Rime or Reason (Exploring RP, Any*) [Archive]

Sunset

31-07-2003, 08:44

With a slight vibration that rang through the hull the SDF 'Columbia' docked with the Wazzu station in Earth Orbit. She had just gotten out of drydock, again, and Captain Masters cringed slightly. There was likely a ding, and while they were inevitable, she didn't like them. Especially on this ship. It seemed to need every inch of hull plating to survive.

"Captain, docking is complete. The station administrator is ready to recieve you." "Tell him I'm on my way." "Aye sir." the Comms officer replied, though likely she didn't hear the affirmative as she was already half out the door. Five minutes later she was shaking the administrators hand.

"Good morning Captain. What brings you to Earth?" the Administrator began. "Out-system exploration actually. We are hoping to lay in supplies as well as recruit some talent." "Ah, fun for you then?" "I suppose, though last time I was almost eaten by a giant space amoeba. Hopefully this time will be a little bit... calmer?" The Administrator laughs at this as he escorts her into his office.

"Supplies I can help with. Talent is a little harder, but we can put up an advertisement on the station intranet and share it with the local societies. What exactly are you looking for?"

A short time later a 'Want Ad' appeared on the Wazzu intranet and was forwarded around to interested parties. "Wanted: Explorers, Shield-Men, Diggers, Scientists, Researchers, and Adventurers. Opportunity for space travel, exploration of new world. Food and lodging, some equipment provided. 500 Di-Coin Mo / Stipend. Apply SDF 'Columbia', Wazzu Station, Earth.

While the Captain awaited any interested parties she organized the supply crew. It would take a week to get to their destination, and they would likely be the first sentients to touch the surface. Preparations were important.

OOC: Couple quick things - this is going to be a limited character RP. No battle fleets, no thousands of people. Stick to a general limit of 4 people in a party, please.

*Any, as in anyone with access to Earth orbit or modern communications.

Scolopendra

31-07-2003, 08:47

What's the intended destination?

http://www.weirdozone.0catch.com/projects/nationstates/scolopendra/al_rijil.gifAdvisor Al Rijil
Science Section
Federated Segments of Scolopendra

Sunset

31-07-2003, 08:55

OOC? World 9, BESS-3. IC? Not telling anyone. It's a national secret to a certain extent - we just want some outside opinions, especially of the dreamer kind.

Unless you got a big problem with it, if so tell me now. ;)

Scolopendra

31-07-2003, 10:17

(OOC: Well, me and my three hundred capital ships parked just off Mars say that's perfectly fine.)

We can never pass up the chance for exploration. We've contacted various people around Scolopendra, and combination explorer-thrillseeker Janice Depaulto signed up before we even asked her. Sending biography...

http://www.weirdozone.0catch.com/projects/nationstates/scolopendra/al_rijil.gifAdvisor Al Rijil
Science Section
Federated Segments of Scolopendra

Attachment

NAME: Depaulto, Janice Kiri
AGE: 37
GENDER: Female
RANK: Minor Civil Servant, Scolopendran TerraEngineering Directorate

QUALIFICATIONS: Ten years experience STED in Ring terraforming projects. Doctorates in biology, masters in chaos theory. Served for five years in the Scolopendran Defense Squadron before getting out; is now a sergeant in the Civilian Defense Corps. Graduated third in class of University of Stonozka.

SKILLSET: Biology, chaos theory, ecological analysis, nexialism.

PSYCHOLOGICAL PROFILE: Extremely energetic and enthusiastic, very self-assured. Independent thinker who tends to be too self-centered to be useful in higher leadership roles. Accepts orders grudingly, excels in working individually. Works tolerably well in a group, but tends to take up if not a hostile role at least a contrary one--usually the group 'doubter.' Very self-conscious and defensive about her own ideas. Has a strong 'Napoleon complex' and tends to assert authority or dominance in interpersonal relations.

PHYSICAL PROFILE: Human of mixed descent, primarily Japanese and Sicilian with definite traces of North African. Yellowish skin tone, spiky black close-cropped hair, grey eyes. Stands 160 centimeters tall with a mesomorphic muscular build.

Sunset

31-07-2003, 10:29

OOC: Geeze, one little RP opportunity and you bring cap ships into this. If you don't like it, say so. Grumble grumble... can't tell if you are kidding either.

IC:
"A very straightforward bio. Wonder who put it together?"

Reply to Application

Ms. Depaulto, your application to join is accepted. As mentioned we will be providing limited equipment - any specialized equipment you need should be self-supplied. We don't have a weight limit, but try to keep it under a metric ton.

Captain Elizabeth Masters, SDF 'Columbia'

31-07-2003, 10:34

((OOC: Krowemoh is still an Earth bound nation, but perhaps a certain adventurious rouge Krowemohian could hitch a ride with someone?))

Scolopendra

31-07-2003, 10:37

OOC: Geeze, one little RP opportunity and you bring cap ships into this. If you don't like it, say so. Grumble grumble... can't tell if you are kidding either.
(OOC: I'm joking. Really. *curses the fact facial expressions can't be read over text, and so smiles wryly* Just attempting to work off the mood generated by "Unless you got a big problem with it.")

Reply to Application

Ms. Depaulto, your application to join is accepted. As mentioned we will be providing limited equipment - any specialized equipment you need should be self-supplied. We don't have a weight limit, but try to keep it under a metric ton.

Captain Elizabeth Masters, SDF 'Columbia'
Captain Masters:

Excellent! Finally get to get out of this little system. I don't think I'll need a metric ton's worth of equipment; I assume Columbia has to have at least a small biolab, and I can bring a portable kit along to augment it. How are you doing for exercise facilities, so I know whether or not to bring any equipment?

--JKD

31-07-2003, 10:52

((OOC: I have no idea what I'm doing. ^^;; I asume the Wazzu Intranet is like the internet. ^^;; Hope I'm right...))

*Surfing along the Wazzu Intranet, Celestial Lightpaw comes across a "Wanted Ad." She quickly reviews it.*

Celestial: "Hmmm... 'Wanted: Explorers, Shield-Men, Diggers, Scientists, Researchers, and Adventurers. Opportunity for space travel, exploration of new world. Food and lodging...' Food and lodging?! I'm sold! Hee hee! Hmm... I wonder if anyone would let me hitch a ride up to their space ship?"

*Celestial goes about attempting to contact the SDF 'Columbia' to apply.*

Sunset

31-07-2003, 11:06

OOC: Didn't mean it that way, but as you say... Anyway. Back to the story.

IC:

Reply: Celestial Lightpaw,

We can provide transportation to the 'Columbia' if you give us your GPS coordinates. We do request, but not require, a passing familiarity with space. If the item still interests you reply with coordinates and hold still.

Captain Elizabeth Masters, SDF 'Columbia'

Reply: JKD

We have a full biolab aboard, though you are welcome to bring your own equipment. Different ways of looking at things are always useful. As far as excersize we have a holo-tank, plus conventional facilities.

Captain Masters

Sunset

31-07-2003, 11:30

OOC: Oh yeah, and I forgot - Wazzu doesn't have a station in Earth orbit. Assume the 'Columbia' is in orbit of the Wazzu colony on Luna. Doesn't matter for the story, but rather get my facts straight.

31-07-2003, 11:38

Sunset

31-07-2003, 11:49

Reply: Captain Elizabeth Masters, SDF 'Columbia'

I actually have no experance with space travel, however I am always willing to try anything once. Anyhow, here are my cordinates... [lists off cordinates and waits for pick up.]

((OOC: Here's Celestial's bio.
Name: Rebecca "Celestial" Lightpaw
Age: 28
Rank: Civilian
Class: Rouge, Adventurer
Past: The sister of diplomat Buchi Lightpaw, Rebecca ran away from home at an early age and has been living on the streets in various nations most her life. She had her name changed to "Celestial" when she turned 18. Adventurious and brave, Rebecca lives for adventures and is always willing to try something new, no matter the danger. She always carries a 9mm Glock handgun on her person, and usuallyhas an illegal H&K P90c within close reach. She has no formal military weapons training, rather she is self-taught.
Appearance: Click HERE (http://groups.yahoo.com/group/No_Admittance/files/celestial.jpg)

Keeping it short. How does she look?))

OOC: Well, does she have the ears? I am assuming so... Not a fan of cat people myself, prefer the dog-demon people personally, but good enough. P90 is an excellent choice of weapons as well...

IC:

"Transporter Room 1 - lock onto a lifesign at these coordinates and beam them aboard." "Yessir... Captain - the being is armed. Traditional firearm." "Put up the security field. I'll come down there and see what's what. Probably have to be a little lenient on this mission."

Several minutes later Captain Masters walks into the transporter room. She is an attractive woman who looks to be in her early thirties. Her raven hair is worn in a short braid down the back, and she has the pale skin of a spacer. She wears the standard SDF uniform, a pair of BDU pants and a loose jacket over a t-shirt.

31-07-2003, 12:16

((OOC: Inu-yashas are okay, I guess. I'm a Neko fangirl myself. =^.^=
Yes, she has the ears and bushy tail, and she's currently wearing that outfit shown in the pic.))

*Celestial was teleported up to the SDF 'Columbia.' She has a stupid grin on her face.*

Celestial: "Whoa! That was awesome! Hee!" =^.^=

*Looking over a Captain Masters enter the teleporter room, Celestial nods greetings.*

Celestial: "Captain Masters, I presume?"

*She tried to step forward to shake the Captain's and, but was halted by some sort of field.*

Celestial: "Eh? What gives?"

imported_Eniqcir

31-07-2003, 14:49

NAME: Gage, Jerome
AGE: 31
GENDER: Male
OOCUPATION: Planetologist
QUALIFICATIONS: 10 years as a SETI probe development specialist, 2 years as an Operator before being recruited as a Planetologist for the terraformation of Mars and Venus, his current occupation and a position he has held for 7 years. Graduated Magna Cum Laude from Aramanth University with a Biology major and double geology/robotics minor. Officially earned a PhD in Exobiology/ecology, but quite qualified in the field of robotics as well, having designed several neural reflexive systems, quite literally, 'out of his basement'.
SKILLS: Exobiology, ecology, chemistry and chemical engineering, geology.

Sunset

31-07-2003, 21:04

Reply to Mr. Jerome Gage

Your application is accepted. I would assume given your nation of origin you have transport to the 'Columbia'. She is currently in Earth orbit.

Captain Elizabeth Masters, SDF 'Columbia'

Celestial: "Captain Masters, I presume?"

*She tried to step forward to shake the Captain's and, but was halted by some sort of field.*

Celestial: "Eh? What gives?"

"Sorry for the field - You are armed, and we wanted to make sure someone wasn't trying to take the 'Columbia' through treachery."

Captain Masters went over to the transporter station and looked up some information. "Do you have any personal belongings you would like brought aboard Ms. Lightpaw?" she said as she dropped the field. Her finger was on the button though, ready to raise it again.

"If so we can transport them aboard. I'll allow you to keep your firearm, but I would prefer if you wish to be armed that you are issued a comms badge and a phaser instead."

'At least we can remotely lock and unlock a phaser...' Masters thought.

31-07-2003, 21:27

Celestial: "Yes, I would like my motorcycle brought aboard too please for safe keeping. Thank you. A Phaser, huh? I prefer my good ol' Glock, but can I have both my Glock and the Phaser thingie? Oh, don't worry about my Glock, it's for self-defense only. S'long as no one attacks me, everything's okaie dorie."

*She gives Captain Masters a little half bow.*

Celestial: "Anyhow, I'm Celestial Lightpaw, International Adventurer and Jack-of-all-Trades. At your service."

((OOC: Her P90c and ammo for it is stored in a compartment on her 'cycle, which is a red Kawasaki Ninja.))

Sunset

31-07-2003, 23:12

"We will try to locate your vehicle, though you likely won't need it. If you are going to keep your firearm we don't need to issue you a phaser. If you want to try one though report to Security, they will train you. I need to be going, but Foxworth here will show you around."

Captain Masters nods to Ms. Lightpaw as she exits the room and another officer enters. He is wearing the same uniform, but he is very well built and moves with the confidence of a trained killer.

"I'm Lt. Foxworth. You heard the Captain - I'll give you the tour," he rumbles. The two being walking and he produces a small 3cm disk with a cutout on the bottom. "Here is a comms badge - it can be pinned where you like. Just touch it and say who you want to talk to. It only works with other badges or anyone aboard an SDF vessel."

Scolopendra

31-07-2003, 23:20

After taking the first available seat on the next DISL flight from Titan to Valhalla, Depaulto gets a courtesy ride on a standard S-3 Scarab-class utility shuttle. Quad-wings folded up for extratmospheric travel, it quickly transitions from the post-Earth Trojan point to a Columbia intercept orbit.

http://www.weirdozone.0catch.com/wargames/btdesigns/thumbnails/tme192scarab.jpg

Janice leans back in her crash webbing inside the forward crew compartment, her 5' 3" frame almost lost in the well-padded bucket seat. Wow, the Science Section is really pulling out all the stops. Then again, how else was I supposed to get a ride to a ship in LEO?

The pilot sitting in front of her flipped a thumb contact on the throttle of his HOTAS (Hands On Throttle And Stick) controls and spoke into the mic in his flight helmet. "Columbia, this is TYWS shuttle Valhalla Hotel Two-Seven carrying one Janice Depaulto requesting docking permission and approach vector. We are coming in from bearing two-seven-three inclination three-four Columbia relative at three kay klicks out. Over."

Sunset

31-07-2003, 23:28

"Acknowledged 'Valhalla H27', this is 'Columbia' control. Main shuttle bay is opening. Transmitting approach vector - please lower any EM or particle shields before attempting to dock. Captain Masters will be there to greet Ms. Depaulto. Over."

imported_Eniqcir

31-07-2003, 23:48

Sunset

01-08-2003, 00:00

Jerome managed to hitch a ride on the next Earth-Venus gravitor shuttle, since they had to make an orbit to get their trajectory right anyway. As they passed the Columbia, an escape pod was released.

<Emergency Channel::Automated message>
This is an automated message. "Jerome Gage" is aboard this vessel in transit to "Columbia."
This is an automated message....

OOC: Ha!

"Captain, someone just ejected an escape pod at us. Distress signal says a 'Jerome Gage' is onboard. Looks like New Russia is already looking to claim it as salvage though."

