Host FM_Selan says:
Previously on Star Trek: A Call To Duty - U.S.S. Elara ...
 
Host FM_Selan says:
SCENE: Flash to the shadowed being as it makes its journey into the Ether … the voices are heard murmuring something, and then everything goes into a brilliant wide, fading into …

Host FM_Selan says:
SCENE: The Rhengorian homeworld as Watkins & Javos discover the nude and nearly frozen bodies of the Elara senior crew on a nearby mountain. Flash to Maor waking up, and being introduced to the Rhengorian doctors at Research Facility Alpha.

Host FM_Selan says:
Dr_Leios says:
Maor: First things first, I am called Adien Leios, what do your people call you?

Host FM_Selan says:
CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
Leios: My name is Maor.

Host FM_Selan says:
SCENE: Maor being escorted into the facility's lounge, where the other senior crewmembers of the Elara are finally seen …

Host FM_Selan says:
CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
::Takes a step forward, he scans the crew with his eyes:: Self: By the name of the prophets..

Host FM_Selan says:
Host FM_Selan says:
ACTION: They are all silent and dazed looking ... as if oblivious to the world around them. Harison leans against a wall, staring out at the valley that surrounds the facility. Wall & Timrok sit on a couch staring at the table.

Host FM_Selan says:
Host FM_Selan says:
ACTION: Mrs. Pazoski sits on an opposite couch, silently drawing on a paper ... all it  is, is dark black markings, with a white orb to the side.

Host FM_Selan says:
Host FM_Selan says:
ACTION: Her husband, Peter, sits on the edge of the couch ... silently watching her perform the art. Gomes sits cross-legged on a table, with Zaris, Seppela, and Farewell arrayed around her.

Host FM_Selan says:
Host FM_Selan says:
ACTION: And finally, the one person he has secretly yearned to see, Ruskinara ... she sits in a chair in a far corner ... just staring off.

Host FM_Selan says:
Dr_Leios says:
Maor: we have not been able to determine if they are ill ... we don't have any frame of reference

Host FM_Selan says:
SCENE: Commander Daybos speaking on his phone with a female Hierarchy member.

Host FM_Selan says:
Host FM_Selan says:
ACTION: The female responds, "Interesting, Commandant. Learn all you can from them while they are living ... then terminate all but one. We expect full autopsies."

Host FM_Selan says:
Host Commandant_Daybos says:
::raises an eyebrow:: *Hierarchy* Are you sure your excellency?  Why not keep them alive?

Host FM_Selan says:
ACTION: "They may pose a threat to our way of life if word of their existence was to get out, Commandant ..."

Host FM_Selan says:
Host Commandant_Daybos says:
*Hierarchy* As you wish your excellency.  I will contact you shortly.

Host FM_Selan says:
ACTION: On the other end of the line, the female smiles, "Good, Commandant. Keep in touch." Click.

Host FM_Selan says:
SCENE: Horatio and the Champion Guard's arrival via helicopter, “We have been sent by the Hierarchy to see through the termination of the hostiles.” 

SCENE: Dr. Leios loading up the Elara crew into a van to be taken to a medical facility for study.

Host FM_Selan says:
Host FM_Selan says:
<Aide Corey> ::Suddenly rushes up to Leios:: Leios: Doctor!

Dr_Leios says:
Corey: Yes Corey, what is it?

Host FM_Selan says:
Host FM_Selan says:
<Aide Corey> Leios: I know I shouldn't be doing this ... and I'd probably be tried and killed, but I couldn't ... Doctor, they're going to kill them!

Host FM_Selan says:
SCENE: The look of surprise over Leios' face, followed by her decision to save the crew. Flash to the escape scene as the van bursts through the defenses of the facility, followed by the raging Watkins who steals a jeep and pursues.

Host FM_Selan says:
SCENE: Flash to show the Aegis Cruiser en route to the Rhengorian homeworld. Fade to show Ens. Raythan & Aran.

Host FM_Selan says:
ACTION: Aran, "There are no more reports of that energy signature from the world ... but we're going to enter orbit anyway ... we should arrive within three days."

Host FM_Selan says:
Host FM_Selan says:
ACTION: Raythan nods, "What do you think we'll find there?" Aran, "Hopefully not what I think is there ..." images of the Omega Fountain from months ago coming to mind. "Hopefully something else entirely."

Host FM_Selan says:
SCENE: Fade out.

Host FM_Selan says:
U.S.S. Elara Stardate 10203.03 "Land of the Free" Episode Three

Cast of Characters
Chris Tucker as Commandant Torn Daybos
Bernie Wallowitch as Doctor Ickebid Dor
Terry Imrie as Urnest Ayre
Lília Perfeito as Doctor Adian Leios
Eldad ben Tovim as Lieutenant Commander Maor [CIV]
Karen Barkas as Aide Corey

Michael Jones as Horatio, the Champion Guard, Watkins [Respectively] & Aran

Host FM_Selan says:
=/\= =/\= =/\= =/\= =/\= Resume Mission =/\= =/\= =/\= =/\= =/\=

Dr_Leios says:
::walks down the cave distributing food to the Aliens::

Host FM_Selan says:
ACTION: Three days have passed since the mass escape of the Elara crew from Research Facility Alpha, and now Leios and her on the run group have taken shelter in a cave on the side of the mountain where the crew was originally found.

