Cdr Miranda Hawthorne

MISSION BRIEF: Excalibur's away team has continued to work to find the reason behind the energy drain to batteries, which seems to have also affected the yacht's power systems. They did, however, find a cache of secret supplies stored aboard, likely, by the Captain. As evening has enveloped the planet, Commander Rex suggested an old fashioned campfire with the science team, as it looks like all of us could be here a while. Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM Indaura Ryssan: :: A bit cold...or cool :: William Chocox: ::is wondering if anyone brought a guitar for campfire songs:: Irene Mincine: :: Irene wandered up to the group, too. :: "Who... found the captain's stash, again?" Cptn Swain: Rex> ::Did not, but also was thinking about that. The night was rather cool, and he'd donned a Starfleet hoodie, also from the Swain Collection.:: William Chocox: Don't know what you're talking about. Cptn Swain: Rex> I no idea what you're talking about. ::Getting out of a packet of marshmallows:: Cptn Swain: Rex> ::Maryse:: Do you? Indaura Ryssan: :: Drinking her water :: William Chocox: We need an instrument. Acappella depends on really good voices. Irene Mincine: :: She shook her head. :: "Forget I asked. Valdar wanted to know, but I think she'll forgive me if I don't have an answer for her." Maryse Dubois: There was a stash? ::Shrugs as she drinks stale ration tea.::: Cptn Swain: Rex> ::Hands Will a stick with a marshmallow on it:: You ever done this? Cptn Swain: Rex> ::Smirks at Irene:: See, you pick up fast Ensign. William Chocox: ::takes it:: Camped? Yeah...is this fire old enough for roasting marshmallows? I don't like them after they've been on fire. Cptn Swain: Rex> It should be Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Ens Reynolds> ::Still a bit irritated that the drain was still happening to their equipment, he hunkered down around the primitive fire and pulled a blanket about his shoulders.:: William Chocox: ::puts the mallow down towards the coals of the fire, slowly rotating it:: How you doing Reynolds? Cptn Swain: Rex> See now folks ::passing more of the sticks with marshmallows around:: watch Chocox's technique here. William Chocox: Oh, now you're putting pressure on me. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Ens Reynolds> ::Takes a stick and looks at it like it might bite him. He wrinkled his nose at Will.:: I don't like outdoor activities, sir. They've made this place habitable with the basic comforts, but not some place I want to stay forever. Cptn Swain: Rex> Just think about baseball. Indaura Ryssan: Baseball? A human thing? Irene Mincine: "Hm? I learned how to do this on field expeditions. You engineering types need to get out more." :: She begins to perfectly roasts a marshmallow in the fire. William Chocox: Reynolds, I think this is going to be a great growing experience for you. The stick is inanimate, it's not going to hurt you. Maryse Dubois: ::Grins as she sips her drink.:: Cptn Swain: Rex> ::Indaura:: It's uh well it’s something uh human men... you know never mind. Anyway. Indaura Ryssan: Men? Hmm. Irene Mincine: :: Irene laughs into her canteen when Rex brings that up. :: "I'm sure Valdar would love to be here roasting marshmallows, but she's a bit out of commission at the moment..." William Chocox: ((Why am I talking like William isn't in his mid 20s? :P )) Cptn Swain: Rex> I do hope you didn't break anything. How were the caves? Indaura Ryssan: :: Spins her sugar pillow around :: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Ens Reynolds> ::Holds it near the flames, trying to copy Irene, but in a matter of minutes his marshmallow was on fire. He waved it about frantically, which fanned the flames even more, and by the time he had the thing completely extinguished, his marshmallow was a charred gooey mess that dripped off his stick into the fire.:: William Chocox: Everything ok Mincine? Irene Mincine: :: Irene shook her head. :: "Broken? Noooo. Not on an away mission. Bruised, yes, broken, no." :: She then busted out laughing at Reynolds' attempt to cook the marshmallow. :: William Chocox: ::looks over at Reynolds:: The trick is to use the coals, not the flames. ::checks his marshmallow and sees it's golden brown:: Hey Commander, do we have stuff for s'mores or is it just roasted marshmallows tonight? Cptn Swain: Rex> ::shrugs:: Check the uh... box Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Ens Reynolds> ::Scowls and stares at the end of the stick where the goop still clung to it.:: How is this supposed to be fun? Irene Mincine: "Because we're not traipsing through caves or fixing power units. We're bonding! Or something." William Chocox: ::walks over and rummages through:: It appears not unfortunately. And it's fun because it satisfies our primordial need to play with fire. ::eats his marshmallow straight off the stick:: (mm) It's a throwback to a simpler time. ::comes back to the fire and sits back down:: Cptn Swain: Rex> ::eating his perfectly done marshmallow and getting another ready to roast:: And the double bonus is there aren't any bugs on this planet. Irene Mincine: "There's those really cool crystals we found though! I wish I could show you our holorecording of the sound and light show they made but preservation of power is our top priority at the moment..." Cptn Swain: Rex> What do you mean? William Chocox: I'll be keen to see it by the time we get everything going again. Irene Mincine: :: To Rex. :: "About the crystals or the power?" Cptn Swain: Rex> The crystals. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Ens Reynolds> ::Grumbling to himself, he shoves another marshmallow onto his stick to try again, keeping it away from the flames this time.:: Yea, what kind of crystals? Indaura Ryssan: :: smiles while she eats her treat :: William Chocox: ::starts roasting another marshmallow himself:: Almost wish I was there instead of here. Irene Mincine: "Oh! The lead scientist on the planetside team, Dr. Harris, took us a few hundred feet underground to show us where they found microbe samples. It ended up being this big cave system, with a chamber containing all these hyper-resonant crystals. It was really pretty there with our flashlights, but she showed off their real power when she had me hit one with a metal tool. They made this long, reflecting, beautiful sound." William Chocox: Sounds amazing. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Ens Reynolds> Un-underground? ::Shivers.:: Glad I was busy. I wouldn't mind seeing the recording, but I don't like going underground... Maryse Dubois: It does seem interesting. Cptn Swain: TWO MINUTE WARNING William Chocox: Claustrophobic Reynolds? Cptn Swain: Rex> Sounds cool. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Ens Reynolds> Or enclosed spaces, or deep water, or fast water, or high places... ::Could go on and on and on.:: Irene Mincine: :: She smiled gently at Reynolds. :: "It was pretty far down but the caves were big and wide." :: She hrmed when he continued, though. :: "You don't like enclosed places or heights but you serve on a starship?" William Chocox: ::blinks:: Come to think of it, have I seen you in a Jeffries Tube? Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Ens Reynolds> ::Wrinkles his nose at Will.:: Not when I can help it. ::Shrugs at Irene.:: I don't have to look out of the windows, so... William Chocox: Never thought about it. There's worse phobias to have. Irene Mincine: "I don't like spiders... but you don't have those on a starship much." Cptn Swain: Rex> I knew a guy... he was security officer, afraid of spiders. ::Eating his marshmallow:: Had to crawl through a tangled mess of crap during the war that was infested by Talarian hook spiders. William Chocox: That would be weird. William Chocox: That's unfortunate. Cptn Swain: (( The former CSCI had a pet spider in the science labs. )) Irene Mincine: :: Oof. :: "Oh, that... sucks." Cptn Swain: (( Citrus, the tarantula. )) Cptn Swain: ..and... Maryse Dubois: ((haha I forgot about Citrus)) Maryse Dubois: ((She also talked to a rock.)) Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM

SD 0927.2020 Excalibur's away team has continued to work to find the reason behind the energy drain to batteries, which seems to have also affected the yacht's power systems. They did, however, find a cache of secret supplies stored aboard, likely, by the Captain. As evening has enveloped the planet, Commander Rex suggested an old fashioned campfire with the science team, as it looks like all of us could be here a while.

MISSON BRIEF: The science team discovered some woo-woo crystals that definitely used a good chunk of the budget; meanwhile the other team. is working to find out what is causing the electrical storage systems to fail. Maryse and security, while getting our supplies from the shuttle found a cache of supplies left by Captain Swain. Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM Maryse Dubois: @ ::On her way back with the goodies.:: Cptn Swain: @Rex>. ::Wondering if they had the parts to make a still, if they were going to be stuck here for a while:: Irene Mincine: # :: Irene is in the center of the crystal cave, looking a bit sad to leave. :: "We should head back to the surface, I think, if our equipment power is all draining." William Chocox: @::is looking at the batteries forlornly as if he can make them power back on again:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Dr. Noel Harris> ::She sighed.:: Yes, I suppose that is probably best. ::She also looked a bit forlorn at leaving the cavern. Nearing the edge, she reached out to caress one of the crystals with a delicate hand. Then, as if remembering what she was supposed to be doing, she snapped to herself and started back down the path to the lift.:: Maryse Dubois: @ ::Arrives back at the camp.:: I come bearing gifts. Cptn Swain: @Rex> ::looks up:: Oh? Irene Mincine: # :: She was taking a couple more holopictures of the crystal room, still in a bit of amazement. :: "If we can figure out how to shield the electronics, we can come down here without worry." :: She follows Dr. Harris toward the lift. :: William Chocox: @Gifts! Yes! What are they? Maryse Dubois: @ Well we have rations, more medical supplies, tents, AND.... ::Shows the container.:: A variety of the Captain's stash. Cptn Swain: @Rex> ::eyes go wide:: That's... well William Chocox: @Captain's stash of what? Maryse Dubois: @ Yep. ::Grins:: Oh just some things for him to have a good time. I'm sure we can make some use of most of it. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Dr. Noel Harris> ::She threw them a glance as she loaded onto the lift and waited for them before starting it climbing toward the surface.:: You should probably be getting back with the rest of your group, anyhow. I have many things to do and can't spare anyone to escort you. Cptn Swain: @Rex> ::Walks over:: Oh...this is... ::holding up a bottle:: Irene Mincine: # :: Irene rides the lift up with Harris and company. :: "Yeah, good idea. I should check in with everyone and see how the engineering team is doing." Cptn Swain: @Rex> This is a really good vintage. And that... ::pulls out a box:: these are Andorian chocolates. They cost a small fortune. Cptn Swain: @Rex> And uh... romance novels? William Chocox: @Ooh, fancy. The wine, not the romance novels. Never my thing. Maryse Dubois: @ Well maybe someone is bored and will want to read them. William Chocox: ((Aren't we in a post-money society?)) Cptn Swain: @Rex> I nominate Will. William Chocox: @ Were you listening? Cptn Swain: (( Latinum is money! )) Cptn Swain: @Rex> Yes. William Chocox: ((Andorians are Federation members! :P )) Indaura Ryssan: # Biochemical devices. William Chocox: @ Hmph. I can read them aloud like we're old American pioneers or something. Maryse Dubois: @ ::Laughs:: Anyways we should at least get the tents set up for now. We can decided on the goodies later. Cptn Swain: @Rex> Agreed. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Dr. Noel Harris> ::She turned to peer at Indaura as the cavern levels began to swoop by.:: In what regard? William Chocox: @::pushes himself up from his position on the floor:: Alright, hand me one. I was a Scout. Irene Mincine: # :: "Hmm? What about them, Doc?" Cptn Swain: @Rex> I bet you were cute. Cptn Swain: @Rex> ::having palmed one of the romance novels:: Indaura Ryssan: # They could work within this dampening effect. William Chocox: @ The shorts didn't look great on me. Maryse Dubois: @ ::Giggles:: Indaura Ryssan: # I don't believe we have any onboard. Cptn Swain: @Rex> Skipping leg day huh? William Chocox: @ They were just too short. Do I look like I skip leg day? Irene Mincine: # "Not something you'd take along on a typical mission, yeah..." Cptn Swain: ((There is either a skunk or someone smoking really, really bad weed outside my window one moment. )) Maryse Dubois: ((lol)) Cptn Swain: @Rex> Short shorts are cute though. Last time I was on Risa they were all the rage/ Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Dr. Noel Harris> An interesting theory. ::The lift slowed to a halt at the surface and she opened the gate to let them out.:: I do hope you enjoyed your tour. Maryse Dubois: ((Maybe a skunk smoking bad weed?)) Indaura Ryssan: ((Skunk smoking really bad weed?)) Maryse Dubois: ((lol)) William Chocox: ((Jinx?)) Cptn Swain: (( A literal skunk lol )) Irene Mincine: # :: Irene looks quite content, despite anything else happening on the mission, that trip was worth it. :: "Thank you, Dr. Harris." :: She steps out of the lift and heads for the mouth of the cave, tapping her combadge. :: "Science team to engineering team." Indaura Ryssan: # :: walking and thinking :: William Chocox: @ Short shorts are cute on the right person. I can't pull them off. You don't want to know how many uniforms I go through on a regular basis. Cptn Swain: @Rex> ::Gives Maryse an amused look:: Maryse Dubois: @ ::Watching the tents get put up.:: You're being too modest, Chief. ::grins:: William Chocox: @ I'm a vaguely square shaped brick of a man, I know how I look. Cptn Swain: @Rex> Just so we're all clear. No one should mention to anyone back on the ship the captain's cache. Irene Mincine: # :: Irene tried again as she walked back to the science labs. :: +Engineering Team+ "Mincine to engineering team?" William Chocox: @ The what? I don't think we found anything extra on the Captain's Yacht. ::starts attaching poles: Indaura Ryssan: # Are we still being dampened? Irene Mincine: # "Out here? It was working earlier." Maryse Dubois: @ Oh I plan on there being no evidence. Cptn Swain: @Rex> Exactly. William Chocox: @ Anyway, how's your tent coming? Indaura Ryssan: # +Engineering Team+ Indaura to engineering... Irene Mincine: # "Let's try the transmitter at the science team camp." :: Irene reaches the camp and heads into the comms tent, checking the transmitter. :: William Chocox: @+Ryssan+ Chocox here. Cptn Swain: @Rex> ::points to security goons:: Doing pretty well. Cptn Swain: @Rex> Though I think Gooding probably needs to practice more. Cptn Swain: @Rex> So... who wants to do a camp fire tonight? Cptn Swain: @Rex> ::Going. through the goodies:: I think these are marshmallows. Indaura Ryssan: # +Chocox+ Oh, we have left the cavern system. Maryse Dubois: @ Sounds great. Won't the other team be surprised. William Chocox: @ +Ryssan+ Thank you for letting us know. Reynolds didn't get claustrophobic did he? Irene Mincine: # +Chocox+ "Reynolds stayed behind..." Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: # Ens Reynolds> ::And very glad he did, too.:: Cptn Swain: (( 2 minute warning )) William Chocox: @+Ryssan+ That's unfortunate. Would've been a good learning experience. Irene Mincine: # +Chocox+ "How are things over on your end?" Indaura Ryssan: # +Chocox+ I don't believe it was that. We have some interesting readings, if it recorded them, Cptn Swain: ...and.. William Chocox: @+Ryssan and Mincine+ Could be better over here. Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM

SD 0920.2020 The science team discovered some woo-woo crystals that deff used a good chunk of the budget; meanwhile the other team is working to find out what is causing the electrical storage systems to fail. Maryse and security, while getting our supplies from the shuttle, found a cache of supplies left by Captain Swain.

