Expansion Fleet - Avalon Archive

Captain, whatever there is ahead of us, I think we still should be careful since we can't be sure what we don't see. What are our further orders?

He handed Göransson a PADD.

'They were just about to approach this 'moon', when suddenly some kind of interferences caused the communication to break off. Since then we were only able to receive highly interfered messages.

Our sensors registrated a ship de-cloaking at the position of the 'moon'. As it had its weapons online, I ordered yellow alert. I tried to contact the away team to warn them of the strong aggressions I was sensing, but we are not sure if they were able to receive it. The shuttle seems to be returning to the ship very slowly, but, we can only speculate what else is going on there at the moment. From what I've been sensing I can only say that there has indeed been communication contact between the shuttle and the other ship.'

      ][ Commander Dereth for the USS Skytoucher ][

"We see that you haven't departed yet, we ensure you we will take actions if you do not leave. We know the intentions of Starfleet or that pitty Federation and that's why we want you out of here....the will of the elders sais so.."

              ][ Commander Dereth out ][

'Of course, Commander, leave whenever you wish.'

Stiegler turned to Skon.

'Good idea, Lieutenant. I will try to find out more about the way those lifeforms talk to each other. Maybe we will find a way to contact them, so we can explain our intentions to them.'

Please, Captain...the telepathic aliens are still aboard that ship...don't destroy them...I believe Thom...the Counselor...can locate them...They warned us...

(Edited by Skon at 1:26 am on May 30, 2003)

(Edited by Skon at 1:40 am on May 30, 2003)

"We are ready to be beamed over, and thank you for saving us."

=^= Hedford out =^=

Hm.... This is more and more starting to look like a trap to me... Can u launch a class 1 probe into the worm hole? Then take us closer to that moon from where the signal came from. I want to settle all this as soon as we can...

I say "true capabilities" because I'm not certain that anything we're seeing is "real." Consider: When Dereth fist contacted Lt. Vartin and myself aboard the Fermi, he appeared as a human. Now we see a human and a Vulcan, but only after I responded to his hail with a visual transmission, and provided him with the image of a Vulcan for reference. Since Counselor Stiegler has already established that these beings employ mental energy in their technology, it is possible that we are being deceived. Of course, I cannot be certain, but there is a possibility that there is no ship out there -- or that the ship may be vastly different than we perceive. It is also quite possible that the Rivendell hasn't disappeared at all, but is sitting 1,000 km off our port stern, exactly where she should be...

Agreed Lieutenant. You have permission to start as soon as you are ready.

'Captain, please don't fire back! Thanks to Lieutenant Skon's mind-melt I could finally establish contact to the lifeform that was in my body. After Skon had helped me out of my mental blockade the lifeform was able to read Skon's and my whole psyches, so now they know everything about us and our mission that Skon and I know. The lifeforms understand our intentions and are willing to help us against the NSC, but to do so they will need more energy. We must keep the modified deflector beam activated so that they get as much energy from us as possible. If they get strong enough, they will be able to escape from the NSC ship to return to the planet. Having lost their energy resource the NSC won't be a threat for us any longer and even the Rivendell should get out of the telepathic prison.'

Helm, set course to 113 mark 8. We need to pick up as many survivors as we can.

Engineering, prepare all transporters to evacuate survivors as soon as we are in range.  We don't have time to dock the escape pods, because we have no idea when the attacking aliens may return.

=A=Skytoucher to Rivendell=A=

We are preparing to beam you aboard. Stand by.

=A= Skytoucher Out. =A=

(Edited by Skon at 5:38 pm on Mar. 22, 2003)

I want that class 1 probe launched towards that hole ASAP!

Reducing speed by one third. Adjusting heading...

*fifteen minutes later*

Lt., we are now half a kilometer from the moon and the haven't shot us yet. Do you want to get closer? The gravitational well I read on the nav sensors is equivalent to a medium sized ship, equivalent to an intrepid class.

It may be, but I wont take any chances...

*Dont bother to stand up, talking with a higher voice to Derath*

The will of your elders...? You have not got the will of OUR elders. To search out life, and we found it. Second, we have lost a ship, and we will not leave untill we find it again. And, if you destroy this ship as well, don´t you think that star fleet will send more ships? Better, stronger and faster ships then even the Rivendell. We are not intrested in war, but you shall be informed that we do not hezitate if we must go to a war.

Whimp? Whimp!? You shall see that it is YOU who underestimates us! That beam was not even intended for you! I swear, if you fire so much as a prope on this ship again, I WILL blow you to dust...

*He ordered the comm channel silent and ordered the weapons to get ready*

(Edited by Skon at 5:37 pm on Mar. 22, 2003)

Lt., if these aliens are using an unknown type of electro-telepathic technology, the object ahead may not be a moon or a hologram, but a mental image placed directly into our minds. Since we cannot be certain what is "real" and what isn't, you should proceed with caution.

* Skon turns back to the sensors *

By the way, Lt., I do not mean to be rude, but I do not think it would be proper for me to refer to you as "Jean," especially while we are on duty. Vulcans tend to be more -- reserved -- about such matters than humans. However, when we get back to the ship, I would be delighted to provide you with a full set of v'tpar schematics from the historial archives of the Vulcan Science Academy. I would be interesting in seeing what sort of holodeck program you could devise.

Oh... so... much pain... no... more energy... too strong... need... help... peace...

Captain, they're dying! The NSC seems to misuse those lifeforms' mental abilities and life energy against their own will. I believe, they forced them to create that illusion of the 'moon' and to make us believe that the Rivendell had disappeared. As Lt. Skon said, maybe the Rivendell is still where she was when we last saw her...

Captain, these lifeforms don't just have some telepatic abilities... they seem to have overwhelming telepatic and telecinetic powers! But their life signals are getting weaker and weaker. They are a peaceful species, we must stop Dereth misusing them and their powers!

(Edited by Thomas Stiegler at 10:11 pm on April 23, 2003)

*Skon transmits the message*

(OFF: Posting the message in the Rivendell forum)

"Sir, sheilds holding, 90%... Return fire?"

John laughed inside as the nsc captain called them a whimp. He had no idea, the kinds of weaponry John could - and would - deliver.

When the captain ordered weapons ready John did nothing, he had allready prepared the ships weaponry and waited now, only for the order to fire.