Host FM_Selan says:
ACTION: Light snow falls outside, it is early evening ... the Elara crew just stare off into the torches that have been set up.

Host Commandant_Daybos says:
@::at the base camp for the pursuit expedition, surrounded by guards::

Urnest_Ayre says:
::Stands near the cave entrance watching out over the route to the cave, blowing on his hands to warm them::

Dr_Dor says:
@::with Daybos at the base camp::

Host Horatio says:
@ ::Approaches Daybos:: Daybos: The copter will be here soon ... ::Looking up at the mountain before them:: Are you sure this is where they went?

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
::Paces near the cave entrance, he glances back from time to time at the Elara crew as he stands guard, awaiting anyone:: Leios: Do you mind telling me what's next? ::Sighs and turns around:: It's not that I don't trust you or anything, even though your race is trying to kill all of us just for being aliens ::Rolls his eyes:: But what do we do now?

Aide_Corey says:
::sits in the cave, glancing up at Maor from time to time::

Host Commandant_Daybos says:
@::turns to Horatio:: Horatio: Reasonably, it's the only way out of here by road.

Dr_Dor says:
@::standing near Daybos, he looks at him as he responds to Horatio::

Urnest_Ayre says:
::mutters to himself:: why oh why didn’t i become an accountant like my parents wanted 

Dr_Leios says:
::goes to sit next to Corey, sighing::

Host Horatio says:
@ ::Glances at Dor, then turns and looks up at the mountain::

Dr_Leios says:
Corey: I wonder if we will get out of here alive

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: Kezia Pazoski takes a stick and begins to make a carving into the cave's dirt/snow floor.

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: In the distance a helicopter's rotors can be heard ... and the familiar pitch-black craft descends from the falling snow and lands near the clearing at the rapidly set up "base of operations" for the pursuit group.

Host Commandant_Daybos says:
@::turns and calls some more of his men over to give instructions, taking a hand gun from one of them::

Urnest_Ayre says:
::staring out across the wilderness - fighting the growing sadness he feels::

Dr_Leios says:
Maor: First we need to get our strength back ..then we must look for evidence of how you got here. Then hopefully get you out the same way you came to this planet

Aide_Corey says:
::shrugs towards Leios::

Dr_Leios says:
Maor: If that fails ... well, I have no plan B

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
::Glances at the cave floor, he narrows his eyes in thought and glances up. He turns around as he hears the noise:: Corey, Leios: They're coming.. ::Looks around:: Stay put, I'm going to scout ahead.

Host Horatio says:
@ ::Snarls:: Daybos: Keep in mind that your security forces are here for your personnel ... the hostiles are ours.

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: Maor is suddenly hit in the back of the head with a stick ... the same one Kezia had been using.

Dr_Leios says:
Maor: Oh no you don't

Dr_Leios says:
::looks at Maor:: All: Where did that come from?!

Aide_Corey says:
::looks ashen::

Host Commandant_Daybos says:
@Horatio:  My men will do what the Hierarchy Commands.  Besides, they know this area better than you do.

Host Horatio says:
@ Daybos: Good for them. ::Shouts:: Load up! ::The Champion Guard begin to set up their hi-tech rifles after removing the parts from their bags, and then get onto the copter by one::

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
::Glances around as he feels the impact, he glances back and frowns. He glances at the crew until he notices the CNS, he shakes his head:: Leios: That's simple, it was her ::Gestures towards the CNS::

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
::Begins making his way towards the CNS::

Dr_Leios says:
Maor: They never became violent before... ::goes nearer to Kezia, looking at her::

Host Commandant_Daybos says:
@::places the handgun in its holster and boards the copter with several of his men::

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: Ayre is able to just barely see some light from the sea level of a hundred feet below, where the camp is. But he cannot see the helicopter.

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: Kezia does not look up at Maor, but just sits there ... staring ahead, oblivious. She makes no move that indicates she threw the stick.

Aide_Corey says:
::glares at the CNS:: Self: Should have killed the lot of them.

Dr_Dor says:
@::climbs in to the copter as well::

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
Leios: I don't believe she did it in a violent rage.. ::Leans down and glances at the CNS, he considers something. Glancing back at Leios he nods at her for a moment, signaling her to go with his plan:: I think I'll go scouting now..

Dr_Leios says:
Urnest/Corey: We can't stay here, if we are to find something we have to search

Dr_Dor says:
@Daybos: and what will your men do? I know what Dr. Leios did was wrong, but c’mon she has been a chief member of this facility practically since it open

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: Maor catches Kezia's newest sketch out of the peripheral of his eye.

Urnest_Ayre says:
::enters the caves beside the others to give them the news:: All: we may not have much time

Dr_Leios says:
Maor: You will not go anywhere alone!

Dr_Leios says:
Maor: We all stay together you hear me? Now, do you have any idea on where to begin looking for evidence on how you got here?