MISSION BRIEF: So, things are not going exactly according to plan, but you know when has an Excalibur mission actually gone according to plan? 2006? Anyway, Rex is returning for the possibly crippled shuttle to see what's next while Team Irene continues their adventure. Also Maryse has continued to be the Good Doctor and has been treating one of the science expedition members who broke their leg digging a latrine. Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain: @Rex> ::Making his way back to the main camp, he was mildly alarmed that they could be stuck on this godforsaken planet until someone else bothered to send a rescue team, but as the ranking officer he needed to Stay Calm. He muttered under his breath about how that academy prof who'd said that was a dips*it:: William Chocox: @::has been talking to Reynolds:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Dr. Noel Harris> ::Gestures to the path.:: Would you like to explore further inside? The resonances in the center are striking. Careful of speaking too loudly. Indaura Ryssan: # Sure....sure........su... William Chocox: @Well, how bad is it Commander? Irene Mincine: # :: Irene looks excited at the prospect. :: "I'd love to." :: She looks back at the rest of the group accompanying her. :: "How's everyone so far? What do you think of the caverns?" Cptn Swain: @Rex> ::Plops his satchel bag down:: Hopefully the shielding of the shuttle will keep some of the juice in the batteries, but I am not an engineer. ::Bites his lip:: How many people are in the expeditionary team? William Chocox: @I think about thirty? I don't remember. Cptn Swain: @Rex> ::Biting his lip:: Probably too many to safely cram into the yacht. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Dr. Noel Harris> ::Moving down the path, she led the way through the crystal structures which seemed to be humming in response to their footsteps.:: William Chocox: @Depends on how friendly people are. Maryse Dubois: @ ::Sits down by the others.:: I'm pretty sure we exceed the maximum operating capacity. Cptn Swain: @Rex> We're in no immediate danger I suppose. ::Frowns:: And I assume they'd rather protest if we ordered them to cram inside just so we ::motions to the three of them and the two security officers who were making shadow puppets in the corner as if no one saw them:: don't get stuck here until Starfleet sends *another* rescue team. William Chocox: @Those maximum capacity ratings are really guidelines. Irene Mincine: # :: Irene followed... she was in amazement at the resonant crystals that surrounded them, looking up and all around. Following Dr. Harris' lead, she took notes on her padd rather than speaking around them. :: Cptn Swain: @Rex> So... we need to find out exactly what's causing the battery drain and if possible develop a way to shield the research team's equipment as well as the yachts. Has Reynolds had any luck with their transmitter? Indaura Ryssan: # Anyone else feel that resonance? William Chocox: @It needs to be recharged. Cptn Swain: @Rex> ::Frowns again:: I see Irene Mincine: # "Ssh... you don't want to set off a cascade." :: She whispered to Indaura and pointed to her padd. :: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Dr. Noel Harris> Mmmhmm.. Striking, isn't it? ::The crystals grew in orderly chaos and the color of them seemed to deepen as they went further inside. The central cavern held a large open area that was void of crystals and sunken slightly into the ground.:: We've taken samples of the crystals, of course, but this is where we've found the highest concentration of microbes. Cptn Swain: @Rex> ::Maryse:: Since it looks like we're going to be here a while too. Why don't you take the two puppeteers over there and start setting up some tents for our team as well. There should be a full survival kit in the yacht, as well as rations. I don't want to put any more stress on the expeditions supplies than we have too. Cptn Swain: @Security1> ::Looks over as if he'd been caught stealing latnium from a Ferengi:: Irene Mincine: # :: Irene approached the central area. She got onto her knees and examined the ground of the cave in wonder. :: "I see... there's got to be some connection between them... even if they're just grown from microbe poop..." Maryse Dubois: @ ::Nods:: Alright. ::Gets up and motions the 2 guards to follow.:: Cptn Swain: @Security1> ::Sheepishly follows along:: Doctor. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Dr. Noel Harris> We thought there might be some correlation, but that is as of yet unknown. ::Looking quite pleased as she gazed about in wonder. Tilting her head at the two, she gestured to one of the larger structures around the clearing.:: Would you like to hear the full resonance of the chamber? All you need to do is strike one of the crystals with something metallic. I warn you, however, it is breathtaking. Cptn Swain: @Rex> ::Frowns again:: So... ::looks at Will:: I don't know about you, but I think I'd rather be on diplomatic babysitting Indaura Ryssan: # Sounds wonderful. Can we record the sound? William Chocox: @Never thought I'd be agreeing with that statement. Irene Mincine: # :: Irene dug through her utility belt and removed a metallic emergency multitool. :: "Yeah, let's get a good recording of it. I'm sure you have a few already but one more couldn't hurt." Indaura Ryssan: # :: Gets out her tricorder :: Cptn Swain: @Rex> At least there's no dangerous wildlife to eat us or anything. Cptn Swain: ACTION> Indaura's tricorder is nearly dead, popping up with the LCARS version of "you have 20% left" William Chocox: @Are you trying to tempt the wrath of the whatever from high atop the thing? Maryse Dubois: @ ::Making her way back to the yacht with the guards.:: Indaura Ryssan: # This should not happen... Cptn Swain: @Rex> ::Smirks:: No just thinking about this time on the Lexington where an away team I was on was temporarily cut off from the ship on a planet with 18 foot tall flightless birds that were well... they weren't vegetarians. Cptn Swain: @Security2> My first ever away mission, and we get stranded on some... what is the even name of this rock? Irene Mincine: # "What shouldn't happen, doc?" :: She's about to hit the crystal, but she stops. :: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Dr. Noel Harris> Of course. Be my guest. ::Glances curiously to Indaura.:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Dr. Noel Harris> Something wrong? Indaura Ryssan: # My fully charged tricorder is close to dead. William Chocox: @Did you lose the Emu War? Irene Mincine: # :: Huh. :: "Weren't there some with defective batteries a while back? You sure you charged it?" :: She pulled out her own tricorder and checked it out in her other hand. :: Indaura Ryssan: # No, these power cells were fine. Cptn Swain: @Rex> No. Thankfully we found some trees we could climb into and wait out the storm that was keeping the ship from beaming us back, but let me tell you... I never have looked at birds the same way again. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Dr. Noel Harris> Hmm.... yes, that's the interference on the surface. It has been draining all of our equipment and has seemed to have gotten worse recently. The effects aren't so drastic down here with shielding. William Chocox: @Well then, it's good that we're on a barren planet. Irene Mincine: # "Ah, I wasn't aware it was affecting tricorders and small pieces of equipment, too. I should have checked that before we came down here..." :: She sighed. Too late now. :: "Well, we can still get a recording, at least. But we shouldn't stay down here too long if our equipment is going dead." Cptn Swain: @Security2> ::to Maryse as they continue on towards the shuttle:: Is every mission like this on this ship? Maryse Dubois: @ ::Smiles at the banter between the 2 security.:: We're almost there. ::Gets within visual range of the ship.:: Maryse Dubois: @ No...Some are much, much worse. Cptn Swain: @Security2> ::Goes white as a sheet:: W-w-worse? William Chocox: ((Don't scare the lad. There was just that one time with the pirates.)) Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Dr. Noel Harris> The lift system is mechanical, so we don't have to worry about being stuck. The lights down here are shielded by the earth. However, it is wise not to remain here for very long, anyhow. The auditory effects are still mostly untested. Maryse Dubois: @ ::Nods as they walk up to the ship.:: Yeah, but it doesn't happen too often. The last bad mission we had to get a brand new ship. Cptn Swain: (( I think the worst Excalibur away mission was either Resident Evil Rip Off or the time I ripped off Slivers from MTG. )) Cptn Swain: (( In terms of people dying/danger )) Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Dr. Noel Harris> For example... ::She hummed a high pitched note and the crystals tossed it back at them in a chaotic melody that vibrated their bones.:: Cptn Swain: @Security1> Yeah, and besides, at least the Romulans haven't shown up yet. Irene Mincine: # :: She shook her head to make sure she was still in one piece after the vibration ended. :: "Understood... let's get our recording, some holopictures, and head back to the surface. Can you start your recorder?" :: She motioned to Indaura. :: Cptn Swain: ((Possibly the time the Baby Got Stolen And the Rescue Mission Had to Crawl Through a Swamp to Rescue It )) William Chocox: ((Must've been before my time or during my hiatus.)) Maryse Dubois: @ :;Cringes:: Ooo...You never should say those things. It always seems to come true. ::Opens the hatch to the yacht.:: Maryse Dubois: ((Haha I remember the zombie mission.)) Cptn Swain: @Security2> ::Nods in agreement:: Yeah you dofus, now we're totally going to end up imprisoned by the Romulans. Indaura Ryssan: # Ready Cptn Swain: @Security1> We can get the tents ma'am if you can grab the rations. Irene Mincine: # :: Irene taps the handle of the multitool against one of the crystals. :: Irene Mincine: ((Famous last words.)) William Chocox: @What's the likelihood Someone got your message? Maryse Dubois: @ ::Nods as she grabs the ration case and a spare medkit.:: Cptn Swain: @Rex> ::Shrugs:: Depends on if it was able to get enough gain from the batteries to get out of the atmosphere. I'd say 50/50. William Chocox: @Hmph... Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: ACTION> With that little tap, the entire crystalline cavern came to life as that one pure note was caught by all of the structures and amplified with every pass. It grew in volume, but the resonance was even greater, and as the crystals sang out, they could feel their bodies caught by the sound, almost lifted by it. It was pure and sweet and carried with it a sense of intense longing. And when it finally died away, they all experienced a sense of profound loss as the sound became a mere whisper, leaving them vibrating and empty. Cptn Swain: @Security1> ::Opening the hatch where the tents and other emergency supplies were:: Cptn Swain: << Everyone give me a number 1-10 >> Indaura Ryssan: # :: stumbles :: Indaura Ryssan: (5) William Chocox: @I'm not enthused with those adds. William Chocox: (8) Cptn Swain: @Rex> Me neither... Maryse Dubois: ((6)) Irene Mincine: # :: Irene was even more amazed at that then she was expecting. She stared at the crystals surrounding her while the sound rang out, taking in the pure beauty of it. When it finished, she looked to Dr. Harris, then Indaura with tears welling up in her eyes, watching their reactions as well. :: "Did... um... did you get the recording?" Cptn Swain: << lmao >> Cptn Swain: @Security2> ::eyes go real wide:: Cptn Swain: @Security1> Doctor... uh... you better come take a look at this. Maryse Dubois: @ Hmm? ::Walks over to where they were.:: Cptn Swain: ACTION> In addition to the tents and other survival supplies, Captain Swain had apparently stashed away a cache of "special supplies" including some extremely expensive liquors and other amenities for a "romantic" getaway. Cptn Swain: ACTION> Including his collection of vintage romance novels. Indaura Ryssan: (did not know you cared Captain) Maryse Dubois: @ Oh those are definitely coming with. Irene Mincine: (( sorry, my client froze )) Cptn Swain: ...and... Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Dr. Noel Harris> ::Even though she'd experienced it many times before, she was also in tears, one hand against her chest.:: Still so beautiful... Maryse Dubois: @ ::Starts packing them into the rations case.:: Cptn Swain: @Security2> ::looks rather horrified:: But... but what if the Captain... Cptn Swain: @Security1> ::shoves a tent at him:: Shut up. Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM

SD 0913.2020 So, things are not going exactly according to plan, but you know when has an Excalibur mission actually gone according to plan? 2006? Anyway, Rex is returning for the possibly crippled shuttle to see what's next while Team Irene continues their adventure. Also Maryse has continued to be the Good Doctor and has been treating one of the science expedition members who broke their leg digging a latrine. Questions?

