Host Jafo says:
Star Trek: Apache - Episode #19
Week #7
Mission: "Evolution"

Host Jafo says:
After analyzing the logs of the Apache's crew, the USS Pioneer has found the vessel adrift two light-years from the Argolis Cluster. Preliminary scans of the Apache revealed no signs of structural damage but fluctuating power levels throughout all her decks.

Host Jafo says:
The command crew ordered increased security to the vital areas of the Pioneer, as a result of Apache logs indicating a possible intruder situation. With increased security in place, an away team consisting of the XO, EO, CMO, and CTO transported from the Pioneer to the bridge of the Apache.

Host Jafo says:
After materializing the Away Team encountered a few dead crewmen who seemed to have been attacked brutally and without mercy. They came across a crewmember in the Captain’s Ready Room whose appearance had been altered and was more similar to a primal humanoid. Scans of the crewman indicated the presence of a synthetic T-cell in its DNA causing a state of cellular flux.

Host Jafo says:
<<<<<<<<<<< Begin Mission Week #7 >>>>>>>>>>>

SO_Howlingwolf says:
::working at science two on the bridge::

OPS_Vlynn says:
::still at helm in control of the Operations station recording and transmitting images from the Apache to the Pioneer's computer core::

Host CO_Verak says:
::on the bridge, sitting calmly, and reviewing recent data::

CMO_Onarian says:
@::still on the Apache's bridge, silently going over his tricorder readings::

CSO_S`klar says:
::is bringing up all info pertaining to the synthetic T-cell used in Doctor Kavella’s experiments::

CEO_Es`scarn says:
::begins going over the engineering data from the Apache::

CTO_Illoria says:
@::on the Apache Bridge with the CMO::

TO_Lukan says:
::at tactical one checking in with security  teams::

CIV_Kerlan says:
::on one of the rear science stations, reviewing an unusual laceration with interest::

CSO_S`klar says:
COM: Apache: CMO: Doctor, is the synthetic T-Cell evident in all the deceased crewmembers?

Host Jafo says:
ACTION: On the Apache's bridge, an emergency generator is beamed into place.

TO_Lukan says:
CO: Sir, security teams report all stations secure.

OPS_Vlynn says:
TO: Has the away team found any survivors yet?  I would hate to think they all killed each other...

CMO_Onarian says:
@COM: Pioneer: CSO: I have only examined the two dead crewmembers, but yes. The ... creature in the Captain's Ready Room also had synthetic T-cells evident in its blood.

Host CO_Verak says:
TO: Excellent, Mister Lukan.

SO_Howlingwolf says:
::looks over the data on her screen about synthetic T-cell's and their relationship to immunity::

CNS_Vax says:
::in his office, prepared to receive the information about the Away Team's mental health::

OPS_Vlynn says:
TO: Other survivors than the one found in the Ready room?

CSO_S`klar says:
COM: Apache: CSO: Thank you Doctor Onarian, Pioneer out.

TO_Lukan says:
::resumes standard scans of  the surrounding sector and the Apache::

Host CO_Verak says:
TO: What have you discovered pertaining the Apache's alleged intruder?

CTO_Illoria says:
@::goes over to the emergency generator:: CMO: Here's our emergency generator. Let's see if we can't get some power in this place.

CMO_Onarian says:
@CTO: Aye, just a moment.

TO_Lukan says:
CO: According to the logs the crew ruled it a systems malfunction.

Host Jafo says:
ACTION: On the Pioneer, a minor fluctuation in their warp field is detected.

CTO_Illoria says:
@CMO: Have you got something to report, Doctor?

TO_Lukan says:
CO: But we are taking no chances.

Host CO_Verak says:
TO: What do you think?

SO_Howlingwolf says:
::digs a little deeper into the synthetic T-cell data::

CTO_Illoria says:
@::walks over to where the CMO is standing::

CMO_Onarian says:
@CTO: Not really, just was finishing the upload of vital data to the Pioneer.

CSO_S`klar says:
Self: Hmmm...

OPS_Vlynn says:
::continues to monitor the lifesigns of the Away Team, and tracks them on the sensor display of her console::

TO_Lukan says:
CO: I have looked over the data ... and there is no conclusive evidence to prove it either way.

CEO_Es`scarn says:
CO: From what I can tell, the Argolis cluster did not cause the Apache’s power outages and systems malfunctions.  It seems like members of the crew took them offline manually; perhaps.

CSO_S`klar says:
CO: Sir, I’ve just detected a minor fluctuation in our warp field. ::taps his console::

Host CO_Verak says:
::nods to the tactical officer::

CTO_Illoria says:
@CMO: Oh, all right … well when you're ready, let's hook up the emergency generator.  I hate working in the dark.

CNS_Vax says:
::feedback begins and Vax begins his vigil, hoping for nothing to go wrong::

Host CO_Verak says:
::raises an eyebrow:: CSO: Cause?

TO_Lukan says:
CO: But I prefer to keep a high state of alert until we complete this investigation.

CSO_S`klar says:
::scans for the source of the fluctuation::

CMO_Onarian says:
@CTO: Lets do it. ::snaps the tricorder shut::

CSO_S`klar says:
CO: Standby, sir...

SO_Howlingwolf says:
::looks up at the CSO:: CSO: If we had some tissue samples, we could analyze them to find out what happened to the crew. But I'm not sure that's a risk the Captain's willing to take.

