long. We need to gather information and scout for interesting tech—including, if possible, something we can use to repair the Vauban transporter. ::nods at Will and Ithene:: William Chocox -> You really do care. Jas -> ::listens intently, keeping an eye on Greg in the meantime:: Tandaris Admiran -> Greg> ::accessing databases:: Tandaris Admiran -> That being said, while the station shouldn't be overtly hostile, there might be malfunctions, or damage like we saw with the floor. Tandaris Admiran -> So we need to stay alert. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::and now he has time to take a breath and verify the ship's settings re: fight or flight::: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::and... the firewall is still engaged.. the exit vector set and engines hot standby::: Tandaris Admiran -> Greg> I have additional—what you would call "good news." Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> ::Leans back to take a look at the main viewer display, adjusting the scan readings to focus on particular areas of interest.:: Nothing showing on the station's long range sensors that we should be worried about... yet. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::but... now they're hooked into the bug external sensor system, so what does that do to the firewall? hm...::: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::Klein:: You're expecting we'll have something to worry about sir? I mean, something we're not already worried about? Tandaris Admiran -> Greg> According to these records, several embryos were left behind when the hatchery was decommissioned, as well as several fetuses in varied states of development. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::still checking the firewall, poking it for holes:: Jas -> ::raises an eyebrow at this new information:: Rhan K'hal -> Yippee William Chocox -> I don't know if I should be excited or not. Tandaris Admiran -> That's great. So we'll definitely want to check out the hatchery. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Frowns:: Tandaris Admiran -> Greg> I am unable to find an inventory of equipment that remains on this station. We will have to survey the laboratory level above us. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> Hopefully not, but it never hurts to be prepared. I don't want us to be caught off guard. You know, the Scorpiad ships have some sort of phasing technology. I'm sure their station is better configured to look for it than we are. Make sure that's layered into the sensor review. William Chocox -> Hrm...hopefully we can find some stuff. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::stops, thinking:: Phasing tech.... got it. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Still looking at the information on the systems.:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::looks over:: tachyons? Tandaris Admiran -> Then here's the plan. Hunter Matheson -> @ But.. .some sort of phasing could mean anything... Tandaris Admiran -> We'll go up to the laboratory level. You all read the briefing notes, I hope, on basic Scorpiad tech. Anything you don't recognize, don't touch—point it out to me or Greg. Don't turn anything on until you get a go-ahead, in case it draws too much power. Tandaris Admiran -> Test combadges, please. Tandaris Admiran -> ::taps on his combadge to make sure it is working order:: Jas -> ::nods slowly at this, processing whatever dangers might await them:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::looks to the console:: +Admiran+ Vauban here, Commander. Problem? Jas -> ::taps his combadge to check it:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::and another taps:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::Klein:: Do they use SPECOPS emergency extract codes, sir? Tandaris Admiran -> +Vauban+ Yes? Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::taps:: Vallorn-in-Choxox's body. Hunter Matheson -> @ +Admiran+ Sir, you tapped your combadge. Was that an emergency signal? Hunter Matheson -> @ ::figures it wasn't since they're talking now::: William Chocox -> ::taps:: Chocox-in-Vallorn's body. Tandaris Admiran -> +Vauban+ No, that was a test signal to make sure combadge-combadge communication isn't impaired by this station. Tandaris Admiran -> +Vauban+ We are going to move up to the lab level and then spread out to survey it as quickly as possible. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::breath:: +Admiran+ Copy, sir. Hunter Matheson -> @ +Admiran+ Just for future reference, Commander? Emergency extract is two taps on the commbadge without communication. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> Don't get jumpy, Matheson. ::He grinned.:: I'm the one that's supposed to be shooting at anything that moves. Tandaris Admiran -> +Vauban+ I will keep that in mind. Tandaris Admiran -> ::looks around:: Anything else before we move out? Rhan K'hal -> +Vauban+ K'hal here, Matheson can you set up an automated search of the station's sensor data, I still haven't found anything related to that mysterious facility and I've gotta go play hide and go seek with rest of 'em. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::Klein:: Yes, sir. Not jumpy, sir.. just cautious. Don't want to lose anyone on my watch. Hunter Matheson -> @ +K'hal+ On it. Jas -> I suppose I'm sticking with Greg here? ::sticks a thumb in the scorpiad's direction:: Hunter Matheson -> @ +K'hal+ Looking for a map, ma'am, or more specific information? Tandaris Admiran -> Greg> ::rumble in Jas' direction:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::eyes on the readout::: William Chocox -> He's so friendly. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::scanscanscan::: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::thumbs tapping together, gone into full type-A mode::: Tandaris Admiran -> Greg> ::Tandaris:: Do not forget your end of the bargain. Jas -> ::chuckles at Will's comment:: You don't say.. Rhan K'hal -> +Matheson+ Anything at all. Most of it's passive so just some sign of who what when where how and why. Tandaris Admiran -> ::pointing at exit:: Keep an eye on the floor. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::who... what... where... when... how...why:: +K'hal+ Copy. Rhan K'hal -> :: looks at distate at the exit :: And just when the decor of this room was growing on me. Hunter Matheson -> @ +K'hal+ Found a schematic, ma'am. Some pieces are missing, but I'll slip it to you. Tandaris Admiran -> ::Greg:: Yes, yes. Don't worry. