Deep Space Guardian: Season II-Episode 38

[Founder]

Commander's Log, Stardate 58891.22

It's been three weeks since the rather strange events inside of the Elerran Temple. I am currently laying inside of sickbay, recovering from my strange changes. A toxin entered my body which caused an alien mutation of my genes and forced me to undergo several transformation into a wild creature. My memory on all of it was vague, but I can remember my overwhelming urge to protect the temple. Nothing else mattered to me, not even Ziona could get through. In my...transformation, I murdered Starfleet officers. I still can't get over that and no one is holding me accountable, but writing those letters to the victim's family was so hard to do.
Dr. Shoran has taken a temporary leave as chief medical officer, mulling over a possible career change. So it was Dr. Burns who had provided very delicate surgery on me and all my Human features have since returned. It took a lot of blood transfusions to keep me alive. I'm still recovering, alongside ensign Anthony Hordichuk. The poor man lost his lower left leg thanks to me. Dr. Burns grafted an artifical leg and he was slowly taking physical therapy to adapt to it. I learned about Juliana deactivating the bomb, which after initial scans, revealed that if it had gone off, it would have annihilated the Mythani continent. I'm giving her a commendation for what she did. Her desire to learn about the Elerrans paid off.
It seems that an alien by the simple and rather Human sounding name of "Trip" assisted in my..."defeat". He was the same alien that had destroyed the wormhole. It seems the being is rather helpful.
My chief of engineering has yet to check in with me after leaving somewhere with his father. I can only hope that their mission is coming to a close and he will keep his promise that he won't rush off on anymore Romulan missions.
Captain Archer has informed me of the victory by the Fifth fleet. Repaired and refeshed, they showed the Nautolians that they still had fight left in them. I'm transfering some officers from DSG onto the fleet to assist with their low numbers. Archer is holding a celebration on the promenade in their honor. It was a nice little booste of morale that was surley needed. I won't be attending unfortunately, because I have to recupperate from my wounds.
New from the FNS have revealed that not all is peacful and in order in Fito's government. Rumors of Cardassian and Bajoran uprisings are everywhere and Oyet, nor Fito are anywhere to be found. A part of me wondered if maybe, just maybe, Fito had died during some battle. Well, a man can hope can't he? End log.

-DSG, Sickbay-

Ian read over a PADD, while sipping Raktajino from a cup near the biobed. He wished he had access to his Romulan ale, but he figured the doctor would frown on his alcoholic beverage. Tired of reading the same story on the PADD, he gently placed it to the side and leaned back on the bed. It was time to go to sleep.

"Computer," He ordered, "Dim lights."

The bright lights of sickbay dimmed considerably, giving more darkness. He looked across sickbay and noticed Anthony sleeping. A sad look crossed Ian's face before he shut his eyes and went to sleep.

-SS Jubilee, Mess Hall-

The Whorfin class transport, filled with Federation colonists, were returning back to Elerra Prime, Governo Al-Firdos and Sophia Findlay, with Demetrius, were onboard. Finally, Al-Firdos could return to his old home. By that point, he had considered Elerra Prime to be his homeworld. The only thing he was sad about was the loss of his friend, admiral Donatra. He was sitting with Sophia, enjoying breakfast and staring as the stars werer streamlined from the warp.

"I sincerely hope that captain Xavier kept the planet intact." He joked.

+ 4 Dilithium. Good post, detailed, and well written.
-Lord Borg

[La Forge]

Deep Space Guardian, OPS

Three weeks had passed since the incidents involving the ancient Elerran temple found on Elerra Prime, the temple later dubbed "Site X" after Lieutenant Juliana Roberts and a team of scientists explored the temple, the week after the incident involving the Elerran bomb. Commander Ian Xavier was recoving in Sickbay, after his mutation in the temple, along with Ensign Anthony Hordichuk, a security officer, who had lost his leg to the mutant Commander on that fateful day.

However, Starfleet officers were dead, killed at the hands of the Commander, albeit, the Commander was not in his right mind, at the time. So many good Starfleet officers were killed that day, all pointless deaths, killed either by the mutant Commander or the temple, itself. Lieutenant, Junior Grade Chipok had been one of those who had lost their lives to the Elerran temple, being killed by a mysterious ball of energy that, to this day, Juliana has no explanation for. She could still remember Chipok's death, exploding, after being struck by the light, sending his insides all over the room. Juliana could remember wiping away blood from her face, after Chipok had exploded. A sad day that had been. She was lucky to be alive.

Despite what had happened in the temple that day, three weeks ago, Juliana had decided to lead a team of scientists down to the planet, to investigate the temple, after it had been deemed safe by security. The thalaron radiation had fully dissipated and the Elerran bomb had been deactivated. The traps and puzzles were deactivated, as well.

Fiona Volpe, the only other surviving science team member, had refused to accompany her on the second trip to Site X, after what had happened the last time the group had been inside the temple. Juliana couldn't blame her. After what had happened, she doubted that anyone could want to go back to such a place. Juliana, however, being an avid archaeologist and historian was drawn to the place, to seek out its treasures, even after what had happened there. The past was the past, as some would say. The temple was safe, now, and, Juliana would most certainly not be the one to throw away such a fascinating learning experience about the mysterious Elerrans.

In fact, Juliana had discovered much in the temple, during her second visit. During the first trip, Juliana had wondered why the temple was so heavily protected, with the Commander's bizarre desire to protect the bomb and the puzzles and booby traps. She discovered why, on her second trip, when she and the others on her team had discovered a vast treasure room, behind the pedestal which held the bomb on the first trip, in the final chamber. The chamber contained ancient tablets detailing Elerran history, along with jewelery and other such trinkets.



Juliana had sent most of her findings to the Daystrom Institute back on Earth, for further study and preservation. However, Juliana had decided to keep one of the trinkets she had found for herself, a beautiful hand-carven golden necklace, which she now wore around her neck, everywhere.

After the second trip to the temple, Juliana had decided to hold a memorial for Chipok, Chas'sor Bolar and the others lost in the temple in the Holosuite. Chipok and Bolar had been a good officers and both deserved a memorial, at the least. The science team had come to her memorial and each member of the team had their own special something to say about Chipok and Bolar, Juliana included. After the memorial, Juliana had returned to her quarters and cried, after holding back tears during the entire memorial service. She would never forget the horrors that she had seen that day in the temple, for as long as she lived.

Now, three weeks later, Juliana sat in OPS, dressed in standard Starfleet uniform, her hair tied back in a pony-tail and her Elerran necklace stowed away in a jewelery box back in her quarters. It was against Starfleet regulations to wear jewelry while on duty.

In any case, Juliana now sat at her station in OPS, sitting behind her computer console, back to dreary "scanning duty" as she so affectionately called it. The last few weeks had been dull, compared to her experience in the Elerran temple. Juliana longed for some excitement. Anything was better than "scanning duty".

Derna, Resistance HQ

Colonel Ryder Melina, leader of the Bajoran Resistance, now lay asleep, lying on an uncomfortable cot, in the rear of a small two-story wooden building on the outskirts of a thick forest on the Bajoran moon, Derna.

Melina had arrived on Derna about three weeks ago, after her debacle with Gul Bocal Oyet. About one month ago, Melina had kidnapped the Cardassian leader and interrogated him, to no avail. In the process of taking the uncooperative Gul to a new location, the Cardassian managed to escape, by killing his Klingon guard and taking down the Bajoran Raider that he and Melina had been traveling on.

The Raider crash-landed on Bajor's fifth moon, Jeraddo, an uninhabited jungle moon. Both Melina and Oyet had been the only survivors of the crash. The two played a game of cat and mouse, while trapped on the moon, with Oyet losing an arm in the process. Oyet had chased Melina through the jungles of Jeraddo for at least three days, until Melina had faked her own death. Oyet, believing Melina to be dead, waited to die, while Melina, who had fallen from a cliff, only to land on a rock outcropping, some ten feet beneath her, had managed to escape the planet, using a Bajoran Raider kept at the abandoned Lunar V Base.

Melina took the Raider to the nearby moon of Derna, using a safe route, where the Nautolians and Cardassians rarely tread, along the Badlands. At last, about three weeks ago, Melina arrived on Derna, in bad shape, in dire need of medical attention and food. Her fellow Resistance members on Derna, a small number of Resistance members, who had believed her to be dead, took her and cared her back to health.

Now, Melina remained at the Resistance Headquarters on Derna, resting, until she could return back to active duty in the Resistance.

+ 4 Dilithium Good Post.
-Lord Borg

[Pah-Wraith]

-SS Jubilee-

The sound of the Adhan, or Muslim call to prayer blazed out of the speakers on the interface in Hadi's Quarters; It was a familiar sound to him, however he was not yet quite used to hearing it in space, for it had been two years since his last assignment in Star Fleet before entering the world of Politics on Earth. Hadi was on the USS Jubilee, at the request of his uncle, Governor al-Firdos, but he hated it, as far as Hadi was concerned getting away from al-Firdos meant he could move forward and forget the past few years of his life, whether his family approved or not.

"Ya Allah, take us to the station as swiftly as possible" Hadi murmured under his breath as he got up and put on a Shirt.