MISSION BRIEF: On the planet, we have a new. situation. -- the shuttle's power supply is seemingly having the same problem as the science team's battery. Meanwhile, Irene and Indura are going on an adventure. Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain: @Rex>. ::On the shuttle, frowning:: Not great. Irene Mincine: # :: Irene catches up to the group of scientists going to the excavation. She's got a survival pack slung across her back, just in case. :: "Ready to go." Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Ens Reynolds> ::Banging away at the comms unit, very glad he had something to occupy him. Going into the caverns wasn't his idea of fun.:: William Chocox: @+Rex+ Were you able to get a message out? Indaura Ryssan: # Let's go then. Cptn Swain: @Rex> +Will+ Won't be able to tell, I've powered down most of the systems and put everything on standby. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Dr. Noel Harris> ::Waiting at the mouth of the cavern for the scientists, in a discussion with two others from her team. She glanced up as they arrived, eyebrows lifting.:: Ah, I see you come prepared. ::She tipped her head toward the mouth of the cavern.:: I hope you're both alright with being underground. William Chocox: @+Rex+ Understood. Cptn Swain: @Rex> +Will+ Anything else I should do? William Chocox: @+Rex+ Not that I can think of at the moment. This makes no sense to me. Irene Mincine: # "Underground's fine with me." :: She bounces the survival pack. :: "I don't want to get caught without water or survival rations underground, after all." :: Irene looks excited to see whatever it is the science team's gonna show them. :: Cptn Swain: @Rex>+Will+ Alright. I am heading back. Indaura Ryssan: # There's a lot of that on Denobula. Maryse Dubois: @ ::Walking around the camp.:: William Chocox: @+Rex+ We'll be looking for you. Cptn Swain: << afk a. second >> William Chocox: @::turns to Maryse:: This is not good, if the shuttle's down, we're not getting off this rock any time soon. I knew this was too easy. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Dr. Noel Harris> ::Leads the way into the cavern. It was spacious, with a huge domed ceiling arching above and a smattering of stalagmites and stalactites. Lighted markers flanked the path that led deeper into the system and sloped slightly downward. She glanced back as they walked.:: This initial cavern was discovered several years ago, but no one explored the inner system until recently. Cptn Swain: << Hey gang, I am not feeling great. Going to bow out. Have a good week! >> Indaura Ryssan: (My chat is not refreshing) William Chocox: ((You too! And yeah, I've had to refresh mine a bunch.)) Irene Mincine: # "I should have brought along a geologist." :: She follows Dr. Harris into the cave system and along the lighted path. :: "This is a pretty big antechamber. How deep does the inner system go?" :: She's shining the light around to get a good look at the rock formations, even if it's not her specialty. :: Indaura Ryssan: # :: Scanning and scanning :: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Dr. Noel Harris> Oh, the entire system isn't yet mapped, but what we explored so far has gone several hundred kilos down. We're going to one of the lowest levels today. ::At the rear of the cavern, they'd installed a lift that was little more than a platform and railing. Harris waved them on.:: Keep your limbs inside of the lift at all times. Indaura Ryssan: # :: Makes sure her hands are to her sides :: Irene Mincine: # :: Irene stands near the center of the lift. :: "Does this go all the way down?" :: She was just thinking about how it's a long way up if this rickety thing breaks down. :: Indaura Ryssan: # This would take a long time to descend. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Dr. Noel Harris> ::Activates the lift and they travel down, down, down.:: Yes, but the trip only takes a few minutes up or down. ::As the lift began to move, they were treated to views of other levels, other caverns and tunnels. Some were lit, others darkness, but it was clear that the system was vast.:: The first explorers had to descend with crude climbing equipment, then with anti-gravs. Thankfully, we've upgraded. Indaura Ryssan: # Have the teams found anything down here yet? Irene Mincine: # :: She watches the various caves go by... :: "Oh, yeah, definitely glad you've upgraded. What's the composition of the rock? Anything active or that screws up equipment down this far?" :: She's carefully maintaining her balance away from the edges of the lift. :: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Dr. Noel Harris> Yes, we've several geological samples and the microbes. ::She held her hands before her as they descended.:: Nothing from the surface can penetrate the lower levels. Whatever interference exists there doesn't have any impact on our equipment. Irene Mincine: # "That's good to hear." :: Irene loosens up a bit and looks up at the now quite far away cave ceiling. :: "I hope everything's going all right with the other team. I'd hate to go off on an expedition if we're in a critical situation they haven't told us about." William Chocox: @::while waiting for Rex, William continues fiddling with the battery stuff:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Dr. Noel Harris> Our planetary comms are working, so they'll be able to reach the ground team if they need. The comms work down here, as well. ::She gestured as the lift came to a halt. The cavern system beyond was nothing like those above. It was a crystalline structure with huge formations jutting out from the walls, ceiling, and floor. Most of the crystals were pale blue and purple.:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Ens Reynolds> ::Frustrated with his task, he muttered under his breath and leaned back, trying his comms.:: +Chocox+ Reynolds to Chocox. Any luck, Chief? Irene Mincine: # :: The abrupt change from rock to crystal definitely caught her attention and she whipped out her tricorder as soon as the lift stopped. :: "What the hell is all this? It's beautiful, but what _is_ it?" William Chocox: @+Reynolds+ I've got a shield emitter up to try to keep the radiation at bay. It should be cleared up soon over here. Hopefully that helps with the energy draining problems. How's it going on your end? Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Ens Reynolds> +Chocox+ Not good, sir. I've got an emitter going, as well, but the comms unit is completely dead. We need some way to recharge or replace it. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Dr. Noel Harris> ::She smiled smugly.:: Yes, it is quite striking, isn't it? We don't know how these were formed. We believe there was once an underground ocean here. This is where we found the microbes. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: (( Two minute warning. )) Irene Mincine: # :: Irene hrmed at Dr. Harris, looking over her tricorder readings. :: "Well, they could excrete minerals that form crystal lattices such as these given enough time, but on a microscopic scale, not systems like these..." :: Her head was going a million miles a second working out the problem, now. :: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: (( And... )) Indaura Ryssan: # :: Remaining rather silent as they continued on :: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: END SIM Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: END SIM Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: END SIM

SD 0906.2020 On the planet, we have a new situation. -- the shuttle's power supply is seemingly having the same problem as the science team's battery. Meanwhile, Irene and Indura are going on an adventure.

Cptn Swain: MISSION BRIEF: The "rescue" team has found the science team remarkably intact, but they do need some help! Will, Maryse and Rex are working at the man camp to help with a battery problem. Indura and Irene are working with the science team on samples while Reynolds makes repairs to their transmitter. Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM William Chocox: @Alright, Dr. Dubois, I would advise you to stand back a bit. I'm about to do percussive maintenance. Irene Mincine: :: Irene is examining the samples in the lab. :: "Do you have these reagents? I want to see how they react to this..." Cptn Swain: @Rex>. ::Making his way back to the shuttle:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Ens Reynolds> ::Tinkering in the comms shed, trying to calibrate one of the power units to emit a modified signal.:: Indaura Ryssan: :: Working with Irene :: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: ((::slaps them with a # ::)) William Chocox: @::starts banging on the emitter with a spanner:: Alright, let's see if this works again. ::attempts to turn it on, hoping to hear a hum:: Irene Mincine: # :: Receives a #. :: Cptn Swain: @Collan> ::Pops into the area where will is working:: Can I get you anything? Maryse Dubois: @ ::Standing back.:: William Chocox: @::hears a hum:: Nothing right now, I do believe the percussive maintenance worked this time. Cptn Swain: @Collan> ::Smirks:: tried that. William Chocox: @Hm? Cptn Swain: @Collan> I tried that. Oh... Doctor Ferris Collan, I am the team's engineer as such. Indaura Ryssan: (test) William Chocox: @ Lieutenant William Chocox, Chief Engineer of the Excalibur. I was more ecstatic about getting this emitter working. Hopefully it'll protect the batteries. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: # Dr. Noel Harris> ::Pops back into the lab to check on Irene and Indaura.:: So, have you found our specimens interesting? ::She brought a canister with her and inserted it into the containment field.:: Cptn Swain: @Collan> ::Nods:: Let me know if you need something. Irene Mincine: # :: Irene looks to the lab entrance when Dr. Harris enters. She looks like she's having a lot of fun. :: "Oh, yeah, I love these things. What's in the can?" Maryse Dubois: @ ::Checking on the patient.:: Cptn Swain: @Collan> I am not really an engineer. ::Smirks:: William Chocox: @Do you guys solely rely on batteries like this? And everyone's an engineer, it's just a question as to what they're an engineer of. Dr. Dubois is an engineer of the human body. And you've been doing a good job. Cptn Swain: @Collan> Well we'd planned on using solar but there's not enough getting through the atmosphere. William Chocox: @Hm...if we were able to get them bigger maybe... William Chocox: @Or more of them. William Chocox: @Wait, how windy is this area normally? Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: # Dr. Noel Harris> Another sample, it seems. They believe this one is a bit older than the others. ::She pressed the load sequence and the canister was sucked into the containment unit to be extracted. A moment later, another group of microbes appears on the screen, highly magnified to show an interesting spiky structure.:: Cptn Swain: @Collan> Pretty windy, what are you thinking? William Chocox: @Wind turbines. William Chocox: @We'd need to send a supply ship with them and people to put them together, but wind turbines would be great here. Indaura Ryssan: # :: listens :: Cptn Swain: @Collan> ::tips his head:: Not a bad thought. Irene Mincine: # "Now that's something..." :: She looks at the results on the screen. :: "Older than the rest? It's got a different anatomical form, certainly. I'm not sure how we get from these old ones to the new ones, though..." William Chocox: @Assuming there isn't something weird here that would affect it. Indaura Ryssan: # what brought you to this planet in the first place? Cptn Swain: @Collan> Worth looking into. Maryse Dubois: @ ::Walking back over to Will.:: The lead blanket on the patient seems to help with the setting bone. But the emitter would be even better. Any luck? William Chocox: @::points to where it's humming:: I'm fairly certain I got it to work. Maryse Dubois: @ Good. Any idea how long it will take to clear out the radiation from the area? William Chocox: @Uh...If you give me a moment. ::starts doing math frantically in his head:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: # Dr. Noel Harris> There has to be a linkage we haven't discovered yet. ::She wrinkled her nose as she set the scanners to extrapolate the data before throwing Indaura a glance.:: A good question! Thermal scans of the planet indicated buried structures, but they turned out to be geological formations. Our samples of the planet soil showed these interesting results, however. Irene Mincine: # "Do we know how old the formations are compared to the various samples?" :: She watches the scanners work. :: "That might help us figure out a linkage." :: Irene leans against a table, in thought. She loved this part of her job. :: William Chocox: @I honestly have no clue off the top of my head. Indaura Ryssan: # :: shakes her head, not understanding why they are even here :: Maryse Dubois: @ ::Smirks.:: I suppose soon enough. Cptn Swain: @Rex> ::Arriving at the shuttle, he started to open the comms but the shuttle power supply seemed to be running out:: Oh... lovely. William Chocox: @I try, but there's a reason I'm an engineer not a scientist. Cptn Swain: @Rex> +Will+ Rex to Chocox Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: # Dr. Noel Harris> The formations are much younger than the microbes, so we think they are unrelated. We're still in the process of investigating, however. ::She glanced at the two scientists.:: Would you like a tour of the cave systems or do you need to be returning to your group? William Chocox: @+Rex+ Chocox here. Indaura Ryssan: # that could be fruitful Cptn Swain: @Rex> +Will+ I think we have a problem. William Chocox: @+Rex+ I don't like problems. Irene Mincine: # :: Irene looks very excited. :: "I'd love to see the cave systems. We better tell Reynolds where we're going, though." Cptn Swain: @Rex>+Will+ Same, but it looks like the power systems for the shuttle are being effected by whatever is messing with the batteries. William Chocox: @::swears:: +Rex+ That is very bad. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: # Dr. Noel Harris> Very well. Just come down to the dig site when you're ready. Take the blue lit path and you'll find me. Cptn Swain: @Rex> +Will+ I am putting everything into stand by to conserve as much power as we can, but this shouldn't be happening. We have a M/AM unit. Irene Mincine: # :: Irene smiles wide. :: "Understood. Dr. Ryssan, go with Dr. Harris. I'll catch up." :: She bounces off to find Ensign Reynolds. :: Maryse Dubois: @ ::Listening.:: What if he used the ship's shields? Indaura Ryssan: # :: looks :: delightful, let's go Maryse Dubois: @ In the same manner that we are using the emitters to block the radiation. Cptn Swain: ...and... William Chocox: @+Rex+ I'm aware...We need to contact Starfleet as soon as possible, or they'll be sending someone else out here to find us...or write us off as lost. Cptn Swain: @Rex> +Will+ I am sending a message before powering down the array. Indaura Ryssan: # :: with doctor harris :: Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM

SD 0830.2020 The "rescue" team has found the science team remarkably intact, but they do need some help! Will, Maryse and Rex are working at the man camp to help with a battery problem. Indaura and Irene are working with the science team on samples while Reynolds makes repairs to their transmitter.