I suggest using sensors on arriving to scan the surroundings to be aware of any asteroid belts in the uncharted sector. To comply and get the necessary information to the ship's computer I'll need the assistance of our Science Officer.

(Edited by Jace at 7:26 pm on Mar. 22, 2003)

(Edited by Jace at 7:27 pm on Mar. 22, 2003)

This is Lt. Skon of the USS Skytoucher. We intended no intrusion. We are on a peaceful mission of exploration. Perhaps if we could talk, we might find that contact between our two ships could be mutually beneficial.

=A= Skon out =A=

Fascinating. Counselor, I believe you have discovered a crucial piece of data. I concur. The NSC must be stopped from exploiting this species.

Captain, the computer has finished running an analysis of the data Lt. Vartin and I collected. Starfleet records contain no mention of an organization called the NSC or any ship matching this configuration. I am feeding the data to Commander Rasmain for tactical analysis.

Also, I was wondering, Counselor, if you are detecting any mental impressions from the area in space where the Rivendell should be. If she is really sitting out there, I might be able to focus a very narrow tachyon beam to punch through the "mental" interference and attempt to communicate with her.

*Skon leans over his computer and begins the calculations. While the computer runs, he looks up and raises an eyebrow *

Counselor, given your impressions of the telepathic lifeforms, do you believe it would be possible for us to establish contact with them? Or, perhaps, to calibrate our sensors to detect them? If so, Commander Rasmain might be able to figure out a way to punch through the NSC ship's shields and we could beam them safely away -- and deprive Dereth of his primary source of power...

Computer, reroute auxiliary power to the main deflector.

(Edited by Skon at 11:28 pm on May 17, 2003)

John hoped the Captain wasn't one of those double guessers.

we have just warped into the targeted system.
Engines power set to minimum.
Awaiting further orders.

I believe our escort is somewhere near too but still recommend waiting for them.

...xper...cing...ference....ill...not...ovoke....empting contact....

=A= ......out =A=

=A=Skytoucher to NSC commander=A=

We have found out about your little secret with the telepathic lifeforms. I demand that you stop all illusions and start to tell us some truth here.

Lt. Skon should continue with his plan of a narrow tachyon beam to break through the mental interferences. As I said, I cannot exactly identify, if it is just an illusion or not, but maybe we just have to make the Rivendell's crew realize that they are only caught in a telepatic illusion to release them. At least we must try to communicate with them...

Lt Trustin stepped out onto the bridge, It wasn't his first posting but it would be an interesting one. As he steped out an interesting scene met him. A security officer was holding a phaser at a man standing int he center of the bridge... possibly a counselor as he was wearing blue.

John, not one to miss anything drew his own phaser, making sure it was set to stun and stood there waiting, hoping someone would let him know what was going on.

After a bit he changed his mind, still holding his phaser on the man in the center of the bridge he spoke up.

"Lt Trustin, tactical officer, reporting for duty..."

'Captain, I must make a protest! We have the chance to release the Rivendell and to free these lifeforms from their captivity. All we have to do is to send them some more of our energy so that they can become strong enough to return to their home planet.'

The Counselor turned his head to Skon.

'I'm sure Lieutenant Skon will confirm that it's possible to keep our modified deflector beam online for a few minutes. Sir, with all due respect, perhaps the Skytoucher will take some damage, but I believe saving the lifes of hundreds of innocent lifeforms is worth this risk. Or do you think just fighting the NSC ship will help the Rivendell to get out of their prison?'

(Edited by Thomas Stiegler at 1:55 pm on June 1, 2003)

Travelling at full speed. Approximate arrival time 24 hours from now. All navigation systems working.

Captain, I was reviewing the nav sensor log and five milliseconds before the wormhole appeared there was some kind of narrow subspace distorting beam comming from somewere near the planet and lasted for about a dozen microseconds... One of the moons perhaps.

The sensors were a bit disturbed by the opening of the wormhole, but I don't think that this is a false reading...

"Sir, if we are to shoot the time is now... Either way it dosn't matter."

(Edited by Skon at 3:45 pm on July 6, 2003)

"All tactical and security systems are working at normal"

(Edited by Skon at 11:32 pm on April 16, 2003)

(Edited by Skon at 11:37 pm on April 16, 2003)

*Receives the data from Lt Skon*

"This data is interesting..."

Counselor, if we dont fire it wont be any ship left to defend the life firms with.

Weapon panel, be ready, continue with that beacon as before, point weapons at the USC ship. Now , now, now.

"Sorry capatain, the door of the weaponslocker was blocked."

*Walkes over to the Tactical/Security station*

"Mr Trustin your shift is over, go and get some sleep or stay on the bridge if you prefer that "

*Checks the scanners*

"Captain, all escapepods reached the homeworld of the NSC and the NSC-ship is totally wrecked. No hostile movement in the vicinity. Though I am picking up some strange readings, it may be the other aliens we tried to rescue. Mr Skon are your sensor also reading this?"

"What did you mean with violating your space, we are not the poppets of the "mighty" Federation anymore WE the NSC have our own part of space...Leave us ALONE!"

*With those last words the transmission ended and two warning shots were fired upon the USS Skytoucher from the NSC Starship*

Moved here

Captain, while Mr. Vartin is piloting us to the cloaked moon, I reviewed some of the scans we received from the Skytoucher to gather additional data. The rift we encountered seems to be similar -- but not identical -- to the "gate" that USS Voyager scanned when she first encountered Species 8472, but I can't be certain without full access to the ship's computers.

I am transmitting my data and the -- approximate -- position of the cloaked moon for your analysis. It might also be helpful if Commander Stiegler could let us know of any mental impressions he senses in the space in front of us.

=A= Away team out =A=

"we are recalibrating our sensors and will assist you in anyway we can"

=^= Rivendell Out =^=

we should precide with cation
----------------------------------
counceler jeff
uss.skytoucher
counceler

(Edited by Jeff at 2:53 pm on July 18, 2003)

OFF: Lets go to Mission Planning, but first, I would like to say two things, It still says 'Thomas Goransson' On the 'Moderated By:' thing. And I need access In mission planning. Thats all.

*Raises an eyebrow*

It seems almost as if portions of the Rivendell's hull are "winking" in and out of existance. It is most illogical.

*Skon turns back to the computer to run a search. He talks while waiting for the results.*

As for sailing, Vulcan is an extremely dry planet, so my ancestors never developed water craft. We did, however, in ancient times, develop a vessel called a v'tpar, which had skids and a sail and was used to navigate across packed desert sand. But it was -- logically -- abandoned after more efficient means of transportation were discovered.