As Hadi started walking towards the Replicator machine, he began thinking about his future, whether or not his past could be forgotten and whether or not he could stick at his new post. None of that seemed to matter to him, all he wanted was to be as far away from Cairo and Politics as Possible.

[Lord Borg]

-DSG, Sickbay-

Doctor Burns was sitting in the CMO's office studying the monitor on the desk, reading over various reports again, and again. She groaned and stiffed back a yawn and stood, stretching out her discomfort of sitting for so long. Sue looked out a window to the biobed area and saw the lights had been dimmed. She let out a breath of air and walked into the room carefully, it was a good thing the stations in this area had been muted, she could work if she needed to, and not disturb anyone. She arrived at the foot of Anthony Hordichuk's bed first and tapped a few controls, and looked to the display monitor on the wall. Everything seemed to be fine; in fact he could most likely be released when he awakes, albeit, still no duty. His therapy would take some time, although with a Bionic leg, he should be able to get along just fine. Burns tapped a few more controls and then moved on to Ian's area.

Burns looked to Ian's face for a moment as he slept, it was still strange to believe, what he was for all of those hours those three weeks ago. He had lost a serious amount of blood and had almost died from that factor alone, aside the fact from what his body had gone though. She looked down to the control station of the biobed and entered a few commands and looked up to the display monitor. He was recovering nicely, and his red cell count was averaging normal again. She saw his heart was beating a little faster then normal though. The shock was still traversing in his system. She moved over to a tray and picked up a hypospray, loading with a goldish color cartage then pressing it to Ian's arm, as to not disturb him and injected the medicine. Burns looked back to the display monitor and watched as his heart went back to a normal beat. Burns closed her eyes and let out a small sigh and then looked to Ian again.

"You�re recovering nicely" she whispered, so no one would hear.

-DSG, Security Office-

Lieutenant Junior Grade Alicia Stone sat in her seat, studying the monitor in front of her on the desk of the security office. It was a slow day, and there was going to be some sort of party on the Promenade, that anyone could go to. She was looking forward to it actually. It seemed it was supposed to happen three weeks ago, but the situation with the Nautolians and the crises on the planet happened. Stone was glad she was going to be off duty when the party occurred, she rather looked forward to it, relaxing, dancing, singing and having food and drink. Perhaps she could play on the holodeck to. The monitor was displaying a simulation that the security officers were passing around each other, a test of the sorts to see who reacted to certain situations, and how. Stone sighed and leaned back into her seat and closed her eyes. She wondered how Xavier and Hordichuk were doing. She had wondered how people reacted to Xavier, while he may have been mutated, there was a period were he was still plenty human it seemed. She wondered if Starfleet and the families of the deceased would try to do something, maybe once again, try to remove him from the command of the station.

-DSG, Promenade-

Jonathan Archer, friend of Ian Xavier, and Captain of the USS Hippocratic Oath stood in the promenade, looking over the final details of the party that would be held here. He had read the reports and spoken to various people three weeks ago about what happened with Ian he even spoke to the man himself, but could not quite believe what had happened. It all seemed too far of a stretch, even for Elerra Prime. He wondered how his friend was doing mentally. Physically, Burns was doing a superb job. She really knew her stuff it seemed. Ian had to go though several dermal regeneration treatments in order to get where he was, as there were still some mutations within his system, and several transfusions had needed to be done.

Archer managed to get into sickbay when others could not, what with being Captain of the Medical ship with knowledge, he went to lend a hand if it was needed, which was an excuse to personally check on his friend, and let Ziona and the others know how he was holding up. Archer wondered if he could somehow get Ian here, to the party, if only for a few minutes. Perhaps he could take the party to him. Archer smirked at that thought and looked to an officer standing next to him.

"This looks good" he said, motioning to a stage set up for an actual band.

-Terra Nova, Starfleet R&D Facility-

T'Sa moved though the doors that served as the main entrance to the building of the R&D facility on Terra Nova. She was going to start this project three weeks ago, but there had been problems, and the staff required to place their attention elsewhere. They contacted T'Sa a couple nights ago, and told her that she could come in today, and meet with Admiral Ross about the project and get the final details she would need to begin her work. She walked in a rigid form with her hands clasped behind her back as she headed for the desk, to ask directions. T'Sa wondered what the problems were.

She had heard about what happened with Ian and had almost raced back to DSG, to be at his side, but after a lengthy conversation with Ziona, Jonathan, and even Ian himself, she had decided to stay where she was. It was logical, to remain here, anyways as she had made a promise to Starfleet to look at what ever project it was they needed help on. It was something about a 'Multi Target Torpedo'. T'Sa cleared her throat as she stepped up to the desk and looked to the woman.

"Excuse me, Captain T'Sa to see Admiral Ross" She said, stating her name, and her intentions.

+ 6 Dilithium. Good post and detail.

Founder

[Spellbinder Marik]

-DSG, Holodeck-

Kiris had been spending all of his free time here in the holodeck. He�d begun designing a holo-novel. He�d spoken to Cory briefly and got the distinct feeling Cory was serious about leaving. He�d begun to design a program he�d be able to use after Cory was gone. He�d designed the mainstay of the program and was now designing the secondary components. He was so busy he failed to notice the door open and close. Kiris looked over to one of the holographic officers.
�Take that to the chief. Tell him I�ll be down there in 20 minutes to inspect the new plasma intercooler.� The hologram took the PADD.
�Yes sir.� Kiris turned around.
�Cory! What brings you here?� Cory walked over and looked out a window overlooking a ship inside a bay.

�Oh I was taking a stroll. Nice ship.� Kiris nodded. The design was rather unique and never before seen in Starfleet.
�It�s just a ship.� Cory turned away from the ship.
�Don�t sell yourself short. It�s a fascinating design.� Kiris nodded.
�Computer, save changes and end program.� The computer beeped and the simulation disappeared.
�Something wrong?� Kiris shook his head.
�No. Just couldn�t sleep. Not feeling well.� Cory knew it was only a cover. Kiris was already suffering because of what Cory said. He could only imagine what would happen once he was gone.
�Join me in the replimat. I�d like to hear about your new ship.� Kiris nodded and walked out of the holodeck with Cory.

-DSG, Transporter Room-

N�Tran materialized. He was taking a break from the message he and T�Rell had spent every waking moment working on. He currently was holding a PADD with his request on it. N�Tran walked out of the room.

-DSG, Corridor-

�Computer, is Commander Xavier on the station?� The computer beeped.
�Affirmative. Commander Xavier presently resides in sickbay.� N�Tran stepped into a nearby turbolift and called for the appropriate level for the medical bay. He was going over something he�d learned of.

-IRW Ferex, Medical Bay, 3 Weeks Ago-

N�Tran strolled into the Ferex medical bay. He�d left T�Rell on the Salara to continue working on the message. Doctor Y�Vel looked up.
�Admiral Ditex. To what do I owe the pleasure?� N�Tran sat down.
�I need some information doc. Some information that you may haven been ordered to keep secret.� Y�Vel deactivated his console. He knew this conversation was bound to take place.
�What do you need Admiral?� N�Tran tapped his fingers on the desk.
�You worked for my father. I need to know everything he ordered you to keep secret.� Y�Vel looked down. He did know things General Levek Ditex had sworn death on if it was ever revealed.
�I�m afraid I cannot accommodate you Admiral. I have strict orders not to reveal what I know.� N�Tran nodded.
�Have it your way. As your current commanding officer I am countermanding any previous orders you received. Now, tell me what you know.� Y�Vel was struck. N�Tran was like his father in so many ways.
�Honestly Admiral I don�t know that much. All I have is a PADD from your father. He said it was to be guarded at all costs.� Y�Vel went over to the wall and pulled a panel loose. A small PADD was held suspended in a force field. Y�Vel removed the PADD and handed it to N�Tran.
�I�ll leave you be to read it.� Y�Vel secure the medical bay and walked out.

N�Tran began to skim through the PADD. Fairly standard stuff. Until he found a file with no title. N�Tran opened the file. N�Tran read the file. For a moment he thought it was a horrible joke. He ran it through the computer just to be sure. It was authentic.
T�Rell was his half-brother�

-DSG, Corridor, Present Day-

N�Tran stepped out of the lift and walked through a door. He�d entered the sickbay.

-DSG Sickbay-

N�Tran walked over to the medical officers office.
�Excuse me. I am Admiral Ditex. Is Commander Xavier well enough to speak with me for a few minutes?�

-Salara, Holo-Chamber-

Trip threw another Klingon over his shoulder. After coming back from the temple he�d been wanting to get back in shape and acquired several programs of a Klingon nature that provided a rigorous workout when the safeties were disengaged. He�d replicated a weapon called a Bat�leth.

According to his research he�d discovered this was a weapon favored by most of the Klingon Empire. Trips Bat�leth however was a little bigger to accommodate his size. He was a little bigger than even the most imposing Klingon. He�d also learned that on some doorways he had to duck in order to avoid hitting his head.

