Arcadia Mission 11004.12
A Small War, Part One: Episode 7

starring

Gregory Kleiner as CMO Ensign Christopher Halliwell
Christina Doane as SC Captain Paige Juliet Harker
Jeffrey G. Brown as XO Commander Kraight
Kyle P. Cordek as TO Ensign T'Pring Lenara
Gina Hembrook as CTO Lieutenant Commander Brianna Murphy
Karriaunna Scotti as CNS Commander Azhure Powers
Christopher Dickinson as CSEC Commander Billy Bob Powers, Jr.
Bruce Oriani as CSO Lieutenant Commander Trikk Starr
Mitch Travis as CO Captain Sulek

with

Keith LaHue, Ship Manager

Last time on Arcadia: The crew of the station and ship have convinced the two warring factions to take their seats in the briefing room of the Quirinus.

=/\==/\=  BEGIN Arcadia Mission 11004.12 A Small War, Part One =/\==/\=
=/\==/\=  Episode 7  =/\==/\=

CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Waiting in the conference room ::
CTO_LtCmdr_Murphy says:
:: Monitoring events at Tactical on the Bridge ::
CSec_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Sits in a partially shadowed corner of the conference room ::

ACTION: Seven Xephyerian and six Ja'Hia ships are headed for the Quirinus

XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: at Science One, studying the datastream from a probe sent earlier to the asteroid belt ::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
:: he enters the meeting room on deck three with Kirt and his party. ::
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
:: Enters the meeting room with Zax and his party. ::
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: nods to the two commanding officers as they enter. ::
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
:: Nods back to the CNS. ::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kirt: This is our Ship's Counselor, Commander Azhure.
CSec_Cmdr_Powers says:
<SEC_Ens_Rast> :: Glances at Nani, the two share a nod, and take up positions outside the door ::
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
:: Motions for her party to be seated at the marked locations. ::
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
Kirt:  Welcome aboard.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
:: he points to the seats at the table :: All: Please help yourself to refreshments.
Host SM_Keith says:
<Kirt> :: takes a seat, looking at Zax ::
CSec_Cmdr_Powers says:
<SEC_LtJG_Nani> :: Leans in after the doors close ::  Rast: How's the commander?
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
:: Gets a large mug of coffee and goes to take her seat. ::
CTO_LtCmdr_Murphy says:
*CO*: Captain, we 'ave company comin' in. 7 Xephyerian and 6 Ja'Hia ships on intercept courses with the ship. ETA about 40 minutes.
Host SM_Keith says:
<Zax> :also takes a seat ::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
:: sits next to Harker :: All: Welcome to both Zax and Kirt to the Quirinus.  May we find here peace... excuse me.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
*Murphy*: What is their status?  Are they coming in armed?
CSec_Cmdr_Powers says:
<SEC_Ens_Rast> :: Shrugs noncommitally ::  Nani: Seems nice enough.  Probably why she got stuck on a station.
Host SM_Keith says:
<Zax> All: I fail to see the purpose in this.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Acquiring a cup of tea, she takes a seat ::
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
All: The purpose of this meeting is to broker a peace from this stalemate in which you find yourselves.
CTO_LtCmdr_Murphy says:
*CO*: At the moment they are coming in weapons cold, sir. I'll keep an eye on them and let ye know of any changes.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Zax: You would prefer that your people keep dying?
Host SM_Keith says:
<Zax> Sulek: No. I would prefer to see all of :: points :: them die!
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
CO: I believe you have a report on the plant that started this?