"Why can't anyone just ask to be transported aboard? They always gotta do it the hard way... Ok, lock a tractor onto it, move it into the main shuttle bay. I'll be there to greet Ms. Depaulto anyway..."

'Columbia' locked onto the escape pod, pulling it around and underneath her, keeping it just out of the grips of a New Russian salvage vessel that seemed intent on collecting it. The technician brought it in and placed it upright on the bay floor.

Scolopendra

01-08-2003, 00:05

"Wilco, Columbia control. Shielding is down, transitioning to vector."

The decidedly coleopteran vehicle idles carefully into the bay, extending thick landing legs before cutting the fine gravitics and coming to a gentle landing. The port ellipsoid hatch in the curved forward hull opens up to reveal a short Asian-esque woman who hops the meter down to the deck before the gangplank extends. Taking in the area quickly with steel-grey eyes, she immediately makes for whatever looks to be a greeting party with graceful strides, smiling assuredly.

She starts speaking from a distance to see which one she should address when closer. "Janice Depaulto. Nice ship you have here. I brought a fifty kilo equipment sled in the back; it's set on hovergravs so you can cart it wherever you want."

01-08-2003, 00:06

Sunset

01-08-2003, 00:16

She starts speaking from a distance to see which one she should address when closer. "Janice Depaulto. Nice ship you have here. I brought a fifty kilo equipment sled in the back; it's set on hovergravs so you can cart it wherever you want."

Captain Masters is there alone, except for the crew going about their duties.

"Hello Ms. Depaulto. I'm Captain Masters. Welcome aboard the 'Columbia'. I hope you had a pleasant trip."

She looks around for a moment - a crewman is already retrieving the grav-sled from the shuttle with the help of the shuttle crew.

"We can put your equipment in the biolab. You can be assigned an office if you like, or share one. I've also arranged a berth for you near the labs. As soon as Mr. Gage manages to extract himself from the shuttle I can show you to your rooms."

As she speaks the captain takes a pin shaped like the emblem of Sunset out of her pocket. "Standard communications pin. Press it and say who you want to talk to aboard ship. I'd prefer if you wear it at all times, especially when we get to our destination. I don't care if anyone goes off by themselves, but I don't want to loose anyone."

imported_Eniqcir

01-08-2003, 00:25

"Why can't anyone just ask to be transported aboard? They always gotta do it the hard way... Ok, lock a tractor onto it, move it into the main shuttle bay. I'll be there to greet Ms. Depaulto anyway..."
OOC: Because, first, he's like Bones. Wouldn't trust it to put him back together right. Second, he had to bum a ride off his SpaceCorps friends, and they weren't slowin' down fer nuthin'.

IC:
'Twas reminiscent of a Gemini capsule. JG popped the hatch, and climbed out, taking with him two small suitcases.

Sunset

01-08-2003, 00:28

*Celestial pins on the badge onher left sleeve.*

Celestial: "So, where to first, Mr. Foxworth?"

*Deciding to test out her new comms badge, she touches it and says outloud.*

Celestial: "Celestial. Um... Testing, one two three... Come in Celestial."

"I don't believe there is anyone else on board with that name, Ms. Lightpaw," Foxworth chuckles. "Try Charles Foxworth."

The badge works fine as his badge chimes quietly when she does. "If you want to close a conversation just say 'End Charles Foxworth'. You can talk to as many people as you want, but they will all hear what you say."

Foxworth leads her around the ship hitting all the major points - Galley, Medical, Security, Bridge, Holo-Tank, Shuttle Bay, and finally her berth. "Room 250, Deck 2. The door is keyed to you, but Security and Officers can override. Just hit this panel to request entrance to something that doesn't open automatically.

No, you can't go everywhere. Ordinance, Armory, and a couple other areas are off-limits. So is the Bridge, unless invited. If you want to meet people, there is an entertainment area on Deck 15."

Sunset

01-08-2003, 00:32

IC:
'Twas reminiscent of a Gemini capsule. JG popped the hatch, and climbed out, taking with him two small suitcases.

"Ah, Mr. Gage. I'm Captain Masters. Glad you made it in one piece..." She looked the escape pod over for a moment. "Welcome to the 'Columbia'. This is Ms. Depaulto. Ms. Depaulto, Jerome Gage... Now if you will follow me, I'll give you both the tour before showing you your berths."

As she walked she hands the badge over to Gage and explains it's use.

Scolopendra

01-08-2003, 00:37

"Thank you, Captain." Depaulto bows shortly in a similar manner to a business executive giving a quick requisite handshake. "What are you talking about? The trip hasn't even started yet."

She folds her arms and looks up (probably) at the captain. "Just offload the stuff, I can set it up how I need it later. I'm more than a biologist, y'know. Chaotic systems are another one of my areas of expertise, as is nexialism. If I can get a look at all the science facilities I can make better connections when I need to. Besides," she smiles wryly, "given the toxicity of most known planets I'm not sure you need a biologist."

Accepting the pin, she compares it to the bulky Scolopendran communicator on her belt (OOC: which resembles a smaller version of a Comlok from Space: 1999, I'll draw one up later). "Thanks. Guess I won't need this bulky thing then." She looks at the pin like a fragile bauble, then drops it in one of the pockets of her utility vest. "Getting lost may be a bad thing. You got a firing range on board?"

"Hi, Mister Gage." Another short bow. "Lay on, Macduff."

Sunset

01-08-2003, 00:48

"As you wish. I'll show you all the science facilities on the tour - and yes, we do have a firing range. You can use the regular range, which can handle energy weapons up to Class IV or the holo-tank. The weapons arn't real, but it's more realistic for combat training. My favorite is the 'Sniper003: Hostage Rescue' simulation."

Ah, here we are. These are the labs. They should have at least the basics for anything you might need. If you want anything specific give me a call and we can try to pick it up before we leave Earth. It's going to be two weeks to the planet we are going to look at first, no going back for anything we forget."

Scolopendra

01-08-2003, 01:18

"I'm sure you have the computational equipment I need. A semantic-intelligence system might be useful, but I doubt you can finagle one of those from EOTED.

"Thanks for the firing range." She smiles with an odd coldness. "I'm going to miss several CDC training sessions... so I need to keep my skills up. Class IV what?"

01-08-2003, 01:25

OOC: is this RP stil open to newcommers

IF so

IC:

Captain Fojeck of the ASF-Liberator wishes to join your mission of exploration.

Sunset

01-08-2003, 01:34

"Class IV energy weapons. Here's the range now, I'll show you around."

The range is on the port side of the ship, Deck 10. The front is open to the hallway so anyone walking by can see the check-in and the range beyond. Behind the check in are various weapons, from conventional firearms to energy weapons. Along the bottom are heavy shoulder fired weapons of various kinds.

"This is the range - once you check in with the security officer you can check out any weapon though they are only active on the range. The cabinet ranges from Type I at the top to Type IV at the bottom."

Captain Masters 'signs' the log with her thumb and recieves a phaser rifle and a phaser pistol from the Security officer. "For energy weapons we use holo-targets. A shield generator across the back and sides absorbs the shots. For kinetic weapons we use the same holo-targets and a tractor field to slow and stop the rounds."

OOC: For those thinking of joining, you got a couple hours left - say 11:00 forum time. Then she leaves.

01-08-2003, 01:34

Sunset

01-08-2003, 01:35

OOC: is this RP stil open to newcommers

IF so

IC:

Captain Fojeck of the ASF-Liberator wishes to join your mission of exploration.

Still open - I assume you read the bit about no ships or fleets though, right? Just the 'Columbia' and limited guests. He can come alone or with up to three others.

Sunset

01-08-2003, 01:42

*Celestial shrugs, she was trying to talk to herself on purpose anyways. She was... Quirky like that. Celestial steps towards her room, the door sliding open.*

Celestial: "Thanks for the show around Charles. Hey um, if you're not busy, maybe later we can go get a coffee or something."

*She grins at Foxworth, her bushy tail swishing back and forth absently.*

OOC: Hey, we are open minded. Well, relatively. Deep Ones are out, just plain out... ;)

"Sure. I'm off duty at 08:00 and I usually hit the lounge afterwards. Goodbye." he turns and walks through the door, which swishes closed.

Sitting in the middle of the room is her motorcycle. The room is void of all decoration. There is a bed, desk with console, closet, and bathroom. There is a simple half-globe ceiling light, and a single 1ft by 4ft window that seems to look out onto space. The room is 18 feet long, and 12 feet wide all together.

01-08-2003, 01:50

Here is my character

Fojack Carinath:
Sex:Male
age:36
hieght:6'6"
wieht:215
race:Elvish

Background: After joining the East bank Military Academy at the age of 18, Fojack has continued his career in the Airforce up to the point where he was selected to capain the Flagship of the fleet, The ASF-Liberator. During his life Fojack has been part of the Delta force SPecial Operations unit. He was in the Delta Force for 5 years, when he was station aboard the ASF-Cyclone, a Behemoth class cruiser. After climbing the tree of succes he was awarded the command of his own ship, the ASF-Mandalor.
After that he was transfered to the command of the ASF-liberator, where he is now.

Qualifications:All comabt types, Command infestructure, Strategy, computer managment.

Physical Description:Tall, Physically stunning man, blue/silver eyes, and Short brown hair, Dresses in a large leather overcoat that conseals 2 HK-G-36 compacts and an Acid caosted Diamond sword.

He will arrive to the Columbia by way of the ASF-Liberator, which is due in less than 30 minutes.

Sunset

01-08-2003, 01:55

OOC: Feeling a bit adventurous eh?

Reply to Fojack Carinath

Your application is accepted. The 'Columbia' is in Earth orbit, blah blah.

imported_Eniqcir

01-08-2003, 01:56

"Ah, Mr. Gage. I'm Captain Masters. Glad you made it in one piece..." She looked the escape pod over for a moment. "Welcome to the 'Columbia'. This is Ms. Depaulto. Ms. Depaulto, Jerome Gage... Now if you will follow me, I'll give you both the tour before showing you your berths."

As she walked she hands the badge over to Gage and explains it's use.

"Yes, yes. Very good, Jerome Gage, nice to meet you."

"Hi, Mister Gage."

"Aaahhh, yes, hello."

He rocked back and forth on the balls of his feet, anxiously bouncing one of the suitcases.

OOC: Aha! I get it! Rime was the name of one of the planets, yes?

Sunset

01-08-2003, 02:00

"Aaahhh, yes, hello."

He rocked back and forth on the balls of his feet, anxiously bouncing one of the suitcases.

OOC: Aha! I get it! Rime was the name of one of the planets, yes?

OOC: A proposed name, yes. An ice-ball.

'I wonder if they know each other' Masters thought as she continued with the tour. 'They seem... familiar.'

"Anything else you would like to see? I'm afraid Ordinance and the Armory are out. If there is nothing else I can show you your rooms..."

01-08-2003, 02:00

Sunset

01-08-2003, 02:02

* A Rather large wormhole forms off the port side of the "Colombia". The ASF-Liberator slowly begins to emerge form the wormhole, arriving from the Dracones system. THe Second in cammand radio's the Colombia" Greetign from the Liberator, i am sure you are ready for our arrival, i just hope you can dock with a ship that is 6km wide and 12 km long.

"Greetings 'Liberator'. No need really - send us the coordinates of your man and lower any shields, and we can beam him aboard. Unless he doesn't like transporters."

01-08-2003, 02:05

"Sheilds have been lowered on all non-secure locations, the captain is waiting in the mess hall, he is awaiting the transport."

Sunset

01-08-2003, 02:14

The Captain finished the tour with Depaulto and Gage and showed them to their rooms. Both are on Deck 2 as well, though they seem to be spaced apart. Getting the notice from the bridge, she hurries to the transporter room to greet the new arrival.

She watched as the transport finished. 'Very nice - and a captain too. Wonder what their policy is on fraternization?' "Captain Carinath, welcome to the 'Columbia'. I'm Captain Elizabeth Masters..." she put out her hand and gave him a wide smile.

01-08-2003, 02:20

Fojack chakes her hand warmly and greets with a heartly "Hello. Nice ship you have here, i am honored you have accepted my application."HE notices her beauty, and wonders what their policy on that is.

Sunset

01-08-2003, 02:36

"Well Captain - normally I would take you on the tour but I have already done one today. How about we hit the lounge for some dinner and we can take the tour on afterward?"

Elsewhere on the 'Columbia' work was proceeding on the re-supply. Anyone wandering through the halls near the shuttle and cargo bays would notice a lot of crates coming through with things like 'Thermal Hardsuits' stenciled on the side.

01-08-2003, 02:41

"I accept your offer for dinner as i havent eaten any good food for 3 weeks. Hopefully your mess' food will be much better than the stuff we were shipped out in Draconas. Lead the way,Captain."

*He gestures to a nearby door*

01-08-2003, 02:53

Sunset

01-08-2003, 03:17

((OOC: "Deep Ones?" Wha?))

*Celestial claps and runs over to her motorcycle, first checking the left compartment to see if her personal belongings are there. Three packs of chewing gum, book entitled "1984," first aid kit, and a freezed dried smoked trout fillets in air-tight pakaging. Check. Sighing in relief, she checks the right comparment to see if her H&K P90c was there.*

((OOC: I'll let you decide if it's there or not. ^_^))

It's all there. Doesn't look like they even looked inside, though the console is softly chiming. A quick glance says "Todays Menu Features Fresh King Salmon".

OOC: Mmm, dinner...

"I accept your offer for dinner as i havent eaten any good food for 3 weeks. Hopefully your mess' food will be much better than the stuff we were shipped out in Draconas. Lead the way,Captain."

"I believe it will probably be something fresh today Captain. I've had Supply teams out all day gathering what we will need for the trip. I don't doubt they will have brought whatever else they can lay their hands on along too."

The captain stopped at a junction in the corridor.

"Would you like to drop by your berth first and drop your things off? You won't likely be needing those guns around here. Don't look so suprised - we scanned everyone coming on board. 7.62 I believe? Maybe after dinner we could spend some time on the range..."

01-08-2003, 03:40

*Smiling, Celestial pats the H&K P90c and closes the compartment. Looking at the menu, Celestial grins.*

Celestial: "King Salmon! Yummie!"

*With that she heads for the lounge for some din din.*

Sunset

01-08-2003, 04:00

OOC: Looks like it's time for the participants to meet. Ship leaves in 20 minutes.