Two more Klingons rushed him. He stood in a battle stance and let them get close before he stabbed one through the midsection and threw him off to the side. The other Klingon had stabbed Trip in his right arm which was now bleeding profusely. Trip turned around to meet his enemies� toothy grin. Trip opened his own jaw and jutted his teeth. He rushed the Klingon parrying blows from his Bat�leth until finally knocking the warrior to his back. He heard a voice just a moment later.
�The simulation has ended.� Trip was breathing heavily from his workout. He looked up when the door opened.
�You know Admiral Ditex expressed his concerns about you leaving a blood trail all the way to sickbay.� Trip nodded.
�The simulation would not be real if it was not life threatening.� T�Rell smiled.
�If you�re not too busy I�d like to ask you a few questions.� Trip placed his Bat�leth in a sheath he�d fastened to his back.
�Perhaps after I go to sickbay. My arm will need repairing again.� T�Rell nodded.
�Computer, site to site transport, 2 to beam directly to the medical bay.� The two of them dematerialized.

+ 5 Dilithium. Good post.

Founder

[Lord Borg]

-DSG, Sickbay-

Burns had been studing Ian's display monitor, making sure the vitals of the man would stay stable, which the usually did for the most part. However, there had been a few times where they had started to slip, such as earlier. She was about to carefully step away when some Romulan had came into the room, and simply took no regard for the fact the patients could be sleeping. She made a face and moved over towards the Romulan. She wondred how it was that he was moving around on a station, that not only had no civilians on it still, but there was no security escort. She was thinking perhaps she should call them to see what was going on. Burns whispered harshly to the Romulan.

"No, he is not. Commander Xavier is sleeping, and needs his rest. You will have to come back later."

[Spellbinder Marik]

-DSG, Sickbay-

N�Tran nodded to the young women.
�Then I shall wait. Please call me when he�s available.� N�Tran was careful to exit the room quietly so as not to wake the sleeping Commander. N�Tran tucked the PADD into his uniform. When he looked back up he noticed 2 Starfleet security officers approach him.

-DSG, Corridor-

�I don�t need an escort you know.� One of the officers stepped forward.
�We have our orders. Any Romulan on the station is to be escorted by security at all times.� N�Tran laughed on this inside. Not everyone could change.
�Have it your way.� N�Tran made his way to the promenade and into one of the replimats. He ordered a Synthale from the replicator and waited. Out of the corner of his eye he saw the two security officers standing on either side of the doorway. He sipped the ale and pulled the PADD out of his uniform.

-DSG, Replimat-

Kiris and Cory entered a different replimat filling with people just getting off duty.
�So, tell me about that ship.� Kiris sat down.
�It�s just a ship for a program I�m designing. Nothing much really.� Cory grabbed a PADD Kiris had been carrying.
�May I?� Kiris nodded. He got up and went to the replicator.
�Orange Juice and Wheat toast.� The replicator buzzed and produced a small tray with Kiris� order. He went back to the table. Cory thumbed through the contents of the PADD. He looked at several images.
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e15/DarthMarik/ScorpionPlaque.jpg
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e15/DarthMarik/specs-msd_lg.gif
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e15/DarthMarik/interceptor_action.jpg
�It�s a fascinating ship. Not bad specifications for her size either.� Kiris drank his orange juice and munched on the toast.
�I�m just creating something for my off duty time.� Cory sat the PADD down.
�Do you want to talk about what�s really bothering you?� Kiris sat his glass down.
�No, Not really.�

(Plaque is Mine. I received permission from the artist to use images and information from the said ship.)

+ 2 Dilithium. Good post.

Founder.

Bonus: anti-cloak scans. Nice job with the plaque

Founder

[Ziona]

DSG, Messhall

With a resounding sigh and a look around the room, Ziona took a seat at a table near a nearby port, watching as the stars sat in their existance in space. She put her hands around the cup of tea before her, thinking to herself over the events that had happened on Elerra Prime and in the temple. She had seen Ian a few times, without him knowing, usually while he was sleeping. She would stand in the doorway of sickbay, watching him sleep for a few seconds before exiting.

Another sigh escaped her lips and she lifted the cup of tea to her lips, taking a quick sip before putting it down again. With that, she withdrew a PADD from the inside of her jacket and set it down before her, studying it a few moments before reaching into her jacket again to withdraw some sort of writing device. A hesistantion stopped her from putting the device to the PADD, but after a few moments she began to compose thoughts and put them down.

Am I something inhuman for not feeling any strangeness towards the actions that took place in that temple? Am I something lower than human for not feeling any sort of sorrow for those killed? I should take that bad. I do feel bad for those that died. I feel bad for losing any member of this crew. But at the same time, I find it hard to blame the person. I find it hard to blame the responsible party. He wasn't responsible at the time was he? He wasn't himself.

Ziona lifted her device from the PADD to think a few seconds before she continued writing.

I must take that back as well. I do feel something. It feels strange to walk up to him and talk to him in sickbay. I want to very much so. He's there, by himself, dealing with everything that has happened. And yet I'm almost afraid to. I'm afraid this war is tearing us apart. I'm afraid that something, something bigger than us, is bearing down ontop of us about ready to tear things apart. But I guess that's just the lack of sleep talking...

Biting the tip of the writing device, Ziona stared down at the writing she had thus completed. A wrinkle of concern flowed over her forhead, furrowing her usually smooth complexion and darkening her already dark-rimmed eyes. A frown creased her lips, giving her a rather unbecoming frown.

Eventually I'll have to talk to him. Eventually things will work out. At least, I hope they work out. They should work out. We've come so far already, through so much. Through Tidus. Everything.

Another frown and more chewing insued, followed by an exhausted sigh and a sip of tea. A thought crossed her mind. Where had her father gone off to? Where had T'Sa run off to this time? Had her friend, Nicodemus, ever been found? A memory scampered across her mind and Ziona remembered that, yes, he had been found. T'Sa had spoken to her from his home on Terra Nova.

With another sigh, Ziona put her head down on the table before her, taking the PADD and placing it in her jacket once again before she finished her tea and headed back to her quarters to take a shower and get some rest. It had seemed forever since she had slept, and now seemed the best time to take a much needed night of sleep...

Terra Nova, Thiandrus' Compound

Nic moved slowly down the hallway, still supported slightly by the cane he was carrying with him. All his wounds had been healed, albeit his mental scaring and his one knee, which had refused, for some reason, to stop hurting. His father thought it was all in his head but Nic thought otherwise. A stop at one window, looking out into the valley between the mountains, brightened Nic's thoughts however. He remained standing there for a few moments longer before continuing down his way towards the main dining hall for dinner.

T'Sa had disappeared into another location on Terra Nova. He hadn't seen her all day but eventually she would turn up. She lived in the house for now, basically, and that was where she always seemed to turn back to.

The sun streaming in from the windows made Nic smile to himself as he half-hobbled down the hallway with high-vaulting windows. The sun would set soon, as it was almost dusk. But for today, the sun shown specifically brighter and more radiant. Maybe it was a sign of things to come.

"Things are looking up." Nic spoke outloud, to no one in particular. He nodded to himself as he said this and smiled quickly before entering the dining hall and taking a seat. "Things are definately looking up..."

DSG, Ian and Ziona's Quarters

The tension in Ziona's chest continued to throw her body into wracks of pain as she rushed through the never-ending cycle of walls, walls and more walls. There wasn't an exit. There wasn't any clue. She was lost, hopelessly lost. And there was a creature coming up behind her...

She could feel the breath on the back of her legs as she ran... ran... continued to run, her lungs burning of oxygen, her heart thudding in her chest fit to explode into a million tiny bloody pieces. The pounding of blood rushing through her body reached her ears, sending her into more of a panic as she fled from the unseen person behind her.

Her throat had long since ceased to have moisture and even a scream came out as a small whimper as she tried to call for help.

"Blake! Juliana! Anyone!"

But no one would hear her in this maze. No one would come to her rescue.

Now she was passing walls, but hanging from the walls were her fellow crewmembers. The site of them hanging from the walls, blood pouring down their bodies, eyes open but seeing nothing made her scream... made her want to hurl herself at the walls and dash her brains out against the concrete. But she couldn't. She couldn't stop running... constantly running.

Halfway down a corridor, she tripped over something, a skull on the ground. SHe clambered to a nearby corner, trying to mask herself in the shadows. And that's when she saw her predator... the thing chasing her. It revealed itself out of the shadows, slowly, the light spilling over its features one by one.

Before her stood Ian, blood dripping from his outstretched hand. He opened his mouth to speak, but all she heard was a high-pitched sound... a piercing howl. Something glistened in his bloody hand and Ziona recognized the dagger a second before it was plunged deep into her throat, spilling her own blood onto the concrete floor....

Ziona didn't wake up as she laid on the bed. She continued to breath, she continued to remain alive, but her mind was too lost in the fear to awaken. She remained there, living in this nightmare, as it played over and over again...

+ 5 Dilithium, Very good post, well written with attention to detail! The dream sounds scary
-Lord Borg

[Founder]

-Terra Nova, Starfleet R&D-

Dozens of officers, mainly science and tactical, walked up and down the main hall of the building. Non-Starfleet personell, mainly scientists, were also present as they continued to walk around, tons of PADDs in their hands. It looked like a busy day in research and development. The woman at the desk looked up at T'Sa, then nodded when the Vulcan stated why she was there. She turned towards the computer on her desk and ran a check on the name. Right on the schedule was a T'Sa to assist in the development of a new weapon.