CTO_Illoria says:
@CMO: Okay. ::walks back over to the generator::

CEO_Es`scarn says:
::looks over the data on his console:: CO:  Fluctuation confirmed ... it doesn't appear to be a result of the systems damage.

OPS_Vlynn says:
::detects the same fluctuations:: CO: Confirmed sir.  ::scans for the reason::  Cause ... unknown.  But it seems to be emanating from outside the ship.

Host Jafo says:
ACTION: The XO signals a beam back request for himself, the EO, and the bodies from the Apache. They are beamed into a containment area in sickbay...

CMO_Onarian says:
@::makes his way to the generator and helps the CTO make the necessary connections::

Host CO_Verak says:
CSO: Attempt to locate the source.

OPS_Vlynn says:
CO: The XO and EO have beamed back onboard the Pioneer, sir.

CNS_Vax says:
::gets up and heads to the nearest replicator::

Host CO_Verak says:
CEO: Will it cause any problems, Lieutenant?

OPS_Vlynn says:
::taps her console:: CO: …along with bodies from the Apache for further analysis and studies.

CSO_S`klar says:
CSO: Aye sir.

CNS_Vax says:
Computer: Mocha, iced, extra shots of espresso.

Host CO_Verak says:
OPS: Permission granted, but make sure the bodies are secure from transmitting any disease.

CSO_S`klar says:
CO: Perhaps you should "volunteer" for the mission, Ensign.

CIV_Kerlan says:
::gets up and looks back at the other scientists:: CSO/SO: I need to get onboard the Apache. ::frowns and gestures to the viewscreen:: It's not good enough.

CEO_Es`scarn says:
::begins going over the systems to diagnose what happened:: CO: Captain, This is interesting ... it is as if the power dropped in one area and increased in another, but just for a moment.

OPS_Vlynn says:
CO: They have been beamed directly into sickbay, into containment fields.  They'll be there for a while, sir ... for decontamination is in process.

CMO_Onarian says:
@::finishes the connections with the CTO, turns on the generator and prays for light::

Host CO_Verak says:
::nods to OPS::

OPS_Vlynn says:
::is very curious about the bodies brought from the Apache and what could have happened to the crew::

TO_Lukan says:
SO: There is nothing stronger than the heart of a volunteer.

CSO_S`klar says:
::triangulates the movement of power during the fluctuation, trying to get a clearer fix on exactly what it was::

CNS_Vax says:
::takes his iced mocha and heads back to watch as the constantly updating information is fed to his screen::

CSO_S`klar says:
::nods at the Tactical Officers words::

SO_Howlingwolf says:
::gets the feeling she is surrounded:: TO/CIV/CSO: Well okay ... then I'll go if I'm needed. ::sheepish grin::

CMO_Onarian says:
@::idly wonders how badly the sickbay crew is being terrorized by the EMH::

CEO_Es`scarn says:
::tries to trace the power switch:: CO: It seems to be similar to the pattern reported in some of the logs we downloaded from that log buoy.

CTO_Illoria says:
@CMO: Well, nothing's happening so far.

Host Jafo says:
ACTION: A second fluctuation is detected and suddenly a surge moves through the shields.

Host CO_Verak says:
::frowns:: CEO: Verify if all our systems are functioning properly.

OPS_Vlynn says:
::frowns and diverts some power towards science as they try to isolate this warp field fluctuation::

CSO_S`klar says:
CO: Sir, I...

CMO_Onarian says:
@CTO: Give it a second, praying might help too.

CSO_S`klar says:
::tries to track the fluctuation::

SO_Howlingwolf says:
:: hears her console bleeping and turns to check it out::

OPS_Vlynn says:
::blinks in surprise:: CO: There's another fluctuation...

CNS_Vax says:
::sips his mocha::

Host CO_Verak says:
::turns to CSO:: CSO: Yes Lieutenant?

Host Jafo says:
ACTION: A small craft, approximately ten meters in length and vaguely reminiscent of a torpedo casing, decloaks within the Pioneer's shields as crackling energy moves across its hull.

CTO_Illoria says:
@::looks skeptically at the CMO:: CMO: I don't pray.

CEO_Es`scarn says:
::looks at the system again:: CO: We have another power fluctuation. I’m trying to trace it now. ::begins tracing the power fluctuation::

CMO_Onarian says:
@CTO: Neither do I, but that's not the point.

OPS_Vlynn says:
CO: I'm backing us away, just a bit...

SO_Howlingwolf says:
::jaw gapes:: Self: What the…?

TO_Lukan says:
CO: Sir, we have a vessel decloaking within our shields!

CTO_Illoria says:
@CMO: Oh... ::nods::

TO_Lukan says:
::tries to identify the vessel::

CSO_S`klar says:
::begins scanning the object::

Host Jafo says:
ACTION: On the Apache, the emergency generator kicks in and emergency lights come up on the bridge and in nearby corridors.

OPS_Vlynn says:
CO: Suggest that we drop shields and move off, and then reinforce the shields!

Host CO_Verak says:
::stands up:: TO: Go to yellow alert and identify that vessel.

CSO_S`klar says:
SO: Transfer auxiliary power to the shields.

CNS_Vax says:
::investigates a spike in the CMO's reading, but it quickly returns to normal::

CMO_Onarian says:
@::watches the lights come up:: CTO: Let's get to work.