Host Horatio says:
@ ::Leans forward, into the cockpit:: Pilot: Ready to go? <Pilot> Horatio: Weather is going to get iffy up there ...

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
::Ignores the new arrival and Leios, he glances down at the picture::

Host Horatio says:
@ ::Grits teeth:: Pilot: I don't care if you have to send us through YarkTekh's Fire Pits to get there, just go!

Dr_Leios says:
Urnest: What did you see?

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: Kezia's sketch is of a badly made Starfleet symbol ... with several zig-zaggy lines coming at it from various directions.

Host Horatio says:
<Pilot> @ ::Sighs and shrugs, and then ...::

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: The copter lifts off.

Aide_Corey says:
::pacing in a circle nervously:: Self: Not happy, not good. We're dead.

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
::Frowns as he looks up:: Corey: Will you relax already?

Host Horatio says:
<Pilot> ::Begins to maneuver the copter nervously through the rapidly advancing snow storm::

Host Commandant_Daybos says:
@Horatio: We'll be sighted if your not careful.

Urnest_Ayre says:
::shakes his head:: Leios: lights, at the base of the mountain. looks like we have company

Aide_Corey says:
::pauses briefly:: Maor: Hey you could be dead to, now our lives are on the line for these ::her hands gesture towards the crew::

Host Horatio says:
<Edit @ away from Daybos>

Dr_Leios says:
::sighs:: Urnest: What do you think are the odds they'll find us here?

Host Horatio says:
Daybos: If we're sighted, then that means we can spot them too ... and I doubt they're as prepared as we are.

Aide_Corey says:
::continues pacing in her little circle::

Urnest_Ayre says:
Leios: who knows, we could use an escape route about now

Host Horatio says:
<Watkins> ::From the side:: Leios: I thought I heard a copter ... if that's what they're using, the best chance we might have is to get to plateau ... they shouldn't be able to fly up there ...

Host Commandant_Daybos says:
::frowns at Horatio but says nothing::

Urnest_Ayre says:
Leios: its only a matter of time

Dr_Leios says:
Corey: If we left them there to die we simply could not live with ourselves. Our race still has a lot to learn about the Universe

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
::Raises:: Corey: "This", are living creatures. ::Pauses and lowers his voice:: Just like your race. Now, will you relax or I'll have to prove you we're living creatures, just as your barbaric race? ::Says in a hissing voice::

Dr_Dor says:
::watches the scenery go by::

Aide_Corey says:
::does not look up:: Leios: No offence but we may not be living with ourselves for much longer now anyway.

Dr_Leios says:
Watkins/Urnest: Then lets move .. staying here is bringing us nothing

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: The copter maneuvers toward the mountain ... the snow growing thicker and thicker.

Dr_Leios says:
Corey: We have been friends for some time now and I am giving you the choice. Stay here and then go back to Daybos or help us escape. Its you choice, I only ask you don't reveal our location

Host Horatio says:
<Watkins> ALL: I'll lead in the jeep, I know the way ... just be careful, these vehicles weren't built for this sort of terrain ...

Aide_Corey says:
Leios: Agreed. ::glances to Urnest for his confirmation::

Dr_Leios says:
Maor: Please gather them all up

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
Leios: If we move now the people in the copter might notice us ::Shakes his head:: We need a second plan..

Dr_Leios says:
::nods at Corey:: Corey: You shall not regret this choice my friend

Aide_Corey says:
Leios: Stay here and they are not going to be forgiving, so it seems I have no choice. 

Host Horatio says:
<Pilot> Horatio: I'm going to have to activate the forward beams ... might help in the search.

Host Horatio says:
::Considers:: Pilot: Go ahead.

Urnest_Ayre says:
::nods::

Dr_Leios says:
Maor: I am opened to suggestions. If we do nothing and they find us we have nowhere to escape

Host Horatio says:
<Watkins> ::Turns to listen to the alien:: ALL: If we're going anywhere, we might as well move them too ... ::Gestures to the ever dazed looking Elara crew who just sit there::

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
Leios: We can rig the jeep and set it in a place the hunting team will pass.. ::Nods slowly:: And you know the rest..

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: Jonathan Farewell, being closest to the opening, begins to get some snow on him from the growing storm outside.

Host Commandant_Daybos says:
::frowns again then turns to Dor:: Dor: She will be executed, for disobeying the orders of the Hierarchy.

Dr_Leios says:
::moves the aliens to the van::

Dr_Leios says:
Urnest: Grab that one playing with the snow Corey: Help me

Dr_Dor says:
Daybos: is that the Hierarchy and your answer to everything, it is utterly ridiculous

Urnest_Ayre says:
::picks up the Alien  manhandles it to the van::

Dr_Leios says:
Maor: and what good will that do? Maybe we kill the occupants vehicle or two. But there are many more

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: Suddenly, brilliant beams of light cut through the snow ... and they begin to hear the approaching helicopter.

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
Leios: And where do you think we'll be able to go with this storm? ::Looks around:: Forget it, let's just drive ::Helps moving the Elara crew to the van::

Urnest_Ayre says:
All: get down!