"He's in his office," She said, "You may enter."

She pointed to a door across the room, which could only be opened if command codes were entered. T'Sa had a high enough clearance.

-DSG, Sickbay-

Ian, unable to fully sleep, vaguely heard the discussion between Burns and N'Tran. He stirred and opened his eyes, but N'Tran was already gone. He wondered just what the Romulan wanted.

"Dr. Burns," He said, "I appreciate your position as a medical officer, but I'm fine. I'm taking it easy as you requested, but I'm about to go nuts if I have to lay here even one more day. I don't mind people coming to talk to me. It helps me to forget I'm trapped within the confines of sickbay."

Right now, things were difficult because his first officer had been promoted and transfered off the station. There was no one that could take up the first officer position at the current moment, because Ian had not had a chance to replace Katran. Duties were relegated to the senior staff and thankfully, things had been quiet. Although, Ian knew that was rare around DSG...

[Lord Borg]

-Terra Nova, Starfleet R&D-

T'Sa gave a curt nod to the woman behind the desk and looked towards the door. She hesitated a moment then moved towards it, keeping her hands behind her back in a typical Vulcan fashion. It would seem, a normal T'Sa was back again, at least one in better control of her actions. T'Sa cleared her throat out of habit and arrived at the doors. She noticed a key pad awainting a command code, stangely enough. T'Sa raised her eyebrow then tapped in her command code, which the pad responded to by buzzing, and the doors slid open. T'Sa moved though and stood at attention.

"Captain T'Sa, reporting as ordered" She said clearly.

-DSG, Sickbay-

Burns looked over to Ian and smirked slightly, she had probably seen his point long ago, it simply sucked when you had to do nothing but lay on the bed. She gave a soft sigh and a shrug and spoke quietly as to not wake up Anthony.

"I understand Captain, but I'm afraid you have to take an easy. However, I think...yes, I believe we can work something out, more visitors, perhaps a visit to the celebrations later. If your good" She finished with a joke as she steped over to the Commander.

"How are you feeling? Anything feel...weird?"

[Spellbinder Marik]

-Salara, Medical Bay-

The Salaras Doctor was patching up Trips arm again.
�If you don�t start taking it easy I�ll restrict you from using the holo-chamber.� Trip looked to T�Rell.
�Is he fit to leave yet doc?� The Doctor scanned him.
�He appears to be in perfect health Admiral.� T�Rell and Trip walked out of the medical bay.

-Salara, Corridor-

�I assume by now you�ve heard about the virus?� Trip nodded.
�Yes. Your people were nearly wiped out by it.� T�Rell raised an eyebrow.
�Is it a biological weapon designed by your people?� Trip removed his mask and flexed his jaw.
�No. My people wouldn�t use weapons like that. It�s against the hunters� code. It is also cowardly to attack someone that can�t fight back.� The two of them continued to walk through the corridor.
�Can he really do that?� T�Rell looked to Trip wondering what he meant.
�What do you mean?� Trip stopped.
�The Doctor, can he really restrict me from using the holo-chamber?� T�Rell nodded.
�Yeah. The Doctor can restrict any of us from duty or activites if he finds a valid reason for it.�

-DSG, Replimat One-

Kiris finished his breakfast. He was tired but couldn�t sleep if he tried and he did promise Commander Xavier he�d be more attentive to his duties. Kiris scooped up his PADD.
�I have to report to engineering.� Cory nodded.
�Tessa and I want you to join us for dinner tonight.� Kiris paused.
�I don�t know. I�m not sure it would be proper.� Cory shook his head.
�Nonsense. It�s perfectly proper.� Kiris sighed and nodded.
�I�ll think about it.� Kiris left for Engineering.

-DSG, Engineering-

Several minutes later Kiris entered Engineering. He stopped a passing ensign.
�Where is assistant chief Bengali?� The young women pointed.
�He�s in your office sir.� Kiris nodded.
�Thank you.� The ensign smiled.
�No problem sir.�

-DSG, Chief Engineers Office-

Kiris entered the office.
�Mr. Bengali,� Kiris said, �Where�s our roster for the day?�

-DSG, Replimat Two-

N�Tran finished his synthale. He looked at the PADD again. His thoughts were interrupted by his communicator. He pulled his communicator out and opened it.
�Ditex here. Go ahead.� Lauras� voice rang through.
�Are you busy right now?� N�Tran had planned on being done talking with Xavier by now. The sooner he got permission and a permit the soon he could stop hiding this from Laura. She was beginning to grow suspicious.
�Not presently. I guess I�ll be returning to the ship early.� N�Tran looked to the Starfleet security officers guarding the door and then back to his communicator.
�One to Transport.� N�Tran stood up and dematerialized.

[Founder]

-DSG, Gymnasium-

A half Romulan, half Human officer, Merik Naruul, was lifting weights inside of gymnasium onboard the space station. His body was in peak condition and it showed through the clothing. While he was a halfling, his Human features were much more prevalent. His father had been Human, while his mother was a Romulan. Besides this already unique combination, he was unique in the sense that he did not originate from the universe he currently resided in. No, he came from the mirror universe, a parallel universe that closely mirrored the real one, thus the name. He had crossed over with Daien and Jones in an attempt to take Demetrius while simultaneously killing Sophia Findlay almost 11 months ago. They had failed and Blake had killed the cyrbog, while Daien fled back to the mirror universe, leaving Merik behind. He quickly fled in a stolen shuttle and discovered currents events in the real universe. In this universe, just like his natural one, Sit Fito led the Nautolians in a war against the major powers of the quadrant. Realizing that Fito could actually win, he found a Nautolian ship and pledged his undying allegience to Fito, who readily accepted it. A little while later, a shuttle carrying the real Merik, was hijacked by a Nautolian vessel and the two quickly switched placed. The mirror universe version of Merik had been onboard the station for months without anyone knowing, while the real Merik was rotting away in a Nautolian prison, possibly dead by now. The MU Merik didn't care. He didn't think about that often, unless he wanted to smile at the thought of his "cowardly" counterpart suffering. Fito's death camps were quite famous in the Alpha quadrant and many who went, did not leave. Merik, sweat pouring from his brow, dropped the weights on the ground prompting a loud bang as he did so. He breathed heavily, trying to catch his breath from pushing his body so hard. The only other people in the gym with him were Jay Harkens and Zakulo, an Arbazan. Both were members of the hazard team onboard the station. The hazard team had gone through many, many changes since the MU Merik took over. He was overly critical and cold to the others. Those he disliked, he forced transfers and gained more disciplined, slightly corrupt, officers in their stead. Jay was the only "original" member of the team, but he had always been tough and not the type to fool around on the job. Merik was brilliant in covering his tracks. He rarely made himself known to the other senior staff members unless he was desperately needed. Thankfully, there was no point that his services were really required and this allowed him to bide his time. He knew that station in and out after having studied the MSD onboard. Before his dissapearance, he would frequently ask lieutenant Grey about the systems of the station. The quiety and strange chief of engineering had no clue that Merik was any different. He had all the information he needed and would use it to his advantage, but he would need to wait for orders from Sit Fito, lord Obsidian, before he could act.

"Any news on the new guy? Jay asked.

Merik was wiping his face with a towel, sliding the sweat off.

"Lieutenant Al-Firdos?" Zakulo asked.

The hybrid alien shook his head, annoyed that Jay and Zakulo were talking about such trivial matters. Starfleet seemed fit to force a new second in command of the hazard team after the other died from a "transporter accident", at least, that's what they thought. It was definitly not the first time that Merik killed someone over a...disagreement.

"Forget it," He said in a gruff voice, "He isn't important. I'm gonna go to my quarters. I need some time to think."

Jay chuckled, "What do you need to think about? Who's head your going to break in next?"

Merik looked at him, not sharing in the joke made at his expense.

"I expect you two to report the meeting tomorrow." He said.

Without another word, he walked out and headed towards his quarters. Merik had been aching to set his plans in motion. Plans that would endanger DSG and the Fifth fleet...

-Terra Nova, Starfleet R&D-

Vice-admiral William Ross was sitting at his desk, reading from a PADD that detailed a war report. At that exact moment, T'Sa interrupted him and entered the room, citing she was there as ordered. He looked up at her in suprise, not expecting her so accurately on time. Then again, she was a Vulcan. It was not logical to be late. A part of him found it funny that he was reading a report made by her own father, a fleet admiral.



"Captain T'Sa," He said, "Welcome to our facility."

He stood up from his seat politely, motioning for her to sit down. His hand placed the PADD on the desk and he took his seat. Ross was grateful that T'Sa had shown up when she did. Starfleet Command was pressuring Ross to complete the weapon and soon. They feared that Fito would soon send a fleet to attack Federation worlds, emboldened by his conquering of Romulus and Remus. The weapon was nearly ready for full production if the problems could be overcome. That is why T'Sa was there. She had decades of experiance and would be a great asset in the fixing the bugs in the system.

"Thank you for coming," He told her, "Your insight is highly valued. I've read some of the commendations and awards given to you. They're well earned, however many there are."