TO_Lukan says:
::brings the ship to yellow alert::

CTO_Illoria says:
@CMO: We have lights!

Host CO_Verak says:
::takes a moment to think about the options::

CEO_Es`scarn says:
::looks at the TO and then tries readjusting the shield frequency:: Self: How in space could they get through our shields?  TO:  What kind of ship is it?

CMO_Onarian says:
@::nods:: CTO: That we do.

Host CO_Verak says:
OPS: Very well, inform the Away Team of what we are doing, then back us off.

CIV_Kerlan says:
::is about to go to the captain for permission to beam over to the Apache when everyone gets their bonnets in a bunch:: CSO: What's happening? ::looks at the viewscreen::

Host Jafo says:
ACTION: Scans of the vessel indicate similar lifesigns to those detected on the Apache. A shield of unknown energy goes up around the vessel and scans are cut off.

SO_Howlingwolf says:
CSO: Okay, but it's already inside our shields ... we should use a tractor beam to repel it back outside our shields!

CMO_Onarian says:
@::stops short:: CTO: Hold still a minute, Lieutenant. ::scans the CTO for synthetic T-cells::

TO_Lukan says:
CO: Sir, it doesn’t match any known configuration in our database.

OPS_Vlynn says:
COM: CTO/CMO: We have just detected an unidentified object within our shields.  We are backing off, but we'll be back!  Hang on folks.

Host Jafo says:
ACTION: The vessel lashes out with energy beams similar to lightning bolts. They impact against the hull of the Pioneer and cause some quaking, but little actual damage.

Host CO_Verak says:
::overhears SO:: CSO: Do it, Lieutenant. Keep it at a safe distance from us.

TO_Lukan says:
CO: It has raised shields and our sensors cannot penetrate it.

CMO_Onarian says:
@COM: OPS: Umm ... don't be gone long.

OPS_Vlynn says:
TO: Drop shields momentarily until we can get out of range.

Host CO_Verak says:
::feels the shake:: CEO: Status!

CTO_Illoria says:
@CMO: Okay, I understand.

OPS_Vlynn says:
::pants and looks around the bridge:: CIV: Doctor Kerlan!

SO_Howlingwolf says:
::initiates the tractor to keep the vessel at bay::

CEO_Es`scarn says:
::mouth drops as he sees the scans go blank:: CO:  We're looking at technology we can't match, Captain.

CSO_S`klar says:
::scans for the objects power source::

Host Jafo says:
ACTION: Scans of the Pioneer's Away Team reveal no synthetic T-cells within the confines of their EVA suits.

TO_Lukan says:
CO: An energy weapon has hit us ... but shields are holding.

CIV_Kerlan says:
::peeks out from behind S’klar:: OPS: Yes? ::rushes over::

CNS_Vax says:
::mocha spills all over his uniform:: Self: Aww...

TO_Lukan says:
CO: Shall I return fire?

Host CO_Verak says:
CSO: Analysis of what hit us?

CTO_Illoria says:
@CMO: Find anything?  I'm not going to turn into a Deltan fertility beast or anything like that am I?

CMO_Onarian says:
@CTO: Okay, we shouldn't take off our EVA suits.

SO_Howlingwolf says:
::tries to get a lock on what hit them to disable it::

CMO_Onarian says:
@CTO: No, but that doesn't mean its safe on this ship!

CEO_Es`scarn says:
::feels the ship quake and checks for damage reports::  CO:  Very little actual damage, sir.  A few minor systems shorted out as if from electrical feedback.

Host CO_Verak says:
TO: Power weapons and maintain a lock on it, but standby.

OPS_Vlynn says:
CIV: I need you up here... ::panics::  I don't know how to operate two stations by myself.

CTO_Illoria says:
@CMO: Okay, understood.  Now let's try to get some of these systems up and running.

OPS_Vlynn says:
::plots a course, as quickly as she can remember how and gets ready to back off from the unidentified flying object::

CNS_Vax says:
::leaves his station to quickly change his clothing::

CSO_S`klar says:
CO: Unsure what hit us, sir. We are receiving no damage reports...

Host Jafo says:
ACTION: The vessel begins to move off away from the Pioneer. It again emits its energy bolts and the shields of the Pioneer falter briefly allowing it to pass through.

Host CO_Verak says:
OPS: Open hailing frequencies to the unknown vessel.

CIV_Kerlan says:
::looks at the broad console and sits beside her:: OPS: What do you want me to handle?

CSO_S`klar says:
CO: It has hit us again with the energy beam.

TO_Lukan says:
CO: Aye… ::brings phasers online and loads torpedoes locking weapons on the vessel::

SO_Howlingwolf says:
CSO: It's moving off again, sir.

CTO_Illoria says:
@::nods at the CMO:: CMO: I understand that, it's my job to keep you safe, remember?

CMO_Onarian says:
@CTO: I doubt we will be able to do much from here, I suggest we go to Main Engineering, via the most innocuous route possible.

OPS_Vlynn says:
CIV: Whichever you're good at... ::taps her console and opens a channel::  CO: Channel opened, sir.

CSO_S`klar says:
::tries to scan for any biosigns on the object::

CMO_Onarian says:
@CTO: And mine is to keep you alive, I remember.