Dr_Leios says:
All: They’re getting closer ..!

Urnest_Ayre says:
Leios: this weather might provide just the cover we need

Host Horatio says:
<Watkins> Leios & Maor: So, what are we doing? Taking both or rigging one?

Aide_Corey says:
::helps Maor:: Urnest: I really hope so.

Dr_Leios says:
Urnest: Let’s hope so, We can't stay here

Host Horatio says:
::Squints through the storm to try and see where they are ... as the beams begin to illuminate the road / path leading up the mountain::

Host Commandant_Daybos says:
::takes out his gun and points it at Dor:: Dor: Silence, or I'll make sure you join her!

Dr_Dor says:
::looks at the storm increasing, this is the break Leios needs, will slow down there search greatly::

Dr_Dor says:
::thinks typical Daybos::

Dr_Leios says:
Watkins: We take both

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
Leios: Okay, what about someone will take the jeep and distract them?

Dr_Leios says:
Maor/Corey: take another one of the aliens and go on the jeep Urnest: your with me and the rest

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: Meanwhile, the Aegis Cruiser takes orbit ... in it's command center various Aegis move around quickly, looking at sensor reports from the surface. One reports, "There is no sign of the Omega Particle ... or any resounding energy effects. There's nothing of interest here ..."

Dr_Leios says:
Maor: We can't risk being caught

Dr_Leios says:
All: We all go to the plateau but take different routs

Aide_Corey says:
::sighs:: Maor/Leios: I guess they are likely to have my head for this whatever the outcome, shall I take the jeep?

Dr_Leios says:
All: Hopefully half of us will make it

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
::Shakes his head:: Leios: No, we can't do that. They must all make it

Dr_Leios says:
Corey: I don't want you to go alone

Dr_Leios says:
::sighs:: Corey: Are you sure you want to do this?

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: Back down below, one of Horatio's men spots something through the snow, "Wait ... I see ... there! It looks like a jeep!"

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
Leios: Then I'll go with her

Aide_Corey says:
::shrugs:: Leios: No but if these people are to survive it has to be done.

Aide_Corey says:
Maor: No. I'll go alone or not at all. 

Dr_Dor says:
Daybos: I have figured why the Hierarchy wanted the being killed, but the things is supposed whoever these people are or from, there kind might come here anyway, this is from a psychological view

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
::Looks up at the shouting, and then back at Corey:: Corey: Go already!

Dr_Leios says:
::nods understanding her wishes:: Corey: You have to distract them at all costs, stop them from reaching the van

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: Back up above, Aran is troubled and walks over to the science console from where this was reported, "Are you absolutely sure?" The Aegis responds, "Yes." Ens. Raythan rubs her arms behind him, "Guess this was just a waste of time, eh?"

Dr_Leios says:
All: Into the van, Watkins, take the controls

Aide_Corey says:
::glances to Maor:: Self: ungrateful idiot. 

Host Horatio says:
::Grins:: Man One: Good. ::Waves the Pilot in that direction::

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: Lights begin to illuminate the jeep as the helicopter maneuvers.

Urnest_Ayre says:
::pushes everyone towards the an::

Host Commandant_Daybos says:
Dor:  Nothing we can do, the Hierarchy has spoken.

Dr_Leios says:
Corey: We will wait a few seconds after you leave then follow and head to the plateau

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: Aran rubs the back of his transparent head, "I guess it was ... continue scanning ... prepare to break orbit."

Aide_Corey says:
::in the jeep going somewhere:: 

Dr_Leios says:
Corey: Join us there if possible...

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: The jeep spins it's wheels in the snow, and then breaks down the path toward the camp.

Host Horatio says:
Pilot: Give pursuit!

Host Horatio says:
<Watkins> ::Watches Corey speed off:: May the gods be with you, gal.

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
::Jumps inside the van, he closes the doors:: Leios: Drive the car near that tree, that should give us enough cover

Urnest_Ayre says:
::speaks beneath his breath:: Good luck Corey

Host Horatio says:
<Pilot> ::Veers hard to the left ... and into the wind, the helicopter begins to spin slightly out of control::

Dr_Leios says:
Watkins: When they start pursuing her we have to leave

Dr_Dor says:
::watches as he can barely see out the side door window from the copter::

Host Horatio says:
<Watkins> ::Nods:: Leios: Everyone in? ::Looks around at the silently staring Elara crew::

Host Commandant_Daybos says:
::glares at Horatio:: Horatio: This isn't smart.  We should regroup and send an expedition on foot.  They can't survive forever.

Dr_Leios says:
::looks at Urnest, then at Maor:: Watkins: We are ready

Urnest_Ayre says:
Watkins: go!

Urnest_Ayre says:
::peers through the back window of the van::

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: Aran stares at the viewscreen, the more petite El Aurian girl standing beside him ... "Anything else in the area, Science?" His science officer nods no, "The earlier scans of a possible surge of energy relating to Omega do not coincide with this. Guess it was an aftereffect of the Fountain's destruction ..."