A voice from the corner of the room spoke before T'Sa could get in a word.

"Enough with the praises," He said, "She is Vulcan and it means nothing to her."

-DSG, Sickbay-

Ian shrugged, unable to immediatly answer her question. Was something wrong with him? Did he still feel any physical pain?

"No," He said, "Physically, I'm fine, but it will be hard to get over turning into a mutant animal and murdering crewmen. Even if I'm not responsible, it is still....strange."

He frowned and closed his eyes, not really wanting to talk about it. Ian wished Ziona had been in sickbay. He barely got to speak to her at all. If she had been around, he would have spoken about how he felt about what had happened. Perhaps, now was simply not the time for either of them. Ian would have to wait, he guessed. Then again, maybe not.

"Am I healthy enough to return to my quarters?" He asked, "Perhaps with something that would allow you to monitor me from outside of sickbay?"

-DSG, Chief Engineer's Office-

Bengali looked up to see Kiris enter and ask what was needed to do that day. As always on a station of this size, a lot was needed. For once though, work on the Fifth fleet would not be one of them. The Kyoto, Discovery, and Monarch had all be repaired in the three weeks time span. The assistant chief of engineering crossed from over from the desk and handed Kiris a PADD.

"As you can see," He said, "Two replicators are malfunctioning on the promenade, as reported by captain Archer. A relay on deck 12 has gone down. Get this..."

He smiled and pointed to a section on the PADD.

"A Ferengi vessel is requesting his ship gain upgraded phasers," He laughed, "Not that we'd give him the technology, but I thought you'd find it amusing."

Bengali's smile faded as he continued on what else was on the list.

"Guardian City, still empty, is...strangely gaining a lot of attention," He said, "Security patrols detect malfunctions all over the place down there. They can't seem to understand what it is. I suggest taking a team to investigate it."

-DSG, Ops-

Jones, sitting in the same spot he always did, looked back at Melina who stood at her station in Ops. It was another day onboard the space station and she looked rather bored.

"Lieutenant?" He called out, "Are you going to the party on the promenade?"

If there was a person he could call a personal friend onboard, it would definitly be Juliana. He wondered if she gained anything from her search of the Elerran temple, but felt now would not be a good time to ask. Jones had heard what went on in the temple and did not want invoke any bad memories. Especially since some the best science officers in her department were killed.

-Terra Nova, Starfleet R&D-

A Romulan appeared, typically arrogant with little subtlty. He eyed T'Sa with a frown, not really pleased with her presence there. Admiral Ross, concerned the Romulan would start a conflict, rushed in the way of T'Sa.



"This is subcommander Torol," Ross said, "He has been assisting us in the development of the weapon's platforms."

He looked back at Torol, "Subcommander, I ask that you show my officers respect. Especially one as dedicated and hard working as her."

The Romulan rolled his eyes, not impressed, but he did not make an issue out of it.

"As you wish," He said, "However, I must note that her involvment is not necessary. My science officer could have fixed the problem."

Ross chuckled, "Really? You said that a month ago. There are no results though. We need her assistance. She is the final addition to the team, I assure you."

Torol eyed T'Sa, but said nothing more. He would accept her help, but like all Romulans, he would be paranoid while doing so. The Romulan had been part of a vessel that was sent into Federation space to cooridinate ways to fight against the Nautolians assist in the retaking of Romulus. Although, many out of R&D did not know about that.

+10 Dilithium. Good post, well writen with nice detail.
-Lord Borg

[Spellbinder Marik]

-IRW Salara, Corridor-

Laura had beamed N�Tran back aboard. N�Tran began to experience a headache. He wondered if it was a reoccurrence of the virus but shrugged the thought off after Y�Vel had told them that the �cure� Laura and Kiris helped develop was foolproof. It�s probably that replicated ale.
�Something wrong hon?� N�Tran raised an eyebrow. Hon? Laura had never addressed him as such. He shook his head.
�It�s nothing. Just a headache.� Laura smiled a smile N�Tran had only ever seen a precious few times before.
�I need you to help me with something.� N�Tran rubbed his forehead.
�I have to deliver a PADD to the bridge.� Laura nodded.
�Very well. Meet me in our quarters when you�re done.� Lauras� tone of voice told N�Tran all he needed to know. Laura wanted to be intimate.
�I�ll be there shortly.� He kissed her and they parted ways. Once he was sure she was out of earshot he stopped.
�Why now?�

-DSG, Chief Engineers Office-

Kiris looked the PADD over. He listened as Bengali talked.
�I wonder why the Ferengi wants upgraded phasers�� Kiris nodded when Bengali suggested they check out Guardian City.
�Send Crewman Williams to take care of the replicators and Ensign Anderson to deck 12 to deal with the relay.� Kiris grabbed an engineering kit and stopped at the door.
�When you�re done with them meet me on level 711.� Kiris walked out of the office. He didn�t mean to be rude or seem uncaring but at least if he was working he wasn�t thinking about other things that were bothering him.

-DSG, Turbolift-

Kiris entered the turbolift.
�Level 711, Guardian City.� Kiris felt the lift take off. He wasn�t sure why but he began thinking about the short conversation he�d had with his grandfather.

-Starfleet Medical, 3 Weeks ago-

Kiris was settled next to his grandfather.
�Do you fear death Kiris?� Kiris wasn�t sure how to respond. Unless extraordinary measures were taken death could not be circumvented.
�I don�t want to die, but fear it, no. Death is inevitable.� Quentin smiled weakly.
�If you believe you won�t die then you never really do.� Kiris raised his head in confusion.
�Have you found a way to bypass death grandfather?� Quentin rolled his head side to side and smiled.
�The McKnight clan is strong�but we are not that strong. I meant spiritually. When your mother was young we regularly visited many spiritual places throughout the Federation. I developed a deep respect for them. I only regret that I never got to visit Bajor. I hear they are one of the most religious species ever encountered.� Kiris took his grandfathers hand.
�I will go there for you one day. I promise.�

-DSG, Turbolift-

Kiris�s flashback was interrupted when the doors slid open. He waited only a moment and then got out himself. He approached a security officer.
�Excuse me. I�m Lt. Ditex, the chief engineer. I was informed of malfunctions down here.�

[Ziona]

DSG, Ian and Ziona's Quarters

Ziona awoke the next morning feeling rather relaxed and refreshed even with her nightmares she had had the night before. With a sigh, she opened her eyes, staring at the ceiling in silence. It was lonely in the room, without Ian or anyone else to talk to. T'Sa had disappeared onto Terra Nova, her father was somewhere on Earth probably. Things had sort of slowed to a crawl after the encounter on Elerra Prime.

With a grunt of regret, Ziona rolled off the bed and stood a few moments, finally removing the PADD in her jacket that was digging into her side. She tossed it aside onto a table and began to undress, heading towards the bathroom as she went. A good shower might help her get over the lonliness she was feeling. Once in the shower, Ziona resolved to go see Ian if he didn't return to their quarters by the middle of the afternoon.

After taking a long shower, Ziona returned to the main quarters to get another cup of tea and to get dressed. She sat down at a console in the room and sent a quick letter to her father, hoping to reach him and at least convince him to return to DSG. She already missed him and it was a strange feeling to say the least... for over thirty years she hadn't wanted anything to do with him and now, suddenly, she was missing the elder Andreas.

With a sigh and a stretch, Ziona sipped on her tea and took a seat on the couch, sitting in silence as she waited for Ian's return or for her mind to think up some sort of form of distraction for the rest of the day...

+ 4 Dilithium. Wonderful detail Z.

Founder

[Lord Borg]

-Terra Nova, Starfleet R&D-

T'Sa regarded Admiral Ross with the upmost respect when he adressed her. She moved towards a seat and sat down when he did and listened carefully when he spoke. He seemed to want to discuss the past commendations and awards she had gotton, when a voice spoke from a corner of the room, that she had not paid attention to when she walked in. T'Sa looked back towards the source of the voice as a Romulan appeared. She was quite surrprised to see a Romulan at this facility, although she hid it. As Ross rushed to stand between the two, T'Sa carefully stood and placed her hands behind ber back. This...Subcommander Torol, seemed to be a typical Romulan, arrogant, and paranoid.

The argument was made about his science officer, only for Ross ro rebuttle with the fact that they had a month to work on the problem. T'Sa wondered what was wrong that she of all people could help.

T'Sa wondered for a moment how this Romulan got here, and when. Had he left before the invasion of Romulus? Perhaps, he was not even from Romulus. T'Sa wondered why Ross had to 'assure' Torol about the 'final addition'. It would seem, she thought, that Ross was trying to ensure the Romulan that they had as much to say as Starfleet did? T'Sa was partially confuised, not sure as to why it was implied it was a Starfleet project, if others were involved.

"Admiral," T'Sa said in a montone voice, although there was a slight hint towards an emotional voice, "I'm not quite sure I understand what it is I can do."

-DSG, Sickbay-

Burns took in the man for a moment, considaring his request. While he really should be right here in case something goes strange, as long as he wore a monitor, and came in for daily visits for a while, she supposed she couldn't see why not leave.

"Alright, but you have to wear this."