MISSION BRIEF: To everyone's surprise, because y'all don't trust me apparently, the Excalibur AT has found the science team in alive and well. Science nerds are helping out, while Medical tends to a wounded science team member and engineering attempts to help with some battery and latrine issues. Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM William Chocox: ((Why do you think it is that we don't trust you?)) Cptn Swain: (( I am extremely innocent. )) Maryse Dubois: @ ::Returns to the camp with her escort.:: We're back with the shield emitter and an extra power pack. Irene Mincine: # :: Irene's currently interested in the organisms that the science team has found. :: "That's some real interesting stuff there." Cptn Swain: @Rex> ::Drinking some of the coffee that the science nerds made him:: Maryse Dubois: @ Once we get this set up, we can shield the camp against the radiation. Cptn Swain: (( afk for a second )) Indaura Ryssan: (what group am I in again?) Irene Mincine: (( science nerds )) William Chocox: @::has popped out the battery to take a look at it and also take a look at the leads:: There has to be something easy to do. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: # Ens Reynolds> ::Having found his way into the comm shed, he started searching for the issues.:: +Chocox+ Reynolds to Chocox. Do you read? William Chocox: +Reynolds+ Chocox here. Indaura Ryssan: # Exactly what kind of organisms? :: turning on her infectious diseases hat :: William Chocox: ((::slaps an @ onto his last message::)) Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: # Dr. Noel Harris> ::Gestures for Irene and Indaura to join her in the mobile lab they'd erected on site. It was a temporary structure, but climate controlled.:: We have everything catalogued here, starting with our first find to the latest. We've already dated the first three samples. Irene Mincine: # :: Irene follows, entering into the lab structure. :: "Great work, doc. I've missed doing field work like this." :: She looked over the catalog information, taking notes. :: Indaura Ryssan: # How old are these samples? Cptn Swain: @Rex> ::Walks back out into main camp area.:: Maryse Dubois: @ ::Places the shield emitter and power pack next to Chocox.:: This should make things easier. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Ens Reynolds> +Chocox+ Sir, we're at the dig site and everyone seems to be alive and well. Their comms are down here, however. I'm reading some high levels of atmospheric radiation that's causing an issue with the feed. Are they having the same issue at your site? Cptn Swain: @Rwx> ::Finds Maryse and Chocox:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: # Dr. Noel Harris> Rough dating puts them at several million years old. We're not exactly certain what they are just yet. Microbes, of course, though we're uncertain of their function. Perhaps they were part of a larger ecosystem, but we haven't found any evidence of that just yet. ::She gestured to the terminal.:: Have a look if you want to see a close up view. None are showing signs of life, but we intend to put them through a battery of environmental tests to see how they react. We think they might simply be dormant. Cptn Swain: @Rex>. :siips his coffee:: William Chocox: +Reynolds+ I'm experiencing the same radiation, but it's interfering with power sources over here. William Chocox: ((Why are there two i's?!)) Indaura Ryssan: # :: Looks :: Let's hope they remain dormant. Cptn Swain: << 0:)>> Irene Mincine: # :: Irene looks at the terminal display. :: "Mmm. Looks like they metabolize compounds that haven't been present in the soil for a while, at least at this layer." :: She was fully engrossed in the scientific stuff, but looked to Indaura. :: "There's not usually any danger from samples like this, but I'd still want to be outside a containment field when you test them." Indaura Ryssan: # :: thinks :: Does anyone outside of this group know what you have found? I still don't know why we were called here. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: # Dr. Noel Harris> ::She smiled thinly.:: We're keeping *them* in containment for now. We aren't so foolish as to expose ourselves to bacterium from an alien planet where life hasn't existed for millions of years. For all we know, there may have been other life upon this planet that couldn't survive these microbes. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Ens Reynolds> ::Groans:: +Chocox+ Acknowledged. I thought they'd have some type of shielding, but their comms unit is almost completely unshielded. Do you think we have anything aboard the shuttle that we could configure? Indaura Ryssan: # :: Looks again, wondering if she's ever seen something like this before :: Irene Mincine: # :: Irene goes back to looking at the terminal's results. :: "I guess there was something wrong with the communications system at base camp. Everything seems fine here." William Chocox: @+Reynolds+ I'm not sure. I asked about wrapping the battery packs in lead but they don't have enough. I'm also not sure we have enough on the shuttle. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: # Dr. Noel Harris> ::She eyed Indaura.:: I don't know why you're here, either. We make our reports on time. I had no idea they weren't getting through. Perhaps you might be able to courier them for us. We're in need of supplies. Maryse Dubois: @ ::Coughs as she Inches the emitter a tad closer to Chocox.:: Cptn Swain: @Rex> ::drinks more coffee:: How's the patient Maryse? William Chocox: @::looks over:: Oh, thank you Dr. Dubois. +Reynolds+ Dr. Dubois has provided a shield emitter and a power pack for it, I'll see how that works over here. ::gets started setting it up:: Indaura Ryssan: # We will need to investigate this. Can you keep me in the loop on your findings of the microbes? Maryse Dubois: @ ::Looks to Rex.:: Doing well. The bone is set and they are resting with a lead blanket on them for now. But if we get this emitter running, we shouldn't have to worry. Irene Mincine: # :: Irene shrugs. :: "If you transmitted your reports from here, then they'd be at the base camp subspace transmitter. That's probably where the problem is, and I'm sure they're working on fixing it." Maryse Dubois: @ ::To Chocox.:: I've already scanned the radiation and have figured out a frequency. ::Hands him her tricorder with the numbers.:: Cptn Swain: @Rex> ::Nods::: Will, is the radiation enough to interfere with a transmission from the shuttle to Excalibur? Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: # Dr. Noel Harris> ::She shrugged.:: I don't know anything about communications. I just process the reports. If they'll go through, then good. If not, we need someone to get the message out to let them know what we need here. This weather has been wreaking havoc on our gear. William Chocox: @::takes it and looks at the numbers:: Oh, that is much appreciated. ::inputs the numbers:: Alright, let's see if this works. ::turns to Rex first:: It's possible sir. We're using similar communications, just Starfleet issue. Now, shall I? ::gestures to the emitter:: Irene Mincine: # "Yeah, we'll make sure the requests get out." :: Irene taps her combadge. :: +Base Camp+ "Mincine to base camp team." Cptn Swain: @Rex> ::Takes another drink of coffee:: Good. Doctor you're in command here. I am going to head back to the shuttle and check in. Cptn Swain: @Rex> +Irene+ Go ahead. Maryse Dubois: @ ::Nods:: Indaura Ryssan: # :: Still looking at the sample :: William Chocox: @::nods and presses the "On" button:: Irene Mincine: # +Rex+ "Can you check if you've got the science team's reports in your subspace relay? They're running low on supplies over here. If we can get their requests out for them they'd really appreciate it." Indaura Ryssan: # :: Getting a bad feeling :: Cptn Swain: @Rex>:: Making his way out of towards the main camp area:: +Irene+ I am headed to the shuttle to check in with Excalibur, I'll see what we can do. Assuming we can. get a message out ourselves. Irene Mincine: # +Rex+ "All right, thanks. Other than that, everything's fine here. How's things at base camp?" Indaura Ryssan: # I need to get a genome sequence of this microbe... :: gets out her tricorder :: Cptn Swain: @Rex>. +Irene+ The radiation is draining their batteries and the latrine is broken, Chocox is working to fix it. Cptn Swain: @Rex> +Irene+ But everything else is fine. Maryse Dubois: @ ::Checks back in with her patient as Chocox works on the emitter.:: If we can get the shield up, you won't need the lead blanket anymore. Irene Mincine: # +Rex+ "Well, uh, you have fun with that. We'll stay here with the science team. Sound good?" William Chocox: @Hm... ::presses the on button again while squeezing the power pack at the same time:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: # Dr. Noel Harris> ::She glanced at Indaura and her tricorder.:: Well, they're all in containment, so I'm not sure what sort of readings you're going to be getting with that. You can see the scans we took of it, however. ::She moved to one of the larger displays and pulled up one of the files.:: We haven't sequenced it yet, but the raw data is there if you want to feed it into your system. Cptn Swain: @Rex> +Irene+ ::Smirks:: Very well. Keep in touch. Irene Mincine: # +Rex+ "Will do. Mincine out." :: She goes back to Indaura and Dr. Harris. :: "Well, they're working on the communications system, so we'll keep you company here for a while." William Chocox: @Power shouldn't have drained that fast. ::checks on the status of the power pack:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: # Dr. Noel Harris> I don't mind, so long as you don't get in the way. I've got to get back out to the team and supervise. If you stay here, don't alter any of our settings. The samples are secure, but you can review the data if you like. Indaura Ryssan: # Sounds good. Maryse Dubois: @ ::Walks over.:: I just brought a fresh pack. William Chocox: @I'm not doubting you. ::checks the connection between the pack and the emitter, jiggling the wires a bit while pushing in:: I'm just going through the troubleshooting process. ::tries to turn it on again:: Irene Mincine: # "Wouldn't dream of messing with your equipment. Thanks for the info, Dr. Harris." :: Irene goes back to gawking at the samples. :: Indaura Ryssan: # Are you making anything of this Mincine? Irene Mincine: # "Well... it's ancient, but other than that I wouldn't know until they start running environmental scans. It looks like they have more important things to worry about at the moment though, like being short on reagents and other supplies." Cptn Swain: (( TWO MINUTE WARNING )) Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: # Dr. Noel Harris> ::Leaving them to their investigations, she walked back outside to the dig site where her people were still working to uncover more of the strange microorganisms.:: Indaura Ryssan: # :: Nods :: Yes. Something about this is off, but I'm no investigator. William Chocox: @This is the weirdest thing. It should not be happening like this. Irene Mincine: # :: Irene ponders for a moment. :: "Well, xenobiology and genetics is my field, but the equipment here is a bit limited until they get a supply shipment. What seems off about it to you?" Cptn Swain: ...and... Indaura Ryssan: # Nothing about the microbes yet, but the fact their comms are not getting through. Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM

SD 0823.2020 MISSION BRIEF: To everyone's surprise, because y'all don't trust me apparently, the Excalibur AT has found the science team in alive and well. Science nerds are helping out, while Medical tends to a wounded science team member and engineering attempts to help with some battery and latrine issues.