Dr_Leios says:
Urnest: This wasn't exactly what you signed in for huh? I suppose I'll have to pay you extra

Host Horatio says:
<Watkins> ::Hits the accelerator::

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: As the copter gains control, and begins to move after the jeep ... the van flies out of its hiding place, and begins moving up the route to the plateau above.

Urnest_Ayre says:
Leios: you think well live through this

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: Aran shakes his head. Raythan, her medical training coming up, "Are you all right?" "I don't know ... I had this feeling ... it's nothing ... break orbit ... best speed for normal space," he orders. The conn. officer nods, and the Aegis Cruiser prepares to maneuver away ...

Dr_Leios says:
Urnest: I prefer not to think about that particular subject

Aide_Corey says:
::continues driving slightly erratically, fighting with some silly wrapping around the flare:: 

Dr_Leios says:
Maor: I guess our race will be recorded on your libraries like the stupidest of the galaxy

Urnest_Ayre says:
Leios: i wish i had that luxury, what about my family?

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: The helicopter begins to bear down upon the jeep.

Dr_Dor says:
::thinks hopes this storm provides and opportunity to disappear::

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: Suddenly, both Raythan and Aran are jolted by a child's scream, "No!" The entire Aegis bridge crew turns to see Shane standing in his pajamas at the back of the bridge.

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
Leios: Indeed ::Looks at the crew for a moment::

Dr_Leios says:
Urnest: They'll think you are a traitor to your planet ... killed at the hands of the government when trying to escape a maximum security research facility ....

Host Horatio says:
<Watkins> ::Struggles with the road ... :: Oh crud! ::Nearly sends them flying off the mountain, but swerves just in time::

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: Raythan turns with concern, "Shane ..." "You can't go! Mummy's down there! So's daddy!"

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
Leios: If we do find a way to get out of here, what about you?

Dr_Leios says:
:::gulps seeing how close they were from falling::

Urnest_Ayre says:
Leios: thanks, you have a real way of cheering people up

Dr_Dor says:
::looking around out each window near him trying to see how close they are::

Host Horatio says:
::Squints through the snow with his binoculars:: I don't think they could fit everyone into that jeep ... Champion Guard: Open fire as we come along side ...

Aide_Corey says:
::smiles:: Self: Got it. ::sends the flare out of the window in the direction of the helicopter::

Dr_Leios says:
Maor: We can never return to our previous lives .. if we survive we will have to change our names, careers ..everything. But it doesn't matter. To me it will all be worth it if you and your people survive

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: Aran, "Child, what are you talking about?"

Aide_Corey says:
::now starts messing around with the grenade on her lap, not actually pulling the pin yet::

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: The copter begins to come along side the “flying” jeep ... the Champion Guard take aim with their weapons ...

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
Leios: I'm so sorry for causing this much trouble.. ::Looks down for a moment:: Trust me, if I had a choice you would come with us..

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: Shane is nearly crying, he points excitedly at the viewscreen, "They're there! They're there! They're alive and they're there!!!" Raythan rushes over to Shane to hold him, silently whispering, "No honey ... they're gone ... I'm sorry, honey ... shhh ..." Aran, his feeling coming back, turns to his science officer.

Dr_Leios says:
Maor: That is ok ... just the fact that I know you exist is worth it. All I need now is evidence to show this planet they are not alone in the Universe. I intend on showing you to the world when the time comes

Host Horatio says:
::Narrows eyes:: They're not there! Open fire! KILL HER!

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: The flare vanishes into the snow, and ricochets off the helicopter, causing the pilot to jerk up ... which in turn causes all the weapons fire of the Champion Guard to miss the jeep.

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
::Nods at Leios, fully knowing he'll never allow that::

Host Horatio says:
<Watkins> ::Recognizing this part of the trail:: ALL: We're almost there!

Host Commandant_Daybos says:
Self: A diversion.  Very clever Leios.....

Dr_Leios says:
::nods to Watkins looking at the snowy path and the storm ahead::

Host Commandant_Daybos says:
Horatio: This is foolish, forget her, she will never survive on the mountain.  They must be back where the jeep came from.

Dr_Dor says:
::just shakes his head, he feels sorry to be a Rhengar right now::

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: The science officer begins to scan harder onto the planet ... then something begins to beep, "Wait ... wait ... I'm picking up something ..."

Host Horatio says:
Daybos: I agree ... Pilot: Maneuver upward, back the way we came!

Host Horatio says:
<Pilot> ::Gives Horatio a look that suggests that he is insane, but does it ... ::

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
::Glances back at the crew, he makes sure they're all okay before going back to his previous task::

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: All Corey can do is look in vain as the helicopter pulls away from her, going after her new found friends and the aliens she has risked everything for.

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: The Elara crew stares at Maor with their blank gazes.

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: Raythan holds the crying Shane while Aran steps forward, "Picking up what?" "A human! On the surface ... there's a human! Wait ... there's another ... and a Betazoid ... and ... and a Klingon ... and an Acamarian ..."

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: The helicopter sweeps along the path in pursuit ... Horatio and his guards looking around for the van.