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::hoping he can read it:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> Nobody wants to lose anyone on their watch. ::More to himself than anyone. He began studying the station's archived upload, looking for the specifics on incoming Scorpiad vessels and the energy readings they gave off.:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Will:: Stick with me. Tandaris Admiran -> ::takes the lead, letting Greg and Jas bring up the rear:: William Chocox -> Aye ma'am. Jas -> ::falls in line walking beside Greg, looking up at him every few moments:: William Chocox -> ::walks with Ithene:: Rhan K'hal -> :: heads off with the others, his feline lips curled at the circumstances and the feel of walking on the mushy floor again :: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::stops, staring at the screen:: Lieutenant, they don't use slipstream drive, right? Tandaris Admiran -> Greg> ::though it's hard to notice, others not being familiar with Scorpiad body language at whatnot, he's actually displaying signs of unease, because this is his first time being around a large number of humans:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::multitasking, but caught something in passing::: Rhan K'hal -> (( if Greg's looking for stress release I would NOT recommend petting the kitty cause I can't purr anyway )) Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> I don't know what in the 'verse they call it. Could be. I just know that they travel through subspace differently and things go haywire when they emerge. Jas -> ::looks up at Greg for about the tenth time:: So... you do this kind of thing often? Hunter Matheson -> @ ::random:: Haywire... Tandaris Admiran -> Greg> ::Jas:: I was last here several of your centuries ago, to take possession of the ship whose memories now reside in that one. ::gestures at Admiran:: Hunter Matheson -> @ Hm.... ::stops the data:: +K'hal+ Think I found a translation here for the schematics... sort of. Mostly. Tandaris Admiran -> ::steps around a pothole:: Degeneration up ahead. Jas -> ::glances to Admiran then back at Greg:: The _ship's_ memories? Tandaris Admiran -> Greg> ::all about sharing the classified data:: Yes. Rhan K'hal -> +Matheson+ Just keep filing anything you find, I can't exactly analyze it at the mo'. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::as he continues to hunt for who.. what... when... where... ::: +K'hal+ Will do, sir. Cptn Swain -> PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain -> PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain -> PAUSE SIM

2015 Mission Briefings (thus far) SD 0104.2015 The away team has encountered a small, tiny little problem -- well several of them really. Mine fields are, apparently, not so easy to just sail through. We pick up with a slightly damaged kitty and shuttle. SD 0111.2015 The Excalibur has escaped near death in the mine field. They have momentarily escaped to a small derelict, but the actual ship yards still loom ahead. SD 0118.2015 **NIGHTMARE MODE IS IN EFFECT** Last week, a smaller group from the AT beamed over to the derelict to see if they could gather any information on the shipyards while Kitty and Goldshirt held down the fort. Greg is watching the inflight safety movie, Mines and Me. SD 0208.2015 ***NIGHTMARE MODE x 3 is in effect*** The away team is exploring the unusual derelict at the edge of the shipyard system looking for more information on the shipyard defenses, while Kitty and Security Goon try to find out more from the Vauban. SD 0215.2015 **NIGHTMARE MODE IS ACTIVE** When we last left off a Cardassian vole meant for Greg's belly got lose in the Vauban, wrecking havoc. Meanwhile, the AT decide to ditch the station, which is crawling with giant spiders and Boom-boom has been exposed to some sort of whacky fungus. Will the transporter work, though, is the question. SD 0222.2015 **NIGHTMARE MODE IS ACTIVE** The situation on the Vauban has stabilized, relatively speaking. The vole has been contained, Kitty isn't fried, and Ithene and Boom-boom are in each other's respective bodies. No big deal, there. Meanwhile, Admiran is finishing assessing the damage before heading towards the primary structure in the shipyard. SD 0301.2015 The Vauban crew has managed to catch enough of a break for some much needed rest before heading towards the Command and Control center. It's been a few hours and though nerves are frays, a nap always helps, right? We pick up with the shuttle on approach. SD 0308.2015 The Vauban crew has arrived at a Scorpiad Command and Control center, and the shuttle has just docked with the station. The crew is geared up and ready to disembark. Their immediate mission is to find an area where their Scorpiad 'guest' might be beamed aboard the station. With luck, Scorpiad Greg might be able to lead them to areas where they can collect valuable intel. SD 0315.2015 *NIGHTMARE MODE IS ACTIVE* The Vauban team is exploring the command center, hoping to find valuable intel about the shipyard and more over the Scorpiads. SD 0322.2015 Vauban's crew has started bringing systems online in the Scorpiad shipyard's command and control center. Ithene ('s cardboard cutout) and William "Boom-boom" Chocox are testing the station's transporter systems so that we can bring Greg aboard. SD 0329.2015 The Vauban crew is preparing to beam over Greg. Hopefully this ends well.

2014 Mission Briefings (pertaining to our venture into Scorpiad space) SD 1026.2014 Excalibur has returned to Camelot off screen and the crew has been given a few days of leave before being recalled. Rumors are thicker than a Mutara-class nebula that a new engineer has been assigned and will be arriving today, while even more rumors are circulating that Excalibur will be given new orders, soon. SD 1102.2014 Excalibur has gotten its official orders -- they will be transporting a Federation mediator to a planet in Scorpiad space where they are opening peace talks to end the two year long rebellion by the Al-Ucard and Eratians. Meanwhile, Commander Tandaris Admiran has returned as Chief of Engineer and has set about prepping one of the cargo bays for our VIP. SD 1109.2014 Excalibur has gotten underway to deliver Captain Corizon to talks between the Scorpiad, Al-Ucard and Eratian governments in hopes of ending their two year-long war. Engineering has been hard at work on modifying one of the cargo bays to a particular set of environmental requirements for seemingly unknown purposes. SD 1116.2014 The Excalibur is continuing on their mission to deliver Captain Not Seen In this Episode to negotiations to end the civil war between the Al-Ucard, Eratians and their former masters the Scorpiads. A cargobay has been being converted to a specific set of specifications for yet unknown purposes. Though rumors abound, Captain Swain has been tight lipped. SD 1123.2014 Excalibur has taken aboard a Scorpiad. They have diverted from their original course and have headed for a nearby nebula. Swain has ordered radio silence and all recorders to be turned off. He has called a senior staff meeting (that's you) which is about to start. SD 1130.2014 So when we last left off, Swain had dismissed the team after briefing them on their new assignment, a dangerous recon mission to a derelict Scorpiad ship hatchery to be led by Commander Admiran. The Excalibur will only be able to provide minimal back up as they will be at peace talks between the Scorps, Blood suckers and lifeforce suckers. The team is meeting in the cargo bay with Greg, the Scorpiad Mission Specialist who is coming along and Commander Admiran for more information on their mission. SD 1207.2014 The Excalibur away team is readying to launch on what will surely be a fun, safe, and totally not dangerous mission to recon an "abandoned" Scorpiad hatchery with minimal support from the Excalibur and a possibly, almost certainly house-trained Scorpiad friendo. Oh, and did I mention that this is NIGHTMARE MODE? Peril Cards have a 50/50 chance of working and all rolls get a -1 modifier. SD 1214.2014 The Excalibur away team has launched in the shuttle Vauban and is en route to an "abandoned" Scorpiad ship hatchery on an intel-gathering mission. With Excalibur away on its own mission, the Vauban is left to face any number of dangers alone, though they were given the gift of a Scorpiad guide who might be able to help them keep out of trouble.