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Zax/Kirt: My Chief Tactical Officer informs me that several ships from both sides are on approach. I trust that this is not an attempt to disrupt the cease fire?
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Harker: Indeed.  The XO is looking at the particulars.
Host SM_Keith says:
<Kirt> Sulek: My people would not do that. We seek peace. As for the Xephyerians, I do not know.
CTO_LtCmdr_Murphy says:
:: Does full Tactical scans of the ships on both sides that are approaching, and keeps them tracking in the monitors ::
Host SM_Keith says:
<Zax> Sulek: My ships are for defensive purposes only.
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
:: Takes a deep drink of the strong coffee wishing she'd had aspirin as well. ::
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: turns :: CSO: Commander Starr, could you join me for a moment?
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
:: Nods at the CO ::
CSO_LtCmdr_Starr says:
XO: Yes, sir. :: lowers seat and hops down and waddles over to the XO ::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Zax: In a war, however, loss of life on both sides is an inevitability and it must also include the innocent.  Would you let your irrational response be the basis that you would build peace on?
CSO_LtCmdr_Starr says:
XO: What's up?
Host SM_Keith says:
<Zax> :: snorts, and remains silent ::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Zax: Good... then we have made progress.
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: gestures to the data displayed on the console monitor ::  CSO: This is the mineral composition of the asteroid belt in the Ja'Hia system. There are clear indications of the minerals needed for the growth of the herb  --  cormaline and fortanium, to be precise. What we need to know is whether it can be practically mined with the technology that either species now possesses.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
:: he looks at Zax :: Zax: When first we met, you did not seem so angry... what has changed that caused this?
Host SM_Keith says:
<Zax> :: rubs his head :: Sulek: I am sorry. I have not had my ration of herb today. And none of these beverages can help.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
:: he rises :: *Murphy*: Give the two fleets coordinates which will allow them to follow and monitor from a safe distance.
CTO_LtCmdr_Murphy says:
:: Sends text messages to the PADDs of the CSec and SC letting them know about the approaching squadrons of ships from both sides and the ETA of their arrival, then puts the SRU on standby to repel boarders if needed once the ships arrive ::
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
CO: Perhaps if a medical officer scanned him? :: She said mildly.. ::
CSO_LtCmdr_Starr says:
:: thinks for a sec, then begins entering data into the console, hands moving at speeds faster than the XO's eyes ::
CTO_LtCmdr_Murphy says:
*CO*: Understood Sir, I'll have them park just out of weapons range to the port and starboard sides to keep them separated.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
:: quietly to Azhure :: Azhure: Zax seems to be going through almost the reaction of an addict.... could the solution be something as simple as treating for addiction?
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Harker: I agree. :: softly ::
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: cannot help but be a little agog ::
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Turns her eyes toward the man for a better perspective. ::
CSO_LtCmdr_Starr says:
XO: Now we wait for the result.
CTO_LtCmdr_Murphy says:
:: Sends messages to both fleets to come alongside port and starboard once they arrive, and to maintain a safe distance outside weapons range ::
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CSO: That was... impressive.