*Skon looks at the computer readout.*

This is most curious. I need to contact the Skytoucher.

(Edited by Skon at 11:05 pm on April 10, 2003)

AAARGH... SO MUCH... PAAAIN.'

Screaming out loudly the counselor fell down to floor. When he raised his head again, his eyes were glowing as if they were two suns. The counselor stood up. His eyes were still glowing, but their colour changed to green-blue, when he started to talk. His voice sounded dark and loudly.

'T H E   F I R S T   O N E .   W H O   I S   T H E   F I R S T   O N E   O F   Y O U R   L I G H T ?'

(Edited by Thomas Stiegler at 12:24 pm on May 17, 2003)

I believe that I can increase the power to the deflector beam and feed the telepathic aliens even more energy. In the meantime, I request that we fire only minimally to avoid harming them. Perhaps Mr. Vartin can engage in some "seat-of-the-pants" flying to keep us out of harm's way.

*Skon turns to his station and begins working on a way to increase the beam's force.*

(Edited by Tomas Goransson at 7:27 pm on June 29, 2003)

   Even Sel's symbiont, living in Sel's internal body pouch, stopped its constant movement for a few seconds out of respect for the new Captain.  It started moving normally again after this brief pause.  Sel's stance told the new Captain that she was ready to serve StarFleet in any way she could.  

(( OFF: Sel looks just like Jadzia Dax.))

OFF: I will close this topic now since this mission is completed, and open a new topic where you can continue your posting and conversations

"Captain watch out....he's not himself anymore"

Repairs are finished engines are back online

NSC Lieutenant: "Commander, there is something happening to the slaves...the are getting stronger by the minute. I suggest we use the painprobe so we can be sure of it they won't try to run off again."

Dereth: "Wait with that Lieutenant, I have to write a full report if we use that probe so I don't want to use it unnecessarily. I want you to scan that beam coming from the Skytoucher again, I don't feel that good about it...."

*The Lieutenant sat for a minute and looked at the Commander*

Dereth: "What are you looking at, you ...... Get To WORK!!"

*The Lieutenant got to work as fast as he could*

We are free and need to know what happened, we are undamaged and free from harm. Please respond

=^= Rivendell Out =^=

   When Sel heard the Admiral speak about the fate of USS Rivendell's crew, she quietly mourned internally.  Her symb moved slowly, also feeling Sel's sadness.  

   Sel let a moment of silence pass, then started thinking of the best way to ask the new Captain for a date on Avalon Station.  

Captain, I'm reading a rather -- odd -- distortion in the Rivendell's hull signature. I suggest we contact her to determine if there's a problem.

Understood, Counselor. Given the data that Mr. Vartin has collected, it does seem as if the object we are approaching is not what it appears to be. If this species does employ some sort of electro-telepathic energy in its technology, that may why our sensors do not detect the device they are using.

Commander Zax I would appreciate your help. I am attempting to recalibrate our sensors to detect the aliens, but I do not have enough data. Do you have any idea what I should be looking for? Please advise.

=A= Away team out =A=

I´m afraid we cannot spare any medical personell right now, but we do have a good EMH ´wich would be fully sufficient right now

I let you know when we get more medical staff.

=A=Göransson out=A=

"Sir, class 1 probe launched."

Lieutenant Skon, with help of the data you collected, I was able to concentrate my telepatic senses around the approximate location of the 'moon'. I'll be able to sense any emotions or other mental processes originating there. In view of your data and all feelings I have sensed up to now, I conclude that this 'moon' is indeed there to hide something, as I'm continuously sensing signals of life coming from its direction. But most remarkable is, I think, the fact that those hidden lifeforms definitely communicate using the same electro-telepatic signals that those lifeforms in the planet's stratosphere use. I'm not sure, if I'm interpreting their communication correctly, but it seems as if they had already recognized our presence - and I believe they're not really happy about us being here...

I hope that some of this information will be of good use for your further investigations, Lieutenant. Perhaps you would also like to consult Commander Zax, who has an impressing exomedical knowledge which may be helpful to find out more about the connection between those lifeforms and the rift.

=A= SKYTOUCHER OUT =A=

   Sel found sickbay's main console quickly enough.  This station was obviously her own.  Sel activated it.  

   A touch on the control panel showed the entire crew and command staff roster and med records on the console's screen.  That was how Sel finally found out the name and med record of USS Skytoucher's CO (?), Captain Goranson (sp?).  

   Lt. Cmdr. Zax activated her commbadge.  Speaking with proper respect for a commanding officer, Sel addressed the Captain: "Sir, my sincerest apologies for not contacting you as soon as I boarded your ship. With all due respect, sir, could I please meet with you?  I wish to discuss posting an assistant or two to sickbay and programming an EMH, if possible, sir.  Lt. Cmdr. Seldana Zax, chief medical officer out, sir".  

   Sel kept her badge activated so that the Captain could reply, if he chose to.  As she waited, Sel added a catalog of beneficial medicinal herbs to the med department's database in case they might be needed.

OFF: as you can see I am here, sir.

Yellow allert, as soon as the Rivendell arrives, do a detailed sensor sweep across this region. Then we´ll see what we are doing then.

*the shuttlebay door opens and the shuttle leaves, heading for the planet*

Mr. Skon, I'll put us on standard orbit before landing, so you can do your scan. How long will it take?

(Edited by Skon at 5:17 am on April 12, 2003)

Also, if we power down some other non essential systems, we will become even more undetectable...

*Skon leans over the computer for several minutes*

Captain, I have remodulated the main deflector to transmit in harmony with Counselor Steigler's brainwave frequency. With your permission -- and the Counselor's -- I believe we can attempt to communicate with the enslaved species.

(Edited by Skon at 11:23 pm on May 7, 2003)

*Skon presses a button on his console.*

Beam activated. Counselor, you may begin attempting to communicate anytime you wish.

Instead he looked at the captain, waiting for directions. His phaser was still pointed at the two men, only now John had adjusted it to a wider beam so as to get the both of them if need be.

  I'll do as you suggested.  I only hope I don't mess things up beyond recovery.

:ON:  Sel felt the ship slow down even all the way down in sickbay.  It was fairly obvious that USS Skytoucher was docking somewhere.  