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
::Looks up, narrows his eyes:: All: They are coming after us ::Says in a hissing voice:: Can we drive faster?

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: Aran is in shock, "Impossible ..." Looks at Shane, wondering ... "Scan the Klingon ..."

Host Horatio says:
<Watkins> ::Screeches the Van to a halt:: We're here!

Dr_Leios says:
All: We need to find a place to stay protected from the snow

Urnest_Ayre says:
::picks himself up from the floor of the van:: Watkins: you’ll never make a living as a chauffeur

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: And indeed they are, the van has stopped on top of the plateau where the Elara crew was found by their captors only weeks earlier.

Host Horatio says:
<Watkins> ::Grins at Ayre::

Host Horatio says:
<Watkins> Leios: Hate to say it, but chances of us finding cover up here ... well ...

Dr_Leios says:
::nods::

Dr_Dor says:
::he thinks when this is over, he might resign from the facility, he is tired of the Hierarchy and Daybos messing with the research and our work all the time, tired of the battling all the time::

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
::Jumps out of the van, he glances around:: Leios, Watkins: Doesn't matter, just lead me to where you found us!

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: The science console on the Cruiser beeps wildly, "I ... I don't believe it ... the Klingon ... it's been identified as Maor ... we have positive identifications on the others ... but, I thought ... I thought they died?"

Dr_Leios says:
All: Then we stay inside the van, until the storm stops

Host Horatio says:
<Watkins> Maor: Why, do you have some sort of secret teleporter?

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
Watkins: It's better then just staying in the van, I might find something here ::Looks around::

Host Horatio says:
<Watkins> Maor: Fine then ... pile out! ::Puts her parka on, and gets out of the van::

Dr_Leios says:
::looks at Maor with curiosity, only small experiments with teleportation have been done, it is not a reliable technology, for them anyway::

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: Aran's breathing grows heavier ... a look of shock has crossed Raythan's face as she stares at the viewscreen. Shane smiles, "I told you so!"

Dr_Leios says:
Watkins: He could be right ... they had to reach this planet in some way .. maybe that way is still available

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: Aran shouts at his conn. officer, "Full about! Take us into orbit!" To his science officer, "Can we get a lock?!"

Urnest_Ayre says:
Leios: with them gone we will have a hard time proving what happened here

Dr_Leios says:
Urnest: If they go maybe they can leave some evidence here

Dr_Leios says:
Urnest: If not, well, at least they won't be dead

Urnest_Ayre says:
Leios: in fact the Authorities will only need to get rid of us to bury this completely

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
::Glances around, he breaths deeply and glances back at Leios and Ayre::

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: His science officer shakes his head, "No, there's some sort of storm raging around them ... we can't get in!"

Dr_Leios says:
Urnest: Perhaps, unless.....

Dr_Leios says:
::looks at Maor:: Maor: If you do leave, can you send a transmission to us from outside the planet?

Aide_Corey says:
:;still driving somewhere in the storm::

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: Aran contemplates this for a moment, then to his conn. officer, "Take us into the planet's atmosphere ... and to their location ..." The conn. officer gives him a look, "A land boarding?"

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
Leios: What good will that do?

Dr_Leios says:
Maor: Prove that you exist

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: Aran nods, and the Aegis Cruiser rapidly comes about ... maneuvering back toward the surface as ...

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
Leios: To be honest, from what I saw I don't think your race is ready for that ::Shakes his head::

Host Horatio says:
<Watkins> ::Through the snow storm:: Here! ::Points to a partially exposed portion of the plateau, which is scorched ... showing the imprints of several beings ... the Elara crew::

Urnest_Ayre says:
Maor: with the truth out, there would be no point in killing us

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
::Frowns, he glances around and sighs:: Ayre: I'll try my best

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: Suddenly, brilliant light shines upon Leios and her group ...

Dr_Leios says:
Maor: If you give us the prove we need then we can overthrow the government!

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
::Covers his eyes with his hand, he glances up and gasps in shock:: Self: What the..?

Urnest_Ayre says:
:squints into the light then pulls his weapon::

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: But it is not the hope they wish for ... it is the Champion Guard helicopter.

Urnest_Ayre says:
All: there here!

Host Horatio says:
::Through a speaker:: Stand down and surrender! ::Has every intention of killing them all::

Dr_Leios says:
Watkins: Run!

Urnest_Ayre says:
::fires at the light::

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: The helicopter maneuvers in low, and several of the Champion Guard leap out ... weapons fire ricochets off it, and one of them opens fire on Ayre, catching him in the leg.

Urnest_Ayre says:
Leios: go! get out of here! ::falls firing still::

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: The guard soon surround them all ... weapons withdrawn.

Host Commandant_Daybos says:
::follows suit, jumping out of the helicopter, weapon drawn::

Dr_Leios says:
::takes a deep breathe::

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
::Glances around, he frowns and quickly thinks::

Dr_Dor says:
::sees a bright light from the copter::

Host Horatio says:
::From the copter:: Guard ... on my mark ...

Dr_Dor says:
::jumps out of the copter following Daybos and the others::

Dr_Leios says:
Daybos: How could you do this!?