Host CO_Verak says:
COM: Unknown vessel: Unknown vessel, this is the Captain of the Federation star ship Pioneer. Please identify yourself and your intentions.

SO_Howlingwolf says:
::sees if there is any kind of indication that they were scanned in some way::

CTO_Illoria says:
@CMO: Okay, let's go to engineering.

CEO_Es`scarn says:
::watches the sensors as the ship moves away from the Pioneer ... watches as the shields buckle around it::  Self: I'd like to get a look at that ship's systems ... how do they do that?

Host Jafo says:
ACTION: Aboard the Apache the emergency lighting seems to have caused quite a stir as animal noises can be heard on the decks below the bridge.

CMO_Onarian says:
@CTO: Lead the way.  I'll watch our backs.

TO_Lukan says:
CO: Sir, we should go to red alert! We were attacked!

CIV_Kerlan says:
::tries to help with helm, having piloted a small science ship gen was assigned to awhile back:: OPS: I'll try not to crash. ::is all but oblivious to emergencies::

Host Jafo says:
ACTION: The vessel increases speed and heads towards the Argolis Cluster. Energy ribbons continue to move around it in an electric arcing fashion.

CTO_Illoria says:
@CMO: I'll watch the front. Come on!  ::starts walking out of the bridge area::

CNS_Vax says:
::in his room, Vax looks out the window and sees the torpedo-like ship:: Self: Who in the...?

OPS_Vlynn says:
CIV: That is good.  ::releases helm control to him:

CSO_S`klar says:
SO: Wait, quickly scan it for the synthetic T-cell before it gets out of range.

OPS_Vlynn says:
::maintains a backup flight lock, just in case::

TO_Lukan says:
CO: Sir, the vessel is moving towards the cluster ... permission to fire?

CMO_Onarian says:
@CTO: Umm ... we want to take the Jefferies Tubes, which are that way. ::points to the left:: Did you hear that?

Host CO_Verak says:
TO: Stand by, Mister Lukan. Whatever it is, it seems to be backing off.

SO_Howlingwolf says:
::nods:: CSO: Aye sir...

OPS_Vlynn says:
CO: Should we follow it?

Host CO_Verak says:
CSO: Track that vessel.

CSO_S`klar says:
SO: It may have been what caused the problems on the Apache.

CIV_Kerlan says:
::gets entranced, adjusting course a little as gen watches the ship:: Self: Very peculiar...

Host Jafo says:
ACTION: Illoria takes a few steps off the bridge and hears a crunching below her boots. She looks down to find she is walking on a carpet of dead spiders.

SO_Howlingwolf says:
::nods:: CSO: It's a good possibility.

CSO_S`klar says:
CO: We still have it on sensors, sir.

CEO_Es`scarn says:
::begins going over the systems analysis:: Self:  Okay, what exactly did their strange appearance and attack cause?

CNS_Vax says:
::shakes his head:: Self: Better get back to my post. ::heads back, completely forgetting to change::

CTO_Illoria says:
@::bends down and picks up one of the dead spiders:: CMO: What is this?

Host CO_Verak says:
OPS: Bring us back in position relative to the Apache.

CSO_S`klar says:
::scans the Pioneer for traces of the synthetic T-cell, just in case::

Host Jafo says:
ACTION: The spider Illoria picked up appears to be very nearly dead. It puts up little resistance as its body glows a luminescent blue.

OPS_Vlynn says:
CO: We never went anywhere, sir.

OPS_Vlynn says:
::looks over at the Doctor next to her::  CIV: That was interesting.

CMO_Onarian says:
@CTO: Put that down! ::pulls out his Tricorder to scan it::

CIV_Kerlan says:
::oblivious again:: OPS: What was? ::smiles unknowingly and brings the ship back to the Apache as the captain ordered::

CTO_Illoria says:
@::drops the spider from her gloved hand.

CNS_Vax says:
::orders another mocha, same as before::

CSO_S`klar says:
SO: Any luck, Ensign?

OPS_Vlynn says:
::looks at the CIV for a bit:: CIV: Absolutely nothing.

CMO_Onarian says:
@::stays a safe distance while scanning the little creature::

CTO_Illoria says:
@CMO: They're all over the place, Onarian.

CIV_Kerlan says:
::parks the ship in a parallel drift, a couple hundred meters off before leaning over to the female:: OPS: Do you think the captain will let me aboard the Apache now? Those wounds were fascinating.

Host Jafo says:
ACTION: Scans of the spider reveal extremely toxic venom in the spider’s fangs that appears to be laced with synthetic T-cells.

SO_Howlingwolf says:
CSO: I haven't found any of the synthetic T-cells on the Pioneer the vessel, but the lifesigns on the vessel are very similar to that of the Apache.

CMO_Onarian says:
@CTO: I see that, but we don't want to go that way in the first place. Ahead of you is the Turbolift, which I highly doubt would work.

Host CO_Verak says:
CIV/CNS/SO: Head down to Medical and begin analyzing the bodies we retrieved. Remember to use protective gear.

OPS_Vlynn says:
CIV: I do not know ... but there are two bodies in the morgue that you can study if you wish.

OPS_Vlynn says:
CIV: Well, there you go...