  Leaving the EMH, Dr. Marcus Welby, in charge Sel left sickbay.  As she went up to the Bridge in the TL, she tapped her commbadge: "Counselor, if you are feeling up to it, would you join me wherever it is that the ship is docking at?"  

  Sel left her commbadge active so that the ship's counselor could reply, if he chose to.  She had a small duffle slung over her shoulder.  It held her civilian clothes--a simple, but attractive casual outfit especially tailored to support her symb's internal pouch within its special place inside her curvy and comely form.  Sel figured she could change once USS Skytoucher is securely docked at her destination.

  Sel exited the TL.  The adult female Joined Beta Trill walked on to the Bridge, smiling charmingly at the counselor.  Sel saluted all her superior officers smartly while at perfect attention.  

  The newly-promoted ((::Dazzling smile:: Thank you, Captain)) Commander tapped her badge off.  Since the counselor was already on the Bridge (?), she'd be able to speak to him face-to-face.  All Sel had to do now was wait to see if the counselor would accept her request.

Permission granted, and welcome back.  I will come aboard the ship for a formal briefing for the whole crew, once you have docked.

=^= Vorak out =^=

since I can't be the Helm, I suppose I have to get back to my usual duties of the Operations Officer.
Should I go?

   Though Sel felt uncomfortable being the only crewmember on the Bridge without any pips on her collar, she still did her duty like a professional, efficient, well-trained cadet.  Sel's fingers were positioned over the sensor controls, waiting to see if the Counselor would answer her question.

*computer beeps*

Adjusting heading again. There is heavy subspace interference around the moon... It's hard to navigate even on manual piloting!

*turns to Skon*

Did you say the moon is cloaked? Because I'm seeing it right there, though it's gravity well surely isn't that of a moon... It reads somewhat smaller on my nav sensors.

If I were to guess, I'd say that that moon is a hologram hiding something else, but to create a holographic moon you'd have to use a huge power generator... Could the generator be causing the interference on our sensors, Skon?

May I call you just Skon? You can call me Jean if you  prefer...

   Sel closed the comm.  She touched a few more controls on her panel.  She knew her efforts were successful when she heard a human male voice: "Please state the nature of the medical emergency..."

   Sel smiled as the young man formed before her: "You are the EMH?", she asked.  "Yes, ma'am", he replied.

   "I am Lt. Cmdr. Seldana Zax, CMO of this ship.  There is no medical emergency.  I merely would like you to put my recognition codes into your databank so that I may call you if I need you", Sel said.

   The holo paused for a few moments: "Input successful.  Anything else?", asked the EMH.

   "Yes", said Sel.  "I will give you a name: Dr. Marcus Welby, after the Terran doctor who was once popular in old Earth entertainment.  You will answer to either 'Marcus', 'Dr. Welby', 'Dr. Marcus Welby', or all three".  

   This took a little longer for the EMH to process: "Input successful", Marcus said.

   "Then you are dismissed, Dr. Marcus Welby", Sel said.

   Marcus winked out.  Sel sat back in her console chair, satisfied.  

*starts checking around*

thomas. . .may need help. . . sickbay. . .aliens dying. . . alert. . .nsc attack. . .

*Skon blacks out*

"Greetings, everyone of the USS Skytoucher... and the USS Rivendell.
I wish to express my condolences in the name of Starfleet, and myself, for those officers that have given their lives to defend their fellow officers, in the Metatraxi attack. Unfortunately, the USS Rivendell was destroyed. I am aware that there was no other way, and I wish to commend each one of you for your brave actions.

I have been in contact with Starfleet to inform them of the loss of the USS Rivendell, but as you probably know, communications between Starfleet, and us on this side of the nebula, go slow. The nebula will not allow us to directly contact anyone from the other side of the nebula, and only long-range transmissions can be sent and received. So far, all I know is that Starfleet intends to replace the USS Rivendell with a new Rivendell, but it will take time. How long, has not been specified.

Of course, we will not forget about the brave officers of the USS Rivendell who survived the disaster.
As you all probably already have been informed, most of you have been transferred to the USS Skytoucher for a new permanent position.
The USS Skytoucher is, after all, our flagship, so I hope it will please you to serve on this vessel.
(OFF: i have posted the crew roster before. If you don't know what your position should be, just ask)

Now, there is one other big announcement I would like to make.
Your captain, Mr. Goransson, has requested transfer to the station. This will be granted to him, and a new captain has been assigned to you: Mr. Steve McKinley. Congratulations with your new command, Mr. McKinley. I am certain you will take good care of this flagship.

Now, as an end note, I would like to announce that the crew has a brief shoreleave while the ship is docked at station Avalon. Feel free to go on board the station and visit our bars and restaurants, and our shops. You will surely not be bored.
Only Captain McKinley I would like to stay here for now, since I would like to discuss the details of the upcoming -and important- mission with him.
Everyone please be appraised that the ship will depart again in a matter of days from now, so do not take long range journeys.
Thank you."

OFF: feel free to visit station Avalon board (Starfleet HQ board). The bars there are Celtic Corner, Klingon Restaurant and also a number of stores. Or pay a visit to our different departments Only if you wish of course, you can stay on board the ship if you prefer.
I would just like everyone to report here that they are still around and active. Just so we know you're all here

This is Hedford of the USS Rivendell. Our ship is destroyed and we had to abandon with escape pods. We are currently dead in space. I am sending our coordinates with this transmission. Please pick us up at once. We might still be in danger from the hostile entity.

=^= Hedford out =^=

*sits on helm station, clicks some commands*

"Awating orders Sir."

off: I still don´t have a rank.  = [
I don´t belive it would be aproprieted for a civilian to take a helm of a Starship!!lol  

=  ]

(Edited by Ricardo Oliveira at 10:07 pm on Mar. 26, 2003)

(Edited by Ricardo Oliveira at 10:08 pm on Mar. 26, 2003)

=A= Skytoucher to Rivendell =A=

We have initiated a high-level scan of the system and obtained some -- interesting -- readings. The planet ahead seems to be an ordinary Class M with no signs of advanced technology. There are, however, faint ion trails in local space, which would indicate that one or more ships have visited this planet within the past solar year. Counselor Stiegler has also sensed residual impressions of life, or life-like, intelligence somewhere in the planet's vicinity. Since the Federation has never explored this system, it is logical to assume that someone got here before us and found this planet interesting. I am transmitting data from my scans to your CSO for analysis.