Quite by accident, most of the guests ended up meeting in the lounge for dinner. 'Rats' Masters thought as they all entered. 'The captain never gets to have fun.'

"We should take a larger table so we can all get to know each other," she said, sitting down at a 6 person table. She flashed Captain Carinath a reluctant glance before waving the others over.

As they were all seated she introduced everyone - "Fojack Carinath, Celestial Lightpaw, Jerome Gage, and Janice Depaulto. You can call me Captain or Beth," she said this last bit looking straight at Captain Carinath. "I'd prefer Captain in front of the crew though."

imported_Eniqcir

01-08-2003, 04:07

As they were all seated she introduced everyone - "Fojack Carinath, Celestial Lightpaw, Jerome Gage, and Janice Depaulto. You can call me Captain or Beth," she said this last bit looking straight at Captain Carinath. "I'd prefer Captain in front of the crew though."

Jerome pushed his chair just a bit away from the table, and began rocking back and forth again. He looked up at everyone else periodically, but mostly just looked at his lap as he twidlled his thumbs.

"Hi."

Sunset

01-08-2003, 05:32

"Well, since no one seems talkative I will talk business. Hope no one minds."

Pressing a console on the edge of the table the surface changes to a information readout. In the center display is a rocky planet covered with thousands of ice lakes.

"This is Rime, at least for now. It's unsettled so the name is... provisional. Where it is I can't tell you at this point. Probably by the time we are done it will be come common knowledge and I will release the coordinates. Here's the data read from the exploring ship."

---
The ninth planet is a larger rocky world 3,846.6 kilometers in radius and 5,292.7 million kilometers out. Composed of carbon compounds, copper, and calcium, it is notable in that it has large "oceans" of water ice with small amounts of chlorine contamination.
---

"This is only the first planet we will be looking at, so if it seems boring don't worry, there will be others. What interests me is the possibility of finding frozen life, perhaps very early life, in those frozen patches. Likely they have been there for billions of years."

01-08-2003, 05:40

*Celetial felt... Out of place. While everyone else was dressed all formal, she looked like she belonged in the middle of a biker gang. She also could tell she was the only without formal military training. Masters showed them the map of the planet they were heading to.*

Celestial: "Lotsa water... Well, lucky for me, I mastered my phobia of water long ago. So, we're just exploring then, looking for signs of life, stuff like that? If one of us finds usuable tech, who has keeper's rights?"

((OOC: Fact, 98% of Krowehomians have hydrophobia/aquaphobia.))

Sunset

01-08-2003, 05:59

"Good question. Not all of us are military, and not all of us represent a goverment. I think we should simply make a gentleman's agreement that anything learned will be shared amoung us, but with the caveat that we are free to do what we want with it."

Beth took a quick drink from her glass, leaving it empty.

"Or what we 'need' to do with it, in the case of the goverment employees. Fortunately I don't think we are going to find anything world shattering, and I believe the respective goverments are on good terms with each other."

"As far as fear of water goes I don't think we will be coming into contact with it, as least not on site. With that atmosphere we will be needing hard suits and air supplies."

"We, and by that I mean my crew, will be surveying. We get to have the fun - exploring and experimenting."

01-08-2003, 06:04

Celestial: "I have another question Miss Masters. What are we needed for then if your crew is going to be doing all the stuff?"

*Celestial tilted her head quetioningly at Masters.*

Sunset

01-08-2003, 06:09

OOC: Opps, bad grammar on my part...

"Sorry - we as in the five of us plus a Security detail. Surveying is boring - I would rather be climbing the next crater or exploring a cave. All the survey team will do is collect samples - and label them."

01-08-2003, 06:15

Scolopendra

01-08-2003, 06:18

Sunset

01-08-2003, 06:34

(From earlier: Interesting concentration on energy weapons. *notes the traditional 1-16 power level explanation chart probably posted in the armory* Stun? I wonder how they pull that off. I will most definitely have to play with these.)

Depaulto kicks her combat boots up onto her section of mess-hall bench. Apparently formality isn't her style either--she's still in dull olive-drab fatigues practically covered in a mosaic of pockets and a similarly inclined desert-tan utility vest unzipped in the front over a black T-shirt. "So, we're goin' to an iceball five terameters out? Only way you'd get the heat for life would be from vulcanology... still, it's big enough. Now we just have to hope it hasn't cooled too much.

"So, if we're goin' to this iceball, what's with all the heaters?" She obviously doesn't notice her unintentional pun.

(OOC: Too much Shadowrun? That's a load of drek. That's like having too much nuyen.)

OOC: Not being the biggest SR fan I will keep out of it. My RP tastes tend to run to story driven systems, like 7th Sea. But you still can never have enough nuyen.

We also don't bother with that 1-16 bit. Its basically Stun-3rd Degree Burns-'Kung Pao Hole-Through-Chest'. Less to fiddle with.

IC:

"I guess we will see - I won't call myself a planetologist by any stretch." She nods to Mr. Gage at this point. "That's part of why I put out the call. Different points of view to get as much as we can out of the mission. As for the 'heaters', well... Lemme tell you what happened last mission..."

Masters proceeds to rant about a giant space ameoba and how it ate her ship until they were rescued by a Snel ship and some quick thinking.

"So we fought these tentacles in the hallways for a couple days. I just can't eat asparagus anymore..."

01-08-2003, 06:36

((OOC: Yay! Someone else who plays SR! Heh heh. So true. Heh heh heh... What's your fave archetype? Mine's Decker. ;)))

*Celetial looks at Depaulto as she puts her boots up on the bench, and she smiles.*

Celestial: A kindred spirit! Neato! "I guess we need the firepower for the next planet in line, I think..."

((OOC2: Italics represents thought.))

Sunset

01-08-2003, 06:39

Celestial: "I see now. Hee hee. So, um... Supposed one or more of us here have never heard of a "hard suit" before, let alone wear one. Is special training needed to properly use one?"

*She was, of course, talking about herself, but hoped she wasn't too obvious about it.*

((OOC: It can happen to the best of us. Null sweat chum. ^_^ :P Gawd, I've been playing Shadow Run too much... Gah...))

"Never used one? That's ok, it's been 13 years since I have." 'Gah, dating myself. Hope he doesn't care.' Beth glanced at Fojack again. "We have two weeks, so I was going to run through the training course again. It's a lot of fun - you run an obstacle course in them, and also do some weapon's practice on the shuttle bay. They are pretty flexible compared to the old style."

01-08-2003, 06:42

*Celestial nods.*

Celestial: "Kewl. Hmmm... When we leaving for Hoth? Um... I mean Rime..."

Scolopendra

01-08-2003, 06:42

01-08-2003, 06:48

Celestial: "Tentacle aliens, not my cup o' tea, thank you very much."

*She shudders at the thought.*

Sunset

01-08-2003, 06:54

(OOC: Gotta love riggers.)

Depaulto grins. She doesn't look quite like a Kzinti, so I guess I'm clear. "Nice. Explore this planet, exploit the next. Poor indigenous populations won't know what hit 'em.

"But really. Other than cookin' our MRE's, what's one need ray guns for, unless we come across some sort of space monster... wait a minute. Space ameoba? With tentacles?" She blinks, then grins wider. "Sure it wasn't a space paramecium?"

OOC: Gun bunny... Kzinti? I thought I saw one of the rat-cats running around here somewhere ;). I feel old all of the sudden.

"It could have been - I haven't gotten any word from the Snel in quite some time. But they had tentacles."

Tapping the controls she brought up some stills of the 'Columbia' sitting half-enveloped in a huge green-brown mass that looked like it had welled out of the asteroid they both sat on.

"We can leave now, actually. Bridge, this is Captain Masters. Take us to Rime." 'Yessir Captain' came over her comm. "That's Commander O'neal. I'll introduce you later."

01-08-2003, 07:01

Scolopendra

01-08-2003, 07:02

*Celestial grinned like a demon possesed schoolgirl.*

Celestial: "It just dawned on me that I am the first Krowemohian to go into outer space! Neato! ^_^ Tee-hee!"
"Congratulations. Welcome to the void." Janice smirks. "It's mostly empty with some interesting stuff scattered about."

01-08-2003, 07:07

*Celestial nodded her head happily.*

Celestial: "Yeah. Heh. One small step for me, one giant leap for something or another..."

*She shrugs helplessly, then grins evilly.*

Celestial: "Are we there yet?"

Sunset

01-08-2003, 07:15

((OOC: Gun bunny? Rat-cats? Umm... I'm gonna stand over there, away from you guys...))

*Celestial grinned like a demon possesed schoolgirl.*

Celestial: "It just dawned on me that I am the first Krowemohian to go into outer space! Neato! ^_^ Tee-hee!"

OOC: Gun bunny - at least around here is any character who carries a massive amount of firepower around. Say 2-3 pistols, an SMG, a rifle, and some kind of heavy weapon. Rat-cat (humanoid cats, pointier faces, bald tails) was the war-time name for the Kzin during the Man-Kzin wars amoung humans, and after wartime by human supremacists. A (good) book series by Larry Niven.

Scolopendra

01-08-2003, 07:17

(OOC: Yeah, we got a few Kzin that we blamed on the breaking of reality in the multiverse.)

"No. Ask again and I'll turn this ship right around." Janice smiles. "That or you can walk all the way to that planet."

01-08-2003, 07:21

*Celestial holds up her hands in defense.*

Celestial: "No need for that. Hee heh. ^_^ I won't ask again, promise."

01-08-2003, 07:22

Sunset

01-08-2003, 07:25

"Two weeks. I suppose we could have the doc put you in stasis, but there really is a lot of things to do on the way. I tell you, nations with hyperdrive don't know what they are missing. Look out the window - sure you can see them from a ship in orbit but can you see them like this?"

Beth tapped the controls again, and a server came over with a tray of shot glasses a minute later. "I think a toast is appropriate, though I am the worst toaster ever."

OOC: Of course technically no one is seeing any stars - red shift and all that. The windows are really hi-def monitors that show what you would be seeing if the stars were zipping by at 49x light speed.

01-08-2003, 07:30

*Celestial takes up a shot glass and holds it gingerly.*

Celestial: "Then may I make the toast?"

Sunset

01-08-2003, 07:38

"If you can think of something appropriate." Beth replied. 'I think would probably flub it and slip 'May I spend two weeks boinking the elf' in there somewhere.' she thought, her cheeks turning a little red.

01-08-2003, 07:43

*Celestial held up the glass, clearing her throat as she waited for the others to do the same. Once everyone is holding their glass in a toast, she speaks in a clear voice.*

Celestial: "I hereby declare a toast, to the discovery of new life, adventure, and lasting friendships. Drink up!"

*With that she tossed backthe shot glass, downing all of it in one pass.*

Celestial: I am suddenly reminded why my brother is a diplomat and I'm not... -_-;;

Scolopendra

01-08-2003, 07:47

Janice raises her glass and actually stands up out of her chair. "To exploring strange new worlds, to seeking out life and new civilizations..." She drains the glass, then grins impishly at the Captain. "...your line, Cap'n."

Sunset

01-08-2003, 07:58

"And to boldly go where no man has gone before!" Beth laughed at this, looking around the table. "Mockery of our starship designers will not be tolerated Ms. Depaulto!" Beth said in an obvious mock-fury. Slamming her glass down on the table she caused the display to suddenly change to a closeup of the tentacle-thing. "Now I am going to have trouble sleeping tonight." she shuddered.

"I believe I owe Fojack a tour of the ship still, so if you will excuse me..."

Scolopendra

01-08-2003, 08:02

"Hell, I think the ship looks kinda nice, myself." Depaulto grins, voice full of fake-concern not reflected in any means by her visage or stance. "In Scolopendra, we build flying bricks. Ever see a President-General-class? One-hundred-percent no-frills."

She nods to the captain. "I'm sure we can fend for ourselves. We'll try not to break too much expensive stuff."

01-08-2003, 08:06

*Celestial smiles and giggles with Masters.*

Celestial: "Well, I'm hungry, so it's time to munch! Heehee! Um, how do I order again?" ^^;;

*She asked Captain Masters sheepishly.*

Sunset

01-08-2003, 08:51

OOC: I assumed everyone had eaten. Oh well - its a buffet style lounge, just go grab something.

"It's a buffet Ms. Lightpaw - just go grab what you want.

A brick can be useful - when you want to put it in a sock and hit someone with it." Beth grins. "Have fun - I'm going to be starting hard suit practice tomorrow at 08:00, if anyone wants to come. Otherwise I will likely do the tour again and hit the sack."

OOC: Unless anyone has any objections it's time to skip two weeks.

01-08-2003, 09:01

Sunset

01-08-2003, 09:11

OOC: Yeah, they got time. I will give them until morning... cue evil laugh.

Alright - thats the end of the session, now time to hand out XP. What system we using again? ;)

Scolopendra

01-08-2003, 17:14

(OOC: MW 3rd edition, where it's impossible to advance characters to Über-status.)

Depaulto just eyes the odd felinid and chuckles softly to herself. She's going to be one to watch out for. Just enthusiastic and inexperienced enough to get in lots of trouble. Remind you of anyone, Kiri? Now to go play with those ray guns.

She stretches slightly. "I'm going to go down to the shooting range and try out those energy weapons. Can't be too different from the powergun and particle rifles back home..."

Sunset

01-08-2003, 17:59

((OOC: Shouldn't we wait for the others to post first?))

*Celestial blushed and felt really embaressed.*

Celestial: "I knew that! I was um... Seeing if you knew it! Yeah, that's right. I was testing you. Ha ha!"

*She quickly makes off to the buffet and nabs various fish items.*

As she is going through the buffet a deep voice suddenly rumbles behind her - "Lightpaw!"

OOC: Powergun like the Hammer's Slammers / David Drake powergun?

01-08-2003, 19:58

Sunset

01-08-2003, 20:48

Sunset

01-08-2003, 20:56

((OOC: EXP? Oro?))

*Celestial jumps forward in surprise, spinning around in mid-air and landing on all fours facing the speaker, her tail erect and back straight as an arrow. She hissed.*

Celestial: "Don't do that! I'm very jumpy."

*She said.*

OOC: I didn't intend on handing any out... Wouldn't be a good thing either cause I am slightly XP happy. I tend to hand out more if I run a bad session and less if I run a good one. Reward for sitting through me I suppose...