ACTION: Both the Xephyerians and the Ja'Hia respond affirmative

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Azhure: Can you get a medical scan... to see if the reaction is correct?
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CSO: While we are waiting... there's someone else I need to consult with.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Quietly ::  CO:  I had not thought of that, but your hypothesis seems to be correct.  Let me check on something.
CTO_LtCmdr_Murphy says:
*CO*: Captain, both fleets have responded they have received the instructions and will comply upon arrival. I'll keep an eye on them and play traffic cop.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Zax: I was wondering that since you currently do not have the herb in your system, if we might scan you.  It would help our science and medical staff better understand the effects.
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
*CSec*: Commander Powers, this is Kraight. Would you mind joining me on the bridge, please?
CSec_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Frowns as his silent patrol over the two parties comes to an end ::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
*Murphy*: You might also consider listening in on their conversations between each other, so no off-hand remarks causes something we will all regret.
Host SM_Keith says:
<Zax> :: irritated :: Sulek: Yes, yes, go ahead.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Pulling up the data she is looking for... ::  CO:  The Ja'Hia herb is very addictive and commonly used by most of the culture; except by the religious cast which frowns upon it.
CSec_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Looks at the station commander and excuses himself, sending his two junior security personnel inside the room to keep an eye on the proceedings.  Once the doors close again, he taps the combadge ::  *XO*: What's up, Commander?
CTO_LtCmdr_Murphy says:
*CO*: Understood Sir, I'll have OPS start monitoring all COMM traffic in the area and record it in case we need it later.
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
:: Nods her agreement thinking it an excellent suggestion... ::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Harker: That would explain why you observed such a disparate reaction to the religious caste.
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
:: Continues to talk to both parties with preliminary discussion while the CNS and CO deal with the scans. ::
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
:: Nods at CO :: CO: Quite so, Captain.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: completes a medical scan.  Quietly ::  CO:  He is in withdrawal.
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
*CSec*: CSO Starr and I are discussing the possibility of mining the asteroid belt, and your input will be invaluable.
CSec_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Looks curious, then realizes he's alone ::  *XO*: Mining, Commander?  Not sure I have skills to add to that discussion...
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
CNS: Is there anything do be done?
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
*CSec*: I think you may, Commander. Please join us on the bridge.
CSec_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Sighs and hangs his head ::  *XO*: Very well.  The Bridge, you say?  Be right there.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
SC:  For the withdrawal?
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
:: Nods ::
CSO_LtCmdr_Starr says:
:: computer beeps ::
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
*CSec*: Thank you, Commander. Kraight out.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
SC:  The standard treatment.
CSO_LtCmdr_Starr says:
:: looks at the information and sighs ::
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
:: Glances at CO asking his opinion. ::
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
SC:  But keep in mind, he and any other must want it.
Host SM_Keith says:
<Kirt> :: looks bored ::
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CSO: What's the verdict?
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Azhure: And the gains they have made, if they stop using the plant?
CSO_LtCmdr_Starr says:
XO: The locals could do it, at considerable expenditure. They would have to mine the asteroids, then bring the minerals to Ja'Hia, integrate it into there soil, and grow the herb normally
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
Kirt: These things take time.
CTO_LtCmdr_Murphy says:
XO: Sir, if'n it'd be any help to ye, I've had the advanced course in Explosives and Ordnance handling and disposal. I'd be happy to lend ye some expertise in blowing things up if ye need it.
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
Kirt: We hope if we can settle the question of the herb the reason for this conflict will cease or at least give us room to discuss your food situation
CSec_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Rides a turbolift up the few decks to the Bridge, idly wondering if they ever considered stairs in case of a fire emergency.  As he exits onto the Bridge, he glances around for Kraight ::
CSO_LtCmdr_Starr says:
XO: So in short... yes, it can be done. No, it will not be easy for them. They will have to be willing to work and work hard at it
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CTO: An interesting proposal, Commander, and we may well need your expertise. We must keep in mind, however, that the goal is extraction, not destruction.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
CO:  There would be no back sliding... their intelligence would remain as it is, no increases... basically average.
Host SM_Keith says:
<Kirt> SC: I don't see why they need that crap anyways. It's never done *us* any good.  :: smiles a toothy smile ::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kirt: What would you trade if you had no herb... you said you experience no effects from the plant.  Is there something else in your diet that stops it from effecting you?
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CSec: Ah, Commander Powers. Thank you for joining us. Here's the problem at hand:
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
:: Returns the smile begins to reply then stops as the CO asks his question. ::
Host SM_Keith says:
<Kirt>: Sulek: I think it's more our biology. We are... :: looks at Zax :: ...naturally intelligent. We were first in space, as we all know.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Quietly does a scan of Kirt ::