=A= Skytoucher out =A=

*Skon transmits sensor data to Rivendell *

*Skon calibrates the sensors and lifts an eyebrow*

Mr. Vartin, change course to 1017 mark 3. The beam didn't come from the planet, but from what seems to be a cloaked moon nearby. I'm receiving a great deal of interference from the moon's surface -- most likely due to the cloaking effect that Commander Rasmain reported just before we left the ship. I'm feeding the coordinates to your console, but, due to the cloak, I cannot give you accurate readings. I'm afraid you're going to have to fly in "blind."

... is Coun...lor Sti...le ... Lieut... Sk...n ... sens... str...ng ag...ession ... -  d... not prov...ate them ...

=A= Sky...cher out =A=

*The commander was suddenly suprised by the data he got*

"Captain, I am also receiving some disturbing info. That this ship is partly Starfleet...or atleast they are using Federation Technology....so are those appearances as Vulcan and Human for real?"

(Edited by Rasmain at 11:00 am on April 28, 2003)

'T H E   F I R S T   O N E .   A R E   Y O U   T H E   F I R S T   O N E   O F   T H I S   L I G H T ?  

W H Y   D I D   Y O U   S E N T   U S   Y O U R   E N E R G Y ?'

Lieutenant: "Well sir, I don't know for sure, but I think they are trying to contact the slaves. "

*Dereth began to laugh loudly*

"So they think they can help those slaves. Well they are wrong, the slaves can't even communicate....whahaha. Allright let's fire at that beam, so their hope on communicating is destroyed.."

*The NSC officers executed the command and a beam was fired upon the Skytouchers deflector*

   I like RPing here, but can't participate if there's nothing to do.  If at all possible, I respectfully request that either the CO or XO orders Sel to do something in her chosen field...or even something more...um...shall I say...social...like a dinner date or just a nice, romantic stroll.    

   Of course, Sel will accept a date with any other male officer, too.  Could add a little special..."something" to the mission.  I hope this suggestion meets with approval.  Until then, I'll keep reading posts until I see something that Sel can get involved in.

ok, take us out of here. I want to get home ASAP.

(Off: can we get his name changed plz)

               =A= Rivendell out =A=

Don't worry Lieutenent Skon, I actually like to fly "blind", as you say... It brings me closer to the time when we didn't have computers to fly for us... In fact, mankind didn't have planes then... It must have been beautiful to be on a wooden ship, sailing under the stars...

*computer beeps*

Altering course, heading 1024 mark 4.

*enters commands again*

Tell me Mr. Skon... Did vulcans ever sail? I've heard that Vulcan is a rather dry planet...

*looks back to Skon*

Oh, be careful not to bring that remodulator too close to the main plasma coupling... This model is very sensible to magnetic interference.

][ Starfleet Shuttle this
                      is Commander Dereth of the NSC ][
We have our weapons aimed at you, the wisest choice is to make your way out of this system accompanied by your Nebula-Class Starship...we don't want intruders in our region. You know what we are capable of...regarding the other Starship.
            ][ Commander Dereth out ][

*The unidentified Starship stopped in front of the shuttle and was still aiming their weapons at them*

Entering final aproach pattern. Confirming docking transponder lock. *enters commands on the console*

=A=Skytoucher docking ops, this is Shuttlecraft Fermi, please confirm docking clearence... It's getting cold out here in space... Oh, would you mind if I take her in on manual control?=A=

Mr. Skon, I still have problems initiating a stable mental connection, which will be the first step if we want to communicate with those lifeforms. Do you think there is any possibility to remodulate our main deflector to establish an artificial telepatic channel? If such an artificial mental beam helped me keeping the connection, I would be able to concentrate on understanding the lifeforms' telepatic matrix.

ON: I say thjat we both go to Avalon. We have been out for a while and we all need a rest I think.

OFF: I know I'm not the helm, but it looked like everyone wanted to get this thing moving. Sorry if I got in anyone's way.

=A= Skon to Capt. Goransson =A=

Captain, the ship we encountered is commanded by a being who calls himself "Dereth" and who says he represents an organization called the "NSC." During the transmission, he appeared to be human, but since we know these aliens employ a type of mental energy in their technology, his appearance could be an illusion. We attempted to initiate peaceful contact, but our message was ignored. Since the NSC ship appeared to have its weapons locked onto us, returning to the Skytoucher seemed the most logical course. We approached the Skytoucher as slowly as possible in order to allow the Fermi's passive scans to gather as much data about the alien ship as possible while we were within the jamming field. Unfortunately, due to the intense jamming, I am uncertain as to the quality of the information we collected. I am uploading our sensor and communication logs to the bridge for analysis. We will report in person as soon as we have docked.

=A= Skon out. =A=

(Edited by Skon at 12:36 am on April 18, 2003)

   Sel tapped her badge off.  With another touch of her control panel, she activated the EMH.  As the holo started to form, Sel wondered if the EMH was male or female and if it would look like a human or some other known Federation race.

(( OOC: Who plays the EMH?  If no one, then do I have permission to play him/her myself? If so, can the EMH be an adult female Bajoran or does the EMH have to be human?  

If someone *does* play the EMH, that's perfectly OK with me.  :-)  ))

   I'm really, truly sorry about this.  I wish you luck in finding a new Captain for USS Skytoucher.   I fully intend to stay in this sim.  I'll keep posting whenever I can.  

   Live long and prosper and continue to go where no one has gone before.  

Our telemetry is functioning again Lt. Skon. I believe we are out of the alien's ship jamming field.

*two minutes later*

Beginnig docking procedures.

=A= Skytoucher, this the shuttle pod Fermi requiring permission to dock. We are now on waiting pattern bravo niner, ten thousand meters from docking bay one's entrance.=A=

Fascinating. By "First One," I assumed you meant our leader...our Captain. But, yes, I am the one who initiated the deflector beam and sent Counselor Stiegler's frequency to you. We only wished to communicate. We sensed that you were in distress and we wished to help free you from the NSC ship and return you to your home. If you search the thoughts of the man you are speaking through, you will understand that we are a peaceful people...

Incoming

*He quickly turns back to his board and adjusts the deflector beam to maximum power, hoping to give the aliens the energy they need before the deflector is hit.*

Are you recieving an SOS, we hear it too, but don't know what to do about it.