"Sorry. I was just going to ask you if you wanted to join me and the goon squad for dinner." Foxworth gestures to a corner where two more large examples of the human species are eating. One is male and samoan, and the other is female and anglo-saxon. Foxworth, btw, is black. They wave at Celestial, and return to their conversation.

Focusing your ears on their conversation it seems to be about killing someone with a bookend.

imported_Eniqcir

01-08-2003, 21:11

"This is only the first planet we will be looking at, so if it seems boring don't worry, there will be others. What interests me is the possibility of finding frozen life, perhaps very early life, in those frozen patches. Likely they have been there for billions of years."

Jerome was deep in thought, seemingly ignoring the other people. Then, quite unexpectedly, he said:

"Unlikely. Standard RNA/PNA/DNA evolution model requires dry areas periodically flooded and redried, to allow the formation of complex RNA chains before protocells and the need for water arise. Vulcanologic heating is not capable of producing such an effect. Radiation levels are also unlikely to be high enough to spur conplex RNA/PNA/DNA formation."

"The world may be good for terraformation, assuming a large enough sollette can be constructed. Introduction of prefabricated cells or protocells sidesteps the need for dry RNA/PNA formation."

Sunset

01-08-2003, 21:21

OOC: Hits stop, rewind, record...

"I'll take your word for it. Still - it had to be water at one point. Perhaps we will find something frozen in it." Beth gets a far-away look on her face for a moment. 'Little green men would be cool. First contact with a species millions of years old would be too.'

Scolopendra

02-08-2003, 00:31

imported_Eniqcir

02-08-2003, 00:45

Jerome sat in his quarters, one of his suitcases closed and on the floor, one open and one the floor. The open suitcase is pretty much empty. Scattered on the floor around the open suitcase are a grey plastic box, something that looks like a beefed-up inkjet printer, and an odd quadrupedal machine.

Jerome himself was busily typing something on his laptop... atmospheric conversion projections, something about the infrared output of a Type I Dyson sphere, travel time equations, heat retention, tonnage of residual Venussian carbon....

Sunset

02-08-2003, 00:56

(OOC: Yep, David Drake Hammer's Slammers-esque copper-lattice annihilation powerguns. And would it be a horsehead bookend?

*is moderately impressed that all his obscure references are being noted*

Oh, and for future ref: I like Star Trek (lots) but I'm running a nation who has a sorta more hard s-f tech level. All of Depaulto's observations come from that angle.)

Not getting invited to much of anything, Ms. Short Ex-Marine plays with phasers down in the firing ranges. A bit light-weight for my tastes but all in all, very nice. *zap* No lead requirements, seems powerful enough, *zap* but the refire rates need work. I'd prefer pulsing to this odd long-duration beam. If I'm running around with a gun, I'm trying to shoot stuff, not saw things in half. *zap* Too bad I can't tell the take-down power on these things. *zap*

She's only an average (front-line military) shot, maybe a marksman on the Marine scale. She does know her way around weapons though, which makes her somewhat curious about the phasers. No mechanical safety, no lock-switches on the power controls... if it's just a three-state, why not have a thumbswitch?

She keeps it up until she gets summoned, tired, or bored; in case of the latter two, she'll probably first get the lab set up to her specifications (remember the psych eval) and then work out.

OOC: I should probably mention, just for the sake of future description, we don't use the Type 2. These are larger, standard pistol layout. E-clip in the butt. No safety though - you are the #1 safety on any weapon.

I'm just feeling my age...

IC:
The Security Officer volunteers some information. "If you want to shoot a solid target we can replicate a turkey or something and run it down the range." He seems... excited about this?

Eventually she does get bored - I suppose there will be quite a tussel over the layout, but there are only two other SDF scientists aboard, and they get the hint quickly enough.

Sunset

02-08-2003, 00:59

And here she is - the 'Columbia'. Or at least a look-alike.

http://www.pacifier.com/~cziller/sunsetship4.jpg

If you are wondering what I used... -snicker-

UnrealEd3.0.

02-08-2003, 01:17

OOC: srry but i had to go out and march around for 6 1/2 hours today, and i just got back so wated i miss

IC: *Fojack slowly awakens and begins wonder where he is, at this thought he jumps up to notice he is in his sleeping clothes, and slowly begin to remmebr where he is*

Sunset

02-08-2003, 01:39

OOC: Not a lot of action. Some good RP and character development though. Now that your back we can 'officially' leave. Though we should arrive in about... 2 minutes?

IC:

The 'Columbia' dropped from warp on the edge of the system, slowing to .10c to enjoy the sights. Sensors allow an early view, and telescopes are trained on the various planets by the curious. After a few minutes of cruising the ship stops and turns as she fires torpedos at the planets. As they arrive the sensor bouys drop their shells and steer into a stable orbit.

Immediatly information begins flowing into the 'Columbia' and back out again, relayed to Fleet HQ and Titan. She speeds back up again and heads towards the first target, the ice-world 'Rime'.

On the bridge the explorers-to-be look over the world on the main screen, though Gage seems to prefer the greater information avaliable from the science station.

Scolopendra

02-08-2003, 02:32

(OOC: I see, the ST:VI Type II "Colt .45" of phasers. I can dig it... glad I didn't mention the grip then. Honestly, I'd like to return to the old TOS Type II with the detachable Type I. Damn, that was sweet.

You sound like an USAF Security Policeman with that safety remark... it's true, though. Still, I like to have some sort of mechanical assurance.)

The Security Officer volunteers some information. "If you want to shoot a solid target we can replicate a turkey or something and run it down the range." He seems... excited about this?
"Why the hell not? Hopefully these things aren't high on the cruelty scale." She goes into the usual modified-Weaver grip and staggered standing combat stance, ready to zap fowl appearing out of nowhere.

Eventually she does get bored - I suppose there will be quite a tussel over the layout, but there are only two other SDF scientists aboard, and they get the hint quickly enough.
"No," Janice hisses, looking up (probably) at the scientist, "the gene-senquencer goes here." The T-shirt does a good job of highlighting her well-defined and surprisingly dense arm musculature.

On the bridge the explorers-to-be look over the world on the main screen, though Gage seems to prefer the greater information avaliable from the science station.
"Takin' potshots first, eh? I thought our sensor suites would far surpass any little probe's." Havin' fun... and a little nervous? Bah. Full speed ahead.

Sunset

02-08-2003, 02:47

(OOC: I see, the ST:VI Type II "Colt .45" of phasers. I can dig it... glad I didn't mention the grip then. Honestly, I'd like to return to the old TOS Type II with the detachable Type I. Damn, that was sweet.

You sound like an USAF Security Policeman with that safety remark... it's true, though. Still, I like to have some sort of mechanical assurance.)

NRA Pistol Training, but close enough. I am pretty adamant about people using them, but a lot of military-specific firearms don't have them.

"Why the hell not? Hopefully these things aren't high on the cruelty scale." She goes into the usual modified-Weaver grip and staggered standing combat stance, ready to zap fowl appearing out of nowhere.

Dead, plucked, and about to be steaming. The second setting makes em ready for thanksgiving, and the third leaves the drumsticks. The clip is only good for 4 shots of the highest setting though.

"No," Janice hisses, looking up (probably) at the scientist, "the gene-senquencer goes here." The T-shirt does a good job of highlighting her well-defined and surprisingly dense arm musculature.

After this they clear outta there. Engineering notices a sudden power draw from their suites a couple hours later.

"Takin' potshots first, eh? I thought our sensor suites would far surpass any little probe's." Havin' fun... and a little nervous? Bah. Full speed ahead.

"They double as comm relays as well - we don't know if any pirates use this system as a base, so it would be good to know now and in the future."

The Science Officer walks over to the small group. "Captain - early reading show a network of fissures running through some of the 'oceans'. Might be interesting. No life signs that we can detect on any of the planets though." "Thank you. Have the survey team start their work, we will find a nice big crack to poke around in. Who's coming?"

Scolopendra

02-08-2003, 02:59

Janice nods at the explination. "They'd better not; I put a lot on hold to come out here. I'd really have to extract my paycheck out of their vital organs."

"Who's coming? Hell, I didn't come...x many light-years just to kick back and have a drink... could've done that back home. Count me in."

imported_Eniqcir

02-08-2003, 03:08

On the bridge the explorers-to-be look over the world on the main screen, though Gage seems to prefer the greater information avaliable from the science station.
(OOC: Good prediction.)

Ususally completely silent, Gage suddenly started spouting off information, never looking away from the computer.

"...requires the addition of sodium, terraform impossible at 35 AUs, but sollette should make it easier, ungood for carbon/water biology, perfect for solid state civilization, possible to terraform if moved closer, but low gravity makes necessary atmospheric netting as proposed for Callisto..."

After a while, he looked up. "Prime option- planetary disassembly and use of materials primarily for fuel, life support, food synthesis, construction. Recommend use of Hutchison transmutation on heavy metals."

After which, he went back to his usual withdrawn state.

"Thank you. Have the survey team start their work, we will find a nice big crack to poke around in. Who's coming?"

"Attila will go."

Scolopendra

02-08-2003, 03:13

After a while, he looked up. "Prime option- planetary disassembly and use of materials primarily for fuel, life support, food synthesis, construction. Recommend use of Hutchison transmutation on heavy metals."
"Planetary disassembly?" Janice scoffs. "That ball's the size of Mars, doc. Why don't we just use it as a forward base of operations and take it apart in little chunks like normal people?"

imported_Eniqcir

02-08-2003, 03:42

"Planetary disassembly?" Janice scoffs. "That ball's the size of Mars, doc. Why don't we just use it as a forward base of operations and take it apart in little chunks like normal people?"

Without ever looking up: "Prime alternate option- use of water or reclaimed hydrogen as propulsive mass to reduce orbital distance in order to terraform. Prime option still planetary disassembly."

Scolopendra

02-08-2003, 03:53

Without ever looking up: "Prime alternate option- use of water or reclaimed hydrogen as propulsive mass to reduce orbital distance in order to terraform. Prime option still planetary disassembly."
"Thank you, Mister Roboto. We could just use the water for pressure dome life support and not try to fiddle with the planetary system, but I guess that'd be too damned easy." Thank God he's staying here on the ship.

Sunset

02-08-2003, 04:09

"Hate to interupt, and it is fascinating, but who's Attila?" Beth asked, looking at Gage strangely.

imported_Eniqcir

02-08-2003, 04:32

"Thank you, Mister Roboto. We could just use the water for pressure dome life support and not try to fiddle with the planetary system, but I guess that'd be too damned easy." Thank God he's staying here on the ship.

"Planets are inefficient. That is why there are people like me to modify them. Pressure dome colonies suggest later terraformation, still requiring partial planetary disassembly. Carbon extraction recommended for construction of pressure domes." Useless water, cannot develop life. Requires sodium, inefficient use of mass. Much material for building static structures, but nothing for Attila.

"Hate to interupt, and it is fascinating, but who's Attila?" Beth asked, looking at Gage strangely.

"My pet."

Scolopendra

02-08-2003, 05:47

"Planets are inefficient. That is why there are people like me to modify them. Pressure dome colonies suggest later terraformation, still requiring partial planetary disassembly. Carbon extraction recommended for construction of pressure domes."
"Inefficient? That's a laugh, coming from someone who wants to expend the propellant mass to move a planet the size of Mars from a Neptune-orbit to an inhabitable orbit. We don't have to swarm all over this rock like bugs, y'know. Establish a presence large enough to support further colonization of the system, which looks like it's mostly going to be mining rigs anyway. At least you've got something there with that carbon.

"I'm a terraformer too, and I don't see what the hell that has to do with moving planets. You're talking about re-engineering a star system here. How exactly do you expect to get the planet from point A to point B without throwing the orbits of everything else in the system out of whack? Or are we just going to 'disassemble' all those as well? And where's the energy for this godlike magic coming from?" I know I should just let it slide, but Jeebus H Hyskos, this guy is mad. Gets himself dropped off in an escape capsule, goes on about completely raping an entire system without batting an eyelid. Damn, what a nutter.

imported_Eniqcir

02-08-2003, 06:06

"Inefficient? That's a laugh, coming from someone who wants to expend the propellant mass to move a planet the size of Mars from a Neptune-orbit to an inhabitable orbit. We don't have to swarm all over this rock like bugs, y'know. Establish a presence large enough to support further colonization of the system, which looks like it's mostly going to be mining rigs anyway. At least you've got something there with that carbon.

"I'm a terraformer too, and I don't see what the hell that has to do with moving planets. You're talking about re-engineering a star system here. How exactly do you expect to get the planet from point A to point B without throwing the orbits of everything else in the system out of whack? Or are we just going to 'disassemble' all those as well? And where's the energy for this godlike magic coming from?"

"They keep their mass locked up in the middle of large spheres, where it is hard to get to. The resources of this planet will be required to support the other colonies. Best to move the mass out of an inconvenient gravity well, if we do not intend to use this planet for terraformation and permanent habitation."

"The planet must be moved close to its primary if it is to recieve enough heat for permanent habitation. It must be done carefully, and slowly. Likely to take many lifetimes if put into effect. Energy can be acquired from sollettes, fusors, ZPE taps. Reactionless drives may be used if propellant mass methods are unsatisfactory. Apotheosis is irrelevant. Cannot provide opinion on other planets without further data."

I know I should just let it slide, but Jeebus H Hyskos, this guy is mad. Gets himself dropped off in an escape capsule, goes on about completely raping an entire system without batting an eyelid. Damn, what a nutter.

(OOC: Hehe. Must seem that way, eh? Not quite insane, but comes pretty close as a semi-savant with a one-track mind.)

Scolopendra

02-08-2003, 06:19

The man has the social skills of a brick. Maybe that's too mean to the brick though. "How's about this--seeing how yours will take, oh, a few millennia to work, let's use my old-fashioned time-tested method in the interim. If civilization still exists in 32,750 C.E. then we'll see if you made the right call."

imported_Eniqcir

02-08-2003, 06:28

"How's about this--seeing how yours will take, oh, a few millennia to work, let's use my old-fashioned time-tested method in the interim. If civilization still exists in 32,750 C.E. then we'll see if you made the right call."

At this point, Jerome finally looked up at Janice. "An acceptable compromise, although I do not see the significance of that date. Am I correct in assuming that you propose only partial habitation?"