CTO_LtCmdr_Murphy says:
:: Nods to the XO and goes back to monitoring the Tactical sensors and the COMM channels of the two fleets as they approach ::
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
Zax: There you see, you no longer need it, we can help you get over the effects but you will not lose the ground you gained...
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CSec: The Ja'Hia herb, as you know, is dependent on a unique combination of minerals for its growth cycle. These minerals are becoming depleted in the soil of Ja'Hia Prime, and thus yields are dropping precipitously.
CSec_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Wonders if Kraight is thinking him a gardener too ::  XO: Ooo... kaaay...
CTO_LtCmdr_Murphy says:
XO: I know it may be a stretch Sir, but I might have a suggestion fer ye that doesn't involve blowing things up.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kirt: And in your travel, you offered friends a chance to join you...but the plant had an effect you could not foresee...more than the increased intelligence.  It is this need that drives the war.  Not who was first.
CSO_LtCmdr_Starr says:
CTO: Blowing apart the asteroids, may damage the the mineral, not to mention blowing themselves up trying to use something they've probably have never seen before
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CSec: However, the minerals are found in the asteroids belt of the Ja'Hia system. So the question is this: Given your knowledge of the Ja'Hia and Xephyerian weapons systems, could they be adapted to extract the minerals from the asteroids?
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: makes a final adjustment ::  CO/SC:  Kirt is remarkably healthy and could easily live to be around 200 Earth years.  I see no reason why the herb does not affect his people.
CSec_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Frowns ::  XO: Their ship based weaponry?  I didn't look into those specs, Commander.  I figured the tactical department would take care of that.
Host SM_Keith says:
<Kirt> Sulek/SC/CNS: Don't yo think we've tried to reason with them?
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Azhure: Then it is most likely biological adaptation as he states.  This means that the continued use of the plant for the others most likely will have diminishing returns.'
Host SM_Keith says:
<Zax> SC: It's not always a matter of need with my people. You see, we like it.
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CSec: Ah, I see. Nevertheless, I would greatly value your opinion. I realize that you are preoccupied with security for the peace talks, but if you could take a look at the weapon specs sometime in the next day, I'd be most grateful.
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
Zax: But it's not a requirement and eventually your bodies will adapt, all of this conflict will have been for nothing...
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
KIrt: Indeed.  Zax: If we remove this need... this addiction... do you think you can find peace?
Host SM_Keith says:
<Zax> :: inflamed :: All: Yes, by all means! Do it! Wave your magic wand!
Host SM_Keith says:
<Zax> :: sneers :: But the Ja'Hia will still have to pay for what they want!
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
Zax: It will not be easy, nothing worth having is but with hard work, together we can help..
CTO_LtCmdr_Murphy says:
:: Pulls up a copy of the weapon specs for both sides and sends them to the CSec's PADD to save him time ::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
:: he looks at Azhure :: Azhure: De we have a magic wand?
CSec_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Tries not to sigh and looks over towards the tactical console ::  CTO: Sure you don't want to look into this?
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Zax: Consider your response.  Does it feel like something that you just really like?
CTO_LtCmdr_Murphy says:
CSec: I just sent ye the specs, but I can give ye the short version. No heavy weapons, and both sides are using the equivalent of the phasers on the old Constitution and early Excelsior class starships.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
Zax:  Ceasing to use the drug will improve your health.  The bottom line, like any addiction, it is not good for you.
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
Kirt: What do you have to trade for food?
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CTO: Commander Murphy... my apologies, I did not mean to slight you. Your input is also valued.
Host SM_Keith says:
<Zax>: All: But as you can see, my race has built its society around it. Even if I were to quit using it, getting a whole planet to do so is another thing!
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
CO:  The magic is in their desire to want to quit.  Can we help?  Yes.
CTO_LtCmdr_Murphy says:
XO: No worries, sir. I was merely going to mention that depletion of minerals in the soil is a common agricultural problem. Many plants like cotton take minerals out of the soil. It's usually solved by crop rotation. Perhaps they have plants that will put those minerals ye need back, like peanuts did fer cotton?
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Zax: Then you must rise above.  You are a leader... now you must become a great leader.
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
CNS: What about the placebo effect?  :: she says quietly. ::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kirt: You must tell him about the plant.
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: considers Murphy's words ::  CTO: An astute observation, Commander. I don't think we know enough about Ja'Hia crops to answer this. You have some experience in this field?
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Quietly ::  SC:  For those who have not been users for very long, it might work... but not for those who have been users for so long.
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
CNS: Would the standard treatment be effective?
Host SM_Keith says:
<Zax> Sulek; I knew this would go nowhere. Suppose the whole planet quits, What are they :: points at Kirk :: going to give us for food? Can you answer that? Oh thats right, in  your world, everything is free.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
SC:  For most people it would, but there are always exceptions.