=^= Rivendell out =^=

The counselor walked to the turbolift.
'I will be right back, Captain. I have to welcome our new crewmember, Seldana Zax. The computer told me she was waiting in front of my office...'

Some minutes later, the counselor reached his office where Seldana Zax was obviously waiting for someone to open the doors.
'Ms. Zax? My name is Thomas Stiegler, I am the ship's counselor. Perhaps you should accompany me to the bridge. We have some kind of critical situation at the moment in which your exomedical knowledge could be of good use to find out more about some lifeforms on the planet we are currently orbiting.'

Cnsl. Stiegler and Seldana Zax entered the turbolift.
'To the bridge. Computer, inform the doctor that Ms. Zax will report in for duty at the sickbay later.'

(Edited by Thomas Stiegler at 4:35 pm on April 6, 2003)

*The turbolift doors close and Skon and Vartin race to the bridge. The doors open *

Captain, Away team reporting.

(Edited by Skon at 12:57 am on April 21, 2003)

(OFF: As u might know, Tomas is always armed. =P)

Fascinating. I believe I can help you communicate with him, but it will require a technique known as the Vulcan mind meld. I can join my mind with his -- and thus yours -- and together we shall seek the Counselor. There is some risk involved for both of us. But I believe it is warranted. Indeed, I believe it is the only way that we can communicate.

*Skon turns away from Stiegler*

Captain, with your permission, I would like to initiate a mind meld with Counselor Stiegler. I suggest that Commander Rasmain and Lt. Trustin keep their phasers ready. If either Counselor Stiegler or myself make any threatening gestures, we should be stunned. Ensign Bennings should be able to monitor the Science Station in my "absence."

Go ahead and activate the beam.

"TX you for manning my post Sir."*Standing next to Lt. Skon  

"Captain, sensors have detected a spacial rift at our stern...bearing 110 mark 23.
We have to power up our engines to avoid being sucked in..!"

*As the lieutenant said that, the ship began to shiver a bit, but it was over in a few seconds*

Such a compliment from a vulcan is indeed a good thing to hear, Lt. Skon! Thank you very much... I hope we can fly again soon, under more friendly circumstances.

(Edited by Jean Michel Vartin at 12:58 am on April 21, 2003)

(OFF: There hasn't been much posting lately, but just in case things heat up this weekend, I wanted to let you know that I'm not going to be around until Sunday. Going to the NASCAR race. Woo Hoo!)

----

For a short moment, the Counselor's body didn't move and again two suns could be seen in his eyes. Obviously the lifeform was searching Stiegler's thoughts as Skon had proposed. Only a few seconds later the colour of Stiegler's eyes changed again.

' W E   C A N N O T   F I N D   H I M .   H E   I S   H I D I N G   F R O M   U S .  
N O   I N F O R M A T I O N   A V A I L A B L E . '

The Counselor's eyes fixed on Skon, when the lifeform continued talking.

' F I N D   H I M   F O R   U S ! '

(Edited by Thomas Stiegler at 4:37 pm on May 19, 2003)

[All available ships, station avalon is under attack from unknown creature, say again, unknown creature has attacked starbase avalon. The stations sheilds are down and their hull is breaching]

All navigation systems checked.
Course laid in, Captain! Ready to engage at warp five.
USS Rivendell is following us at a 200 km distance.

(Edited by Jace at 10:42 pm on Mar. 20, 2003)

Captain, I concur with the Counselor. I am picking up residual ion trails from an undetermined number of ships. The readings are so faint that I cannot pinpoint exactly when they were here. But judging by the ion dispersement patterns, I believe that it was within the past Solar year.

Readings from the planet's surface are very faint, but it appears to be an ordinary Class M. Oxygen-nitrogen atmosphere. Fairly lush vegetation. No signs of advanced technology. Faint signs of animal life. Nothing remarkable, but there has been activity in local space that would indicate that someone got here before us and found this planet interesting.

I am still picking up faint traces of life on the planet's surface, but I cannot pinpoint its location or determine any anatomical specifics. Perhaps because of the distortions that seem to be interfering with our scans in this system.

*Turns to Stiegler*

Counselor, are you sensing the presence of any intelligence on the planet's surface?

*Skon heads for the turbolift and waits for Vartin.*

Captain, I did not want to believe it at first, but judging by the data Commander Rasmain and Counselor Stiegler have collected, I can only conclude that there is an actual Vulcan involved in this NSC travesty. I ask that we do our best to capture this renegade and extradite him to Vulcan. We are a peaceful species, but I can assure you that this type of transgression will be met with the harshest punishment. Misusing such an innocent species is...disgusting.

* Skon shakes his head and attempts to regain his emotional control. He looks at Stiegler. *

Fascinating idea, Counselor. I believe we could realign the deflector to establish such a channel, but I think it would be more effective if we attune it to your particular mental "frequency." If I'm not mistaken, commander Zax is currently in sickbay, and she should be able to access your medical records -- including brainwave scans. Perhaps, we should consult her for ideas on how to convert your brainwave pattern into a signal that our deflector could transmit.

John waited where he was, his weapon set to stun and trained on the counselor.

(Edited by John Trustin at 9:03 pm on May 20, 2003)

He stood there waiting for the nsc attack that was supposedly coming.

(OFF: Oops. I missed Slim Stuart's post on page 21. Sounds like things are bad back at the base.)

THANK YOU. YOU HAVE SAVED US. WE ARE GRATEFUL.  WE ARE GOING TO TAKE CARE OF THE FALLEN nsc PEOPLE NOW. IF YOU WISH TO KNOW THIER FATE, YOU MAY STAY HERE, BUT WE FEEL THAT THERE IS TROUBLE BACK ON YOUR starbase...

Thank you, sir.

*walks down and stops besides Lt. Oliveira*

Hello Lieutenant! I am sure we'll make a great team... But I didn't get your name...

   "Thank you, chief", said Seldana Zax politely, "I will report to the counselor right away".  Sel saluted the transporter chief and took her PADD from his hand.  She left the transporter room, heading for the first path indicated by the well-detailed directions.

   Minutes later, Sel found herself at the door of the counselor's office.  She pressed the chime.  Sel stood at perfect attention.  She waited to see if the counselor would permit her to enter.  

   Being only a cadet, Seldana Zax's pip holder on her collar was still empty.  As she waited, Sel wondered what rank she'd have during her service aboard USS Skytoucher.  She was, however, quite proud of her post as CMO Assistant.