The man has the social skills of a brick. Maybe that's too mean to the brick though.
(OOC: Nah. I'd but it more at the primordial hydrogen level. :) )

Scolopendra

02-08-2003, 06:40

The careful observer would note that the triceps of Janice's folded arms are beginning to twitch, followed by the biceps and finally the lower-arm muscles. Someone with a pair of cheap 'see-through-women's-clothing' spectacles would note that her shoulder muscles seem to be rippling. Someone noticing all of this would note, finally, that this kind of behavior tends to be a trained reflex performed just prior to some sort of violent upper-body action. Someone knowing all this, plus knowing that Ms. Depaulto is ex-M.I., would probably set something on stun right about now.

But, hey, she's under control.

I'm gonna kill 'im. Not now, in front of so many witnesses, but I'm gonna kill 'im. Someone this dense doesn't deserve to breathe my air. "Well, doc, unless you can think of a way to successfully suck hard vacuum instead of having hard vacuum suck you, then, yes, partial habitation it is.

"And," she adds, jabbing an index finger in the air, "before you point out so calmly that the planet does have an atmosphere, I'll let you know it was simply a turn of phrase." Damn, was he born this stupid, or did he just perfect it through years of experience and hard training?

imported_Eniqcir

02-08-2003, 06:44

I'm gonna kill 'im. Not now, in front of so many witnesses, but I'm gonna kill 'im. Someone this dense doesn't deserve to breathe my air. "Well, doc, unless you can think of a way to successfully suck hard vacuum instead of having hard vacuum suck you, then, yes, partial habitation it is.

"And," she adds, jabbing an index finger in the air, "before you point out so calmly that the planet does have an atmosphere, I'll let you know it was simply a turn of phrase." Damn, was he born this stupid, or did he just perfect it through years of experience and hard training?

"I must redo my projections to account for this different plan. Attila, Attila, Attila..."

Jerome calmly left the bridge to return to his quarters, and his nice, familiar laptop. Upon entering said quarters, he pressed a button on the inkjet-esque device, picked up the quadruped-thingy, and plugged it into a jack on the laptop. "Time to go exploring, Attila...."

Sunset

02-08-2003, 07:16

"I think it's time to head down there. Theres a nice crack that seems to lead into a good number of others. We can transport in, see what's what, and maybe the survey team will have something else to look at by the time we are done."

'What was that all about?' Beth thought, as she headed to the transporter room. The hardsuits, as well as her chosen loadout, were lined up along the side of the room. Stripping off her jacket and pants she suits up and straps a pack across her back with mag-clamps. Finally she picks up a tri-corder, phaser pistol, and what appears to be an MP-5SD.

imported_Eniqcir

02-08-2003, 07:36

Jerome typed a few lines on the laptop, and unplugged Attila. Setting it down on the floor once more, he gave it a nudge, saying "Go on, you don't want to miss the transport."

Attila scurried out of the room and made its way to the transporter.

Scolopendra

02-08-2003, 07:38

Janice has an odd look of relief when Gage wanders off. Transport? Entering the transporter room, she looks for some obvious form of transportation, wholly ignoring the oddly-lit booth with the discs in it. Must be some sort of decontamination booth or something. After shrugging out what she has to to fit in the suit, she picks up her Scolopendran portcomp (imagine a laptop designed to be run over repeatedly by a Bradley AFV), whatever weapon she's assigned, and a tricorder as well... although she looks at it rather oddly. Looks like a multisensor. Bit smaller, though.

"So... waitaminute." Remembering suddenly, she fishes the communicator pin out of her vest and puts it somewhere appropriate on the hardsuit. "Anyway... what's with the slugthrower? And how exactly are we getting to the surface... we're pretty far from the shuttle hangars."

Depaulto eyes the little walker as it scoots in. "Cute, a spider-scout analog. So whose toy are you, little one?" Don't tell me that guy on the bridge is such a pussy that he's not gonna planetfall on a dead rock.

02-08-2003, 08:12

*Celestial seemed to just... Appear next to Janice, wearing a hardsuit.*

Celestial: "I'm on the explorer team too!"

*She twitches inside the hardsuit, then begins to complain, mostly to herself.*

Celestial: "It's uncomfortable in here! And I can't reach my Glock! My tail is all squished, and the air tastes bad! I forgot to remove my commumicator thingie and I can't reach it either!"

*She falls silent, pouting.*

((OOC: I guess Celestial will be the cute, plucky comedic relief of this RP. ^_^))

Scolopendra

02-08-2003, 08:22

Janice grins. "There's nothing stopping you from taking it off and trying again... and try sneaking the tail down one one of the legs. Maybe by wrapping it around a leg or something, I dunno."

Sunset

02-08-2003, 19:43

"Just being cautious. Did I mention the space-ameoba feed on EM emissions? Phaser for melting through ice if we need to, silenced SMG for shooting things. Don't want to cause a cave-in."

Captain Masters watchs Celestial squirm for a minute, then fall silent. "I would second Janice's suggestion - you can use a phaser holster for your firearm and there is a mag-clamp on the front for your badge. I would suggest everyone take a phaser and some e-clips though. It can be handy for melting the ice to look at something."

"Mr. Gage, can Attila retransmit to you? If she can't, I can put a badge on her." Beth was momentarily distracted as she watched Fojack put on his hardsuit. "Sorry Jerome, could you repeat that?"

imported_Eniqcir

02-08-2003, 20:24

"Mr. Gage, can Attila retransmit to you? If she can't, I can put a badge on her." Beth was momentarily distracted as she watched Fojack put on his hardsuit. "Sorry Jerome, could you repeat that?"

Jerome's voice, through Attila's speaker, could be heard to say "Yes."

Sunset

03-08-2003, 01:02

"Let's get going then." Beth tromped onto the platform and sealed the facemask on her hardsuit.

OOC: Hmm, must be Sat RP...

Scolopendra

03-08-2003, 04:38

Janice raises an eyebrow, then seals her helmet tight and walks onto the platform, not particularly centered on any one of the discs. Okay... standing in a booth. "So, does this thing take us to the shuttlebay, or disinfect us, or what?"

Sunset

03-08-2003, 09:48

OOC: Yes, I have been gone all night. Running Exalted. Rather silly session.

IC:
"They break you down into your component sub-atomics and reassemble you at the destination. Very fast way to get around." As the others joined her on the pads they looked at her in astonishment. "Ensign, beam us down..."

The five explorers re-appeared in a wash of energy a moment later at their destination. "See? Quick and painless. Just pat yourself, make sure nothing is missing..."

03-08-2003, 11:45

*Celestial does as suggested and removes and puts the hardsuit back on. She joins the others on the teleporter, Phaser in hand, her Glock taking up the Phaser holder space.*

Celestial: "Looks all clear here... Hmmm... Where to now, Cap'n Crunch?"

Scolopendra

03-08-2003, 15:53

"They break you down into your component sub-atomics and reassemble you at the destination. Very fast way to get around." As the others joined her on the pads they looked at her in astonishment. "Ensign, beam us down..."

The five explorers re-appeared in a wash of energy a moment later at their destination. "See? Quick and painless. Just pat yourself, make sure nothing is missing..."
Duh-wha? Janice blinks once aboard Columbia, would've but couldn't twice in the annular confinement beam, and once again on the surface. She automatically pats herself as suggested--boggling is conducive to weakness to suggestion. "So... um... cool." After regaining enough composure to formulate her own opinion, she smiles. "Let's do that again." We need to get us some o' thems.

She looks around in the crevice. "Looks stable enough." Hooking a multisensor to her portcomp, she starts doing an ultrasound scan of the surrounding area. "Yep, nice and stable. It gets iffy about fifty meters north, but mostly the area seems safe enough."

Sunset

03-08-2003, 19:16

"Quite beautiful - despite man's best efforts I am still a bigger fan of nature's." Beth begins scanning the chasm with her 'corder and taking small samples from hidden areas.

OOC: Going to play paintball in about 20 minutes, probably go for the next 6 hours or so. I was thinking perhaps some debris in the ice from an ancient crash, or something else unusual caught in the ice. Take it and run with it.

03-08-2003, 19:34

*Celestial grins.*

Celestial: "Full speed ahead Number 1, second odd rock formation to the right, straight on til morning."

*She points in the direction she suggested.*

Celestial: "I got a feeling there's something over in that general direction. BRRRR! I would like to take this time to say it's really cold on Rime. I can feel the coldness through my suit..."

Sunset

04-08-2003, 03:00

OOC: Back, and that was loads of fun. Hand-reloading one kill speedball. Frantic and funny...

"It's ice, but with a high suspended iron content Ms. Lightpaw. Never seen anything like it." Captain Masters scanned it and tagged the scan with a note. 'Put a holo of that on my coffee table'.

Walking through the passageway was odd - the ice bent the light from their headlamps as it passed through multiple ripples. It was hard to tell how long the passage was without consulting the 'corder.

"Looks like there is a rock, maybe a meteorite, stuck in the ice over there. Why don't you help me melt the ice Celestial. Lets see what we have..."

imported_Eniqcir

04-08-2003, 03:26

"Looks like there is a rock, maybe a meteorite, stuck in the ice over there. Why don't you help me melt the ice Celestial. Lets see what we have..."

Attila hopped over, and lowered its body close to the ground. Two small wire 'feelers' extended from the front, and started to very slowly, and probably futilely, melt the ice.

(OOC: I'm gonna be gone for 12-13 days starting tommorrow. Might get in another few posts in the morning, but I'll need someone to take over Jerome/Attila for me. About all you need to know is that Jerome is a high-function autistic savant, and treats machines like normal people.)

Sunset

04-08-2003, 03:32

OOC: Got it. We will try to make you proud.

Scolopendra

04-08-2003, 04:03

Hum. I wonder if melting the place is a good idea, given the concept that we're standing in an ice tunnel. Janice taps a finger on her portcomp, then runs a stability scan on the area around the meteorite. "Yeah... it'll work... just be careful."

Sunset

04-08-2003, 04:31

Through the combined efforts of the three explorers the ice quickly melted away to within an inch of the object. Attila would be more useful here, and it scrambled through the small tunnel created and began melting the ice carefully away from the object.

Several minute passed, and then it slowly backed out with the object. It was no meteorite, that much was plain. It may have once been part of a larger object, but now it was a 'triangle' of metal with a bubbled and melted edge. There was some kind of design on both of the flat sides, parts of which look to have been melted away. The object is about 12cm tall, 1cm wide, and 5cm long.

Beth placed the object carefully on Attila's case, so all could examine it.

Scolopendra

04-08-2003, 04:41

"Well, lookit that." Janice hooks up some leads from the multisensor module to the artifact and checks composition, conductivity, carbon-14 levels (to be compared with the ice later)...

04-08-2003, 10:15

*Celestial looks at the object they discovered.*

Celestial: "Hmm... Maybe we're not the first ones here?"

Scolopendra

04-08-2003, 16:21

"Quite..." Janice thinks for a moment, then looks up at Celestial as the portcomp continues its analysis. "Hmm... if I remember, felinids tend to have better eyesight than humans. D'ya see anything else back there, like what this may have been part of?"

(OOC Query to Sunset: Do you say what the thingie is or do I? Shades of Apocalypse Now: "Who's in charge here?!")

Sunset

04-08-2003, 18:22

OOC: Since it's your planet I believe you should be allowed to determine it's past/future.

Beth scanned the object for nearly a minute with her 'corder. "I'm trying to get as exact of composition as possible. It's taking some time - the mineral latice's are very unusual, but that might be due to whatever melted that end. Looks too melted to be re-entry."

She finished her scan and began slowly sweeping the area, looking for any more.

04-08-2003, 19:20

Fojack Carinath dresses and begins wandering the halls, searching for direction of some kind.

Sunset

04-08-2003, 19:25

OOC: I would suggest using the comm badge...

04-08-2003, 19:30

OOC: Mabye later.

The captain decides to explore the ship from top to bottom by himself. He downloads a map from a computer terminal and begins his self guided tour.

Scolopendra

04-08-2003, 23:46

OOC: Since it's your planet I believe you should be allowed to determine it's past/future.
(OOC: Oh dear, um... damn. *scrambles for non-extant notes* Let's just fake it and make up something reasonable. I trust you.)

Beth scanned the object for nearly a minute with her 'corder. "I'm trying to get as exact of composition as possible. It's taking some time - the mineral latice's are very unusual, but that might be due to whatever melted that end. Looks too melted to be re-entry."
Crystalline aluminum-titanium alloy, extremely pure (99.9% +) and by the regularity of the lattice, probably manufactured in null-gravity. Heat damage indicates it was caused by enthalpic shifts on the range of stellar fusion or matter/antimatter reactions. Said heat damage has realigned the remaining lattice somewhat, so it now appears to be much more brittle than it probably was originally.

Symbology does not match any known language.

"Hey, Celestial!" Janice closes her portcomp and disconnects it from the metal wedge. "See anything in there?"

(OOC: Feel free to decide whether you do or don't)

Sunset

05-08-2003, 00:46

"Well, lets upload the images to the 'Columbia' and tag them for Linguistics. They could just be decorative or meaningless, but never hurts to take a look."

Beth scanned the object again to ensure a clear image, then transfered them to the 'Columbia'. "We are getting some communications interference according to the 'corder. Not enough to worry about, but something is causing it. We should start moving though, we can examine the object in more detail aboard ship."

05-08-2003, 07:17

*Celestial looks where Janice said to.* ((OOC: I hab no idea were that is... ^^;; ))

Celestial: "Um... Yeah, I do actually... It looks like... Um... Shiny... And erm... Reflective... Like, a mirror or something..."

Sunset

05-08-2003, 09:14

OOC: Neither do we - just playing it by ear.

Looking in the general direction pointed out by Celestial Beth began scanning. "Not getting anything - might be something blocking it though."
Walking another hundred feet down the passage she scans again. "Got it now. Looks like there is a lot of suspected particles in the ice. But what we are looking for is over there..."

Beth points into the ice, where a vague object can barely be made out. It looks to be about 20 feet from the wall at a 50 degree angle down, but the ice makes it hard to be sure.

05-08-2003, 09:30

((OOC: lol. ^_^))

*Celestial nods and points her Phaser at it.*

Celestial: "Shall we begin digging?"

Sunset

05-08-2003, 09:39

"Yes, go ahead. Be careful though - how far away does it look to be to you? The 'corder is getting a wavering reading from something."