CMO_Onarian says:
@Self: Interesting. ::takes out a sample tube and places the spider in it with a pair of tongs::

CIV_Kerlan says:
::frowns a bit and then stands:: OPS: Hold my spot. ::smiles and joins Howlingwolf::

CTO_Illoria says:
@CMO: Well then why don't you lead the way, Doctor?  ::waves his hand in the direction of the Jeffries Tube::

CNS_Vax says:
::sips his drink::

Host Jafo says:
ACTION: The small-unknown vessel makes it to the Argolis Cluster and almost immediately disappears from sensors.

OPS_Vlynn says:
CIV: Sure...

CEO_Es`scarn says:
::is relieved that most systems show normal readings::  CO: Only minor damage, Captain … and my crews are already getting the repairs underway.  Everything should be back to normal in 10 to 15 minutes.

CMO_Onarian says:
@::stands up:: CTO: Fair enough, let's move on.

OPS_Vlynn says:
::re-establishes Flight and OPS control on her console::

CMO_Onarian says:
@::heads to the sealed Jefferies Tube port::

OPS_Vlynn says:
CO: Sir, I just lost the vessel on sensors...

CSO_S`klar says:
CO: Sir, I believe the object has entered the Argolis Cluster. We no longer have it on sensors.

Host CO_Verak says:
CEO: Noted, Mister Es'scarn.

CTO_Illoria says:
@::starts walking behind the CMO::

TO_Lukan says:
*Gamma Team*: Take up positions around sickbay.

Host CO_Verak says:
CSO: Have you determined what that vessel was?

CEO_Es`scarn says:
CSO:  Any unusual readings from the cluster now that the ship has slipped into it?

CNS_Vax says:
::wonders what's going on outside his little world::

CSO_S`klar says:
CO: Not yet, sir. Its design was unfamiliar to our database.

CMO_Onarian says:
@::crawls into the Jefferies Tube and starts the long trek to Main Engineering::

CSO_S`klar says:
::scans the Argolis Cluster::

CIV_Kerlan says:
::heads toward the turbolift with Howlingwolf:: SO: What are we going to Sickbay for?

Host Jafo says:
ACTION: Scans of the unknown vessel reveal no clear command center, no engineering section, and no detectable weapons of any kind. The lifesigns detected on the vessel were in a state of cellular flux and it is unclear where the ship ends and the lifesigns begin.

OPS_Vlynn says:
::holds in relative position to the Apache; if the Apache drifts to the left, she takes the Pioneer to the left...::

CTO_Illoria says:
@::crawls in behind the CMO:: CMO:  I'm sorry if I got a little cross with you back there, Doctor.  This ship is starting to give me the creeps.

TO_Lukan says:
CO: Sir, I have dispatched a security team to sickbay incase things go bad.

SO_Howlingwolf says:
::grins at the CIV:: CIV: Well you wanted to get a closer look at those bodies ... now's your chance Doctor.

Host CO_Verak says:
::nods to the tactical officer::

CSO_S`klar says:
CEO: Sensors are registering no change in the cluster.

CEO_Es`scarn says:
::nods:: CSO: So much for that idea.

Host CO_Verak says:
COM: CTO/CMO: What is your status, Away Team?

CMO_Onarian says:
@CTO: Do not worry, but from the moment I stepped onboard I felt wary of this ship.

CSO_S`klar says:
CO: Sir, I’m receiving some data about the object from Science.

CIV_Kerlan says:
SO: Oh... ::steps into the lift with the female and rubs his ridges:: Then we should better protect ourselves, yes?

Host Jafo says:
ACTION: A scurrying sound, like the small claws of a rodent retreat down the Jefferies Tube in front of the Away Team.

SO_Howlingwolf says:
::grins as the doors close around them:: CIV: That would be wise...

CMO_Onarian says:
@COM: CO: We are moving toward the Apache's Engineering Center.

CMO_Onarian says:
@::points for Illoria to get out her phaser::

CNS_Vax says:
::gets a junior crewman to cover him and heads off to sickbay to find out what's new and exciting::

OPS_Vlynn says:
CO: I still have them on sensors and am tracking the remaining Away Team.

CSO_S`klar says:
CO: Sir, Scans of the unknown vessel reveal no clear command center, no engineering section, and no detectable weapons of any kind.

Host CO_Verak says:
COM: CTO: Acknowledged. The unknown vessel that we encountered has backed off and entered the Argolis Cluster. Continue with you r investigation.

CIV_Kerlan says:
::orders the lift to sickbay, trying to remember if gen recharged the air purifiers on gen's suit::

TO_Lukan says:
CO/CSO: That would most likely indicate a drone or a probe of some sort.

OPS_Vlynn says:
CSO: Which should prove interesting to me as a pilot.  ::grins::

CMO_Onarian says:
@COM: CO: Roger, Away Team out.

SO_Howlingwolf says:
::exits the turbolift and heads to sickbay with the CIV::

CTO_Illoria says:
@::gets out his phaser and moves around to get a good shot::

CSO_S`klar says:
CO/CSO/OPS: The lifesigns detected on the vessel were in a state of cellular flux and it is unclear where the ship ends and the lifesigns begin.

CEO_Es`scarn says:
TO:  That would be the best explanation, and if that's the case, then someone else is probably handling the controls from a larger ship.

CMO_Onarian says:
@::cautiously continues forward, but signals the CTO not to speak::

Host Jafo says:
ACTION: The Pioneer's Away Team comes out of the Jefferies Tube into a cargo bay, where they need to change tubes to head towards Engineering.