Thank you, Commander. I am proud to receive docking permission from one of the best pilots Starfleet Academy ever had...

Setting thrusters to aproach speed. Locking on docking bay transponder... Here we go, the manual way!

*the shuttlecraft lands softly on the docking bay's floor*

I hope you have enjoyed our flight, Lt. Skon.

Commander, we are attempting to communicate with the enslaved telepathic species. In order to do so, we need the latest readings of Counsleor Stiegler's brainwave scans. We would appreciate any input you have into modulating our communications or sensor arrays to attune them to "mental" frequencies.

=A=Skon out=A=

(Edited by Skon at 11:12 pm on April 30, 2003)

Aye sir, we are now one million kilometers from them.

*Skon presses a button*

"Now you know that we are serious. We noticed some strange beam from your ship, but we now know how low you are, the beam didn't even scratched us..."

*The Commander began to laugh very loud*

"So would you starfleet whimps please LEAVE this sector! So that we can live in peace and harmony..."

"Captain, I am getting an SOS from Starbase Avalon. This message is old but it states that they have been attacked, just like the beings said."

Captain: Captain Steve McKinley
XO: Commander Roland Burma
CMO: Cmdr. Zeldana Zax
CMO assistants: Lt. Cmdr. Soran
Chief Science: Lt. Skon
Science Assist: Ensign Shaylen Bennings
Tact/Sec Chief: Lt. Cmdr. Rasmain
Tactical Officer: Lt. Trustin
Chief Engineer: Lt. Cmdr. Marotek
Engineer Assistant: Lt. Aves Landon
Helm: Lt. Jean Michel Vartin
Helm: LT JG. Woo Tee
Helm: Lt. Jonathan Mason
Councellor: Lt. Cmdr. Thomas Stiegler
Diplomat: Lt. Niles

It was an honour to guide the ship even for such a short amount of time.

*Enters the turbolift and leaves the bridge*

off: hey, I am still arround. I just took the helm from Commander Valkiro...

Mr. Skon, I'll meet you on shuttle bay 2. Remember to bring your sensors... The shuttle has very limited ones. *smiles*

Oh, I guess I'll go to sickbay and get some extra emergency suplpies. We don't know if there are any hostiles...

*turbolift door closes*

=A=Skytoucher to NSC ship=A=

You are in danger of violating our space. We do not wish this situation to escalate into violence, but we will defend ourselves if necessary. Please respond.

=A=Skytoucher out=A=

*Skon turns toward Steigler as he presses a button on his console.*

Counselor, I have programmed the deflector to begin transmission as soon as the NSC ship responds. You can attempt to communicate at that time. If they don't respond to our hail, I will activate the beam manually, and we will have to take our chances without a distraction.

Suddenly something knocked at the door. A dark well-known voice could be heard.

'L E T   U S   I N !'

Discerning the voice made the little boy start. He began screaming.

'No, go away!'

Skon saw Thomas screaming and crying. But when the voice sounded again, he suddenly knew what had to be done.

'Thomas, you must let them in. They don't want to hurt you, they just want to talk to you. Please, Thomas.'

Thomas looked into Skon's eyes, but he didn't answer him. It was as if he was totally paralysed by fear... Skon recognized that the little boy would never open the door. Skon had to do it himself. He walked to the door... hesitated... and opened it. He saw thousands of shades and lights turning towards him. Then it became dark...

----

On the Skytoucher's bridge the mind-melt between Skon and Stiegler collapsed. Skon fell down on the floor next to the place where the Counselor was still standing. For a short moment Stiegler's eyes seemed to be exploding, but then they stopped glowing and the Counselor also slipped to the ground.

(Edited by Thomas Stiegler at 9:27 pm on May 23, 2003)

OFF: Who has the tactical station?

*runs diagnostics*

We lost part of our warp coil to a backup power surge.  I think I can fix it, though  perhaps Chief Engineer Marotek would do a better job as that he knows the ship better.

As it is i'll see what i can do.

*turns to the console*

(OFF: Can you change Valkiros rank title to Commander? Thanki you.)

   Seldana activated her comm so that she could reply to the message, despite the shock of being called "Commander".  She finally found out that her rank was Lt. Cmdr. thanks to the ship's computer updating the PADD she always kept with her.  

   Sel lightly touched the pip holder on her collar.  It was true.  There were definitely the right number and type of pips in the holder.  She could see the pip colors in her reflection on her screen.  She figured that her original assumption that her pip holder was empty was a mistake.  

   Sel didn't have time to figure out how all that happened.  She had to give the officer hailing her the info she'd gathered, sparse and inexact though it was.  

   "Sir", Sel began, "I do not really have anything concrete, but I will transmit what I do have".  Sel's heavy--but pleasant to the ear--Trill accent was clearly evident in her response to the officer.  

   Sel touched the transmission controls, adding a universal translation, just in case.  She knew that even her incomplete data was too important.  The UT would make sure that every syllable was crystal clear.  

  "Sir, you now have a verbatim copy of what little I have found so far.  I know it is not well-detailed, but I hope it will prove helpful.  If there is any other way that I can assist you, I will try my utmost to do so", Sel said with a warm, sincere smile on her face.  She closed the channel.  

   Sel glanced at the counselor again: "Sir, any further orders?", she inquired.  It was quite obvious that Sel was ready to obey more orders, if any.

*Sights loudly.*

d*mn. Doubble d*mn!  Why do you all just stand here for? Get to work!

*Skon turns toward the star-eyed Stiegler being*

This will require that I touch you. I am not attempting to do you any harm.

*The being nods and Skon places his hands on Stiegler's face.*

Our thoughts are one. Our minds are . . .AAARRRRGGGH! THE PAIN!

*Skon screams as he enters Stiegler's mind.*

--------------------------

(Where Skon is, all is black. There are shapes in the darkness. And lights. Skon looks at a shape and asks, "Is this where you are?" )

YES. . .THE PAIN!

(Skon blinks back tears. "Where were you?" )

HERE

(Suddenly, Skon is flying. Soaring high above a planet. He feels the stellar radiation beating down on his unprotected skin, and it feels good. He sees other shapes in the air and feels them "talking" to each other. He swoops and dives toward a shape. "Where is the Counselor?" )

HE IS HERE

(The shape leads Skon into the planet's atmosphere. Suddenly, ahead, there is a cliff of solid rock. In the middle of the cliff, there is a small door. )

HE WON'T LET US IN.