Burns showed a simple monitor that would keep an eye on his biosigns and report it back to sickbay. She placed it behind his right ear in the proper place and then stepped back and let out a small sigh.

"Your free to go, for now."

+ 3 Dilithium. Good post.

Founder

[La Forge]

Deep Space Guardian, OPS

Juliana was just sitting down at the science console in OPS, after returning from a quick trip to the replicator to grab a cup of raktajino, Klingon coffee and one of Juliana's favorite drinks, when Lieutenant Malcolm Jones, a cyborg and one of Juliana's closest friends, called out to her, from across the room.

"Lieutenant?" Jones had called out. "Are you going to the party on the Promenade?" Jones had asked the young French scientist, as she took a sip of her raktajino.

Jones, of course, had been referring to the party that Captain Jonathan Archer was holding on the Promenade, to boost morale on the station and abroad. The war was beginning to get to everyone and the people really needed something to look forward to, to just kick back and relax and have a good time, instead of thinking about this endless war with the damn Nautolians and their bastard friends, the Cardassians.

"No." Juliana replied, as she placed the blue coffee mug filled with steaming hot raktajino onto the computer console, in front of her.

Raktajino was her saving grace. The wonderful drink was the only thing that kept her from falling asleep on the job. After all, "scanning duty" as she called it, was no fun. Juliana didn't enlist in Starfleet to run scans. Juliana had joined Starfleet for adventure and all of that good stuff. However, she had gotten her fill of adventure those three weeks ago, back in the temple on Elerra Prime, Site X. That was most certainly an adventure, of the most exciting...and dangerous...kind. Still, after having been on "scanning duty" for the last three weeks, Juliana could do with some more adventure, again.

"I...uhhh...I'm not a 'party person', you know?" Juliana explained, as she blew on the steaming mug of coffee, to cool the Klingon brew down a bit.

It was true. Juliana was not "party person". She avoided parties any chance she had. Most of the time, when Juliana went to a party, she spent most of the time in the corner, sipping away at the punch. No fun, at all.

"Plus, I'm on duty. I wouldn't want to give up all of this, now would I?" Juliana remarked, sarcastically, as she gestured to the room around her, with a faint smile on her pale lips.

Juliana considered Jones to be her closest friend on the station, besides her own sister, Juliet, of course. However, Juliet was currently on the Federation colony down on Elerra Prime, on a field trip, with some other cadets, for two weeks. Jones was her closest friend left on the station, for the time being. At first, Juliana had felt romantic urges towards the cyborg, however, by now, all of those feelings were gone. Juliana only considered Jones to be a close friend, nothing more.

+ 5 Dilithium. Good detail on Juliana.

Founder

[Pah-Wraith]

USS Jubilee

"Mint Tea, hot and sweet" Hadi said as he stood at the replicator machine in the corridors outside his Quarters, he had rarely left his quarters whilst on the USS Jubilee, as leaving his Quarters would mean having to see his Uncle, the rather influential governor of Elerra Prime. So the Replicator seemed like a likely spot in order to get away from his quarters without having to visit the Mess Hall and potentially encounter his Uncle.

"Ya Hadi! Where have you been?!" came a voice from the end of the corridor, Hadi turned round and noticed his uncle but before he could reply, he was bombarded with more comments from him.

"You are acting like a child, and your father has been trying to contact you for the past 3 days....why are you avoiding everyone, this is not the behaviour of a Man, are you a man Hadi?" Governor al-Firdos protested, he approached Hadi and grabbed him on the shoulder.

"Sayyed, Uncle. I'm not the little boy you once knew in Egypt, I respect you as my elder but I am a man now, you and Aba just don't treat me like one. I have chosen my life, let me live by it and deal with whatever problems myself." replied Hadi, he was trying his best to not show too much attitude towards his Uncle, for that was not in his nature. However it was getting difficult with the increasing family pressure on him to return to Earth.

Governor al-Firdos looked Hadi in the eyes with a cold glare, he was not used to being answered back in such a harsh manner, by anyone- let alone his own relative and someone younger than him. He slowly backed off from Hadi and started walking away, he turned round whilst half way down the corridor and faced Hadi, and began entering what Hadi called his Uncle's Sermon position.

"Fine then, you are not my nephew and you are not my cousin's son. If you need anything in future I will grant you it, for it is the tradition of our people. However you are digging your own grave and I will be part of it no longer. We arrive at your stupid station shortly, when we arrive, be gone and don't contact me unless it's 100% neccessary. As far as I'm concerned, my nephew died when he disgraced the family by abandoning his wife and his Son." Governor al-Firdos said before shaking his head and walking away from Hadi, he had always been good at making people feel bad and talking down to people, but could never accept someone not listening to him.

"So be it, at least I shall retain my dignity" Hadi replied murmuring under his breath, for he knew that his reply would have no effect on his Uncle, It was either his way or no way and for Hadi, his Uncle's way was no option. Hadi turned back towards his quarters to gather his stuff, hoping the USS Jubilee was drawing near to the station.

+ 6 Dilithium. Good post, nice conflict between family.

Founder

[Founder]

-DSG, Sickbay-

Ian nodded, grateful she was allowing him to leave. He was tired of sitting within the confines of sickbay. He pulled himself off the the biobed and walked out of sickbay without another word. Ian wouldn't pull off the device unless she ordered it. He slowly walked down the corridor, wearing the clothing patients wore in sickbay.

"Time to go home..." He whispered to himself.

He entered a turbolift, calling for his quarters.

-Terra Nova, Starfleet R&D-

Torol sighed and walked across the room towards a mini bar and poured himself a drink. Ross looked back at T'Sa, confused by her question.

"Captain," He said, "Did I not make it clear what you are to assist us in?"

The Romulan, holding a glass of red liquid, walked towards a seat.

"It's surprising," He said, "Usually Vulcans catch on so quick."

Ross sat back in his seat and held his hands up.

"Quiet subcommander," He said, then looked at T'Sa, "The weapon has a lack of accuracy and the cooling period takes far too long for our tastes."

[Lord Borg]

-Terra Nova, Starfleet R&D-

T'Sa cleared her throat and blushed slightly as she realized she had been told what was needed of her. T'Sa fought the temptation to glare at the Romulan and looked over to Ross.

"Of course, Admiral. Forgive me, it has been an unusal month for me."

T'Sa shifted and sat down with a sigh. She thought over what could be wrong, but it was to soon to speculate, she hadn't even seen what they had on the project yet. T'Sa slid her eyes towards the Romulan, sighing inside, it seemed that she was always involved with the Romulans lately. Their sheer arogance made it seem impossible to work with at times.

"I will of course, assist in anyway I can, Admiral Ross.

[Founder]

-DSG, Promenade-

Emma Creed, first officer of the USS Monarch, stared out into space through one of the many view ports on the station's promenade. Preperations were currently being made by captain Archer to use the entire promenade, all levels of it, for the crews of the Fifth fleet. It had been some time since all of them had some R&R and with their recent victory, spirits were soaring. If the civilian population had no been evacuated by the station's second officer, Archer's plan would not have taken so long. With rumors of Fito's empire lost in chaos and the Fifth fleet guardin DSG, Starfleet Command has granted the colonists of Elerra Prime permission to return to their homes. No civilians are allowed on the station though. Little did she know that another reason that they were being allowed back was because a new weapon was being developed that could better protect Federation planets. Emma noticed the Discovery and the Radical patrolling the Elerran system, sensors on full in case any Nautolians were approaching.



Not that it was really needed since the space station had the latest sensors and would detect any ships approaching. Nevertheless, it was good to be ready. She didn't know anyone that had died from being too careful.

"Enjoying the view?" A voice asked.

She turned her head in surprise and saw commander Benson standing next to her. He was the first officer of the Hippocratic Oath, a hospital ship stationed on DSG. Captain Archer had assigned him to be temporary captain of the Nottingham. She smiled and nodded her head, looking back at the view they were discussing.

"It's beautiful," She said, "Elerra Prime is a nice looking planet. It's not like Earth, but there is...something about it. I guess, as long as we're assigned here, it's our home."

Benson looked out and noticed the planet was coming up in the station's orbit.

"Yeah," He said, "When we first came here, I hated it."

Emma looked at him in surprise.

"Really?" She asked.

He looked at her, a sincere look on his face.

"Oh yeah," He said, "I felt that we belonged where the war was. Granted, we're close to the war but not at the battles. I wanted to help the injured and dying. I didn't think we could if we were stationed on DSG, but I was proved wrong. DSG had been one of the most...interesting postings I ever had."

Emma was glad to hear that something good came from being shipped off to guard one of the farthest Federation stations from Earth.

"Speaking of postings," She said, "Have your troubles ended with lieutenant commander Gozex?"

The Bolian had taken temporary command with the death of the captain, but when Benson came aboard to take command, this caused tensions between the two. Benson had reported it at a meeting several weeks back, but has not said anything since. He could only shrug at her question.

"I guess," He told her, "He has fallen in line, but is still very cold towards me. To be honest, I didn't think it was a really good idea for me to be stationed as the commanding officer. The fleet needs level headed officers to fight, not bitter and angry ones."