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: The Champion Guard raise their weapons, preparing to gun down all of them.

Host Horatio says:
<Watkins> ::Shudders and stares at the men with the rifles::

Urnest_Ayre says:
::aims at Daybos’ head & fires off a shot:: to hell with you Daybos

Dr_Leios says:
::shakes her head seeing Urnest's foolishnesses but unconsciously grateful for it::

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: The bullet clips off Daybos' ear as suddenly a new light shines upon them all ... a much more massive one, and then the Aegis Cruiser is hovering above them all ... Aran's voice booms, "Rhengorian aircraft, withdraw yourself and your men immediately!"

Dr_Leios says:
::looks up:: Self: Who could they be?

Host Horatio says:
::Looks up in anger:: Who the ... ::Raises his rifle and fires at the Aegis Cruiser::

Host Commandant_Daybos says:
::grabs his ear and falls back, dropping his gun::

Host Horatio says:
ACTION: The mere array of bullets does little but ricochet off the massive starship ... which in turn fires one energy burst which obliterates the helicopter and Horatio.

Dr_Leios says:
::suddenly realizes that only one thing can be stronger than champion guard:: Maor: friends of yours?

Host Aran says:
@ COM: ALL: Rhengorian troops, stand down and back off ... you will face the same fate as your leader if you do not do so.

Host Commandant_Daybos says:
::his head is in the snow, and he doesn't see or hear the burst from the Aegis cruiser.  He picks up his gun and shoots Ayre::

Dr_Dor says:
Daybos: this is what I meant when I told you earlier

Urnest_Ayre says:
::gasps in pain,  staring up at the sky::

Host Aran says:
ACTION: Ayre goes down for the count.

Host Commandant_Daybos says:
::levels his gun on Leios::

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
::His eyes narrow down, he sighs loudly and curses softly:: Leios: Yes.. ::Looks around at the Elara crew and sighs:: Not a moment too soon..

Host Aran says:
ACTION: An individual energy burst slams Daybos ... and we see Aran standing with Raythan on a hovering disc, which has lowered, from the Aegis Craft.

Host Aran says:
ALL: That is enough.

Host Aran says:
ACTION: Daybos is alive, just unconscious.

Dr_Leios says:
::looks at Daybos unconscious body noticing how she was saved::

Host Commandant_Daybos says:
::falls backward into the snow, gun falling just a few feet away::

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
::Takes one step forward:: Aran: Aran, nice to see you again ::Says with a frown::

Host Aran says:
<Ens. Raythan> ::Smiles at Maor:: Maor: Commander ... i-it's good to see you're alive.

Dr_Leios says:
::looks at him closer:: Self: So typical of him ... ::looks up at Aran:: Aran: Welcome to the Rhengorian Planet ...

Aide_Corey says:
::still fiddling with the pin of the grenade in her hand::

Host Aran says:
::Looks around:: Maor: The time for explanations can be later ... I trust that is the rest of the Elara crew I see over there?

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
::Looks back:: Aran: The senior crew at least ::Sighs:: I have no idea where's the rest of the crew ::Says in a sad tone::

Dr_Dor says:
::real curious he gets in closer::

Aide_Corey says:
::is not concentrating on driving as she looks at the pin in one hand and the grenade on her knee::

Dr_Leios says:
Dor: I thought I'd never see you again

Host Aran says:
Maor: Shall we gather them and move on? ::Eyeing the Rhengorians with their rifles::

Dr_Dor says:
Leios: yeah a few moments in the copter I didn’t think I would see you again either

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
::Nods at Aran, he moves towards the Elara crew::

Host Aran says:
ACTION: Corey's grenade turns out to be a dud ... some deity wishes her to live.

Host Aran says:
TIME WARP: Aran and Ens. Raythan help Maor gather the Elara crew onboard ... Aran giving Ruskinara and the others a worried look as he realizes something is wrong.

Host Aran says:
TIME WARP: Aran & Raythan withdraw into the ship with the crew ... leaving Maor to say his last goodbyes to Leios and the others as his disc prepares to fly upward.

Dr_Leios says:
Maor: So now you go back to your Big Universe

Dr_Leios says:
Maor: All I ask is evidence, how little it maybe that you exist. I need to prove to this short sighted, single-minded race of mind that we are not alone

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
::Nods as he glances back at ship, he sighs deeply:: Leios: I wish you, and your race all the luck in the world. About evidence, that will remain to be seen. We have something called the 'Prime Directive' and that will not allow me to do such thing, I'm afraid.. ::Glances around sadly:: You must understand..

Dr_Dor says:
Leios: it might be that our race is not ready for it, course after today it might push em ::smiles::

Dr_Leios says:
Maor: I see ::looks to the ground then back up:: So I will never hear from you again?

CIV_LtCmdr_Maor says:
::Nods slowly, he sighs:: Leios: Think of what we gave you, you now know we're out there.. That's the best proof you can get, the proof to your self.

Dr_Leios says:
Maor: You are right on that. I will never stop searching for more evidence now. Have a good life Maor .. your friends too

Host Aran says:
ACTION: And with that, Maor's disc lifts him up into the Aegis Cruiser ...