("I shall try." Skon swoops toward the door and knocks. "Counselor, it is Skon, may I come in?" A voice answers: "Quickly!" The door opens slightly, and Skon slips in before it slams shut again. )

(Skon finds himself standing on a beach on Betazed. A small boy is sitting in the sand, throwing pebbles into the ocean. Skon walks up to the boy. "Counselor?" The boy raises his head. "My name is Thomas. What do you want?" Skon kneels down and looks the boy in the face. "Coun. . .Thomas, you must come with me. The ship is in danger and the alien lifeforms need you to help us communicate." The boy's face turns dark. "I'm not going anywhere! My parents told me to stay here until they get back." )

*Back on the Skytoucher, Skon's body shudders.*

THE PAIN...THE PAIN

(On "Betazed," Skon shudders and blinks his eyes. "Thomas, you don't have to wait here. This place isn't real. It's a technique you were taught when you were very young. A way of blocking off your mind if it were attacked from the outside. We are taught similar techniques on Vulcan. You can leave, if you want to. It is safe. There is a door." Skon points to a simple wooden door that hovers slightly above the ground a few feet away. )

(Edited by Skon at 10:39 pm on May 22, 2003)

(Edited by Skon at 11:15 pm on May 22, 2003)

*Rasmain walked away from his console and took the turbolift to deck 6*

"Let's hope this weaponscheck isn't necessary" He mumbled in himself

"Computer unlock weaponschamber, authorization Rasmain- Delta 61"

*The computer accepted his command and the doors opened, the commander started to review the weaponsinventory*

=/\= USS Skytoucher To Starbase Avalon =/\=
Request Permission To Dock.
=/\= End Transmission =/\=

Lt. Vartin reporting sir. Admiral Montrell assigned me to helm, sir.

*Skon turns the science station over to another crewmember and heads for the turbolift. He stops by his quarters to retrieve his equipment*

=A= Skon to Lt. Vartin. I am proceeding to shuittlebay 2 and will meet you there. Skon out.=A=

(Edited by Skon at 11:45 pm on April 8, 2003)

*two minutes later*

Lt. Skon, I wave no reading on the nav sensors of any warp signature or ion trail comming from the "moon". If it is a ship, it's not active. But it may be a small orbital station...

   Sel activated the EMH.  "Please state the nature of the medical emergency", said the human male holo dubbed "Dr. Marcus Welby" to Sel.  

   "Dr. Marcus, please take over sickbay.  I am going to the Bridge to treat two fallen officers.  You will be dismissed when I return", Sel told Dr. Marcus.

    Dr. Marcus took the CMO's console while Sel rushed to the nearest TL.  

    Moments later, Sel knelt between the two officers who were lying on the Bridge deck.  She swept her tricorder over both of them.  When the tricorder's display showed their condition, Sel treated them quickly and efficiently.  

   Sel then stood back up.  She faced the Captain while still standing between the two officers: "Sir, I have just given them the appropriate treatment for their condition.  With your permission, may I please stay on the Bridge to see if the treatment was effective or not?"  

   Sel stood at perfect attention, medkit in hand, waiting to see if the Captain would reply or not.  

*Tomas screamed, was this another illusion? Was it the real Rivendell? It was offly close anyway.*

Take us away from the Rivendell, 10 000 meters!

Preparing to warp. Engaging.

I believe it'll take a while till we reach our destination.
Calculating the exact time, Captain and will inform as soon as I get the results.

I am here Mr. Skon. Can you adapt the sensors while we are flying? I don't think we will have much time... Oh, I've taken enough emergency equipment for us to stay for two days or maybe a bit more on the planet's surface if we have to.

=A= Vartin out =A=

Captain, Mr. Vartin's scans of the the object ahead indicate that it isn't a moon at all, but an object roughly the size of an Intrepid class starship. Given the data that Commander Zax and Couselor Stiegler have provided, I believe we are encountering a species that uses both "physical" and "mental" energy in their technology. We are holding position at the moment. We could continue toward the object, but since it apprears to be a starship and not a moon, I'm not certain that would be the wisest course. Awaiting your orders.

=A= Away team out =A=

off: I don´t have my rank yet. Admiral Montrell said i would be Lt JG, but i am still as a civilian.

I shall begin adapting the sensors as soon as I've taken a look at the new data collected by Lt. Oliveira. I'm patching the shuttle's computer into my science station and downloading the data now.

=A=Skon to Capt. Goransson=A=

Sir, I've analyzed the data provided by Mr. Oliveira and its implications are most curious. I am receiving a null reading from inside the rift, but due to the large amount of gravometric radiation, I believe that our scans are being deflected. The data is sketchy, but it appears as if the Rivendell has been sucked into a sort of "gravity prison." I cannot tell if she's been transported somewhere else, or if she's been trapped within a "contained" artificial singularity that holds her in a space that our sensors cannot penetrate. We should be able to tell you more once we've explored the source of the beam. Please continue to update us with additional data from the ship's sensors.

=A=Skon out=A=

(Edited by Skon at 11:55 pm on April 8, 2003)

At this speed we will cross the "moon's surface" in six minutes and twenty seven seconds.

I am opening all comm channels so they can talk to us if they want, even though you said they use a diferent way of comunication.

==A== Trusting to Sick Bay ==A==

Medical team to the bridge, on the double

==A== Trustin Out ==A==

John leant close to the man who had murmered...

"What nsc attack?" John didn't like the situation anymore... To the captain he turned

"Sir, he said something about an nsc attack..."

OFF: I'm just playing along with this idea. If it's screwing up the mission, tell Skon to wipe the dust off his screen.  

Mr. Vartin, I believe I can have the sensors adapted by time we reach orbit, so we should be able to do a closer scan of the surface before we land.

Lieutenant: "We didn't destroy their deflector, sir. They are still sending that beam and they even increased it!"

"What! I want every weapon ready to fire, on my command......"

*Suddenly the commander was interrupted by an enormous shock*

"What was that?"

Lieutenant: "Sir....something is happening down here. I am not getting any communication from the Engineroom or Tactical...We've also lost power on..."

*The Lieutenant mumbled something but then he looked at his commander*

"Sir....it's the slaves....they are fighting us!"

*looking around*