MISSION BRIEF: Vauban's crew has started bringing systems online in the Scorpiad shipyard's command and control center. Ithene ('s cardboard cutout) and William "Boom-boom" Chocox are testing the station's transporter systems so that we can bring Greg aboard. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> BEGIN SIM Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> BEGIN SIM Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> BEGIN SIM Hunter Matheson -> @ ::on Vauban, watching the dials::: Jas -> ::at comm console, scanning the security system for any disturbances:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::hovering, keeping an eye on William and Ithene's progress with the transporter tests but also not wanting to ignore anyone else in case they have something new to report, even though he is itching all the while to start playing with the tech:: Rhan K'hal -> :: going through the arduous task of sifting through 100 years of the station's sensor data, mostly passive, to try to discover any clues about the unknown facility :: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::monitoring active scan output to the team:: Maryse Dubois -> ::Checking compromised areas on her map.:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::William, Cardboard Ithene:: What's our status? Are we still working on trying a test cylinder? Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> ::He'd loaded up an empty canister on the shuttle's transporter and waited.:: +AT+ I have something ready and waiting. I've sent you the coordinates. Transport when ready. Jas -> ::glances around the room at his compatriots as he continues scanning:: William Chocox -> About ready to do that. Commander Admiran. Rhan K'hal -> :: wishes for a chair :: Tandaris Admiran -> ::Chocox:: Great. I’m sure Lt. Klein is eager for us to get Greg off his hands. William Chocox -> Alright. +Klein+ Energizing. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> ::Moving back to the command center, he took a seat beside Hunter.:: William Chocox -> ::energizes, transporting the canister:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::total focus on the systems, aware of Klein's movement but dismissing it as normal::: Tandaris Admiran -> ::feels a slight static tingle as the beam activates:: William Chocox -> Did it work? Maryse Dubois -> Try not to use too much unneeded energy. ::Frowns at her readouts.:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> ACTION> The canister transport is successful, except for a huge missing chunk. Just a scratch. A fleshwound, really. I'm sure the Scorpiad won't even notice one missing limb. William Chocox -> Well, that's unfortunate. Tandaris Admiran -> ::peers at the canister:: Hmmmm. Jas -> ::looks over at the canister:: That.. doesn't seem quite right. Tandaris Admiran -> ::scratches his head, turns to Ithene:: Something off with the annular confinement calibrations? ::seeing her shrug, turns to Chocox:: Maybe that, or a feedback loop in the pattern buffer. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> +AT+ Well? Do you need a live subject next? Our helmsman is a bit bored. William Chocox -> I don't think Greg will like that. William Chocox -> +Klein+ Let's hold off for a bit...we're missing part of the canister. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::glance to Klein:: William Chocox -> I figure Greg won't appreciate that Commander. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> ::Grin at Hunter.: : Hunter Matheson -> @ ::dismissing Klein's comment:: Sir, I don't detect any interference with the beam, but there could be a slight fluctuation that's making a difference. Tandaris Admiran -> No, we'll need to tweak the system a bit more. Maryse Dubois -> Tandaris, come look at this. Tandaris Admiran -> ::Jas:: Maybe you could work with Matheson, see if the Vauban can pick up any external EM spikes that might be interfering? Hunter Matheson -> @ :::back to focus on the board:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> +AT+ Well, let me know when you want to make another attempt. Sooner, rather than later, I hope. I'd hate for our Scorpiad friend to get restless. Tandaris Admiran -> ::hears Maryse:: Excuse me a moment. ::joins her:: What's new? Maryse Dubois -> This. ::Shows an area she had been watching.:: The deterioration has grown in this area here at an accelerated rate since I started watching it. I think it's because of us. Jas -> ::opens mouth to respond to Tandy but she's already busy:: +Hunter+ Is there anything I can do over here to get things running more smoothly? Maryse Dubois -> ::quietly.:: I think the virus responds to excessive use of power. Hunter Matheson -> @ +Jas+ Not sure. I'm going to say that's something for science or engineering. I'm focused on getting us outta here fast if we need it. Tandaris Admiran -> ::thoughtful frown:: Maryse Dubois -> We may be accelerating the stations demise by being here... Hunter Matheson -> @ ::turns to Klein for his input:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> ::Spins in his chair and tilts head at Hunter.:: Don't be so hasty. Send Jas the most recent sensor sweeps. There might be something in there he can ferret out as the cause. William Chocox -> What do you want me to do Commander? Jas -> +Hunter+ Are you able to monitor for any, what was it... ah "external EM spikes." Hunter Matheson -> @ ::nod:: Yes, sir. +Jas+ Sending you the most recent scans. Tandaris Admiran -> ::Chocox:: Tweak the annular confinement beam or the pattern buffer, and if that doesn't work, tweak the other one. And if that doesn't work ... we may need to see about cutting that hole. Hunter Matheson -> @ +Jas+ Can do. I'll piggyback them on the science sensor scans that are coming to you now. Tandaris Admiran -> ::turns back to Maryse:: I won't be broken up if this station dies, just so long as it doesn't take us with it. Can you figure out an upper limit on power consumption before we're in trouble? William Chocox -> Alright. William Chocox -> ::starts to make an adjustment to the pattern buffer:: Jas -> +Hunter+ Thank you very kindly. ::begins to analyze the scans, going through and monitoring them:: Maryse Dubois -> ::Nods.:; I think so. Maryse Dubois -> ::Starts running numbers in her head.:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::starts making a list of priorities as he checks to see how Will and Ithene are handling things:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> ACTION> The sensor scans from the Vauban showed several spikes in surrounding radiation levels, but only one in the electromagnetic spectrum that would cause interference in the transporter. The nearby quantum singularity caused the EM band to spike at random intervals. Jas -> ::turns over his shoulder to Tandaris:: I've got something here. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> ::Glances at Hunter.:: You think we should get one of those voles out for transporter testing? ::He smirked.:: Tandaris Admiran -> Oh dear, not you too … ::Jas:: How are we going to die this time? Hunter Matheson -> @ ::deadpan:: If you think it'll work, sir. Hunter Matheson -> @ But I'm watching the scans we're sending over, and... yes, we have a problem. Hunter Matheson -> @ I'm no scientist, Lieutenant, but we're getting random EM band spikes. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::cursor pointer at the main screen, running a line across the peaks of the spkies:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> What sort of problem? ::Kicks back to peer at the main viewer.:: Ah, yes, that could be an issue. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> Any pattern the computer could work out? Jas -> ::grins slightly:: It appears a nearby quantum singularity is causing the EM band to spike... hence the partial canister. Hunter Matheson -> @ I'll check it out, sir... ::accessing science for an overlay::: Tandaris Admiran -> ((This is the rather noticeable singularity at the centre of the system, because Scorpiads missed the day in school when the Romulans presented on the benefits of bottling your singularities to go.)) Tandaris Admiran -> Ah-hah. I should have thought of that. ::peers at the scan results:: Good spotting. William Chocox -> A nearby quantum singularity? William Chocox -> How many are there? Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> (( Silly Scorpiads. Quantum singularities are for Romulan ships. )) Tandaris Admiran -> You and Chocox should be able to recalibrate the targeting scanners to compensate. If you need to, use the direct data link with the Vauban to reconcile the data. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::Klein::: And... if you can read that, sir, there's your answer. ::indicates the uber science dialogue on the screen::: Tandaris Admiran -> ::Chocox:: Just the one. Well, here. I don't know how many there are elsewhere. Tandaris Admiran -> Presumably many billions. William Chocox -> I meant just in this system sir. Maryse Dubois -> ::Gives Tandy her data on power usage.:: Tandaris Admiran -> Ah. Tandaris Admiran -> Just the one, then. Tandaris Admiran -> ::doesn't mention that if they are lucky enough to find an intact vessel, it of course would have singularity weapons on board:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> I only had basic jargon-speak training, so... yea... that's for those science-types to solve. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::shifts back to the Vauban status monitor, checking again for their exit vector::: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> +AT+ Ready to attempt another go? I assume you got the science data we sent over and are seeing what we're seeing... Tandaris Admiran -> ::Maryse:: Thanks, Maryse. ::takes a look, bracing himself for the worst:: William Chocox -> ((Singularity weapons?)) William Chocox -> Alright...adjustments have been made to the pattern buffer. William Chocox -> Do we want to try again? Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> ::Sends over the coordinates for the other canister he has ready and waiting.:: Tandaris Admiran -> ((Yeah, the Scorpiads have some weird stuff. We're lucky they are falling apart internally.)) Tandaris Admiran -> ::Chocox:: Let's do it. Tandaris Admiran -> ::mutters under his breath:: We need to move faster before this station falls apart. Jas -> ::folds his arms across his chest and waits for the next canister to appear:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> ACTION> 2nd transport is a success! Complete canister arrives with no signs of transport interference. William Chocox -> Well, that looks better. Tandaris Admiran -> ::scans the canister, just to be safe:: Hunter Matheson -> @ (so is it a vole?) Tandaris Admiran -> Everything within normal parameters. Tandaris Admiran -> Well done, everyone. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> +AT+ Everything good? Ready for something else? William Chocox -> Oh frabjous day. William Chocox -> +Klein+ Looks like it. What do you think Commander? Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> (( ::Adds to William's peril count for quoting the Jabberwocky.:: )) William Chocox -> ((What's wrong with The Jabberwocky?)) Tandaris Admiran -> I think we should all take a step back first. Tandaris Admiran -> And then, yes, by all means. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> END SIM Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> END SIM Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> END SIM

MISSION BRIEF: *NIGHTMARE MODE IS ACTIVE* The Vauban team is exploring the command center, hoping to find valuable intel about the shipyard and more over the Scorpiads. Cptn Swain -> BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain -> BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain -> BEGIN SIM William Chocox -> So, you're sure we'll make it to the Nexus after this detour? Tandaris Admiran -> Um… Tandaris Admiran -> What p-level are we talking about? Hunter Matheson -> @ ::hand poised over the console of the Vauban in case the active scans go south:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Looking at the tricorder:: Lovely. Let's keep moving. William Chocox -> Waiting on our tour guide. Jas -> ::following Ithene:: Onwards we go... Tandaris Admiran -> We should be approaching the hatch that lets out directly below the command nexus. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ ACTION> As soon as the Vauban's intensive scans began to penetrate the station's organic layers, the defense system inside the hanger comes online. It scans the shuttle and then disengages, going quiet once more. William Chocox -> ::starts to look around for the hatch. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::monitoring the data as it comes in and as soon as the defense system comes online, breaks the connection::: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::mouth open, watching for a twitch:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::reaches the hatch, which is actually more of a large square divot in the ceiling of the conduit, and opens it with a touch:: William Chocox -> That's lovely. Tandaris Admiran -> ::pokes his head up to take stock of the situation:: Hellooooo? Anyone home? Jas -> Well, that was easy. Anything we should be expecting in there? Hunter Matheson -> @ ::nothing so far:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> ::After several minutes of nothing from the defense system, he leaned forward to peer at Hunter's console.:: Could be like the last time. It scanned us and then disengaged. We think it was because we had the Scorp on board. Rhan K'hal -> :: half expects the hatch to close and either decapitate or start choking Admiran :: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::Klein:: So, you said they attack in numbers.... ::leaves off:: Right, sir. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::"she" wrinkled her nose, not liking what the dry air was going to do to "her" hair and skin:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::lets out a breath:: Reactivate scans, then? William Chocox -> Anything of interest up there? Maryse Dubois -> Should you really start calling out loudly? Hunter Matheson -> @ ::checking their standby status, then the Blue tracker::: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> I wouldn't attempt it without the Scorp on board, but let's see what it does if you let it go on longer. Have shields on standby just in case it looks like their weapons are powering up. Tandaris Admiran -> ::Maryse:: If I call out quietly, no one would hear me. What would the point of that be? Hunter Matheson -> @ ::quick nod:: Aye, sir. Active scans... now...:: press:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::clambers out of the conduit and into the nexus, then looks around:: Maryse Dubois -> Well considering our mission is supposed to be a stealthy one... Rhan K'hal -> :: watches Admiran disappear with his head still attached, figures the universe must be in a good mood today :: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::waits for the feed:: And blue force still registers the team. Maryse Dubois -> ::Climbs out.:: William Chocox -> ::follows:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Follows as well, landing 'softly' in the command nexus.:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::mumbles:: ...which is a good sign... Jas -> ::follows up into the nexus:: Here goes nothin'.. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> Yes, that is a good sign. ::Anxious as the scans continue. His eyes kept flicking to the tactical station.:: Rhan K'hal -> :: follows as well :: Hunter Matheson -> @ I can bring tactical to read over here, sir, if you like. The main screen will handle all of it. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> Ah, might as well. ::Leans back in his seat to peer at the main viewer.:: Hunter Matheson -> @ Comin' up... Cptn Swain -> Ithene> Well this is certainly the command nexus... Rhan K'hal -> :: flicks eyes around, more firmly than ever believing that no one in their right might would ever hire a Scorpiad decorator :: William Chocox -> You got my hair messy Ithene. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Moves towards and alcove of consoles:: It can be worse? Hunter Matheson -> @ ::split screen brings up tactical with science scans and helm:: I'm going to rig for alerts on tac... Cptn Swain -> Ithene> You really need to condition it. Maryse Dubois -> ::Wipes some of the slimy stuff off of her as she looks around.:: Jas -> ::cautiously makes his way around the perimeter of the room, keeping an eye out for anything dangerous:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::shrug:: They're already on the science scans, and we can use them to verify. William Chocox -> Condition it? Rhan K'hal -> :: returns eye to Admiran, since this is his rodeo :: Tandaris Admiran -> ::approaches one of several growths near the centre of the chamber:: Tandaris Admiran -> If I recall correctly, this will get things going … Rhan K'hal -> :: resists the urge to duck and cover... barely :: William Chocox -> (m)Hope his memory's still good. Tandaris Admiran -> ::places his hand on a knob emerging from the growth:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> Can you have the computer compile a three dimensional representation of the scans? I'd like to see this thing layer by layer. Hunter Matheson -> @ Aye, sir. I'm pretty sure we have that capability... Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> Also, start sending the feed to the Away Team as it comes in. Hunter Matheson -> @ Science feed, sir? Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> Even if we only get partial information, they'll be able to use it. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::rigging the 3D:: Jas -> ::while watching Tandy, his eyes continue to scan the other parts of the room:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::frowns:: Not the same 3D I'm used to... going to tweak. Hunter Matheson -> @ And... ::looks up:: how's that, sir? William Chocox -> Takes the time to look around the room. Rhan K'hal -> :: while waiting to see if he's going to be shot all to hell with Admiran fiddling with knobs, contemplates a future where he returns alive to be debriefed... can only imagine saying 'saw lumpy blob of biomatter, watched Admiran do things to it.' a lot Cptn Swain -> ACTION> The command nexus comes to life, thought the lighting of the room isn't very bright. Maryse Dubois -> ::Watches Tandy do his thing, but remains weary as she know what could possibly happen. She pulls out her tricorder and begins scanning.:: Cptn Swain -> though* Tandaris Admiran -> ::exhales:: That worked. ::brightens:: Um, I mean, of course it worked. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Smirks:: This ::points to the alcove:: seems to be the primary status monitors. Hunter Matheson -> @ Sending science scans to the away team... Jas -> ::walks over to Maryse; speaking softly:: Pick anything up? Hunter Matheson -> @ ::and one more check of their exit vector and the AT status;: Tandaris Admiran -> Look around at the stations, but don't touch yet. ::William, Ithene:: See what you can find out about the general systems status and the transporter. William Chocox -> Alright. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::nods and motions "Will" over:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::Maryse:: See if you can find out anything about this vessel's health. William Chocox -> ::walks over to her:: Cptn Swain -> (( everyone give me a number 1-10 )) Tandaris Admiran -> ::Jas:: Once I've confirmed there are no security protocols preventing us from accessing the systems, I want you to establish a link to the Vauban. Look around for a comm terminal. Hunter Matheson -> @ 1 Rhan K'hal -> (( 1 )) William Chocox -> ((8)) Tandaris Admiran -> ((4)) Maryse Dubois -> ::Goes to a section of the wall and pops out her med scanner from its slot on the tricorder. Starts scanning the tissue.:: Maryse Dubois -> ((6)) Jas -> ((3)) Tandaris Admiran -> ::Rhan:: Once we've got access to the station logs, look for anything of interest—particularly access between now and when the shipyard was supposedly abandoned. Jas -> ::nods to Tandy:: Will do. ::takes out his tricorder and scans for a terminal for communications:: Rhan K'hal -> :: nods without any enthusiasm whatsoever :: William Chocox -> So...where do we even start? Tandaris Admiran -> ::turns back to the master console:: I'm just verifying now that our initial access codes have disabled the security systems. ::brings up the security monitor:: Scorpiad consoles are biometrically-controlled, so they have to be explicitly enabled for non-Scorpiad DNA…. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::Klein:: Should I contact the team to verify their data stream, sir? Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> Yes, we should get an update from them, anyhow. I don't like it when things go quiet. Rhan K'hal -> Guess we'll have to hope their penchant for taking entire species as slaves will mean it's inclined to be enabled Hunter Matheson -> @ Aye, sir. +Admiran+ Admiran, Vauban. How copy? Cptn Swain -> Ithene> They tend to create their slave races and cull anyone else. Rhan K'hal -> To-mate-o, to-maht-o. Tandaris Admiran -> ::deactivates the biometric lock-outs on the station controls:: That should do it. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Nods and presses one of the buttons on the status monitor:: Tandaris Admiran -> You should be able to access basic functions from the consoles without a problem. Let me know if you run into any other problems. Jas -> ::finds what appears to be a comm terminal according to his scan and walks to it:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> Alright Will... if you were a transporter subroutine system... where would you be. Tandaris Admiran -> +Matheson+ Admiran here. We have found the nexus. Prepare to establish a secure computer link with the station's computer. Hunter Matheson -> @ +COM+ Aye, sir. You should be receiving data from Vauban's science sensors. Can you verify? Maryse Dubois -> ::Pulls out a hypo with an empty vial. Putting it to the wall, she starts taking a sample.:: Rhan K'hal -> :: finds a console that seems to be multifunctional, tries to access it with extreme distaste evident by the rather nauseous looking scowl on his face :: William Chocox -> Engineering? Tandaris Admiran -> ::pulls out his tricorder again, checks:: +Matheson+ Confirmed. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::shifts to computer linkup::secure::: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> They don't really have it setup as neatly as that. William Chocox -> I'd probably be more helpful with science stuff. William Chocox -> Hm... Jas -> ::calls over his shoulder to Tandaris:: Let me know when I should proceed. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> Remember this is a living station. Tandaris Admiran -> ::Jas:: Whenever you're ready. Hunter Matheson -> @ +Admiran+ Ready to receive secure link. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::rigs a firewall::: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> Though it seems ::frowns:: they've largely deactivated the primary AI functions. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::just so, you know.. they don't get sent off to nowhere fast::: Jas -> ::takes a deep breath before attempting to access console:: Maryse Dubois -> ::Checks the sample with what she knows of Scorpiad biotech.:: William Chocox -> Wouldn't surprise me, why would they still be running if they're abandoning it? Rhan K'hal -> :: links up through his tricorder with the 'console' and starts looking for log data, tail swishing impatiently at the delay in translation :: Maryse Dubois -> I believe our "host" is sick. Tandaris Admiran -> ::Jas:: Once you have the link established, pull down the universal translator library so we can change the language settings throughout the station, hmm? Cptn Swain -> Ithene> See if you can access the internal sensors. Even if I can find the transporters, we'll need to be able to know where we're beaming him to. Jas -> ::nods and mumbles a response absent-mindedly:: Jas -> And... there. ::pushes a few remaining keys that should link to the Vauban:: William Chocox -> Alright. William Chocox -> ::starts to look for them on his console:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::joins Maryse and peers at her sample:: I suspected as much. How extensive is it? Hunter Matheson -> @ ::and the link comes through:: +COM+ Secure computer link is active and solid. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> ::Leans forward again to peer at the screen while Hunter sets up the link, one leg jiggling with pent up anxiety.:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> +Vauban+ I am having trouble sorting through a mess of subroutines, can we use our own computer to help figure out this labyrinth of file connections means? Jas -> Good, good, and now... ::starts pressing more keys to bring up a universal translator:: Maryse Dubois -> Without a healthy sample to compare to, I wouldn't know for sure. But I'm certain we're dealing with a hostile virus. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::casual, to Klein:: Walking around helps with anxiety, sir, and you can still see the viewscreen. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::blinks at the strange figures flowing out of the scorpi's computer:: Rhan K'hal -> :: Ithene :: Are you quite sure you want to have potentially hostile programming whooshing through our means of returning home? Jas -> ::remarks sideways to Rhan:: A bit late for that now. Tandaris Admiran -> ::nods, lowers his voice:: Is there a possibility it can infect humanoids? Arachnoids? Hunter Matheson -> @ ::set up a firewall::: Hunter Matheson -> (set it up before access was established) Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::K'Hal:: We're separating it out subroutine by subroutine. The primary AI is more or less lobotomized at the moment. Rhan K'hal -> :: grunts :: Maryse Dubois -> Anything is possible, but I think this virus has one purpose, destroying this base from the inside out. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Narrows her eyes trying to focus:: This is making my head hurt. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> ::Lets out a long sigh.:: Sorry, I'm just always ready for something bad to happen. I don't want it to, but I can't help but wait for it. Maryse Dubois -> Unless of course it mutates and deviates from its master design. But I don't really want to think about that. Hunter Matheson -> @ Understandable, sir. ::eyes dart from screen to screen to console and back:: Rhan K'hal -> :: as the language switches thanks to Jas' handiwork, is finally able to get down to business at a pace faster than a Tarkellian sloth turning over in its sleep :: Jas -> Good to know we've got an optimist aboard. ::chuckles:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> It looks like when the deactivated the station, they took the AI's higher functions off line. Will... can you come take a look at this. Jas -> ::looks over to Tandaris:: Anything else? Tandaris Admiran -> Right. Keep an eye on it—maybe check the station's readouts and our own sensors to see if you can get a sense of the prognosis. We don't want this thing falling apart on us. Maryse Dubois -> ::nods.:: Rhan K'hal -> :: Admiran :: Found what you were looking for. William Chocox -> ::walks over:: What am I looking at? Tandaris Admiran -> ::Maryse:: But don't … probably best not to mention the "virus" part to the others right now. They already have enough to worry about. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::shifts to compartmentalize the data flow from the nexis::: Maryse Dubois -> Of course. ::Moves to an empty station suitable for her needs.:: Maryse Dubois -> *station console Cptn Swain -> Ithene> I *think* it’s the master control for the transporter systems... but hell if I know for sure...the neural cluster seems to be a mess of files scattered about randomly. Rhan K'hal -> :: doesn't bother to remind Admiran of the big radar dishes on his head, but isn't exactly a science noob so isn't going to go 'Eek! A Virus!' anyway :: Tandaris Admiran -> ::Rhan:: What have you found? William Chocox -> Hm. William Chocox -> ::Starts to look over it:: Jas -> ::resumes working at the console, scanning for any irregularities and things that might go 'bump':: Rhan K'hal -> :: shows Tandy his tricorder :: Here's the last access log from the shutdown. Here's our access. :: points, points, then lets Admiran fill in the rest of the picture as the plot requires :: William Chocox -> This is confusing. Maryse Dubois -> ::Brings up the station's display and current condition.:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> ::Stands up and starts pacing despite his resolve not to.:: How's the feed? Are we getting information from the station? Cptn Swain -> Ithene> I mean if this translation is working... ::frowns:: its calling this a transporter...but those don't look like transporter systems I..err you know. William Chocox -> ::looks over it:: Yeah...not familiar at all. Hunter Matheson -> @ Coming through well, sir. Can't exactly read what it's saying but that's not my department. Hunter Matheson -> @ One reason I fly but don't analyze ::grin:: Hunter Matheson -> @ :shrug:: try to keep us safe and get everyone out if things go south. Tandaris Admiran -> ::looks at the results:: Ah, hmm. So as far as the official story goes, this place has been obsolete for at least a century. ::looks around again:: Cptn Swain -> Ithene> Lets...::presses a button:: Maryse Dubois -> Hmm...::Looking over the results.:: Rhan K'hal -> I'll try to poke around and see if I can get any data about that unknown facility while I'm in here. Hard to believe that could just pop up out of nowhere without the station noticing something going on even in a standby state. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> Well... that seems to have worked. ::Points to something that looks similar or at least as similar as it can, to transporter controls:: I'd be fascinated to know how this works, but it seems that its online. William Chocox -> Well, you should be able to tell if it's online. Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Will:: Have the Vauban prep a few test canisters. Starfleet might not like us ruining their pet Scorpiad. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::Klein:: Looks like they're powering up systems. Slowly, but at least something's working. Maryse Dubois -> ::Quietly.:: It's organs are failing... Cptn Swain -> Ithene> ::Admiran:: I *think* I have isolated the transporter systems. Tandaris Admiran -> ::Rhan:: Agreed. Either its sensor net is more damaged than we thought, or the unknown facility is a Scorpiad installation that might not be related to the shipyard at all…. William Chocox -> Alright. +Vauban+ We appear to have the transporters online, can you guys prepare a couple canisters for us to test? Rhan K'hal -> :: nods, resumes poking around in the oodles of data, searching for the ol' needle in a haystack :: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> ::Grunts, hearing William.:: +Chocox+ Acknowledged. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::looks to Klein:: +Nexis+ Can do, but exactly what kind of canisters do you need? Tandaris Admiran -> ::Rhan:: Carry on. ::wanders over to Ithene and William, overhears that they are preparing to test:: Tandaris Admiran -> ((You guys do have a bunch of sedated voles lying around, remember.)) Maryse Dubois -> ::Louder for others to hear.:: Try not to activate anything we absolutely don't need. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> (( We're not opening that crate again! )) Cptn Swain -> PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain -> PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain -> PAUSE SIM