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
:: Nods at the CNS, looking thoughtful and very serious. ::
CSec_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Quietly taps a foot as he ponders ::
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
Kirt: What do you have to trade?
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
CO: Can we do anything about their food situation? :: She asks quietly. ::
CTO_LtCmdr_Murphy says:
XO: I grew up on a dairy farm, sir, but it was also covered in the basic biology classes in the Academy. Common things like oats to alfalfa and then to corn have been used for thousands of years back on Earth. All ye'd need to do is study the crops and their life cycles. Should be fairly easy with the biology stuff here on the ship, aye?
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Zax: Not so.  While we do not seek monetary gain, we do pay for our system.  We  have learned the importance of work and taking care of each other.   Why did you seek to join the Federation?
Host SM_Keith says:
<Kirt> :: looks down :: Sulek: Uh... we don't have much. Except we're smarter than they are. We could only offer them scientific aid.
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: nods :: CTO: Perhaps... perhaps. We do have access to the whole of the Ja'Hia agricultural data banks. It will be worth pursuing, certainly. Many thanks, Commander.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kirt: You said you were working on transport technology... perhaps together...
CTO_LtCmdr_Murphy says:
XO: Think nothing of it, sir, happy to help. :: nods and goes back to her scans and monitoring of the COMM traffic ::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Harker: Their planet cannot support a agricultural base, but there may be some plants that could be adapted to the climate.  There is, however, always a risk when introducing a non-indigenous species to a planet.
Host SM_Keith says:
<Kirt> Sulek: Hey, we're not the ones holding out. Never have been. When we ran out of herb, we told them. Not much else we could do. So they decided to starve us.
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
CO: What about a domed farm?
CSec_Cmdr_Powers says:
XO: Would you still like me to look at those ships?
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CSec: Absolutely, Commander, if you can spare the time. Any suggestions you can make about beating their swords into plowshares, so to speak, will be of great use to the Captain in the talks.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Harker: A greenhouse is a possibility.  Kirt: it is time for you then to end your own dependence.  You must return to the ways you gave up when you started the trade.
Host SM_Keith says:
<Kirt> :: sarcastic :: Sulek: You mean go back to growing the crops we can no longer go because we trashed our planet growing that useless herb for the Xephyerians? I'll get right on that.
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
Zax: Is that acceptable? They assist you with scientific endeavors and you resume food transport? And of course we'll do what we can as well...
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
CO: Surely we have farming experts who could assist Kirt's people?
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kirt: Are you any less an addict.... then.  We can help you revitalize your soil.  But you must do the rest.
CTO_LtCmdr_Murphy says:
XO: If I might make an observation, sir? Their weapons are powerful enough to do the job. It'd be more a matter of how finely they can confine the beam and how good their targeting gear is to put the beams on target.
Host SM_Keith says:
<Zax> SC: We would prefer the herb... but if it must be, it must.
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CTO: Good point.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
CO/SC:  Ignoring the herb, the reason for their problem of growth is bad farming techniques.  Their soil is critically depleted of nutrients.
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
Zax: Well spoken. If the truth be known, the herb is simply no longer available. While it will be difficult, your people will be able to move forward.
Host SM_Keith says:
<Zax> SC: You must have medicine that will help.
CSO_LtCmdr_Starr says:
XO: So what is the game plan to help these people?
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
ALL: So can we agree to a cease fire, Zax's people will give food in trade for scientific help. And we will assist with all required humanitarian aid? :: She looks around the table... ::
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
CO/SC:  ...Thanks to the herb.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Zax: While in time, the Ja'Hia may need your help until they are again self-sufficient.  Are you willing to work with them as we help both worlds?

ACTION: Both parties nod.

Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
:: She glances at the CO, a hint of relief in her glance quickly hidden. ::
CTO_LtCmdr_Murphy says:
XO: Another point, sir  --  one of those mobs has basic transporter technology. They dinna have it ready for living subjects, but they might be able to beam stuff like minerals outta big rocks, aye?
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CTO: Perhaps. That's worth some additional study.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Harker: I would say then that we recommend not membership to the Federation, but a protectorate for the two pending a demonstration of peace... and then the council again reviews the application...but this time for both.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
;: Considers it interesting that an herb could cause such damage... and if they did not stop using it, could create serious issues for both worlds beyond this war. ::
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
All: Then we have a starting point accord. :: Leans back, knowing this is only the first step. ::
Host SC_Cpt_Harker says:
:: Nods at the CO :: CO: Yes situation to be reviewed at a later date but leave the books open as it were...
Host SM_Keith says:
<Zax> :: Looks at Kirt, solemn ::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
All: We will send then for a Federation diplomat to continue these talks.  Is that acceptable?
Host SM_Keith says:
<Zax>: That will be acceptable.
Host SM_Keith says:
<Kirt> Sulek: As long as we don't starve, I'm happy.

=/\==/\= END Mission =/\==/\= 

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