OPS_Vlynn says:
CSO: That is interesting.  That would suggest the fact that these ... creatures or aliens or whatever are partial machines too, then?  Or the ship is partial biology?

CTO_Illoria says:
@::nods::

CNS_Vax says:
::enters sickbay and is greeted by the EMH::

TO_Lukan says:
CEO: Agreed Ferengi ... but from where is the key.

SO_Howlingwolf says:
CIV: I don't know about you, but I have a feeling we're getting close to figuring this out ... there's a link there somewhere.

CEO_Es`scarn says:
CSO:  Could the vessel and the life forms on it be connected in some way as to cause them to be indistinguishable from each other?

Host CO_Verak says:
::raises an eyebrow:: CSO: In a state of flux like the life signs on the Apache?

CTO_Illoria says:
@::points to the other tube needed to get to main engineering::

CSO_S`klar says:
CO: Aye sir.

CIV_Kerlan says:
::stops by the lockers with Howlingwolf and tries to wiggle into the protective suit:: SO: Figuring what out? ::winces:: Could you ... my finger's caught.

CSO_S`klar says:
CEO: There was simply no distinguishing between the two.

CMO_Onarian says:
@::crawls out of the tube and waits for the CTO to join him. He gestures at his Hand beacon so that the CTO will leave hers off::

Host CO_Verak says:
Self: Fascinating...

Host Jafo says:
ACTION: In the cargo bay, the scratching and groaning of a dying creature can be heard as it lets out small, weak, shrieks of pain.

CSO_S`klar says:
OPS: Yours is the most likely explanation so far.

CMO_Onarian says:
@::silently moves toward the other tube::

CSO_S`klar says:
CO: It is obviously responsible for the accident aboard the Apache.

SO_Howlingwolf says:
::gives the CIV an odd look:: CIV: What happened to the Apache's crew, silly. ::helps him with his suit::

CSO_S`klar says:
All: Question is...

CMO_Onarian says:
@::motions for them to keep moving slowly::

CTO_Illoria says:
@::hears the creature and motions for the CMO to wait::

CSO_S`klar says:
CO/CEO/OPS: What did it fire at us?

Host CO_Verak says:
CSO: Do not jump to conclusions so fast, Mister S'klar. However, the probability of a link between the two events is quite high.

CMO_Onarian says:
@::shakes his head and whispers:: CTO: You can't help it, we need to get out.

CEO_Es`scarn says:
TO:  Probably within the cluster, where the vessel retreated.

TO_Lukan says:
CSO: Could be a low yield weapon to test our defenses...

OPS_Vlynn says:
CSO: Unknown sir ... I can't seem to register it.  It seemed to be just a rod of ... energy.

CIV_Kerlan says:
::seals the suit and begins to talk completely forgetting to turn on the microphone in his helmet::

CSO_S`klar says:
::nods his head in deference to the older Vulcans wisdom::

SO_Howlingwolf says:
::looks at the CIV:: CIV: Are we ready? ::looks around for the CNS::

CTO_Illoria says:
@::nods and shrugs and moves toward the other tube::

Host Jafo says:
ACTION: The creature hears the Away Team coming out of the Jefferies Tube and shrieks a little louder, clawing its way away from them in fear.

CEO_Es`scarn says:
CSO: Some form of electrical pulse, almost like lightening.

SO_Howlingwolf says:
::watches the CIV's mouth move like an old 20th century silent movie::

Host CO_Verak says:
CEO: Did it affect our systems in any way?

CMO_Onarian says:
@::crawls into the other Jefferies Tube and continues toward Main Engineering::

CIV_Kerlan says:
::answers again, still no microphone on, and walks into sickbay, looking around::

SO_Howlingwolf says:
::points to his mouth signaling for him to turn on his microphone::

CEO_Es`scarn says:
CO:  Only minor damage, most of which is already repaired.

CTO_Illoria says:
@::goes into the Tube, phaser at the ready::

CIV_Kerlan says:
::starts speaking again:: SO: I've never liked the decor in here; too post-modernist. It's so ... 22nd century.

OPS_Vlynn says:
::wonders why everyone is repeating what she says after she says it::

CMO_Onarian says:
@::whispers:: CTO: Close and lock that hatch, Lieutenant.

CSO_S`klar says:
::scans the sensor recordings, trying to get a clear idea of what the lancing beam actually was::

TO_Lukan says:
CSO: You could try to analyze the area that the lightning touched the hull.

SO_Howlingwolf says:
::heads into sickbay and sees the CNS and grins:: CNS: Have you found anything out so far?

CTO_Illoria says:
@::nods and closes and locks the hatch::

CSO_S`klar says:
::concentrates the scans on the area of the hull that was struck by the lighting bolt::

OPS_Vlynn says:
CEO: Can you provide a burn pattern image for us?  For the actual damage that it caused?  If so, we can perhaps determine the intensity and type of energy used to … attack … us.

CMO_Onarian says:
@::moves off at a steady pace toward Main Engineering::

Host Jafo says:
ACTION: Scans of the sensor readings indicate that the electrical current was very similar to lightning and arced through the ship in a similar fashion. It caused no serious damage, and was likely a weapon of some kind. It had little effect on ship’s system scrambling only minor secondary relays.