USS Excalibur Mission Brief - 1503.08: The Vauban crew has arrived at a Scorpiad Command and Control center, and the shuttle has just docked with the station. The crew is geared up and ready to disembark. Their immediate mission is to find an area where their Scorpiad 'guest' might be beamed aboard the station. With luck, Scorpiad Greg might be able to lead them to areas where they can collect valuable intel. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> BEGIN SIM Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> BEGIN SIM Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> BEGIN SIM Hunter Matheson -> @ ::at helm, hot standby:: Maryse Dubois -> ::Has her gear and is ready to go.:: Jas -> ::grabbing his gear and getting ready to embark:: William Chocox -> ::is ready with science gear:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::has his special equipment kit slung off his shoulder:: Everyone ready? William Chocox -> Yep. Jas -> ::finishes with his gear and turns to the others, falling in line:: Tandaris Admiran -> OK. Jas has point with me. ::opens the airlock:: Jas -> ::falls in behind Tandaris, glancing behind at the others briefly:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::feet hit the surface of the Scorpiad station, and as he inhales the stale atmosphere, it feels ... good:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::configures a lock on the search team::: Jas -> ((Everything's squishy right?)) Maryse Dubois -> ::Steps off into the firm, but still slightly mushy surface.:: Hunter Matheson -> (Squishy, smelly, nasty) Jas -> ::squish, squish, squish... looks down:: Well that's... interesting. William Chocox -> ::gingerly steps in:: Ew. Maryse Dubois -> You get used to it... Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> ::Standing near the airlock, he looked out into the station as the team disembarked, keeping an eye on them while he could.:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::notices it's considerably more humid than it usually would be:: Environmental controls must be out of whack.... Tandaris Admiran -> Keep an eye out for floor rot. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> (( Just think of it like you're walking on a giant tongue that may or may not have the ability to move. )) Tandaris Admiran -> ::sets off down the corridor in the direction of the command nexus:: Jas -> ::walks out into the area, cautiously eyeing their surroundings:: Jas -> ::follows Tandaris:: William Chocox -> ::follows Tandy:: This place is weird. Hunter Matheson -> (I was thinking it was more like a chicken coop blended with a pig sty.) Hunter Matheson -> (pig) Tandaris Admiran -> ::as they walk down the corridor, the lighting level is adequate but not overly bright:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::pulls up the main display to keep a watch on their progress:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::they pass what looks like doorways every few metres:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::like BFT for Trek:: William Chocox -> You know where you're going right? Jas -> ::keeps his hand on his phaser as they explore the station:: Tandaris Admiran -> Yep. About two hundred metres that way, then up a level, another forty metres, and we should be there. It's not a big station. Jas -> Are we expecting resistance of some sort? Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> ::Returns to Ops and takes a seat, looking to Hunter.:: Want to take a look outside? Could set the shuttle to take some passive sensor readings while we explore the immediate area. Tandaris Admiran -> ::Jas:: I've disabled the passive defenses, so unless we make a hostile move, no. Maryse Dubois -> Always expect resistance. Tandaris Admiran -> At this stage the most danger we're in is from, as I said, floor rot or other malfunctions from lack of maintenance. Maryse Dubois -> The very walls and floors themselves can move against you. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::Klein:: Don't believe that's wise, sir. Hot standby means stay by the boat. Hunter Matheson -> @ Not exactly something we want to do when there's a team out. Hunter Matheson -> @ Thanks anyway, sir. Appreciate the thought. Tandaris Admiran -> ::they follow the natural curves of the broad, high passageways:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::points up at the screen:: I have the BFT on, just in case they need a beamout. Jas -> ::looks up around the place, taking in the organic composition of the structure:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> ::He shrugged and leaned back in his seat, itchy fingers tapping against his leg.:: It just doesn't feel right to sit here and do nothing. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::slight grin:: Well, sir, it's not exactly nothing. We're their backup. Something goes wrong, their lives are on us. William Chocox -> It's unsettling, but fascinating from a scientific standpoint. Tandaris Admiran -> ::takes another turn:: Hunter Matheson -> @ I mean, it might seem like nothing, and it might seem boring, but we let our guard down and the mission could go south in half a heartbeat. Maryse Dubois -> Pretty sure you wouldn't find it fascinating if one of the walls suddenly decides to impale you. William Chocox -> ::follows:: Of course not. Jas -> ::turns to Maryse:: They can impale us..? Maryse Dubois -> Yes, now let's focus please, and stop admiring the scenery. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::turns back to watch the screen, monitor their progress, and watch for targets:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::aside to Klein:: Sir, you pretty familiar with these bugs? Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> ACTION> As the AT rounds the curving corridor, the floor begins to show signs of deterioration. A few meters ahead, it falls away completely. The gap is so large that the team can't see the other side of the floor because of the curving walls. Below is only darkness. Scans of the area show multiple smaller corridors branching out from the main one, like tiny arteries connected with a larger one. The smaller channels are about as large as standard Starfleet Jefferies Tubes. Tandaris Admiran -> ::face falls:: Oh. Jas -> ::stops and look to Tandaris for guidance:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> ::He grunted.:: I've read all the reports, but haven't ever had to kill one. Never been on one of their ships, either. Most of their activity in the GQ has died down since the uprising of their enslaved species. Tandaris Admiran -> ::ponders, looking at his tricorder:: I don't think there's a way around this until ... no. No, we'll have to use the service ducts. Hunter Matheson -> @ Um...::processes that::: Hunter Matheson -> @ I'm just wondering that if they attack, how are they likely to attack? Maryse Dubois -> :;Watches her step.:: This kind of rot...Make you wonder how long the outer hull can remain intact. William Chocox -> Service ducts? Tandaris Admiran -> There must be major circulatory damage somewhere. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> You mean in their ships? Or in person? Hunter Matheson -> @ Either way, sir. Tandaris Admiran -> The outer hull is composed of slightly different material, less prone to injury and laceration--but yes, I'm starting to question the structural integrity of this vessel now. William Chocox -> Wonderful. Hunter Matheson -> @ Like... what kind of signs do you look for? Besides the obvious flash of ordnance. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> ACTION> Jas feels the floor start to give way beneath his feet, like he was walking through mud and it wanted to keep his boots. Tandaris Admiran -> ::nods to Chocox:: Like so. ::approaches one side of the corridor, bends down, and brushes a spot on the wall, where a narrow opening opens with a squishy sound:: William Chocox -> After you. Jas -> ::looks down at his feet:: Uh, guys... ::tries to move back:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> Scorpiad are clever enough, but the bulk of their fleet attacks relied primarily on their numbers. They had plenty of pawns to sacrifice and would fling them at their enemies relentlessly. Their melee attacks in person were much the same. Warrior species that would do their fighting for them. Tandaris Admiran -> ::sees Jas sinking into the floor:: Uh-oh. Looks like this section isn't stable. Quick, let's not waste time. William Chocox -> What's wrong? Maryse Dubois -> :;Steps back.:: The floor is unstable. William Chocox -> Damnit. Tandaris Admiran -> Let's go! ::squeezes into the service duct, which as mentioned before is about the size of a Jeffries tube, but a little more claustrophobic because of the organic component:: Jas -> ::trudging his way through the floor after the others:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::lets that sink in before adding quietly:: Like army ants. William Chocox -> ::helps Jas:: Maryse Dubois -> ::Goes in.:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::dragging Cardboard!Ithene behind:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::flips on his wrist light:: Ugh. That's a smell I could have lived without. Hunter Matheson -> @ (w) ::as he turns back to the screen:: Nice.. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::shifts the BFT and zooms in on that area, pulling up as much imaging as possible:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> ::Swivels:: What's going on? Tandaris Admiran -> ::consults his tricorder:: It looks like this means a considerable detour. I _think_ I know how to detect more stable sections according to these readings, but we'll have to be careful when we decide to leave the ducts. Hunter Matheson -> @ Looks like they've come to a block of some kind and they're trying to get around it. William Chocox -> Ok. ::is following:: Hunter Matheson -> @ The bugs don't usually have broken down ships, right, sir? Tandaris Admiran -> Keep the person ahead of you in sight. Last thing we need is someone getting lost. Hunter Matheson -> @ 'Cause.. ::pans:: this one looks pretty bad off. Jas -> ::follows in tow, brushing the guck off his legs:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> ACTION> The service tubes are more arid than the larger corridor, likely because they've been sealed up for a while. The organic component was difficult to ignore, however. The floor, walls, and ceiling were all made of the same squishy material and it moved against the AT as they crawled through, hugging close and pressing at them from all sides. Maybe it was tasting them. Hunter Matheson -> @ (tasting.. nice) Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> Hmmm, can you get any scans of the other areas of the station? If we can get a bigger picture, we can send them our information. Might help them find their way around easier. Hunter Matheson -> @ I can split screen it, sir. Don't want to lose the tracking on the team... ::taps away, setting it up:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::Maryse:: The more I see, the less I like. This station is ... sick. I'm not sure it's an accident. Maryse Dubois -> The faster we get out of these ducts the better. Maryse Dubois -> Virus, possibly? Hunter Matheson -> @ And... ::press:: Got science and tactical on the right. Team on the left. I'll let you figure out the science part. Tandaris Admiran -> ((Hunter is just having fun with his new app)) Hunter Matheson -> @ (You got it.) Tandaris Admiran -> Possibly. Some kind of planned obsolescence, even. Hunter Matheson -> @ Tactical's not pulling up much of anything... well.. .tactical. But I'm not sure of this system and what it's set at. Tandaris Admiran -> I guess we just have to hope the transporters aren't in too bad a way. Jas -> ::crawls along with the others:: So has anyone been in one of these before? William Chocox -> Aye...though I'm not much help with transporters. Tandaris Admiran -> ::reaches a vertical shaft:: Let's take this up to the next level, then see if we can find an approach to the command nexus that isn't rotten. Tandaris Admiran -> ::begins climbing the "ladder", which is more of a set of ridges running parallel up the shaft:: Jas -> ::follows Tandaris up the 'ladder':: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> ::Leans over the console to have a look at the readings, waving his hand in front of the screen to manipulate the scans and zoom in where he wanted.:: Not getting a whole log with these passive scans... Hunter Matheson -> @ No, sir. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> *lot Maryse Dubois -> ::Carefully climbs.:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::Jas:: Service ducts like this? Most ships don't have them, only the more sedentary vessels like stations. Ships tend to have more redundant, self-repairing systems. Anything that needs major maintenance, it puts in for surgery at a shipyard like this one. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ Lt. Klein> Let's try something more invasive and see how the station reacts. With luck, our Scorpiad guest will negate any serious response. But, be ready to shut it down if things take a turn for the worse. Hunter Matheson -> @ Aye, aye, Lieutenant. William Chocox -> :: follows:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::poised for shutdown::: Tandaris Admiran -> ::reaches the next level, tosses Cardboard!Ithene and Cardboard!Rhan ahead, then climbs into the crosswise shaft:: Hunter Matheson -> @ ::thinking about full decon when they return:: Jas -> ::emerges from the shaft and takes a look around:: Tandaris Admiran -> ::consults tricorder:: I think if we take this duct, take a few more turns, then we'll be just below the command nexus. Hopefully. William Chocox -> ::clambers up:: Hm... Maryse Dubois -> I hope so too. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> (( Last chance to say it. Prepare to pause... )) Hunter Matheson -> @ ::checking the lock:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> @ACTION> Active sensors come online and begin to scan the station, but it shows no signs of "taking offense" and everything seems quiet. For now. Hunter Matheson -> @ ::lets out a breath:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> END SIM Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> END SIM Cdr Miranda Hawthorne -> END SIM

USS Excalibur - Mission Brief - 081714: While investigating the market on the planet Eok in search of information about space pirates, Excalibur's away team has made several interesting developments. K'hal and Chocox have uncovered possible sources for the pirate's technology, while Messner and Dubois had a dangerous encounter with an unsavory character, but managed to recover a data file that might offer more leads. Chief of Science, Lt. Cmdr. Ithene Vallorn made some dangerous discoveries of her own, which may have led to her sudden abduction. We begin with the team just realizing that their science officer is missing, having left behind her tricorder and communication badge, and without any real clue as to where she has been taken.