MIISSION BRIEF: Excalibur's away team has arrived on the cold, damp planet searching for a missing science team. Team Rex is headed to the base camp, while Team Irene is headed for the dig site. Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain: @Rex> ::Keeping an eye out for anything, though the fog was unpleasant:: Indaura Ryssan: # :: Looks around :: Wonder what they found at the dig site? William Chocox: @Hopefully they just over slept on their alarms to talk to us. Maryse Dubois: @ :;Walking with Rex and Will.:: Cptn Swain: @Rex> First time for everything Irene Mincine: # "Nothing dangerous, I hope." :: Irene was leading them on to the dig site. :: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Ens Reynolds> If we ever get there, maybe we'll find out. ::Shrinks down in his cool jacket.:: Does this fog ever end?! I can hear an echo of our footsteps. William Chocox: @I hope Reynolds isn't giving them too much trouble. And you've never overslept an alarm Commander? Cptn Swain: @Rex> Nope. I arrive exactly when I mean to --I am never late or early. Indaura Ryssan: # Oh like an ancient virus, or perhaps some entity locked up in a vessel for ages then suddenly released? Irene Mincine: # :: Irene looks at her tricorder and shakes her head. :: "No, the fog doesn't end. We are getting close to their dig, though." Irene Mincine: # "I really hope not..." William Chocox: @What about in relation to anybody else? Indaura Ryssan: # I will scan for contagions Cptn Swain: @Rex> ::Smirks:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Ens Reynolds> ::He shot Indaura a look.:: You can stop making up scenarios. I'm already freaked out! Cptn Swain: ACTION> Both teams arrive at their respective sites and..... *drum rolls* Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: (( Dinosaurs )) William Chocox: ((Sharks with fricken laser beams.)) Cptn Swain: ACTION> At the camp site, a group is standing around drinking coffee. At the dig site, it's a busy morning and team of science nerds are bopping about. Indaura Ryssan: # Hmm... seems busy. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Ens Reynolds> ::Stared, mouth agape.:: But... they aren't dead or anything! Maryse Dubois: @ They certainly don't look like they need rescued.. William Chocox: @This is too easy. Cptn Swain: @Rex> ::Clears his throat:: Irene Mincine: # :: Irene sighs and speaks loudly enough for the science nerds to hear. :: "You sound disappointed that that they aren't all dead, Reynolds." Indaura Ryssan: # Unless we are dead with them. Cptn Swain: @Rex> Hello? Cptn Swain: @ScienceNerd> ::Looks up:: Who are you? Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Ens Reynolds> I mean... we came all this way... William Chocox: @I'm Lieutenant William Chocox, this is Lieutenant Commander Lucius Rex, and that is Doctor Maryse Dubois. Cptn Swain: @Rex> ::Looks over to Will:: Cptn Swain: @SecurityNerds> ::Hmph quietly:: William Chocox: @We're from Starfleet checking in on you. Cptn Swain: @Farris> I see... I am Doctor Rey Farris. You must be bringing the supplies the chief asked for... Maryse Dubois: @ No... We were actually here to investigate your disappearance. Cptn Swain: @Farris> ::gives them both a look like they'd sprouted three heads:: William Chocox: @According to our records you haven't been heard from for...how long again was it Commander? ::turns to Rex:: Irene Mincine: # "And this is the best result." :: Irene gets the attention of the nearest science nerd. :: "I'm Ensign Irene Mincine, we're from the USS Excalibur. Where's the head of the dig team?" Cptn Swain: @Rex> Three weeks. William Chocox: @Three weeks. You haven't been heard from for three weeks. Indaura Ryssan: # :: Scanning :: Cptn Swain: @Farris> ::Confused:: Huh, well then... so you don't have our supplies? Maryse Dubois: @ ::Shakes head, holding out her tricorder.:: May I? William Chocox: @Unfortunately, no. Is everything ok? Indaura Ryssan: # :: Not seeing anything remarkable on her scans :: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: # Dr. Noel Harris> ::Sees the team approaching and stalks toward them.:: Hey! You can't be here! This is a closed dig site. Cptn Swain: @Farris> ::takes a drink of coffee:: Well we're running low on batteries. Unfortunately the atmosphere is too thick for solar powers and there's some low level radiation that is shortening the battery lives. Cptn Swain: @Farris> Also the latrine unit is busted. You're engineering or security? Irene Mincine: # :: She was unmoved, but her patience was running thin. :: "I'm sorry, but you've been out of contact with Starfleet for 3 weeks. We came to check up on the expedition." William Chocox: @Security, Engineering, and Medical. ::points at Rex, himself, and Maryse respectively:: Maryse Dubois: @ ::Begins scanning Farris and a couple of the other crew.:: Indaura Ryssan: # :: Expands her scans out further :: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: # Dr. Noel Harris> ::Blinks at Irene.:: Out of contact? What the devil are you talking about? We've been busy. And we're not prepared for an oversight meeting! That isn't for another four months, at least. We don't have results. Who are you? Cptn Swain: @Farris> Oh a doctor! One of our members broke a leg looking for a new latrine site. Maybe you can take a look at her? Cptn Swain: @Rex> ::Wiill:: And you get to fix their batteries AND the latrines. Maryse Dubois: @ ::Nods.:: I can. Indaura Ryssan: # :: Speaks up :: Has anything out of the ordinary happened here? Cptn Swain: @Farrs> Great, she's just over here. We set the bone as best we could, but the radiation seems to be interfering with the bone knitter. Irene Mincine: # "Ensign Irene Mincine, xenobiologist, of the USS Excalibur." :: She gestures for the rest of the team to introduce themselves. She looks unhappy to have been brought out here for nothing. :: "I'm not here to get results or oversight, we're here to check up on you. Are you too busy for your regular check-ins with Starbase 52?" William Chocox: @Always a glamorous day in Starfleet. Show me the problem. Maryse Dubois: @ ::Goes over to check out the patient.:: Indaura Ryssan: # Doctor Ryssan, counselor and infectious disease if needed. Cptn Swain: @Regiin> Riight this way.. Chocky, right? Maryse Dubois: @ ::Scans the crewman in question.:: There does seem to be a low level radiation. Maybe we could use some shielding. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: # Dr. Noel Harris> ::She shrugged.:: I couldn't tell you. Not my department. ::Tilts her head at the officers.:: Starfleet officers? Xenobiology and Infectious diseases... well, I'm not sure how either of those would help here. ::She stared at Reynolds.:: Cptn Swain: @Farris> ::Looks at Rex:: Coffee? Cptn Swain: @Wester> ::Nods to Maryse:: Possible. We have some lead blankets for xraying artifacts. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: # Ens Reynolds> Engineering, ma'am. Indaura Ryssan: # Is there a reason why the expedition did not contact the starbase? Maryse Dubois: @ That could help. :;Sets up a splint around the leg.:: This will help keep the bone in place. Try not to move this leg if you could. William Chocox: @Chocox. ::he follows Regiin:: Cptn Swain: @Patiient> ::looks at Maryse:: It's still pretty sore. Cptn Swain: @Reglin> Here's the battery setup. Like Doctor Ferris said, we can't get any solar recharge and these things last only a few hours instead of days. Irene Mincine: # "We brought one of everything because we didn't know what was happening down here. Another Excalibur team is at the base camp." :: She realizes she should check in with them and taps her combadge. :: "Dig site to base camp." Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: # Dr. Noel Harris> ::Eyebrow arch.:: Do I look like I'm in communications? You need to speak with Dr. Farris about that. I'm the lead on the site and am dealing with this right now. We've got SEVEN different ancient microbes to catalogue. William Chocox: ((Is it Reglin or Regiin?)) Cptn Swain: << lol >> Cptn Swain: << Please don't ask me to remember >> Cptn Swain: @Rex> +Irene+. Rex here... Maryse Dubois: @ ::Gets out a hypo, and begins making some adjustments.:: I can give you a little something, but not too much. A low enough dose will keep the radiation from reacting to it. :;Gives the shot.:: William Chocox: ((Because I'm seeing double ii's everywhere and now I'm getting suspicious.)) Indaura Ryssan: # Ancient microbes? William Chocox: @Let me see what I can do for you. ::squats down and starts looking over the pieces:: Irene Mincine: # +Rex+ "We've reached the dig site. Everything seems fine here. How's the base camp?" :: Seven ancient microbes got her attention, too. :: "Seven ancient microbes? From the surroundings, they're probably sulfur-based cyanobacteria..." :: And she was off in her own world of science. :: Cptn Swain: @Rex> +Irene+ Everything is good here. Go ahead and see if there's anythng you can help them with, we'll look into their transmitter as well. Maryse Dubois: @ ::Has a lead blanket brought to her, so she drapes it over the patient.:: Keep this on you for now. Cptn Swain: @Ferris> Might be a problem with the radiation frying a circuit or somoething. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: # Dr. Noel Harris> ::Blinks at Irene.:: That is exactly right. Most of them are, but we did find two nitrogen-based microorganisms that look quite promising. Maryse Dubois: @ ::Gets up and walks over towards Rex.:: We need to see about getting some shielding for them. This radiation is playing havoc. Maryse Dubois: @ Some low level emitters would work. Maybe we can get some from the ship? Irene Mincine: # +Rex+ "Gotcha, commander. Let us know when you need us." :: She whips out a padd and starts taking notes. :: "Interesting, tell me more..." :: She looks to the rest of her team, almost as an afterthought. :: "Um, Reynolds, check on their local transmitter equipment. Dr. Ryssan, can you give the scientists a once-over?" Cptn Swain: @Rex> ::Nods:: You and Gurry can head back then and bring whatever you need. Also maybe some extra power packs. William Chocox: @::starts scanning the circuitry to see what's going on:: Have you tried wrapping it in lead? Maryse Dubois: @ ::Nods as she drags along the Security. She starts heading back for the ship.:: Cptn Swain: @Reglin> We did, but we can't do that for all the batteries that power everythinig. William Chocox: @::frowns:: That's unfortunate. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Ens Reynolds> ::Frowns, but nods. He did bring his kit, after all.:: Uh... where is it? Indaura Ryssan: # Aye :: does so :: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: # Dr. Noel Harris> ::She frowned at Reynolds and pointed to a small comm hut at the edge of the site.:: Equipment is in there. Maryse Dubois: @ ::Arrives back at the ship. She begins looking for the right equipment.:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: # Dr. Noel Harris> If you want more, then come see the lab results. We've got the extracted samples in the site lab. Irene Mincine: # :: Irene calls out to Reynolds before he heads off. :: "Try transmitting to the Excalibur from there. Maybe there's some unexpected atmospheric junk we can't detect." Cptn Swain: TWO MINUTE WARNING William Chocox: @ Is it alright if I take one of these out? Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: # Ens Reynolds> ::Waves a hand in acknowledgement as he trudges off to the comms hut.:: Cptn Swain: @Regelin> Sure Maryse Dubois: @ ::Find the portable shield generation, handing it to Gurry. She then slings another medkit over her back, and picks up a power pack.:: Time to head back. Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIIM Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM

SD 0816.2020 Excalibur's away team has arrived on the cold, damp planet searching for a missing science team. Team Rex is headed to the base camp, while Team Irene is headed for the dig site.

MISSION BRIEF: The Away Team is approaching the planet and preparing to land. Once they land, Chief Rex has ordered them to split into two teams to search for the missing science group. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: BEGIN SIM Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: BEGIN SIM Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: BEGIN SIM Irene Mincine: :: Irene's at the runabout's science station. :: "I've identified a landing site. Sending coordinates to helm." William Chocox: ::sees them:: Thank you Mincine. Coming down soon. Indaura Ryssan: :: Sitting in her seat :: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Ens Reynolds> ::Trying to not look *too* nervous about this mission, though really he just wanted to hurl.:: As predicted, sensors are going wacky. Indaura Ryssan: Sooo, do we think Romulans are behind this? Irene Mincine: Irene> "It's gonna be rough. Lots of atmospheric turbulence." :: She answered Indaura without looking up from the sensor readings. :: "Is there any doubt?" Maryse Dubois: At the moment, I don't think so, but it's not out of the question. William Chocox: Just because the saying is "Beware Romulans bearing gifts." doesn't mean they're always out to get you. Irene Mincine: (( it's storming out, if I disappear it's because my Comcast died )) William Chocox: ((It's Coooooomcraptic!)) Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Ens Reynolds> I mean, it doesn't mean they're always NOT not out to get you. William Chocox: Keep your head on a swivel Reynolds, but don't be paranoid. Indaura Ryssan: Well, we need to keep our options open, but they do have a history William Chocox: Touching down soon. ::brings them down to the surface:: Cptn Swain: Rex> ::Walking along with his team, wearing a cool field jacket:: Irene Mincine: :: Irene shook her head, frustrated. :: "Even at this distance the sensors are still too scrambled to get any life signs on the surface." Cptn Swain: Rex> ::Enters the cockpit area, team in tow:: William Chocox: Hello Commander Rex. Cptn Swain: Rex> ::Thinking he looks real cool in the field jacket:: Still nothing on sensors? Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Ens Reynolds> ::Darkly.:: No, nothing on sensors. They're a mess. ::Throws Rex a glance.:: Cool field jacket. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Ens Reynolds> Do we all get one? William Chocox: Replicator's in the back. Cptn Swain: Rex>It's going to be cold down there, so I wouldn't advise against. Cptn Swain: Rex> Cold and damp. No wonder the Captain is sitting this on out. Irene Mincine: :: She looked a little annoyed at the field jacket conversation. :: "Field jackets? Trying to land a spaceship here, folks. Landing site's 400 kilometers ahead." William Chocox: Diplomatic functions notwithstanding? Cptn Swain: Rex> ::Smirks:: Cptn Swain: Rex> ::Takes his seat:: Begin landing procedures. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Ens Reynolds> ::He slips away from his station long enough to replicate himself a cool field jacket. He was swaggering a bit when he returned to his seat.:: Cptn Swain: (( Miranda will appreciate this, but I always forget how big this places "side salads" are lordy )) William Chocox: Beginning landing procedures. ::starts to bring them to the surface:: Indaura Ryssan: :: Is nervous :: Irene Mincine: "Hmph." :: When Reynolds re-appears with a field jacket. :: "All clear to the landing site, Commander. Gonna be bumpy as hell, though." Cptn Swain: ACTION> The Hengroen enters the planet's atmosphere, which is lovely and not at all thick and bumpy -- lol, j/k the turbulence alarm goes off as they head to the LZ. Indaura Ryssan: What is downnn there that was worororth this? Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: (( Heh. Soooo true. )) Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Ens Reynolds> ::Yelps! and holds on tightly to his chair, glad he'd sat down before they got into the landing zone.:: Irene Mincine: "...*really* bumpy." :: She says, almost falling out of her seat. :: "Structural integrity's holding. I hope you remembered your barf bags, though!" William Chocox: ::puts on pilot voice:: I'm going to need everyone to bring their seats to the full upright and locked position. You'll notice that the fasten seatbelt light is on. William Chocox: We will be arriving to our destination shortly. Cptn Swain: Rex> ::Holding his seat placid as a mountain lake:: Cptn Swain: ACTION> Despite the bumpy ride, Hengroen puts down safely somewhere between the encampment and their dig site. The LZ is a flat, treeless expanse covered in a dense fog and low shrubs. Indaura Ryssan: I sure hope so... what's the weather like? Indaura Ryssan: I only brought my summer dress. Cptn Swain: Rex> Cold and damp. William Chocox: We're here. Ladies and gentlemen, please be careful gathering your items from the overhead compartments, because after that flight, there's no way that items haven't shifted in flight. Irene Mincine: "I hate this planet already..." :: She disappears into the runabout's hold for a few minutes, then re-appears in a warm field jacket. :: William Chocox: ::gets up and goes and gets his own jacket:: Cptn Swain: Rex> ::Exiting the shuttle with the security team:: It could be worse. Indaura Ryssan: :: Peers out into the distance :: Cptn Swain: Rex> At least the atmosphere isn't too bad. Irene Mincine: :: She exits the shuttle, bundling up in her jacket. :: "I do not like the cold. I blame my Klingon mom." Cptn Swain: Rex> ::He scanned the immediate surroundings visually as well as with his tricorder:: Also from the science report, there aren't any mammals larger than small rodents. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Ens Reynolds> ::Warm in his jacket, he took his tricorder from his pocket and peeked outside, squinting. His nose wrinkled, but he stepped out and opened his device to start scanning.:: Their work site coordinates are loaded in already, along with their living quarters. Cptn Swain: Rex> Good. Irene, Indura, and Reynolds you head for the worksite with Golby and Terrance. The rest of us will head for the basecamp. Stay in touch. Indaura Ryssan: :: nods :: Indaura Ryssan: :: sides up alongside Irene :: Irene Mincine: :: Nods. :: "Understood. It's gonna be a pretty good hike." William Chocox: ((Do teams need to grab symbols?)) Cptn Swain: (( sure >> William Chocox: ((Grabs an @ to go with Rex.)) Cptn Swain: @Rex> ::Puts on his @ and begins walking towards the basecamp:: Indaura Ryssan: Have you been on many hikes Irene? William Chocox: Reynolds, don't do anything I wouldn't do. And listen to Doctor Ryssan. ::turns and walks with Rex:: Indaura Ryssan: Sure, listen to me. Indaura Ryssan: :: Starts her trek to the worksite, checking her scanner for good measure :: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Ens Reynolds> ::Snags one of the #s and groups up with his team, glad they had security going with them. He threw Chocox a glance.:: Sure thing, Chief. Cptn Swain: @Rex> ::Considers a pithy remark, but remains silent as they head on:: Indaura Ryssan: # It's just nice to get off the ship every once in a while. Irene Mincine: # Irene> "I did a lot of field studies before I was posted to the Excalibur, yeah." :: She sets the team off on a course to the worksite. :: "Lots of hiking into the middle of nowhere and setting up science equipment." Cptn Swain: @Rex> Hopefully ::he said as they started down a slope:: It's just a busted transmitter or something. William Chocox: @ That's something I could probably easily fix. Though if I've learned anything from my time here on the Excalibur, it's never that easy. Cptn Swain: @Rex> Maybe you just need more positive thinking. Cptn Swain: (( 2 minute warning )) William Chocox: @ I tried that when I first started here. Indaura Ryssan: # It's been a while for me. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Ens Reynolds> ::Already huffing and puffing before they even get far from the shuttle.:: Remind me why I signed up for Starfleet. Cptn Swain: (( the meals? )) Irene Mincine: # "We've barely gone half a kilometer, Reynolds. We've got a loooong ways to go. You all need to use the holodeck for exercise more." :: Irene, ever the athlete, was doing fine. :: Indaura Ryssan: # The composition in the air is making this more difficult than it should be. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: #Ens Reynolds> The composition of this mission is making this more difficult than it should be. I'm not a field officer. ::Though he did look very cool in that field jacket.:: Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM

SD 0809.2020 The Away Team is approaching the planet and preparing to land. Once they land, Chief Rex has ordered them to split into two teams to search for the missing science group.