CNS_Vax says:
SO: No, I was just looking for someone to talk to, or help. I have Mister Jenna working on the scans of the Away Team.

CIV_Kerlan says:
::slips past Vax and Howlingwolf to examine the bodies::

CTO_Illoria says:
@::follows the CMO, wondering just who is in charge of this mission, anyway::

CSO_S`klar says:
CO/TO: Sir, sensors show the energy current coming from the object only as some sort of electrically charged weapon.

SO_Howlingwolf says:
::nods:: CNS/CIV:  So shall we begin?

CEO_Es`scarn says:
OPS:  There wasn't much to their attack, but I'll see what I can come up with.  ::begins analyzing the burn pattern to determine the type of weapon::

CMO_Onarian says:
@::feels an uneasy feeling in the pit of his stomach and pulls out his tricorder, scanning the surrounding area::

OPS_Vlynn says:
CEO: Well, it seemed like a good idea. There's nothing else we could analyze to determine what the ... lightening was.

TO_Lukan says:
Self: You have attacked us ... when we meet again I shall take the utmost pleasure in seeing your ship scattered to the solar winds.

CNS_Vax says:
SO: Certainly, but what are we doing?

CIV_Kerlan says:
::has already begun scanning the bodies, poking occasionally:: SO/CNS: Fascinating... ::laughs:: I've always wanted to say that. ::goes back to work like nothing happened::

Host Jafo says:
ACTION: Onarian scans reveal that they are practically surrounded by creatures of one kind or another.

CSO_S`klar says:
::looks at the TO:: Self: Barbarians...

CTO_Illoria says:
@::walks up to where the CMO is and takes out his own tricorder::

SO_Howlingwolf says:
::makes sure her suit is secure:: CNS: We're going to do a full analysis of these bodies. Somewhere there is a reason for what happened to the Apache's crew.

CEO_Es`scarn says:
::looks at the results:: OPS:  It has to have been a weapon of some type, considering their technology, it's hard to decipher.  The pattern indicates what was said earlier, an electrical current much like lightening.  No serious damage.

CMO_Onarian says:
@::eyes widen a bit, and he points at the readings on his screen and puts his finger to his lips::

SO_Howlingwolf says:
::raises her eyebrows at the CIV and begins to work::

CIV_Kerlan says:
::touches the sample wand to the edge of one of the wounds, looking for chemical traces::

OPS_Vlynn says:
CEO: Maybe a primitive culture than ours?  Why fire on us if not to cause real damage.  Although…  ::remembers something:: They were able to pass through our shields.  How in the world did they do that?

CTO_Illoria says:
@::looks at the readings and nods::

Host Jafo says:
ACTION: Kerlan takes samples of a viscous liquid that seems to coat the wounds thickly.

CMO_Onarian says:
@::continues crawling, wondering if the probability of survival just went down::

SO_Howlingwolf says:
::gulps back a lump in her throat and covers the dead bodies faces with a cloth::

CIV_Kerlan says:
::lifts up the wand and watches the liquid drip:: Self: Hmm... ::goes to taste it but the wand hits his mask, lets the tricorder study it instead::

CTO_Illoria says:
@::taps the CMO on the shoulder and indicates that she will take point::

CEO_Es`scarn says:
OPS:  Possibly more primitive in their weapons systems ... but not in other respects.  They were able to manipulate our systems and get through our shields ... I wouldn't exactly call that primitive.

SO_Howlingwolf says:
:;wonders if the CIV is for real::

CMO_Onarian says:
@::stops a minute and lets the CTO pass him, but motions for him to stop a minute::

Host Jafo says:
ACTION: The tricorder reading indicates that the liquid is a venom or toxin that is full of synthetic T-cells.

Host CO_Verak says:
CEO: Can you find out how exactly they did that?

OPS_Vlynn says:
CEO: In order to pass through our shields, they would need to know our shield frequencies or at least how disrupt those frequencies.  How do you propose they figured that out?

SO_Howlingwolf says:
CIV: Well?

CTO_Illoria says:
@::passes the CMO and then stops to see what he needs::

CNS_Vax says:
::snaps out of it:: SO: Oh … sorry. ::heads over to help::

CIV_Kerlan says:
::puts the wand with the liquid in her hand:: SO: You'll probably want that. It's loaded with artificial T-cells. Definitely not the property of a messy eater like whomever attacked this man.

CEO_Es`scarn says:
OPS:  Maybe that was the reason for the power fluctuations; somehow they were able to penetrate our computer system?

CSO_S`klar says:
OPS: Perhaps their technology is unknown to us? We do not have a complete understanding of the universe, Ensign.

CMO_Onarian says:
@::puts the sample vial with the Spider in it on the floor and sends a text message to the Pioneer's main viewscreen to beam the sample vial directly to sickbay in two minutes, then motions for the CTO to go on ahead::

TO_Lukan says:
CSO: The unknown defines our existence...

OPS_Vlynn says:
CSO: Perhaps, but that does not mean I'm not curious, sir.

SO_Howlingwolf says:
::hands the wand to him with a screwed up face:: CNS: Put this in something before it ruins the upholstery.

Host Jafo says:
ACTION: The text message from the CMO appears on the main viewscreen of the Pioneer's bridge.