Beth monitored the depth on her 'corder while Celestial began melting away the ice. Suddenly her comm badge began chiming. "This is the Captain." "Captain, this is Science. The survey teams have finished this area, and we are wondering if you will be ok if we move to another location on the planet."

"I think we should be fine. Check back on us in 30 minutes though."

05-08-2003, 09:47

Mercenary Soldiers

05-08-2003, 10:13

This looks interesting. Mind if I join in? If so, I could use an update....

Sunset

05-08-2003, 10:20

OOC: I don't think we would mind, but you need to read the first post at the least for the 'rules'.

If you want to join, a SDF vessel on it's way to another system will be willing to drop your character(s) off.

Sunset

05-08-2003, 10:24

Oh yeah, and a update...

The 'Columbia' is on a long range survey mission. Her destination is unknown to the scientists, researchers, etc, invited aboard by her captain. The ship has arrived at the first planet and the researchers are looking around. They have just uncovered a strange group of objects, but this would be OOC so far.

And for Ardor: You can wander around all you want - it's basically a Galaxy class in terms of facilities. The only place you cannot go is the Bridge, Ordinance, and Armory. And personal quarters, but I would guess you knew that.

Mercenary Soldiers

05-08-2003, 10:43

Okay, so I guess standard RPing rules appy.

As for my characters, here ya go:

Name:Dekker Bray
Age: 30
Race: Caucasian Human Male
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 230lbs
Profession: Mercenary/Soldier
Skills: Expert Small arms marksman, master of Hangarah and MCMAK martial arts styles.
Equipment: AMT M1911 "Hardballer",3 spare 7rd clips, survival knife
Personality Anayisis: Passive/Aggressive
Bio: Dekker Bray is a quiet man, he remains reserved around people he doesn't know well, but once he becomes aquainted with them, he is quite friendly. He will not hesitate to take action or risks. The son of a gunfighter, Bray was trained from a young age to shoot accurately form long range with small arms, as well as while moving and drawing from several styles of holsters. Bray has a strong martial arts background, having trained from age seven under several different masters of numerous disciplines. He has served in many armed conflicts due to his mercenary and military background. Bray joined the United States Marine Corps at age 18, moved to Recon six months later, and joined SEAL Team 6 at age 19. Bray served in several black operations and "unofficial" raids on rogue elements, as well as two tours in Kosovo, Operation Desert Storm, Afganistan, and Iraq before being honorably discharged in 2002 with the rank of Sargent Major. Bray served for several years as a free agent, fighting in uncountable rebellions, revolutions, coups, and civil wars, eventually catching the eye of former Marine General Jeff R. Garand, who had left the service after his twenty years to get his commisson. Garand later formed the Red Dawn Mercenary Army, made up of several of his former troops, as well as some from numerous other brances of the armed services. Bray is currently is with the Red Dawn Mercenary Army, as a Lieutenant. Bray is a natural warrior, although rougish in nature and behavior. Married.

Sunset

05-08-2003, 18:45

OOC: Ok then, I'll get you rolling.

The SDF 'Far Wanderer' had been assigned a long range survey to a recently discovered system. The officers and crew were being tight lipped about the location, but they were willing to drop Mr. Bray off at the 'Columbia'.

It was a two week voyage from Sol, plenty of time to get used to the facilities of a Cohort-Class Escort and learn the basics of SDF equipment. According to the Captain the explorers aboard the 'Columbia' were beginning hard suit training for their intended survey as well as training anyone interested with phasers and tri-corders.

The 'Far Wanderer' had set out only a day behind the 'Columbia' but Mr. Bray would still have some catching up to do. Hailing the 'Columbia' the Captain had Mr. Bray transported over, a unique experience if you haven't done it before. The XO of the 'Columbia' met him in the transporter room.

"Welcome to the 'Columbia' Mr. Bray. I'm Commander Samson..."

Mercenary Soldiers

05-08-2003, 18:55

Dekker entended his hand towards the man. "Please to meet you commander, I'm Lt. Dekker Bray, of the Red Dawn Mercenary Army. This is a fine starship, first I've been on infact."

Sunset

05-08-2003, 19:57

Dekker entended his hand towards the man. "Please to meet you commander, I'm Lt. Dekker Bray, of the Red Dawn Mercenary Army. This is a fine starship, first I've been on infact."

"Thank you," Commander Samson replied as he returned the handshake. "The 'Columbia' is quite a ship. As it is about noon I was wondering if you would like to accompany me to the lounge. I can layout what the researchers on planet know, and we can have some lunch before you suit up and beam down."

"If you don't mind I will have your bags taken to your room - it's 220 on Deck 2. I'm sure you are familiar enough with the layout of the Cohort Class now that I don't need to give you the tour."

Mercenary Soldiers

05-08-2003, 20:04

Dekker began to follow the commander in the direction of the lounge. "Thanks, Commander. I heard a few of your people found a strange pyramid thingie. Any idea what it does.?"

Sunset

05-08-2003, 20:18

"Captain Filbeck has certainly been keeping you up to date. The exploration team found it less than an hour ago. No word on what exactly it is yet really. Almost there..."

The two men walked into the lounge, which was just starting it's lunch service. The Commander grabbed a plate and went through the line, concocting the 'biggest salad known to man' (TM).

Taking a seat at one of the 'window' booths he switched on the table display and was pulling up information when the Lt. sat down.

Scolopendra

06-08-2003, 06:43

*Celestial melts the ice until she can get to the object. Reaching in with one hand, she hauls it out and looks at it. The object is a small pyramid made of some sort of highly polished black metal. It stands about five inches tall and the base is three inches across at it's widest point. There are markings on the pyramid that are similar to the object they found before.*

Celestial: "Eh? What do you make of this?"

*She presents the item to Janice and Cap'n Masters.*
"Hum." Janice looks at the odd little pyramid. "Looks kinda like it's an intact version of that bit of debris. I wonder what it does." Taking the object, she fiddles with the artifact. "One possibility is that it's a magnetic key of some sort. Now all we have to do is find an appropriate lock."

Sunset

06-08-2003, 08:04

"Interesting idea - the complexity of the designs would make such a lock very hard to defeat. But why would it be frozen in the ice? Ms. Lightpaw - lets take a closer look. There should be some residual path that the object left when entering."

Beth climbs into the hole as far as she can, melting the ice out to get a better view.

06-08-2003, 08:38

*Celestial follows suit, climbing into the hole with Beth.*

Celetial: "Careful up there Cap'n Crunch... It's a wee bit slippery."

*She said. Beth finds the residue trail, it leads straight down into the ice below them...*

((OOC: Hope y'all don't mind me stating where the residue trail leads. If not, I can change my post...))

Scolopendra

06-08-2003, 08:46

(OOC: I don't see a problem with that.)

"Well, hell." Everyone's crawling through tunnels now. Jeez. She follows, muttering to herself. "I'll just take drag and make sure nothing sneaks up on us."

(OOC: And bedtime for me.)

06-08-2003, 08:53

Os Sanglants

06-08-2003, 09:00

Beth continued melting the water, making more room to examine the site. "We are going to have a lot of water here - make sure it can flow away from us somehow."

"How could the trail go... up, as it were? And what is down there that might have caused it to go up?" Beth began scanning again, focusing her attention on the floor of the new cave. "Nothing immediate, but there is a lot of minerals about 400 feet down. Can you see anything Ms. Lightpaw?"

06-08-2003, 09:07

((OOC: Sunset?))

*Celestial looks down and squints.*

Celestial: "Um... There's something big below us. Dark colored, about... Umm... I think 500 feet down... Can't tell..."

Mercenary Soldiers

06-08-2003, 17:32

Dekker followed the commander through the line, nabbing a pair of hamburgers, a cup of coffee, a small salad, and a bag of potato chips. He sits down across from commander Samson, pushing his sholder-holstered .45 into a more confortable position. "Are you a vegan? That's a pretty big salad."

Mercenary Soldiers

06-08-2003, 18:27

OOC: Just posting to see if I can get page 9 to work. Anybody know where Sunset disappered to?

Mercenary Soldiers

06-08-2003, 18:32

Hey, it worked. Page nine is open for buisness.

Sunset

06-08-2003, 20:25

OOC: Sorry, different time zones. I was asleep.

Dekker followed the commander through the line, nabbing a pair of hamburgers, a cup of coffee, a small salad, and a bag of potato chips. He sits down across from commander Samson, pushing his sholder-holstered .45 into a more confortable position. "Are you a vegan? That's a pretty big salad."

"No, actually. I just like to vary my diet a lot. Let me show you what we have..." Samsom pulls up a map of the complex of cracks that run through one of the frozen oceans, along with the team's position. "This is where they found the first object, and here the second." Images of the objects come up on the display, both can be rotated, zoomed, etc. "The second is much more intact."

*Celestial looks down and squints.*

Celestial: "Um... There's something big below us. Dark colored, about... Umm... I think 500 feet down... Can't tell..."

"We could either melt our way down there or have the 'Columbia' vap a side tunnel with the phasers. If we do that we risk distrurbing other objects, but I don't want to be here for the next week, either. What do you say?"

Gage, through Attila, reponded first - "The side tunnel will allow the quickest access to the most information and the best likelyhood of success. I would take that approach." He begins to rattle off numbers about ice density, rate of flow, chances of success based on object location...

Scolopendra

06-08-2003, 20:55

"We could either melt our way down there or have the 'Columbia' vap a side tunnel with the phasers. If we do that we risk distrurbing other objects, but I don't want to be here for the next week, either. What do you say?"

Gage, through Attila, reponded first - "The side tunnel will allow the quickest access to the most information and the best likelyhood of success. I would take that approach." He begins to rattle off numbers about ice density, rate of flow, chances of success based on object location...
"Yeah," Janice scoffs, "just what I want--naval-grade ortillery coming down on top of our heads. Before we die, I'll just say now that I never planned on buying it on all fours in an ice tunnel staring at someone's hard-suited ass."

Sunset

06-08-2003, 21:32

Scolopendra

07-08-2003, 05:49

"You know, you are probably right. Tactical can stuff his pride. When they come back in a couple minutes we can beam outta here and have it done while we are on the ship. Plus we can get out of these suits..."

Captain Masters begins backing down the tunnel.
"Gah!" Janice finds herself in the unenviable position of having to back up faster than the person in front of her in a suit that doesn't quite allow enough head movement to see where she's going. Making it out alright, she needlessly brushes some ice crystals off the knees of her suit. "I'm ready to roll when you are, Cap'n." At least someone listens to me.

07-08-2003, 05:54

*Celestial climbs out after Janice. She rubs the back of her head.*

Celestial: "Heh heh. Sorry 'bout that..."

Sunset

07-08-2003, 05:59

OOC: Finally something not war-related...

"Lets get a little further out - get a good triangulation on the site. Hopefully we can cut through this interference a little better." Beth began walking until the signal was at 95%. "Columbia, this is the Captain requesting beam up."

"This is 'Columbia'. 10 seconds Captain." came the voice of the XO over the comm-link. Everyone waited for a minute, then they vanished as the transporter took over.

"Captain," the transporter tech said as soon as they stepped off the platform, "Commander Samson is waiting on the Bridge with a Mr. Dekker. He's a volunteer for the exploratory team." Beth began stripping off the hard suit but managed to reply between a series of grunts. "Tell him... I will be there... as soon as possible..."

07-08-2003, 06:08

((OOC: Mew?))

*Celestial follows suit and removes her hard suit.*

Celestial: "I'm hungry again..."

Sunset

07-08-2003, 06:17

'Gee, who didn't expect that?' Beth thought as she made her way to the bridge. "There is a replicator on the bridge Celestial. Please don't call me Cap'n Crunch on the bridge though. Things like that tend to spread."

It was only a short walk to the bridge from the Transporter room, so Beth had barely finished when they walked in.

OOC: We don't put the bridge on the top of the saucer. It's in the center a little back with a lot of superstructure around it.

07-08-2003, 06:22

*Celestial nods, then heads for the replicator to get some food.*

Celestial: "I wonder what that pyramid thingie does?"

*She wondered outloud as she got her food. Taking the plate of shrimp and fresh fish, she eats, paces, and thinks outloud.*

Celestial: "Could be a key, or maybe some sort of weapon. Maybe it's a data storage unit that contains the Cap'n's log... Nah!"

Sunset

07-08-2003, 06:40

"Ms. Lightpaw, could you please stop pacing?" Foxworth rumbles. He is manning the tactical station above the Captain. "It wears out the carpet," he finished, giving her a wink.

"Mr. Foxworth - target the phasers on these coordinates and put a 35 degree hole through the ice so it ends up at these coordinates. Helm - move the 'Columbia' in responce to Tactical's commands." Captain Masters said, taking the chair.

While this was being performed she opened a channel to Jerome. "Any idea's Mr. Gage?"

07-08-2003, 06:47

*Celestial looks at Foxworth and stops pacing.*

Celestial: "Mmkay, Foxie."

*She said, using the nickname she made up for him.*

Sunset

07-08-2003, 06:52

A low chorus of snickers is heard around the bridge at this. "Are we ready to go, 'Foxie'?" Captain Masters chortled. "Aye Captain..."

From the bow of the 'Columbia' a thin phaser beam lanced out and a cloud of steam erupted on the surface. A moment later it stopped and the steam slowly began to settle. "While the ice re-freezes and the steam disipates let's go grab some food," Beth said, relenquishing the Captain's seat.

OOC: Time to go play some GTA3 and spend some time with the wife. Be back in a couple hrs.

07-08-2003, 07:02

((OOC: Mmkay! Oh! Is GTA3 fun?))

Sunset

07-08-2003, 09:53

OOC: Yes it is... Not back for long though - gotta go to sleep. Almost 2am here.

07-08-2003, 09:57

((ooc: *Sniffles.* Mmkay.))

*Celestial holds up her plate of half-eaten food.*

Celestial: "I got me some food already."

Sunset

07-08-2003, 10:26

Captain Masters laughs at this. "Very resourceful. I believe I am in the mood for a tuna fish sandwich on rye with a kosher pickle." "Food Ready," the replicator replied in a pleasant male voice. "We can eat here I suppose - Science, can you bring up the results of the survey on the main screen?" "Aye."

The survey results are displayed on the main screen along with the breakdown and commentary provided by Mr. Gage. It's vocal, and wordy, but Beth cannot just mute it. 'Don't want to alienate someone so helpful' she thought.