Emma laughed loudly, surprising Benson who was talking seriously.

"When our fleet has officers like commander Thorol," She joked, "We lose all validity of seriousness."

Benson returned the laugh and looked back out into space. Emma looked away and asked Benson a rather serious question.

"Do you think he's coming?" She asked, "The imperator? Obsidian...?"

The first officer of the Oath looked at her, serious once more.

"I don't know..." He replied.

Both stared at each other, not saying anything more. Several transports dropped out of warp and approached the station...

-Terok Nor, Oyet's Office-

Oyet Bocal had been sitting in his office, having rarely left it for the past few weeks. He had gone insane temporarily but found it within himself to pull himself together. The Cardassian avoided speaking to Fito at all costs during the entire time. A message had been sent to Fito that Oyet had been found, but not until recently. Oyet had claimed he needed time to explain what had happened. As of now, Fito had not responded to the message he sent. Oyet was wondering if Fito even noticed that he had gone missing. According to glinn Jeilor, he had personally spoken to Fito and informed him. He claimed that Fito had demanded Oyet be found at all costs, no matter what. Oyet wondered if it was generally cause Fito cared or because he wanted to choke the life out of Fito himself with his..."powers". Oyet didn't know, nor did he want to think about it. After he returned, a temorary electronic arm was attached to the stump that Oyet had compliments of Melina, the Bajoran terrorist. He had demanded that her body be found, but it could not be. This caused Oyet great distress and a part of him wondered if she was alive, perhaps transported out mid-fall. He didn't know, nor did he have time to dwell on it. Bajor and Cardassia were in utter chaos. He was finding it impossible to hold it together.

"Sir?" Jeilor asked, "Did you hear me?"

Oyet snapped out of his personal thoughts and looked up at his FO.

"What?" He asked absent mindedly, "Oh yes-Cardassia and Bajor, right."

Jeilor nodded and placed a PADD in front of Oyet.

"I suggested we use low level weapons against the Cardassian dissidents," He said, "And we'll set them to kill on Bajor."

Oyet shook his head, "No. Bajorans make good slave labor. We're not wasting that many workers. Call all the Bajorans on the station to the promenade. Then, kill them. Take their dead bodies and hang them in every city on Bajor. That should shut the Bajorans up. Tell them we'll continue killing Bajorans until they stop their protests. As for Cardassia, I'll speak to them again. They're our people...they'll listen to me. They have to..."

Jeilor looked unconvinced, but nodded and left the room. Oyet stared at the PADD and realized that with the chaos of the Imperial worlds and the victories from the Federation, Fito may not win this after all. If he could go back in time and stop Fito from leaving the dilithium mines of Remus, he would...

-Terra Nova, Starfleet R&D-

Ross shook his head, "No need for apologies. These are stressful times for all.

He slid a PADD with information and a picture of the weapon towards T'Sa.

"There it is," He said, "The Federation Multi-Target Orbital Cannon. Better known as the FMTOC around here."



"It has a slightly higher yield of isotopes then 5 quantum torpedoes put together," He said, "As I explained before, it has the ability to fire on multiple vessels rather then only one. So far, we can only get it to hit five until it finally explodes. We tried stretching it out more, but it's not possible. What is unique about these orbital defensive weapons is that it has the ability to move, rather then stay in one spot. Sadly, it's quick, but it would never outrun a fighter. We've set it of course to not move too far from the planet it's defending. They have shielding, but a direct hit from a torpedo would knock the shielding off. We-"

Torol quickly interrupted after taking a sip of the achohal he had been drinking.

"I informed you that using a seperate shield generator would be of great use," He said, "The shields would not go down without great difficulty."

Ross shook his head, disagreeing with his statement. It was obvious the two had spoken about this before.

"Using a seperate generator is dangerous," He replied, "If the Nautolians found it and destroyed it, the weapon's platforms would be shieldless. We're not doing it."

Torol bowed his head, relenting towards the admiral's position but obviously disagreed. Ross looked back at T'Sa, continuing from where he left off.

"So," He said, "As I was saying, the shielding is not revolutionary, but it does give it longer life in a battle. Weaponry, is unique. It can fire the altered torpedo and a plasma torpedo through an additional chamber placed inside. The plasma torpedo can not hit multiple targets unfortunately, but is a nice back up if the torpedos run out. It can store a maximum of 25 torpedoes inside. So that essentially means 125 shots if it manages to get 5 targets each time. Since there is a limit, this is why we need an upgrade in accuracy."

The Romulan cut in once more, but not to disagree.

"It has difficulty locking onto a Federation freighter going to high impulse speeds." He said, showing how terrible the accuracy is.

Ross nodded in agreement, "On top of that, due to the high energy output of the torpedoes, the weapon needs a cooling down period. It has to have it or it will overload and explode. The problem is that the cooling period takes 25 seconds. That is far, far too long. A lot can happen within that time span with a fast ship and an accurate tactical officer."

He leaned back in his soft seat and waited for T'Sa to respond to the barrage of information he hit her with. It was obviously a lot of work that needed to be done, but nevertheless, it was an impressive weapon. He assumed that T'Sa probably wondered why a Romulan was involved with all of this. Was it just for the plasma torpedoes or more?

"Subcommander Torol was sent by a Romulan resistance fleet that is currently massing," He told her, "They wish to assist us in the creation of this weapon, putting aside the hostilities we've had lately. We wanted to apply cloaking devices to all of the FMTOC's, because while the weapon was cooling down, it could cloak and hide. Unforunately, that didn't work because the high energy it gives off would alert sensors and the resources involved would be costly. Not to mention, the Romulans aren't too big on giving us that many cloaks."

Torol smirked, pleased that the cloaking idea did not end up working. He disliked the idea of the Federation having it, even if it wasn't on ships, save for the Defiant.

"Any questions?" Ross asked T'Sa.

-DSG, Ops-

Jones frowned, feeling bad that Juliana was not going to the festivities. If anyone deserved it, it was her.

"Lieutenant," He said to her, "You should go. You deserve a break. Besides, trapping yourself in Ops is my job."

He smiled, implying that it was a joke. The cyborg partially wanted to go to the party, but the other half enjoyed sitting around doing work in Ops. Not to mention, someone had to stay here and keep sensor sweeps going while everyone else was partying. His smile faded when he realized something.

"Lieutenant?" He asked, "Do you...harbor any anger towards commander Xavier over your lost science officers?"

He wondered if maybe that was the reason she was not going to the party, to avoid commander Xavier. Juliana had actually gone back to the same temple with another team. Most would find that strange considering the fact that she nearly died there. A part of him wondered what was done with the bomb that she deactivated and if she went back to the planet solely to get away from Xavier. Then again, it could all just be paranoia on his part.

-DSG, Transporter Room-

The SS Jubilee had beamed over the new Starfleet officers that were assigned to DSG, including lieutenant Al-Firdos. He was now on the transporter pad alongside four other officers. His first duty would be to report to the Hazard team commander, Merik Naruul. Of course, the new officer had no clue that Merik was not who he appeared to be...

-DSG, Guardian City-

Two security officers, both Human, looked at Kiris who informed him that he was there to fix the malfunctions.

"It's about time," One said, "Follow us."

They moved away and started heading towards the source of the problem. Guardian City, evacuated, was eerily empty save for the random security patrols. Bengali, who was attending to Kiris' orders, would soon join them.

+6 Dilithium. Good post, well written
-Lord Borg

[La Forge]

Deep Space Guardian, OPS

"Lieutenant? Do you...harbor any anger towards Commander Xavier over your lost science officers?" Jones had asked Juliana, after attempting to persuade her to go to the party, down on the Promenade.

Juliana thought about the cyborg's question for a moment, as she idly sipped away at her raktajino, which had cooled down, considerably, no longer burning her tounge, every time she took a drink.

In all honesty, Juliana did harbor some anger towards the Commander over what had happened down on the planet. After all, the Commander had killed two of her best science officers, Chas'sor Balor and Chipok, both excellent officers and good people. Now, those two, along with several others, were dead, all because of him. However, Juliana knew that the Commander was not in his right mind. The Commander hadn't been in control of his actions. Whatever was within him, that had caused the bizzare mutation of his body, was what was really in control. This new being, the mutant Commander, had the strange urge to protect the temple, and, in doing so, had killed several officers in the process. If those officers had not been members of Juliana's own science team, perhaps she would feel differently about the matter. She couldn't say for sure. People had still died at his hands, good people, and, that could never truly be forgiven or forgotten. Juliana was sure that the guilt over killing those officers troubled the Commander, to this day. It would have to have been horrible to write those letters to the family of those who had died. Juliana knew that this was not easy for the Commander, either. However, Juliana was not going to outright say that she was angry at the Commander, to Jones. She knew that the Commander was not himself and that was all that mattered.

"...No. Well...Yes. Some. But...those feelings are gone, now. I realize that Commander Xavier wasn't in his right mind, at the time." Juliana replied, at length, her gleaming green eyes distant, as she thought over her response, for a moment.

A moment of silence followed, as Juliana finished up her raktajino and resumed scanning.