CSO_S`klar says:
::raises an eye at the TO and OPS as they react with the usual emotions of undeveloped species::

CTO_Illoria says:
@::moves ahead of the CMO with a phaser in one hand and his tricorder in the other.

CEO_Es`scarn says:
CSO:  I think that is our most likely explanation.  I would like a closer look at their technology though.  But I'll admit that I don't like the thought of coming into contact with them, if they caused what happened to the Apache's crew.

Host CO_Verak says:
::notices the message on the viewscreen:: OPS: Transport the vial as requested.

CMO_Onarian says:
@::follows the CTO, glad that some evidence would survive the mission::

OPS_Vlynn says:
CO: Aye sir, send it to sickbay again? ::searches for the vial's target:: Locking onto target...

Host Jafo says:
ACTION: The sample vial dematerializes from the Apache's Jefferies Tube and appears in the Pioneer’s sickbay.

TO_Lukan says:
CO: Sir, the Away Team hasn’t checked in for some time.  Shall I contact them?

CNS_Vax says:
SO: Yes sir. ::takes the sample, being very careful not to spill any and puts it in the first appropriate thing he sees, which happens to be a hypo, and labels it very carefully::

CIV_Kerlan says:
::points to the tricorders venal scans:: SO/CNS: See the concentrations at the capillary walls? This ... whatever it is … was injected. Forced somehow. It travels well enough until blood flow stops.

SO_Howlingwolf says:
::watches a vial appear::

Host CO_Verak says:
::nods to the tactical officer::

Host Jafo says:
ACTION: The Pioneer's Away Team comes to Main Engineering and, as they open the hatch out into the engine room, they are hit by a blast of cold air. Snow makes its way around the hatch and fogs up the faceplates of their EVA suits.

OPS_Vlynn says:
*Sickbay*: You'll see a vial of something appear in sickbay.  That's from Doctor Onarian onboard the Apache.

CMO_Onarian says:
@::sends the data to accompany the Spider to the Pioneer::

SO_Howlingwolf says:
*OPS*: Thank you.

TO_Lukan says:
COM: CTO: Sir, the Captain would like a status report.

CMO_Onarian says:
@::motions for the CTO to keep going, through the snowdrifts::

SO_Howlingwolf says:
::takes the vial and brings it over to the group:: CNS/CIV: I wonder what this is... ::places it on the table and begins to scan it::

OPS_Vlynn says:
*SO*: Aye … be careful, bridge out.

CIV_Kerlan says:
::looks at it, then her oddly:: SO: It's a spider. Arachnid. How long have you been a scientist?

CTO_Illoria says:
@::softly:: COM: TO: We are in Main Engineering … more information to follow.

SO_Howlingwolf says:
::rolls her eyes:: CIV: I meant what kind of spider...

Host Jafo says:
ACTION: The Away Team pushes the hatch open and steps out into Main Engineering. Icicles hang from the plasma manifolds and snow falls through the four decks of the warp core. Drifts have formed throughout the area and footprints in the snow show the passage of many animals.

TO_Lukan says:
COM: CTO: Acknowledged ... Lukan out.

CTO_Illoria says:
@:: moves through the snowdrifts to the Engineering control center::

CIV_Kerlan says:
::leans real close to the vial, thinking this would be a perfect chance for something weird to happen:: SO: A small one. It’s cute, in a kill-you sort of way.

CNS_Vax says:
SO/CIV: So what? What's so special about a spider?

TO_Lukan says:
CO: The Away Team is currently in engineering, they will send more information later.

CMO_Onarian says:
@::softly:: CTO: We should attempt to get main power back online to reset climate controls.

SO_Howlingwolf says:
CNS: Well, I think we're about to find out....

Host Jafo says:
ACTION: The spider, which has by now passed into its next life, continues to glow a luminescent blue causing the vial to practically glow on the examination table.

Host CO_Verak says:
TO: Acknowledged, Ensign.

CEO_Es`scarn says:
OPS:  Is there a way to get a visual of the engineering section?  ::is curious about what is going on there::

CNS_Vax says:
::the CIV's comment gets Vax thinking:: CIV/SO: A spider injects poison, right?

CTO_Illoria says:
@::softly:: CMO: Agreed, let's get started.

CNS_Vax says:
Self: Well, the poisonous kind that is.

OPS_Vlynn says:
CEO: Hmm … I will attempt to establish visual connection.  ::works at it::

CMO_Onarian says:
@::moves to the opposite control panel and starts reinitializing systems::

SO_Howlingwolf says:
::admires the blue color as she begins to run scans on the spider:: CNS/CIV: Nice color. I used to have a dress that color of blue…

CIV_Kerlan says:
SO/CNS: Not all of them. ::takes the spider and looks at it:: This one's exoskeleton is very peculiar. If it's predatory, glowing in the dark is usually a bad idea.

OPS_Vlynn says:
::drops connection from the other section of the bridge, and powers up the ones in the engineering:: CEO: I'm afraid that I can only activate the one in the far corner...

Host Jafo says:
ACTION: Aboard the Apache, a pounding is heard and a great roar starts down the corridor. The vibrations move through the deck plates and it shakes Main Engineering roughly causing a minor avalanche that buries the feet of Doctor Onarian. The pounding movements of a very large creature can be heard ... and it sounds angry as it moves towards Engineering.

Host Jafo says:
<<<<<<<<<<< End Mission Week #7 >>>>>>>>>>>