07-08-2003, 10:33

*Celestial listens for twenty seconds before she is bored witless.*

Celestial: "Ugh! I think my brains are gonna melt and leak out my ears... Can't we mute that thing and turn on sub-titles or something?"

Sunset

07-08-2003, 10:43

OOC: Nearly time - just enough to check my email and shut down.

There are a lot of agreeing gestures from the bridge crew at this. "Very well - I value Mr. Gages commentary but Science - put the commentary on a running script across the bottom. Anyone who wants to listen can pipe it to their comm badges. Keep it low."

07-08-2003, 10:46

((OOC: *Huggles!* See ya! ^_^))

*Celestial smiles.*

Celestial: "Ahhh... Better."

*She returns to finishing off the shrimp on her plate.*

Mercenary Soldiers

07-08-2003, 17:55

Dekker stood next to Commander Samson on the bridge. He turned to the commander and said "Alright, Commander, What's my job gonna be during my term out here?"

Sunset

07-08-2003, 19:54

"Pretty much whatever you want. The expedition thus far has had no need for 'Men of Valor' such as yourself, but the Captain wants as many outside opinions and points of view as possible. A different way of thinking might help in whatever situations might come up out there."

Samson stopped - Captain Masters had just sat down with her sandwich. "Let me introduce you. Captain, this is Mr. Dekker. He was brought out by the 'Far Wanderer'. I would assume he is wondering if your offer still stands." "Absolutely," she said, standing for a quick handshake.

"Captain Elizabeth Masters. Have a seat Mr. Dekker. As soon as we finish with our meal we are going to head back down there. Some interesting new developments, just before we came back up." She proceeds to explain about the dark shadow with comments from the four other explorers.

Scolopendra

08-08-2003, 00:00

Janice finishes off a y-ration (concentrated brick of pure nutrition, texture of marzipan, taste of saccharine-orange flavored spinach), fished out of one of the large cargo pockets in her pants, with the customary grimace. Just don't trust insta-food. I mean, howzit work? Nanolathe, perhaps? Or maybe a function of their teleporting doodad? She glares intently at the replicator as if it will break under the strain of her gaze and start pouring out its secret. No obvious moving parts, though, so that discounts nanolathe, maybe. Just shimmer and sparkle and there. Force-fields, maybe?

Sunset

08-08-2003, 00:08

OOC: I would be most people just try not to think of the fact that they are eating their own waste. Not just a 10 step process either. 2 or 3 steps...

"I believe we can safely transport into the hole now. Not exactly eager to get back into the hardsuit, but..."

Captain Masters threw her lunchware away, and headed for the doors. "Before we go down there I am going to pick up something a little heavier from the Armory - melting ice is not my favorite way to spend the day."

OOC: So Scolo, if you don't mind me asking, is there anyone you would recommend that I try to strike up a sponsorship with? I'm starting with three nations (DLN, Zero-One, and Ceta) but I'm just going for relations with them for now, try to work into sponsorship.

Scolopendra

08-08-2003, 00:26

"Yes, bigger guns." Janice tags along. "Always a must"

(OOC: DLN and Ceta are good folks. As for Zero-One, IC, Shodey is all for captialism and would welcome you aboard with open arms. OOC...

<Communications to Sunset>
{
<< Look familiar?

<< It is one of the least-well kept secrets of NationStates. I will see what I can do for you.
}

http://www.womengamers.com/dw/sshock2_rev.jpg
S.H.O.D.A.N. v3.0 : MCP, Q01
Wife to Bodyguard Barry
Cetagandan Duchess of Marilac

--Scolo/Shodey)

Mercenary Soldiers

08-08-2003, 00:59

"I can handle a gun pretty well, so I might tag along as an escort, in case we run into any unexpected surprises along the way. Oh yeah, nice ta meet ya Captain." Dekker followed the others towards the armory. "You guys mind if I pick up something a little better suited to zero-G conditions? Ballistic weapons like my .45 don't do too well in that environment."

Sunset

08-08-2003, 02:31

"Certainly Mr. Dekker. You've got your choice - I assume the Security officer aboard the 'Far Wanderer' qualified you? We have a little bit of everything - phasers, blasters... What's your preference?"

Captain Masters checked herself through the security console at the Armory. Long rows of phaser rifles were right inside protected by shimmering force fields. Further back was a large wall with what seemed to be dozens of different weapons on it.

"You can still take your firearm along - if you don't have a silencer we can issue you one. In the ice caves sound can be a bigger threat."

OOC: I quite suspected actually - but I don't know how much 'the player behind the curtain' is affected by those rules. I've sent TG's to DLN and Ceta, as well as Zero-One, but they haven't gotten anything back yet. I would assume they are pretty busy with everything else that is going on though. I can wait.

Mercenary Soldiers

08-08-2003, 02:44

"I'll take a silencer, and one of those nifty-looking phaser rifle things." Dekker said as he glanced excitedly up and and down the rows. "When do we move out?"

Mercenary Soldiers

08-08-2003, 02:47

"By the way, its just "Dekker", not Mr. Dekker. I've never liked being called "Lt. Dekker" either." Dekker said with a dismissive wave of his hand. "And don't worry, I'm qualified with just about everything that has a trigger. We get a lot of foreign equipment back where I come from, so lasers and blasters aren't anything new."

Sunset

08-08-2003, 02:54

The security officer dropped the field on one section from his station, and Captain Masters removed one of the rifles. "Standard issue. Just put your thumb on the grip like so..."

The Security officer logged each person as they thumbed the weapon - no electronic safety, just knowing who has it and who is responsible for it.

"Silencer's are in these drawers. I would assume it's the same threading on a SOCOM... Janice? Are you ready?"

Mercenary Soldiers

08-08-2003, 03:36

"You're correct ma'am. So, tell me what's so special about this hunk of ice?" Dekker asks as he draws his pistol and screws the surpressor into place. "There." Dekker takes a quick glace down the length of the weapon before he replaces it in its holster.

Sunset

08-08-2003, 03:51

"Initially, nothing. An explorer ship discovered it, and the Science Advisor indicated she wanted someone to take a further look. I would assume the initial interest was the presence of water. It's the captain's perogative to take a look around though, and I like to use it. So we took a look around, and found these objects."

Captain Masters walked through the halls as she talked, leading them to the transporter room. "Time for the hardsuits. How I hate them..." Beth began putting her's on - there was another one provided for Dekker.

Mercenary Soldiers

08-08-2003, 04:23

Dekker somehow managed to squeeze his frame into the confines of teh suit. He screwed the helmet on tightly, took up the borrowed rifle, and began to move about. Dekker knew his survival could depend on how well he could move in the cramped conditions ahead.

Sunset

08-08-2003, 07:52

"Everyone ready to transport down?" Beth asked, strapping the last of her gear in place.

OOC: I give Krowemoh 15 minutes before she shows up...

Scolopendra

08-08-2003, 08:38

Janice locks down her helmet. "Ready as always."

Sunset

08-08-2003, 09:15

"Right - Ensign, beam us down." The transport took but a moment and they were hip deep in water. "Um, maybe we didn't wait long enough." Beth said, looking around for some high ground.

"Not true Captain." came the voice of Gage over Attila's speaker. The device has suddenly sprouted float bags and was using it's legs to paddle around. "It appears that there is enough energy coming from a nearby source to keep the water from freezing at the proper rate. My models show the ice should have frozen in less than 37 minutes."

OOC: Well, I was wrong. *hands Scolo 5 bucks*.

Scolopendra

08-08-2003, 09:54

Janice looks at the water lapping around her suit's abdomen. "Hrm. Heat source, eh? Now, how do we keep the water from freezing behind us?" She wades around a little bit. "Salts. We can dissolve stuff in the water, raise it's freezing point and buy us some time. 'Till then," she drags her equipment satchel out of the water and rummages around inside it, "we can use these." She pulls out timed-discharge white-phosphorus incendiary devices. "I have no idea why I stashed Willie Pete flares in my satchel instead of the more logical magnesium ones, but what the hey. If we need to keep the water toasty, these should do for a decent sized area for an hour.

"Now let's go check out that thing we shot out the tunnel for. I get the suspicion that it may be the 'heat source.'"

(OOC: Five bucks! Now I can add that to my eleven bucks and go on a SHOPPING TRIP! Now I can pick up Idoru by William Gibson AND go out to eat at Wendy's ALL ON THE SAME TRIP!

*dies happy*)

08-08-2003, 14:43

*Again, Celestial just sort of appeared besides Janice. The Neko ((OOC: Neko = Catgirl)), was wearing her hardsuit and holding a Phaser Rifle in her hands. She also looked miserable.*

Celestial: "Meow... I HATE water! "

Mercenary Soldiers

08-08-2003, 18:03

"Greeaat. I think a set of swim trunks might have been better than a hardsuit, captain." Dekker says as he attempts to move himself through the tunnel. He still hasn't gotten used to the spacesuit yet.

Scolopendra

08-08-2003, 21:34

Janice twists her torso, not being able to look over her shoulder, and scowls good-naturedly at the party. "Eh, quitchyerbitchin' and let's go. Ain't gonna get dry just whinin' bout a little universal solvent."

(OOC: I'm going to be -really- sporadic this weekend. I'll do my best.)

Sunset

08-08-2003, 21:48

"It should be twenty feet that-away," Beth pointed with her tricorder. "Let's melt a tunnel up, with steps, and the water can drain back here. The tunnel is a good 30 feet high, so we shouldn't have a problem getting back through if we need to."

She took out her hand phaser and marked off a section of wall with it. "If we just carve a 45 degree tunnel up we can carve the steps in afterward." Holstering her phaser she began melting the ice on one side while Dekker did the other. The higher power of the rifle was evident as it took only a few seconds to melt a 10 foot section. The group rotated positions every minute, but it was done in 4 minutes.

"Another tunnel down, and we should be right on top of it."

OOC: Understood

Mercenary Soldiers

08-08-2003, 21:50

"Then let's get diggin." Dekker said as he aimed his rifle at the ice a few feet in front of him.

Sunset

08-08-2003, 22:00

The tunnel quickly evaporated as they carved downward. "Take it slower - we might want to use the hand phasers for the last bit." Masters said. "Of course, if we don't find what we are looking for here we might need to clear a lot of water."

"I would suggest using the transporters to place the water on the surface Captain. A simple volume override would work." said the voice of Gage. "Good idea - lets see what we find before we make more work for ourselves though." 'Should have just beamed out the ice in the first place.' Beth thought. 'Need some coffee...'

Mercenary Soldiers

08-08-2003, 22:19

"Amen to that!" Dekker agreed, leaning his borrowed phaser on his shoulder.

Scolopendra

09-08-2003, 01:18

"I could get to like these phasers." Janice takes aim and vaporizes some more ice. "Hey, at least we're getting to shoot stuff. No need to let the teleporter operators have all the fun. Although," she holds down the trigger, "you could have some fun with those. Teleport explosives and nasty things inside enemy vessels. 'Here ya go, how's ya like a fusion bomb in your reactor?'" She snickers.

Sunset

09-08-2003, 01:56

OOC: We generally beam them into the bridge as well...

Beth continues to vaporize chucks of ice. "If they don't have any form of electro-magnetic shielding, we do... Well, actually we beam their bridge crew into the brig and demand their surrender. Unless they are really hostile - then we do the bridge, engine rooms, and if we can find it, ordinance bays."

The ice rapidly diminished as the team worked. Within minutes they were standing on a smooth dark green surface that looked very much like the surface of the second object.

09-08-2003, 06:43

*The thing they found was very large and long. It was vaguely cilender in shape, like a can of some sort. Celestial knelt down and ran her gloved hand over the surface.*

Celestial: "Some sort of ship, or maybe a tower that fell down?"

((OOC: Hope no one minds me dictating what it is we find. ^^;; ))

Zero-One

09-08-2003, 06:55

(OOC: No problem at all. Aw, hell, wrong nation. Screw it.)

Janice looked at the huge cylindrical object embedded in the ice. "Maybe... maybe." She pulls out the complete pyramid and holds it up to the 'hull.' "Looks like the same material, kinda. Let's look for a way inside."

Sunset

09-08-2003, 10:36

"Right then... Dekker, why don't you work your way around that side. Janice - you can scan the object as I move while Celestial does the same for Dekker. We can switch in a couple minutes..."

Beth began melting away more ice from the base, trying to follow any pattern that might lead towards a doorway. Eventually her couple minutes was up and Janice took over. "If you can do the scanning Jerome while I go back and get some more e-clips for the phasers?"

By the time she returned they had made significant progress, uncovering a possible hatch that 'flowed' together with the object.

OOC: Played Call of Cthulu tonight. First time - Good job by the GM, very creepy.

09-08-2003, 10:45

((OOC: "Cthulu?" Isn't that some sort of Tentacle Monster God or something?))

*Celestial grinned broadly at Beth when she came back.*

Celestial: "I think we found the entrance! So, we gonna pop this baby open or what, Cap'n Crunch?"

Sunset

09-08-2003, 10:54

OOC: He who will devour all that lives... ;) Except when he is wearing a cool hat. It's a horror-RPG.

"I'm not seeing any place for this thing to go." Beth muttered. She stepped back from the now completely uncovered door and began to scan it. After a minute she stopped, glared hard at the door like it would somehow open it, and began scanning again.

OOC: But it is almost bed time for me. Try to pop back as soon as I am done with the other threads...

09-08-2003, 10:59

*Celestial looks at the hath.*

Celestial: "Maybe if we put the pyramid up to the hatch? I don't see any sort of inditation for it to go in tho..."

Scolopendra

09-08-2003, 17:40

Janice looks at the odd little pyramid, then the door. "Well, it's got loads of symbols on it. Maybe it itself isn't so much a key as the symbols on it are. Is there someway to input to the door?"

Sunset

09-08-2003, 19:40

"Well, let's try pressing the symbols on the door. My scans are picking up nothing." Placing the pyramid on Attila she begins looking for anything similar and pressing it. "Of course if it is a key there might be a pattern to it."

It takes a minute, but she locates a similar pattern, then another and another. Pressing them does nothing. 'Lets see if there was any change' she thought. Taking out her 'corder again she begins running it over the patterns she changed. "This pattern is about 1 degree C warmer than it was a minute ago."