MISSION BRIEF: A team from Excalibur has been selected to head up a check in/rescue mission of an archaeological team that has missed two check ins. As we pick up, the crew, aboard the Captain's yacht are about to cross the neutral zone, because there's always something isn't there. Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM William Chocox: ::William sits at the pilot console.:: Coming up on the Neutral Zone. Maryse Dubois: ::Sitting towards the back, reading a PADD.:: Irene Mincine: :: Irene's at one of the side consoles doing her best to scan for traces of cloaked ships with the yacht's sensors. :: "Here we go..." Cptn Swain: Rex> ::Sitting at one the consoles aboard the Hengeron -- since apparently people complained Llamrei was too hard to spell -- as hears Will.:: What a pleasant phrase. Indaura Ryssan: This is exciting Indaura Ryssan: I have never been to the Neutral Zone William Chocox: Is it? I try to avoid neutral zones usually. Too much trouble comes from being near them. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Ens Reynolds> ::Looking positively miserable at the engineering console, paying entirely too much attention to the sensor readings as though the force of his gaze alone could penetrate any cloaked ships.:: Irene Mincine: "Nothing good comes from the Neutral Zone. Especially if you have permission to be there..." Indaura Ryssan: We get to meet new people... Cptn Swain: Rex> See something sensible from Lt. Trouble and Ensign Maker. Must be a full-moon. William Chocox: I am always sensible. Just ask Reynolds. Cptn Swain: Rex> I looked over the information on this planet we're headed too -- does the ship often find itself sent to such lovely locals? Indaura Ryssan: :: Looking at some console display while sitting at her seat :: Irene Mincine: "I'm always serious when we're on mission, okay?" :: She's watching the sensor readings. :: "It's when we get time off that things go sour." William Chocox: Now, whether or not other people around me act sensibly as I'm going through life. That's a totally different story. Cptn Swain: Rex> ::Irene:: Where you being serious or not when you sold the Captain's silverwear. Maryse Dubois: ::Looks up from her read.:: I've seen better...but I've also seen much worse. Cptn Swain: Rex> ...Just for my records Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Ens Reynolds> Should I close my ears or something? I feel like some of this I shouldn't be hearing. Cptn Swain: Rex>::Snorts at Reynolds:: William Chocox: I trust you to have the discretion to know what parts of our conversations to share with our superiors Reynolds. Irene Mincine: :: Ahem. :: "I don't know what you're talking about." :: She looks at Ensign Reynolds. :: Indaura Ryssan: :: Was expecting more fanfare as they cross the Zone :: Cptn Swain: Rex> So... Tyran III. Cold, wet, "not particularly green." Irene Mincine: "Not a swamp this time?" Maryse Dubois: Yes, make sure you dress warmly. Cptn Swain: Rex> Heck of a place to vacation. "The main digsite is located near the planet's vast oceans along a sandy beach ---" OH a beach. William Chocox: And wear a coat. Cptn Swain: Rex>. "The strong upswells from the ocean currents cause a dense. cold fog to blanket the coast. Further in land is primarily desert.: Cptn Swain: Rex> Seriously. William Chocox: Sound like home. Irene Mincine: "Could be worse. I read over the mission report before we left but didn't have time to check out everything about the planet - we kinda left in a hurry. I'll grab some extra thermal blankets from the extreme-weather kit." Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Ens Reynolds> Any reasons why the sensors won't work to pick up lifesigns? We should be able to pick up their communications from orbit, as well. William Chocox: The fog could cause issues. Cptn Swain: Rex> Because there's always something, Ensign. Apparently the planet's atmosphere scatters Starfleet sensors. This of course includes transporters. Irene Mincine: "Romulan sensors, I'm sure, are unaffected, because that's how things work in the Neutral Zone. Yeah, sensors can't see much of anything on the surface." Cptn Swain: Rex> The last rescue mission I was on -- we had to wear those extra insulated EVA's because it was a Tholian transport ship. Indaura Ryssan: :: Listens to those around her :: Cptn Swain: Rex> So I guess this is an improvement. At least it appears the atmosphere is breathable. William Chocox: Tholian's huh? That sounds interesting. Irene Mincine: "I haven't worn one of those since zero-G training." Indaura Ryssan: I've not met a Tholian before. Cptn Swain: Rex> They're... different. Cptn Swain: Rex> Punctual though. Indaura Ryssan: Very hot from what I have read. Cptn Swain: Rex> ::Will:: How long till we reach the Tyran system? William Chocox: Should be in (insert appropriate time here) sir. Irene Mincine: "So what's our plan when we get there?" Cptn Swain: Rex> We'll set down a little bit out from their basecamp and divide into two teams. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Ens Reynolds> I get to be on whatever team has the most phasers. ::Muttering.:: William Chocox: I think everyone but the doctors will be armed Reynolds. Cptn Swain: Rex> Micine, Reynolds. Rysann and a Security detail will head to the main dig site. The rest of us will check out their basecamp. Hopefully it's just a borked transmitter. Maryse Dubois: Oh no. I'm definitely carrying a phaser. Indaura Ryssan: I won't be armed? William Chocox: I thought there was some kind of oath or something. Cptn Swain: Rex> If you want to be, Doctor. Cptn Swain: Rex> That's only in the old holovids, I think. Besides, a stun doesn't leave a mark. Irene Mincine: :: Looking to Chocox. "We're dealing with Romulans, sir. I'd carry a phaser rifle if they'd let me." Maryse Dubois: The oath doesn't mean we can't defend ourselves. Cptn Swain: ::Irene:: Don't be so hasty Ensign. We don't know if the Romulans are even involved. Cptn Swain: Rex>* Indaura Ryssan: Is stun harm? William Chocox: ::shrugs:: My parents were professors. Irene Mincine: "Of course. We don't know anything yet." :: She wasn't really getting worked up, it's just her natural disposition when Romulans are involved. :: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Ens Reynolds> No, we don't know anything yet. But still... that'd be my first guess. ::Huffs.:: Nothing on sensors, but that doesn't mean much. Cptn Swain: Rex> ::Smiles:: Well, then, I want everyone geared up by the time we arrive. Go ahead and get your lunch in -- and Ensign Mincine -- if you can put me together the cliff notes version of the science stuff, I'd appreciate it. I got as a far as "ancient civilization" and started feeling my eyelids get heavy. Cptn Swain: Rex> ::Stands up:: I'll be in the back briefing my goldshirts. Irene Mincine: :: Nods. :: "I'll condense 10,000 years of history into something even they can understand." Cptn Swain: Rex> Much obliged. Cptn Swain: ::Heads back into the "hold" of the yacht, where the Security goons had camped out.:: Maryse Dubois: ::Goes to get ready.:: William Chocox: ::grabs something from the replicator before sitting back down at the controls:: Don't want to depend on MRE's too much. Cptn Swain: ((Next away mission will be a survival training sim, where all you get is old ration chocolate from the first Cardassian War )) Irene Mincine: :: Whips out a PADD and starts writing up an Ancient Civilizations for Pakleds paper for the rest of the team. :: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Ens Reynolds> ::Considers eating, but still feels a bit sick and would probably hurl all over everyone.:: Cptn Swain: ((That will be an improvement from the Talon survival training sim where our new. XO was hunting us like the Predator and also the Flood showed up.)) Cptn Swain: (( Do either of you remember that )) Indaura Ryssan: ((Not I, before my time perhaps?)) Irene Mincine: (( lol )) William Chocox: ((Never did time on Talon. I was Excal then disappeared, came back for Firefly!Qob, and then when that ended I came back here. Different character though.)) Maryse Dubois: ((I never made it to Talon...but I heard stories.)) Cptn Swain: (( 2 minute warning )) William Chocox: ((::goes into hurry up offense::)) William Chocox: So, what's the skinny on this site? Cptn Swain: ...and... Irene Mincine: "Starfleet dig site, ancient civilizations, you know..." :: She's got two or three PADDs going now, furiously typing away. :: Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM

SD 0802.2020 A team from Excalibur has been selected to head up a check on/rescue mission of an archaeological team that has missed two check ins. As we pick up, the crew, aboard the Captain's yacht, are about to cross the neutral zone, because there's always something isn't there.

MISSION BRIEF: Excalibur is in orbit of Tolen IV where they have been hosting a diplomatic reception ahead of further diplomatic talks on the planet between the government and separatists -- however, William, Maryse, Irene Rex, and Indura have been pulled out of the reception suddenly for a briefing. Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM William Chocox: ::walks into the anteroom, wondering why they've been secreted out of the reception:: (m)I hope it wasn't about the canapés. Irene Mincine: :: Irene finds her way into the anteroom. :: "I didn't drink anything but water and mint tea, okay?" Cptn Swain: Rex>. ::Frowns:: What now Indaura Ryssan: :: Enters the room, thinking if it's not one thing it's another :: Maryse Dubois: ::Steps into the room as well.:: Boring party anyways. William Chocox: ::aside to Irene:: I only had synthetic alcohol. Cptn Swain: ::Asher entered, frowning deeply: William Chocox: Captain on deck? Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Cdr Jalen Stanton> ::Jalen followed the crew out of the reception as soon as he could break free, trailing after Swain. Like the Captain, his expression was pensive.:: Maryse Dubois: Are you questioning that he is the captain? Irene Mincine: :: Irene sees their expressions and starts to look unhappy herself. :: "Did we offend our guests?" William Chocox: More, questioning how formal this situation is. The dress whites are making it a bit incongruous. Maryse Dubois: ::Smirks:: Cptn Swain: ::Smiles slightly:: Sorry to pull you all away from the party. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Cdr Jalen Stanton> Yes, I'm sure you were all enjoying yourselves immensely. ::Dryly:: William Chocox: What's going on sir? Neither you nor Commander Stanton look like this is a good thing. Cptn Swain: A little over an hour ago we received a coded transmission from Starfleet. William Chocox: And whatever it was that hologram of Commander Admiran started it. William Chocox: Oh. Indaura Ryssan: :: Listens :: Cptn Swain: Earlier this week a Starfleet Science team missed their check in. It's now been. 72 hours. Irene Mincine: :: Oh. Irene seems relieved that it wasn't her fault. :: "About what, sir?" Cptn Swain: Starfleet is concerned that something has happened to them. Maryse Dubois: And I imagine you are telling us this is because we are the closest ship? Indaura Ryssan: What kind of science were the performing? Cptn Swain: Correct, but we can't leave with the diplomatic situation so delicate -- it was an archeological dig -- in the Neutral Zone. Irene Mincine: :: Irene looked intrigued. :: "Why were we... I suppose you can't tell us why they were there?" William Chocox: ::blinks:: Come again? Cptn Swain: My understand was we had permission from the Romulan government -- despite recent tensiions. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Cdr Jalen Stanton> But I'm sure we all know how fickle certain... agreements can be. ::He sighed.:: Indaura Ryssan: Any information on what they were digging up would be helpful. Maryse Dubois: I see. Do we have much information? Like was this a joint operation, or was just Startfleet present? Irene Mincine: "Do we have permission from them to go after our team?" Cptn Swain: ::Sips from a glass of synthale:: Just Starfleet. The Romulan government has offered to send a search team themselves, but ... Starfleet wants us to look into it. Cptn Swain: ::Looks at Jalen:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Cdr Jalen Stanton> ::He nodded slightly.:: The Romulans know that we're going to be there, though we do not yet know if they will send anyone to join us. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Cdr Jalen Stanton> Starfleet believes we should handle it ourselves, though there is something to be said for how a joint effort would look to the rest of the universe. Maryse Dubois: Oh someone will be there. Whether they reveal themselves will be the question. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Cdr Jalen Stanton> ::He pointed at Maryse.:: Exactly. In either case, we'll be watched. William Chocox: ::raises hand:: Are we going to have to take the Miranda-Class again? Maryse Dubois: ::Grimaces:: Cptn Swain: ::Snorts:: No. You'll be taking a shuttle, Irene Mincine: "How far of a trip is it?" Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Cdr Jalen Stanton> The Captain's yacht is nicely outfitted, I hear. ::Slight smirk in Swain's direction.:: Indaura Ryssan: How many of us are going>? Cptn Swain: It hasn't been taken on a proper shakedown, I suppose. Cptn Swain: Rex> Guess everyone but the Captain and... Commander? William Chocox: I imagine the... ::does a quick count of non-command staff:: five of us? Indaura Ryssan: Sounds like we need to arm up for this one. Irene Mincine: "Kind of an odd away team, isn't it?" :: She looks around the room. :: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Cdr Jalen Stanton> You'll be leading the team. ::With a nod to Rex.:: The Captain and I are needed here for the delegation meetings. ::He sighed.:: Chocox, take another engineer with you. If their ship and communications were damaged, you're going to need the additional help. William Chocox: I'll let Reynolds know. Cptn Swain: Rex> I'll make sure Talbot is up to speed on the planetary security protocols. When do we leave? Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Cdr Jalen Stanton> As soon as you're all prepared. I want you gone within the hour. You'll need to take at least a couple more security officers with you, as well. With luck, you won't need them, but better to be safe. William Chocox: How big is this shuttle? Cptn Swain: Rex> ::Nods:: And can we get any more information on what the team was doing ::looks to Irene:: Cptn Swain: The Yacht is more of a runabout isn't it. ::Grins:: William Chocox: (m)Still hot bunking. Irene Mincine: :: Shrugs. :: "Can't have an away team without a scientist." Cptn Swain: Commander Stanton will have everything we have transferred to the runabout. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Cdr Jalen Stanton> Not much of one, anyhow. ::Giving Irene a long look that clearly said 'stay out of trouble'.:: Cptn Swain: Well, if you'll excuse me. I don't want to keep our guests waiting. Good luck. Irene Mincine: :: Irene looks a little guilty. :: "I'll be down there right away." Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Cdr Jalen Stanton> ::Gives Swain another nod as he exits and turns to peer at the group.:: We don't know what you'll be facing out there, so prepare for the worst. Get what you need and get to the shuttle as soon as possible. William Chocox: Aye sir. Irene Mincine: "Yessir." :: She looked to the rest of the group. :: "Shall we?" William Chocox: Yes we shall. Anyone seen Reynolds around? Cptn Swain: Rex> So much for the diplomatic junket. Can we take some of the buffet with us in to go boxes? William Chocox: Isn't that a bit...gauche? Irene Mincine: "The replicators can make canapés, sir." Cptn Swain: Rex> ::Considers a joke:: Indaura Ryssan: Wish I knew the mental expectations of this mission. William Chocox: Don't die. Cptn Swain: Well -- everyone you've got an hour. Then I expect everyone to be in the launch bay. Maryse Dubois: ::Nods, leaving to go get ready.:: Irene Mincine: ::Changing out of our dress whites and grabbing our phasers.:: Maryse Dubois: ((I need to take off. Early morning awaits. night night)) Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: (( Night, Doc.)) William Chocox: ::walks out and heads for his quarters to get changed before going to Engineering to get his stuff:: +Reynolds+ Ensign Reynolds, this is Lieutenant Chocox, I need you ready for an away mission in one hour. Cptn Swain: << 3 minute warning >> Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Ens Reynolds> ::Turns an unhealthy shade of white at the message.:: +Chocox+ S-sir? W-hat? I've got diagnostics running... Indaura Ryssan: This will be great. I love living close to others. William Chocox: +Reynolds+ Those things run themselves. Have another ensign take over, we're going on an adventure! Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: (( Chocox loves to snuggle )) Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Ens Reynolds> Nooooooooo.... Cptn Swain: << Is that an artifact from Irene being in his brain for a while >> Cptn Swain: << Ithene* >> Irene Mincine: (( ! )) William Chocox: ((What a time.)) William Chocox: +Reynolds+ One hour Reynolds. Cptn Swain: << Maybe that's why Tandaris liked him so much... *cackles* >> Irene Mincine: :: Irene disappears off to her quarters to change back into a regular uniform. :: "Adventure time, adventure tiiiiiiime..." Cptn Swain: ...AND... Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Ens Reynolds> ::His life was over, surely. The universe hated him. He put his head on his desk, mumbling into his comm.:: +Chocox+ Aye, sir. Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM

SD 0705.2020 - No Sim (Independence Day) SD 0712.2020 - No Sim SD 0719.2020 - No Sim --- SD 0726.2020 Excalibur is in orbit of Tolen IV where they have been hosting a diplomatic reception ahead of further diplomatic talks on the planet between the government and separatists -- however, William, Maryse, Irene, Rex, and Indura have been pulled out of the reception suddenly for a briefing.

MISSION BRIEF: Excalibur has arrived in orbit of Tolen IV where they are to help mediate a settlement between the government and a group of individuals who wish to take the planet in a more independent direction. To engender ourselves to them and show we can be neutral, we have arranged for a diplomatic reception to be held aboard. As we left off, the dignitaries we were beginning to arrive. Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM Maryse Dubois: ::Wandering around the reception.:: Irene Mincine: :: Irene's in her finest dress whites at the reception. Surprisingly, she's behaving herself so far. :: Cptn Swain: ACTION> The music has shifted slightly to one of the Goldberg variations., and they've lowered the sound a little as more people have arrived -- mostly crew. However, the first round of delegates from the Government faction have arrived, including the Parak and his cadre of advisors. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Cdr Jalen Stanton> ::As security seemed to be well in hand, he was doing his best to relax while they waited for their guests.:: William Chocox: ::is looking snazzy in his own dress whites, still in conversation with Dr. Ryssan.:: Indaura Ryssan: :: Pressing down the front of her dress :: Irene Mincine: "Our guests are starting to arrive." :: She gestures to the door. She's standing with Chocox and Indaura. :: Cptn Swain: Joffies> ::Quiet and unassuming, the leader of the Toren government still managed to cast an impressive figure. He had greying hair that he kept pulled back in braid. Beside him were among his most senior aides, including Avard Chevis, and Senator Phregs -- head of the planetary defense council.:: Cptn Swain: ::Glances over to Stanton:: (w) Shall we? William Chocox: Oh good. They seem...severe. Indaura Ryssan: :: to Chocox :: I have been reading non-stop about the crew. I'd rather have read a Vulcan multi-volume tome. William Chocox: ::to Ryssan:: Why's that? Indaura Ryssan: I need to learn about the issues I may face, the issues you have faced. William Chocox: I'm fine. Irene Mincine: "Severe? We haven't even met them yet." :: Shrug. :: Cptn Swain: ::Does the Picard Uniform Straighten -- they teach it Command School -- and heads towards the delegation:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Cdr Jalen Stanton> ::Gives Swain a nod as he sees Parak Joffies arrive.:: Maryse Dubois: ::Slips a champagne off a passing tray.:: Indaura Ryssan: Oh sure, sure. Everyone is. William Chocox: Was that a hint of sarcasm doctor? Irene Mincine: "Can we talk about something else?" :: Irene's not looking very comfortable in this conversation. :: Cptn Swain: ::Clears his throat:: Parak Joffies, Welcome to the USS Excalibur. I hope you enjoy your evening, we've prepared a selection of Toren and Federation delicacies, my staff and crew are excited to meet you. This is my first officer Commander Jalen Stanton. Indaura Ryssan: :: Presses her finger tips to her chest :: Me? Sarcasm? William Chocox: I said that the seemed severe based on how our visiting dignitary holds himself. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Senator Phregs> ::The Senator was a large Tolen male with a fiery gaze as he studied Excalibur's makeshift reception hall and those gathered there. He offered Swain & Stanton a nod at the introduction.:: Indaura Ryssan: :: Gets a drink :: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Cdr Jalen Stanton> ::Nods to the delegation.:: Thank you for the honor of allowing us to play host for the beginning of your conference. Irene Mincine: :: Sips a cup of water she picked up from a table. :: "I see what you mean..." Cptn Swain: Joffies> ::Nods, tipping his head respectfully.:: Captain, Commander -- may I introduce my senior advisory group. This is Senator Phregs, head of the planetary security council as well as my chief of staff, Avard Chevis. Cptn Swain: Chevis> ::Taller than the Parak, but smaller than Phregs, Chevis was a young Tolen male with bright yellow eyes and soft purple hair twisted in a bun.:: Cptn Swain: ::Nods politely:: Cptn Swain: Joffies> Captain I would like to ask you a few questions about the security arrangements for the council -- perhaps we can speak alone? Cptn Swain: ::Does a sidelong glance to Stanton:: Of course Parak, Commander Stanton, why don't you introduce the Parak's staff to the rest of the senior staff? Cptn Swain: Rex> ::slides in from a side door, looking rather tired already and join the cadre of officers:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Cdr Jalen Stanton> Gladly. ::He gestures with a sweeping motion to the hall:: If you'd like to come with me, I can show you our refreshments, as well as introduce you to some of our crew. They are eager to meet with you. Irene Mincine: "At least we just have to stand around and look important, not actually do... diplomatic stuff." Cptn Swain: ::Swain and Joffies headed off in another direction, the look on Swain's face growing more sober as they did.:: William Chocox: ::sips at whatever alcohol substitute that they have available:: What's wrong with diplomatic stuff? And pretty much anything we do here is going to be diplomatic. Just like how everything is politics. Indaura Ryssan: :: to Chocox :: You know I have to see you sometime. Why not get it over with? Mental well-being for the crew is essential. Maryse Dubois: ::Walking up behind Irene.:: Careful what you day. I overheard Swain telling Stanton to introduce the entourage to us. Maryse Dubois: *say Irene Mincine: "I just remember my mom complaining endlessly about protocol and idiot-- oh, uh, ahem." :: She straightens up. :: "Thanks for the tip, doctor." Maryse Dubois: ::Smiles, sipping from her glass.:: William Chocox: ::to Ryssan:: I'm too busy with a job I'm barely qualified for. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Senator Phregs> ::Follows Stanton to the refreshment tables and selects a glass of some pale violet beverage for himself.:: Cptn Swain: Chevis> ::His eyes darted across the room, taking it in. He didn't see any Separatists yet which was a welcome relief. He also took a glass of pale violent beverage and followed along.:: William Chocox: ((Violent beverages already?)) Cptn Swain: (( lol mirrra ) Cptn Swain: Rex> ::to the officer group:: Those are government officials. The separatists haven't arrived yet. There's also some Ferengi on the guest list. Cptn Swain: Rex> ::Straightens as Stanton approaches with them:: Irene Mincine: :: Quietly... :: "Ferengi?" :: She stands up straighter and adjusts her uniform when the dignitaries approach. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Cdr Jalen Stanton> ::Spotting the knot of crewmen desperately trying to avoid notice, he gestured for them to join him.:: Senator, Avard, let me introduce you to some of our more senior staff members. Here is our Chief of Medical, Doctor Dubois, our Chief of Engineering, Lieutenant Chocox, and our Chief of Security, Lt. Commander Rex. Also in attendance is our ship's counselor, Doctor Ryssan and one of our science officers, Ensign Mincine. William Chocox: Pleasure to meet you Senator. Maryse Dubois: ::Nods in greeting.:: Senator. Cptn Swain: Chevis> ::Tips his head towards them respectfully:: How pleasant to meet you -- and Commander Rex -- I assume you will be handling security at the conference center? Indaura Ryssan: Greetings Irene Mincine: "Pleased to meet you, Senator." :: She knows how to present herself diplomatically, at least. :: Cptn Swain: Rex> ::Nods:: Pleased to meet you both. Yes, sir, I am in charge of the security arrangements. Cptn Swain: Chevis> ::A sharp edge to his voice that came seemingly from nowhere:: Good. I'd like to talk later if that's possible. ::Takes a drink of the violet liquid:: This is very good Commander. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Senator Phregs> ::Nodded to the officers, squinting slightly.:: And what do you all think of this conference? ::Blunt as ever.:: Cptn Swain: Rex> ::Hides his surprise behind a canapé::: Irene Mincine: :: Irene looks at Rex. She buys some time by sipping her water... :: Cptn Swain: Chevis> ::Smirks, slightly:: Maryse Dubois: Well... :;Speaks up since no one seems to want to.:: If it helps both sides understand each other more, and prevents any unwanted confrontation, isn't that worth something? William Chocox: And I think it's an excellent opportunity for everyone to feel heard. Cptn Swain: Chevis> ::Tips his head thoughtfully. Even the Federation's junior officers were practiced, apparently at the art of diplomatic response.:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Senator Phregs> ::Eyes Maryse.:: Is it? I sometimes wonder. ::He snorted.:: So what is your opinion on the decision placed before us? Do you believe a native world should be autonomous? Or a part of a bigger group? ::Yes, it was a trap.:: Cptn Swain: << 5 minute warning >> Irene Mincine: :: Irene looked quite relieved she didn't fall into that one. :: Maryse Dubois: They could be both. Remain true to yourself, while sharing your culture with others. You aren't the first planet to face this dilemma. William Chocox: Indeed. Each world should look at their situation and determine for themselves what the best course of action is. Cptn Swain: Chevis> Certainly -- though perhaps without the added stress of three neighboring hostile powers with greater military strength than ourselves. Indaura Ryssan: Many find the sum is greater than the parts. Cptn Swain: ...and... Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Cdr Jalen Stanton> ::A bit puckered by the senator's question, though he did relax as the crew offered their insightful (and relatively neutral) suggestions. He made a mental note to reward them in some fashion.:: William Chocox: Like I said Senator, each world should look at their situation. Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM

SD 0628.2020 Excalibur has arrived in orbit of Tolen IV where they are to help mediate a settlement between the government and a group of individuals who wish to take the planet in a more independent direction. To engender ourselves to them and show we can be neutral, we have arranged for a diplomatic reception to be held aboard. As we left off, the dignitaries we were beginning to arrive.

SD 0621.2020 Excalibur is arriving in orbit of Tolen IV, where we'll get our first good look at the planet. A reception has been planned for later this evening, with heightened security measures.