"I don't like parties." Juliana said, at length, as she activated a scan of the space matter surrounding the station. "If I do go, it'll only be for a minute or two. I really should get to work on my weekly report. I've already put it off for a day, now. Being the head of the science department isn't easy." Juliana explained, with a faint smile, as she stretched in her seat, while the scan began.

Derna, Resistance HQ

Colonel Ryder awoke from a deep sleep, beads of sweat covering her partially-clothed body, dressed only in her undergarments. Her hair was a mess, being wildly splayed over her shoulders. Her breathing was heavy, her chest rising and falling, rapidly, as if her heart was about to explode. In a word, she was a mess.

Melina had been having yet another nightmare about Oyet, one of many that she had over the last three weeks, during her recovery, ever since her time with Oyet on Jeraddo.

The Bajoran woman had only recently learned of Oyet's fate. The Cardassian Gul had managed to survive on Jeraddo, after Melina had faked her death and escaped the planet, using the Bajoran Raider. Cardassian patrols had found the delirious, half-starved Cardassian Gul, inches away from death, on the Bajoran moon. Now, after having recovered, Oyet had resumed duties as the leader of the Cardassian Union and ever since he had resumed command, conditions on Bajor had worsened, considerably. Oyet had, in essence, made the lives of the people of Bajor a living hell. There was no other way to describe it.

Once, again, Melina could only think that it was her fault that all of this was happening. If only she would simply shut up and end her miserable little Resistance, the Cardassians wouldn't be enforcing such cruel punishments on the Bajoran people. She was the one who had kidnapped Oyet and had caused such an uproar on Bajor and Cardassia, and, in a way, she was the reason for those cruel punishments, brought about after Oyet's return.

Melina felt as if she wanted to kill herself. The only thing that was keeping her from doing so was to enact her revenge and kill that Cardassian bastard, Oyet, once and for all. After that, she could care less what happened to her. However, until then, she vowed to stay alive and she would do just that, until Oyet was dead at her feet.

Melina stirred in her cot, for a moment, before she sat up and stretched. She had been sleeping for hours and she couldn't bear to sleep, any longer. She wouldn't be able to handle another nightmare.

The Bajoran Colonel stood up and went through her daily aerobics, as she did every morning, to warm up her muscles for the day, before she walked over to the nearby water basin and cleaned herself up. After she was washed up, Melina slipped into some normal clothing and exited the backroom, entering the main room of the Resistance Headquarters on Derna.

+ 7 Dilithium. Good post. I enjoyed Melina's guilt.

Founder

[Lord Borg]

-Terra Nova, Starfleet R&D-

T'Sa sat there and listened to the information as she studied the PADD with the information on it. It was a faciniating design, and the fact that it was an orbital weapons platform that was able to move about, while still staying close to the planet was interesting as well. T'Sa looked up when Ross started explaining the situation with the shield generator. That would be a problem. T'Sa looked over to Torol, who was drinking alcohol. It was interesting how Romulans could get drunk, and yet Vulcans, could not. He mentioned that they should use a sepeate shield generator. T'Sa had not seen much of this yet, and already agreed with Admiral Ross that besides the fact it would be to costly, the weapons would simply be targets if they had seperate shield generators.

T'Sa thought it was interesting, it could hold 25 torpedos, and yet because it could reach more then one target, it had the potential for 125 shots. However, there was a problem with the acuatcy of the weapon it seemed, One problem that was said, is the problems with keeping up with a frieghter moving at high impulse speeds. Then of course, the high energy output problem. It sounded like the problems that riddeled the Defiant Project.

T'Sa looked over to Torol when the reaason for his presence was given. She didn't know if she could trust the Romulan, certainly Ross should not. All of those months with Romulans had taught T'Sa to be paranoid when Romulans were invovled. However, the prospect of a peace between the Federation and the Star Empire was....inviting.

T'Sa cleared her throat and answered Ross, she made an effort to clear her voice of emotion.

"I have several, Admiral. However, there is a time and a place for them."

T'Sa looked down and wondered where it was she should start. She wondered what material allowed it to go to more then one target before exploding.

"For instance, what materials were used in the torpedo? Also, will I be able to inspect the physical model? I am quite capable of a space walk if that is neccesary. I would also like to view the sensor data on everything you have accumilated. With one other issue, have you tried differnt energy signatures, and levels?"

T'Sa shifted slightly and glanced to the Romulan sipping at the Alcohol. She was repulsed at how he was drinking like that, it was certainly not a situation to call for it. She wondered if it seemed an unusual request to see the model as it was deployed, however, T'Sa found in the past that there was a differnce between touching the phyisical model, and a computer read out.

+ 6 Dilithium. Nice inside response with T'Sa. It seems living amongst Rommies have made her paranoid.

Founder

[Pah-Wraith]

DSG, Transporter Room

As Hadi arrived in the DSG Transporter Room, he became overwhelmed with the realisation that he was finally getting away from his Uncle. He did however feel some remorse knowing that he had cut off his family ties, however not much seemed to matter to him other than getting on with his life. He walked over head up and shoulders back towards the Officer waiting there to meet him and handed him his data padd.

"Lieutenant Hadi al-Firdos reporting for duty sir".

[Valathous]

~ Second Officer's Office, Deep Space Guardian ~

For one of the rare occassions, Blake Robitaille sat comfortably in his second officer's office rather than his security office. He felt like having a change of scenary and this one was disturbed less by random officers informing him of things he didn't really care about but they felt like reporting anyways. Blake enjoyed having two offices, and had 3 for a while before the marines began to move back into the station. It angered Blake, not over the loss of the third office, but because it would hinder his plans to spread the security decks further and bolster his numbers as had been the plan.

For the past few weeks, Blake had spent time checking up on both the Captain and Anthony Hordichuk, his security officer whose leg had been removed by the Captain in his mutated state. Thanks to that visit, 2 of Blake's officers had been killed and one injured. Writing letters to the parents and spouses of the deceased was never fun, especially when it was their own commanding officer who had done it. Blake had just finished reading the replies to the letters of the families of Roloson and Jor'Lal. Both of the families were incredibly distraught, and in the light of their family being killed and Xavier's recent trial, were calling for his commission but Blake obviously could not and would not do this. It had been a trap set by the temple, circumstances beyond the Captain's control. Perhaps if he were mentally stronger he could have fought it longer and avoided as many casualties, but Blake doubted this.

Blake was now onto dealing with his vast number of reports. Being that the Captain was off duty in sickbay and Katran was promoted and re-stationed, Blake received the bulk of the work given he was the second officer. Thing were running smoothly but other than Ziona, whom Blake was not about to trouble given that her spouse, Xavier was in sickbay, there were no senior officers whom he would be able to pawn some of the reports on to, given that many were administrative and most coming from senior members; their reports.

Blake got to his feet and sighed as he crossed over to the replicator and got himself a cold glass of milk. Milk led to strong bones, something Blake found particularly important in his line of work. That and he enjoyed the taste and wanted something cold. After receiving his drink, Blake moved over to the viewport and looked out into the black of space for a moment, contemplating the war and the Federations recent successes in some of the battles. Blake had heard rumours of some instability among Fito's empire, but that's all they were for the moment, rumours.

Blake also contemplated this party that Archer was throwing. It was being held to boost the morales of the crews, especially those of the run-down officers of the 5th fleet, in light of their recent victory while Blake was down with the away team on Elerra Prime. Blake would probably attend. It would only seem right for him to at least make an appearance. He may stay, he may not. He would see when he got there. Either way, he had somethings in store for it; and one of those things was security detailing! Blake sat back down and sighed once more remembering that some officers should be stationed around the party incase of any intoxicated fighting. He doubted it would occur but it was best to be ready.

Once done with that, half an hour later, Blake picked up another pad growned. More reports about malfunctions coming from Guardian City. Apparently engineers had been sent there again to fix problems. Blake didn't know what was going on there but he hoped that the chief engineer could deal with it quickly. Blake wasn't too fond of this new engineer, Ditex. Mainly, as it were, because he was part Romulan and Blake was not too keen on Romulans. Secondly, he didn't like how the man was often away on personal issues. He was back now, and as far as he knew, the Captain made him promise to reduce those greatly. Hopefully he could. Perhaps Blake was being too critical of the man who was replacing Dave Grey. Blake had always liked Grey. He had been an excellent engineer before disappearing and had saved the crew on several occassions.

+ 6 Dilithium GOOD post, Dan! Nice to see Blake thing back over the past events, and to think on his hatred towards the Rommies!
-Lord Borg

[Spellbinder Marik]

-Salara Corridor-

Trip and T�Rell walked out another door. T�Rell was laughing.
�I don�t get it.� T�Rell stopped.
�Never mind.� Trip was confused.
�Humor is a difficult concept.� T�Rell nodded.
�Yeah, for some it is.� They walked around another corner and ran into N�Tran.

N�Tran looked at the two of them for a moment.
�Deliver this PADD to the bridge.� T�Rell took the PADD.
�Where are you going sir?� N�Tran stopped as he walked pass them.
�To my quarters. I�m not to be interrupted for at least 2 hours.�

-DSG, Guardian City-

Kiris followed the two Starfleet security officers. He looked around as they led him to wherever they were taking him.
�When did the malfunctions start?