Scolopendra

10-08-2003, 02:45

"Crazy idea... try to input the symbols using the key as a stylus." Janics shrugs. "Can't hurt."

Sunset

10-08-2003, 03:42

"Why not?" Beth began poking the apparant entrance with the object, matching up the symbols. "If this is the way it works whatever made this has really odd hands."

She was forced to cup the pyramid in two hands as she moved it from symbol to symbol. As she was about to begin again with a different order Dekker let out a low whistle. The sides of the entrance were glowing a dark green, but were quickly moving to a brighter shade. Suddenly the center of the entrance rippled away like water, flowing to the glowing portions.

10-08-2003, 13:02

Celestial: "Smart thinking. Now the door ish opened! Let's go!"

Scolopendra

10-08-2003, 19:40

Janice nods with a smirk. "I like my hunches... only way is through." The metal door rippling away shows EOTED levels of metal manipulation... Van der Waals modification fields... high tech stuff. Janice walks through the door with a lot more resolve than she internally feels (not that she'd ever admit) to reveal a dark circular corridor with ribbed recesses in seemingly random locations in the single wall... there is no flat floor. The corridor curves to the left in an organic fashion. "This is an odd philosophy..."

Sunset

10-08-2003, 21:24

"My guess is that whatever it was wanted to keep their 'organic' heritage in their design. The big question - is anything alive down here?"

"Captain," Gage said, "I'm beginning to lose the link to Attila. Your comm-links will probably begin to fade shortly." "Thank you Mr. Gage. Does anyone want to hang back?" Beth ran her hands over the odd walls while she said this and began taking scans while she waited for a responce.

11-08-2003, 00:30

Celestial: "No way! Full speed ahead! Shields up, weapons online. Not equipped with shields, eh? Bummer!"

Sunset

11-08-2003, 04:14

"Well there is one..." Dekker and Janice both nodded as well. "Let's go inside then. Who wants point?"

11-08-2003, 15:23

Celestial: "Um... Not me. Heehee. ^^;; I do have the best vision here, so I'll go behind whoever has point, mmkay?"

Sunset

12-08-2003, 10:20

OOC: Kicking this back into the public's eye... (Ouch!)

Captain Masters found herself winding her way into the belly of the beast, figuratively if not yet literally. 'At least there are no space ameobas.' she though. The group had their weapons out but lowered. While they didn't anticipate finding anything alive they didn't want to appear overly hostile if they did.

The passageway spiraled away and down, the strange asymetrical patterns and contours on the walls continuing. There were no lights, and the group's shoulder lamps cast odd flickering shadows in the gloom ahead.

imported_Eniqcir

12-08-2003, 20:09

The sides of the entrance were glowing a dark green, but were quickly moving to a brighter shade. Suddenly the center of the entrance rippled away like water, flowing to the glowing portions.

Hmm... possible security breach. Material behavior suggests wellstone or similar programmable matter, and/or Utility Fog technology. Not to be known outside Triumvirate. Very bad, very bad. Need more data.

"Captain," Gage said, "I'm beginning to lose the link to Attila. Your comm-links will probably begin to fade shortly." "Thank you Mr. Gage. Does anyone want to hang back?" Beth ran her hands over the odd walls while she said this and began taking scans while she waited for a responce.

With a few quick keystrokes, Jerome activated Attila's CORA program. Didn't have a large enough memory bank to hod the full Bluebird sentience package, but just a basic CORA was more than enough to let Attila act on its own.

(OOC: Managed to mooch another connection. Yay!)

Sunset

12-08-2003, 21:15

OOC: Cool.

Suddenly the passage opened up into a large room, if it could be properly described as such. Two other passages joined together here, shaping the room through their flowings to look like a knot of rope. Standing in the center was a sculted and shaped column that stretched from floor to ceiling. It was clearly a device of some kind - unlit buttons and displays were cleverly worked into the object. They were rounded as well, nearly perfectly matching the surface.

Beth looked up to the top of the structure - "I bet this is what ejected the 'key'. Given the distance we walked it looks like the top of this is probably the cylinder we found." She took out her 'corder and began scanning the structure and the surrounding area.

Scolopendra

13-08-2003, 09:27

Janice walks up to the central column, looks it over, and finds a suitable niche that looks like a receptacle for some sort of jack. Taking out her portcomp leads, she prods them into the receptacle and flips the top up. "I can't imagine that this thing will access any central computer or whatever," Janice mumbles, "the languages shouldn't grok... but I can use the multimeter and sensor functions to at least map out any circuitry. We might be able to figure out a purpose from that."

Sunset

13-08-2003, 09:36

'Better than my idea - I was just gonna hit it with a spanner until it gave up it's secrets.' Beth thought while she looked around the outside of the room. The way the passageways flowed together here, like a knot... It almost seemed like the ship was 'burrowed' through. Like some worm-creature had munched it's way through the hull. Even the structure in the center looked like giant worms could circle it, and somehow operate it.

"Damn space ameobas," she said aloud, shaking her head. "Why does everything always remind me of them?" Turning away from the outer walls she headed back to the center and waited for Janice to find something.

Scolopendra

13-08-2003, 09:51

"It's because you have a fixation, Cap'n." Janice smiles as she watches the portcomp reconstruct the wiring of whatever's inside the column on her display. "I could go into possible Freudian meanings, but I only took a semester of that class a long time ago."

The portcomp builds a fractal pattern, branching to form similar columns throughout the volume of the 'vessel' in seemingly random directions. "Aha." She smirks. "What we probably have here is a communications system, maybe a terminal to some sort of mainframe, but that hasn't showed up--" A bright structure appears on the screen, and then the leads are ejected rather violently from the socket in a flash of electricity. Janice proceeds to swear fluently in at least five different languages.

Sunset

13-08-2003, 10:04

"I do believe you woke it up..." Beth watched as the same brilliant green lines began to trace around the passageways and the room in general. It wasn't lighting by the standards of humans, but it was enough that she could switch off her shoulder lamps.

"Pity they don't have an image of themselves as the screensaver," she said, looking at a display opposite Janice. It showed something all right, in a mock-3d, but she wasn't quite sure if that was an organic system or part of the ship.

Scolopendra

14-08-2003, 00:40

Janice shakes her portcomp slightly, and then adds two more languages to her string of obscenities. "Well, [deleted]. The [deleted gerund, being used as an adjective] [deleted noun]'s [deleted gerund, being used as an adverb] [deleted adjective]. At least the [deleted] bloody [deleted] [deleted] port-[deleted]-comp is [deleted] working like it very [deleted] much [deleted] should."

That basically translates to: "Unfortunately, the sensor leads have been burned out and so I have lost all sensor functions. On the plus side, the portcomp still works."

Sunset

14-08-2003, 04:19

Beth has a stunned look for a moment at the stream of profanity, much of it inventive. After a minute she starts rummaging around her hard-suit. "I might have a repair kit - its for a tricorder, but there might be something you can jury-rig..."

Finally she found what she was looking for and tossed it over. "I just keep getting the odd feeling that whatever built this are not even close to bipedal."

Mercenary Soldiers

14-08-2003, 05:58

OOC: Out of town, be back Saturday!

Scolopendra

14-08-2003, 06:37

Finally she found what she was looking for and tossed it over. "I just keep getting the odd feeling that whatever built this are not even close to bipedal."
Janice snatches it in the air and hunkers down cross-legged to start fiddling with the tools. "No smeg, Cap'n? What was your first clue? Thanks for the kit though." She pokes around with a multitool. "Well, whatever I hit was big. Maybe this is a terminal of some sort, and I woke up whatever it's tied into. Maybe, if I'm lucky, it cursed just as much as I did."

Sunset

14-08-2003, 07:06

"Just voicing my thoughts. Dekker, Celestial - either of you two want to try one of the other passages? First one gets to go..."

14-08-2003, 07:18

((OOC: Anyone else reminded of the movie Aliens?))

*Celestial would have answered, but while Cap'n Crunch and Janice where busy with the column thingie, Celestial wondered off and began to explore on her own. Walking down a corrideraway from the group, Celestial noticed how hot it was inside the ship.*

Celestial: "it's hot in here... I'm sweating in my suit..."

*Walking forward about ten more yards, she slips and falls down a tube of some sort.*

Celestial: "AAAHHHHHHH!!!!"

*She screamed as she fell, her voice echoing inside her helmet.*

Sunset

14-08-2003, 07:26

"Celestial?" Beth looked around. "Anyone seen her?" Just then a odd low wailing began echoing through the room. Beth went silent for a moment as she listened to the noise fade. Then she tried her comm-badge. "Celestial? Celestial?" There was no responce.

14-08-2003, 07:37

*The tube dumped Celestial uncermoniously into a vast room. Landing on her rear end, Celestial screams in pain and rolls around for a bit.*

Celestial: "I think I broke my butt bone!"

*When the pain subsided enough for her to think straight, Celestial glances around the room she was in. A thin layer of mist covered the floor on up to three feet. Celestial stands, and her body protests immediately.*

Celestial: "That's smarts..."

*She could hear a dripping sound that seemed to echo throughout the entire room. A chill went up and down her spine, setting her hair to tand up straight. She wasn't alone...*

Celestial: "Whose... W-whose there?"

*She taps her comm-badge.*

Celestial: "Beth... Janice? Foxworth? Anyone?! Hello?! Oh god, there's something in here... I can hear it moving, but I can't see it..."

*She realizes she dropped her phazer on the way down...*

Scolopendra

14-08-2003, 07:49

(OOC: Alien? Try Aliens... you have a Mobile Infantrywoman here.)

Janice looks up. "Where has she gone? Damn suit... my armor would have an indicator. Maybe you can use that trithingie of yours to spot her, Cap'n." Folding the portcomp closed, Janice stands and rummages through her satchel, producing a great coiled length of nylon rope and grinning broadly behind her visor. "You always gotta have some [deleted] rope."

Sunset

14-08-2003, 07:56

"Absolutely. It's like carrying iron spikes. You never know when you will need them, but why not carry them?" Beth tried the tricorder for a minute, then shook her head. "Nothing. It looks like the walls block the scanner. I can only see about 10 meters down each passage."

14-08-2003, 08:02

((OOC: I said Aliens. :P))

*Searching on the floor, Celestial doesn't find her Phaser Rifle.*

Celestial: "Where is it?"

*A loud hissing sound makes her jump, and she draws her Glock with one hand, tapping the comm-badge again with her other.*

Celestial: "Beth? Janice? Need some help down here."

*She sees a shadowy figure in the mist ahead of her,or was that her over-reactive mind playing tricks on her? Didn't matter, she pointed her gun at it and pulled the trigger, the boom of the gunshot echoing off the walls of the room, the muzzle flash illuminating the area around her, Celestial gasps.*

Celestial: "No way..."

((OOC: Ooo! What does she sees? Stay tuned next episode to find out! Same NS time, same NS channel. ^_^))

Scolopendra

14-08-2003, 08:08

(OOC: So much for the Boondock Saints reference.)

*BAM*

"Holy [deleted]. I think we know what direction to take." Janice draws her issued phaser pistol and runs down the corridor, stopping just short of the hole in the 'floor.' Turning on the external speakers, she yells, "We're comin' for ya, Celestial! Keep yer head down!" She tosses her rope to Beth. "I'm goin' down there; make sure I don't land too hard."

Sunset

14-08-2003, 08:12

OOC: Double Post - sorta.

"Got it." Beth grabbed the rope, cinched it twice around the hard armor plate on her calf, and used the resistance to play it out. "Dekker - can you point the tricorder down there? If it goes 'Bing' twice she's down there."

14-08-2003, 08:17

*Celestial eyes went wide. She was standing on the edge of what looked like a giant bottomless pit. The mist quickly obsecured the pit, making it pratically impossible to see.*

Celestial: "Just a step further and I would have fell..."

*She hears Janice and breathes a sigh of relief.*

Celestial: "Thank the goddess!"

*She said, then remembered to switch on her external speaker.*

Celestial: "I'm sure am glad to hear you!"

*Celestial's sensitive hearing picked-up what sounded like movement.*

Celestial: "There's something else down here! I can hear it, but I can't see it with all this mist!"

*Out of the corner of her eye, Celestial spied another shadowy figure in the mist.*

Sunset

14-08-2003, 08:26

'Bottomless pit' was the only bit Beth caught as the relay in Janice's suit managed to get something past the walls. "Bottomless pit? Are we talking Grand Canyon, or the Nine Hells?"

Now that Janice was on the ground Beth rummaged around in her pack again, finally pulling out a 2cm by 40cm rod. "Handy thing. You never know when you need a 10 foot pole." Pressing a button in the center it telescoped out to 2 meters. 'Supposed to be strong enough to hold someone - hope they meant someone in a hard suit..." She tied the rope around the pole and let herself down, the pole holding.

OOC: Yes, Beth is a standard DnD adventurer. Course the pole is made of space age materials instead of magically enchanted wood...

Scolopendra

14-08-2003, 08:27

Janice tests the rope (and Beth's strength) with a few strong tugs before tying it around her waist and rappelling down the tunnel, one hand controlling the feed of the rope, other hand with phaser pistol ready. Reaching the bottom, she looks around and sees both Celestial and the shadowy object.

Grabbing Celestial's shoulder, she points the phaser pistol just below the figure--don't point a weapon at something until you intend for it to die--and talks to Celestial calmly. "We're here, Celestial. Climb up the rope--you've probably already scared that thing enough as is."

"Oh, hi, Cap'n."

Sunset

14-08-2003, 08:32

"Meep." 'Maybe I shouldn't have climbed down here..." Beth puts one hand back up, ready to climb back out. 'Curiousity killed the Captain!' she thought.

14-08-2003, 08:35

*The shadowy thing was there one minute, then simply vanished, like it was never there. Celestial nods and grabs the rope, ready to climb up.*

Celestial: "Okay, all set..."

Sunset

14-08-2003, 08:42

"Ok, that's creepy. Not just 'slightly open closet door when you are 9' creepy, but full on 'I think I just saw a grey-skinned alien walk behind that tree' creepy." Beth moved away from the rope so Celestial could climb up, and began scanning the room.

OOC: No disrespect to whoever undoubtably has a nation of large eyed grey skinned aliens. They probably have those probes too. You know, THOSE probes.

IC:
"It's deep - and bottomless is a good word for it." Beth held the 'corder over the edge. "A good 4km. Might be more, but signal reflection says 4km."

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