MISSION BRIEF: Excalibur is arriving in orbit of Tolen IV, where we'll get our first good look at the planet. A reception has been planned for later this evening, with heightened security measures. Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM Indaura Ryssan: :: Sitting in her office reading about Tolen society :: Cptn Swain: ::In his quarters, prepping for the dinner:: Irene Mincine: :: Irene's down in the reception hall, finishing up preparations... :: Maryse Dubois: ::In her quarters getting ready.:: Cptn Swain: Rex> ::Dying slowly as he goes over all the security precautions that were being put in place. All of this for some finger foods and wine.:: Cptn Swain: Rex> ::Waves over Mincine:: Irene Mincine: :: Irene puts down a fancy-looking folding chair and heads on over. :: "What's up?" William Chocox: ((Excal Senior staff meeting people in the reception area or when they arrive on the ship?)) Cptn Swain: ((Reception area )) Indaura Ryssan: :: Heading down to the reception hall :: William Chocox: ::William walks into the reception area, looking sharp for once in his dress whites. He'd also managed to get his hands fully clean.:: Indaura Ryssan: :: Arrives :: Indaura Ryssan: :: Looking for the food :: Cptn Swain: Rex> Thank you Ensign. I know you may not have had much of a choice in helping out but its appreciated. My people are pretty spread out. Maryse Dubois: ::Finishes getting ready, then heads for the reception.:: Cptn Swain: ACTION> The ships band shows up to start tuning. William Chocox: ((Or whatever the appropriately formal Starfleet uniform we have in this era of Starfleet is.)) Irene Mincine: :: She smiles in response. :: "Yeah, it wasn't quite as bad as I thought. Don't tell the commander, though. At least I'll get to eat all that cheese soon..." :: Her smile disappears when the band arrives. :: "They're really going all-out, aren't they?" Cptn Swain: (( Still the dress whites from the Movies )) Cptn Swain: Rex> ::smirks:: The Captain wants to make a good impression. Anyway, you should run along and get changed. Unless they have you on serving duty too? Indaura Ryssan: Hmmm. Hmmm. Oh... Mmmm. Irene Mincine: :: She shakes her head. :: "You think they trust me to smile for 3 hours straight?" :: She heads off to the door. :: William Chocox: ::William looks around at the reception area, speaking loudly enough for Irene to hear:: Wow, the people that worked on this space did a really good job! Cptn Swain: Rex> ::Snorts, notices Will:: Oh good. You're here. Cptn Swain: Rex> ::Waves Will over:: William Chocox: ::walks over, eyeing Rex with suspicion:: Irene Mincine: "Shaddap." :: She heads past Will and continues to her quarters. :: Indaura Ryssan: :: Wonders what these people are like :: Maryse Dubois: :;Eventually arrives, looking around the room. She was rather impressed.:: William Chocox: Yes commander? Cptn Swain: (( screen froze lol )) William Chocox: ((Same here.)) Cptn Swain: Rex> ::after tactfully dismissing a junior, turns to Will:: Glad you're here. ::Hands him a PADD:: For the conference on the planet, we're going to need several transport inhibitors set up. Don't ask me why, but the Tolen have insisted. My people are stretched thin enough with all the extra security we're being required to do -- and well, I wondered if you'd mind helping us out. William Chocox: ::takes the PADD and looks over it:: This is certainly something that we can do for you...but wouldn't this make it dangerous for those of us on the surface? I feel like if it gets too violent we may want to get out of dodge fast. Irene Mincine: :: Irene reappears in her dress whites. Like most people, she looks ridiculous in them. :: "Ready to make a good impression for once." Cptn Swain: Rex> ::Gives a tired nod:: I expressed the same concerns, but the Tolen government was insistent. They're worried that someone might try to beam an explosive into the compound or something. Indaura Ryssan: :: Looks at the various crew coming in :: William Chocox: ::Hums with a nod:: I mean, it makes sense. If I was going to attack a peace conference that's how I'd do it. Less likely for someone to mess it up. Maybe we can keep some shuttles handy. Cptn Swain: ::In his quarters futzing with his collar. He was only mildly concerned about being in a situation where at least half of the people involved are vocally opposed to Federation involvement with their world.:: Irene Mincine: :: Irene goes back to Rex. :: "Your science division representative has arrived. Don't ask me what Lt. K'hal is doing. What are we blowing up now? Isn't this a peace conference?" William Chocox: How are you holding up sir? You look like you're being run ragged. Cptn Swain: ACTION> The strings group begins playing a selection from Vivaldi's Four Seasons:: Cptn Swain: Rex> I've been better for sure, but nothing a long sonic tonight when this is all over won't fix. William Chocox: Alright, and don't be afraid to come to me to ask for more things from Engineering on this excursion. ::cocks ear:: Is this played at every swanky event? It's even used in holovids. Irene Mincine: "Tradition." :: Shrug. :: Cptn Swain: Rex> ::Smirks:: Probably. Cptn Swain: Rex> You know what they say. If it isn't Boroque... William Chocox: It's probably Romantic. ::turns to Mincine:: We're not blowing anything up, we're preventing that from happening. Irene Mincine: "Eh. I prefer Klingon opera either way." :: Irene folds her arms. :: "Are we expecting problems?" William Chocox: Well, you should probably ask the Captain about my nickname amongst the senior staff. Cptn Swain: ACTION> The galley staff, which has conscripted other enlisted officers into their ranks for the night, begin bringing out the food. One officer nearly trips and almost spills an entire plate of what appear to be some sort crab-like-finger food.:: Irene Mincine: :: Irene watches the disaster nearly unfold. :: "I am so glad I'm not doing that tonight..." Cptn Swain: Rex> ::Chuckles and starts to say something as his badge pings:: Oh good. The advance staff for the Parek just transported up. I should go check in with them. ::Straightens his dress whites:: See you all later, and thanks Will in advance. William Chocox: You're welcome Commander. ::turns back to Mincine:: Not a fan of canapes? Cptn Swain: ACTION> The musical group changes to an upbeat concerto by Bach in G Major. William Chocox: Also...I don't think we've ever had the chance to actually introduce ourselves outside of a staff meeting. William Chocox, Engineer. ::extends hand:: Cptn Swain: Rex> ::disappears into the background:: Irene Mincine: "See ya, commander." :: She chuckles. :: "Not when they're all over the floor. Oh, uh, Irene Mincine, life sciences." :: She returns the handshake. :: William Chocox: Pleasure to formally meet you. I almost went into Life Sciences back at the academy. Cptn Swain: (( Is chemistry a life science now?)) Irene Mincine: "But you went into engineering instead?" :: Hmm. :: "I went to college for genetics and xenobiology before I went to the academy, so it wouldn't have made much sense for me to do anything else." Irene Mincine: (( o-chem! )) William Chocox: Yep. Decided I liked taking things apart and putting them back together again. Cptn Swain: << two minute warning >> Irene Mincine: "Should've went into medicine. You can do that *and* life sciences." :: She grabs a cup of water from a spread on a table. :: William Chocox: Too much blood makes me squeamish. Indaura Ryssan: :: Went to stand near William and Irene :: William Chocox: Dr. Ryssan I presume. Indaura Ryssan: :: Extends her hand :: Yes, the ships counselor. William Chocox: ((I can't remember if Indaura and William have formally met in a medical or non staff meeting context. :P )) Indaura Ryssan: (( not sure_ Irene Mincine: "Ah. I understand the blood thing. It never bothered me, but it bothered some of my Academy friends." :: She gets a bit hesitant with Indaura there. :: "Doctor..." William Chocox: ::takes it:: Ah...I think there was a message regarding the ship's counselor in my inbox one time. William Chocox, Engineer. Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM

06.07.20 - No Sim ----- 06.14.20 MISSION BRIEF: Excalibur has been dispatched to Tolen IV where they are to negotiate a settlement between the government and dissident forces who wish to take a more independent path for their mineral rich planet. TBS is 4 days and we're still en route. Though preparations are beginning for reception to be held once we arrive. Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM Cptn Swain: BEGIN SIM William Chocox: ::William has decided that he'll take the Engineering bridge station today as a slight change of pace while they continue on towards Telon IV:: Cptn Swain: Rex> ::Had been put in charge of security for the upcoming reception in addition to security for the eventual negotiations on the planet.:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Cdr Jalen Stanton> ::Seated on the bridge, he scrolled through Rex's security plans for the reception they'd be hosting, reviewing all of the requested needs and wants from the two main delegations.:: Irene Mincine: :: Irene was at Science II as usual, and Val was at the helm. Irene was going over sensor data. :: Indaura Ryssan: (chat not working) Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: (refresh?) William Chocox: (m)The view really is a lot different around here. ::William keeps looking over diagnostics and maintenance requests. Dispatching teams as needed:: Cptn Swain: ::On the bridge, he glanced over to will then to Irene:: I thought you were supposed to be helping the galley crew setup the reception. William Chocox: ::William looks up:: I was not made aware of that sir. Cptn Swain: (( that was to Irene )) William Chocox: ((I figured, but I thought it would be funny to respond.)) Cptn Swain: ::Lifts brow:: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Cdr Jalen Stanton> ::He couldn't help but chuckle, imagining what an engineer would do with catering services.:: Not you, Chocox. They don't need any gadgets that fling food across the room. William Chocox: Hm? William Chocox: Ooh, there's an idea. William Chocox: ::William starts jotting down some preliminary plans:: Cptn Swain: Don't get any ideas. Irene Mincine: :: Irene looks up. :: "The chief of protocol claimed not to need the help of someone with no experience in the field of receptions, sir." Irene Mincine: "I'm taking... a little break. Then I'll head back down there." Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Cdr Jalen Stanton> I'm sure they're going to need you for the cleanup, Mincini. ::A foretelling? Or a promise?:: William Chocox: (m) I'm never allowed to have any fun. Cptn Swain: ::Lifts a brow and shakes his head:: Why does every diplomatic mission always start with some godawful reception anyway. William Chocox: To justify the dress whites? Cptn Swain: I do look good in those. William Chocox: Doesn't everyone? Assuming they're properly pressed and such. Irene Mincine: "You're the only one in the fleet who does, then, sir." :: Irene sighs. :: "Cleaning up. Aye, commander. I'll head back down and check on how they're doing." :: She departs for the turbolift. :: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Cdr Jalen Stanton> They're supposed to help break the ice, sir. A pity they're always so stiff and awkward. William Chocox: Probably stiff because of the aforementioned dress whites sir. Cptn Swain: They aren't always. Once, when I was an ell-tee on the Pei Xui, we met an alien species called the Mobak. Cptn Swain: We hosted them for a negotiation during their Third Moon Festival. Cptn Swain: ::Smirks:: It was... well.. something. Indaura Ryssan: :: In her office, wondering if anything works :: William Chocox: I'm not going to look it up sir. Irene Mincine: Val> "I am so lucky pilots didn't have to go to any of those things on the Dunkirk..." Indaura Ryssan: :: walks into sickbay to see what's going on :: Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: ( You are so lucky you got out of your chair, Indaura. It was about to malfunction. ) Irene Mincine: :: Irene showed back up down at the ship's main reception hall. :: "I've been banished down here again. Anything I can help with?" Cptn Swain: Rex> ::glances over to Irene:: Oh, why don't you help us setup these extra scanners. Cptn Swain: Rex> More exciting that setting up tables. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Cdr Jalen Stanton> Was there a copious amount of alcohol involved? ::Glancing at Swain.:: Cptn Swain: ::Smirks, impishly:: Yes. And something they called moon sugar. Irene Mincine: Irene> :: Picks up one of the hefty scanner units that's sitting in the corner and looks around for a good place to set it up. :: "All right. What are we scanning for? Cptn Swain: Rex> They're supposed to look the decor but scan for weapons and contraband. Cptn Swain: Rex> ::shrugs:: New model. Irene Mincine: :: Irene laughed, then lugged the thing over to near one of the doors. :: "Decor? It looks like a cross between an air purifier and a giant battery." Indaura Ryssan: :: Reading the latest medical issues of the ship :: Cptn Swain: Rex> Right? Cptn Swain: Rex> But I guess non-Federation folks wouldn't know that. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Cdr Jalen Stanton> ::Will *definitely* be looking up that reference later.:: Oh, I can imagine. Irene Mincine: "I guess." :: Irene was satisfied with this one, so she grabbed another scanner unit and placed it by the other door. :: "Well, maybe we can hide them behind a potted plant... or something..." William Chocox: Just how hung over did you get sir? Cptn Swain: That's a state secret. ::Smirks:: Cptn Swain: So, did you have a look at the spread the galley is putting on Commander? Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Cdr Jalen Stanton> I reviewed the menu, but have yet to sample the fare. It seemed decent. No telling what our friends are going to enjoy, however. Catering researched native delicacies and are trying to recreate some of them with a Federation flare. Irene Mincine: Val> "They're going to burn them and serve root beer?" Cptn Swain: :snorts:: Just make sure they have those little croquette things. The ones from Betazed. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Cdr Jalen Stanton> ::He snorted at Val.:: Let's hope not. Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Cdr Jalen Stanton> I'll send them a note, sir. Any other requests? ::He glanced to the others on the bridge.:: Irene Mincine: :: Irene lugs another scanner around the reception hall. :: "That's all the scanner units..." Cptn Swain: Rex> ::Irene:: So how is the punishment detail coming? William Chocox: I'm good with the menu as it stands Commander. Irene Mincine: :: Irene shakes her head. :: "I should have stuck with celebrating my ascension with holographic Klingons and synthohol." Cptn Swain: Rex> ::Snorts:: Probably not a bad idea. I heard they had you scrubbing the holodeck. Irene Mincine: Irene> "Yeah. Tomorrow I'm going to have to holystone the poop deck." Cptn Swain: (( 2 minute warning )) Cptn Swain: Rex> You know, ancient earth maritime tradition was to keelhaul people. Indaura Ryssan: :: Is hungry :: Irene Mincine: Irene> "Yeah, like, murderers and stuff, right?" Cdr Miranda Hawthorne: Cdr Jalen Stanton> ::Sends a final note to the caterer's with Swain's special request, which was (unknowingly) met with grumbles and eye rolls.:: Cptn Swain: ...and... Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM Cptn Swain: PAUSE SIM