Host FM_Selan says:
ACTION: ... which then promptly begins to move upward ... throwing snow up and around the still shell-shocked Champion Guard, and the others. They all stand there ... watching the lights vanish into the storm ...

Host FM_Selan says:
ACTION: ... and then we fade out on this adventure. The next one to soon come ...

Host FM_Selan says:
=/\= =/\= =/\= =/\= =/\= End Mission =/\= =/\= =/\= =/\= =/\=

=/\= =/\= =/\= =/\= =/\= Begin Epilogue =/\= =/\= =/\= =/\= =/\=

Maor had spent the last few hours relating his story over and over again with Aran and the Starfleet female he had come to know as Ensign Leia Raythan … someone whom he barely recalled being of the Elara’s medical department. He was exhausted from being on the run from the Rhengorian Champion Guard for three days straight … and was thoroughly confused about many things. He had recalled the fight against the Bellicose, had remember being stabbed by one of their vicious Inorganics … had recalled the terrified expression on Mir’s face as they were rushing him back to the ship … and then had come the darkness.

Leia had told him in nearly tear soaked eyes that they had died … or that was what she was told. Aran related that it was believed that the Harbinger had destroyed them during their quest for something called “the Omega Fountain” … a further story that he chose not to relate. Maor did not really care … if he did die or not, it didn’t really phase him. He had been to death and back in the past … had been brought back from the brink by beings such as the Shadowman. The concept of death had not frightened him since many years ago … and it certainly did not do so now. 

Aran had finally allowed him to go and rest … figuring things had been rough enough. The only reason he had “grilled” Maor so much in regard to their situation on the Rhengorian home world was because he was the only one of the Elara crew who had been responsive. And there were other reasons … probably obvious to Maor himself. 

Aran still cared for Mireille Ruskinara … and when he had learned of her apparent demise … he had been hurt, deeply. And now, to learn she was alive … it had brought out feelings that he had thought lost long ago. “Has he spoken to Shane yet?” he quietly asks the equally tired Leia Raythan as they watch the man exit. “I don’t know … he might have … to tell the truth, back on the Elara … he had … well, it seemed that he had not wanted to be a major part of Shane’s life. Like he wasn’t fit to be his father,” she explains quietly. Aran nods, “Fool.” 

Leia’s fiery nature snaps to, partially something she had learned from growing up, partially something she had learned from Jan Zaris, and partially her defensive nature about her crew, “Don’t call him that. It’s not his fault that he had a child … as I recall, it was your fault.” Aran, who had been standing up, slowly sits down, “You wouldn’t understand why we did that.” 

“Doctor Zaris related the story to me once … that he was supposed to be some sort of ‘great help to the future following the cataclysm.’ Wasn’t that cataclysm supposed to be what happened in that nebula? Didn’t the Federation stop it? Well, what now? What’s he supposed to do?” she continues. Aran stares at her hard for a moment … then silently gets up again, and slowly exits. “You can’t avoid the questions forever, Aran.” He says nothing and exits.

His journey through the hallowed halls of the Aegis vessel is a haunted one. He recalls the Aegis, a seemingly ancient and mysterious species, approaching him with the proposition of joining their ranks. The mere idea of exploring things beyond Starfleet’s reach gripped at his heart … and he had eagerly accepted … leaving behind a career at Starfleet Academy, and perhaps someone who could have been the love of his life. 

There is no surprise in him when he finds himself in front of the medical bay. After all, this is where the senior crew of the Elara had been placed when it was determined that something was indeed wrong with them. For the last few hours, the Aegis’ best medical personnel based on the vessel had run continuous scans of them all … David Harison, Bernie Wall, Joseph Timrok, Alexandra Gomes, Peter & Kezia Pazoski, Jan Zaris, Jonathan Farewell, Mireille Ruskinara, and Jason Seppela. Yet all the scans indicated that there was nothing physically wrong with them … it was just as if they were no longer there. 

Had they died? Were they traumatized by the experience somehow? Then why wasn’t Maor affected? What made him different than them all? Entering the bay, he sees them all silently staring up at the ceiling … having been gently placed on individual bio beds. The medical personnel had departed for the evening, but had failed to shut down the power to the bay. Slowly walking through, he approaches Ruskinara’s bed … the others not really meaning much to him [although Jan Zaris, having birthed his “creation” was of some importance still]. 

The eyes … the eyes that had been filled with such youthful joy … joy that he, and no doubt Maor, remembered … they were devoid of it now. Empty and cold. It was if she were dead … but not dead. The mere look of her sent a chill through him, and he couldn’t help but gently brush a hand against her face. Warmth was there … but she still felt … wrong. Something was wrong with her … with them. And he didn’t know what … closing his eyes; he cursed himself for not knowing why. He had joined the Aegis to know everything … and now the one time when he really needed this knowledge, he had nothing. 

Turning, he begins to exit … pressing a button and turning off the lights. 

Beckoning in the darkness … the same darkness that seemingly held these pour souls.

=/\= =/\= =/\= =/\= =/\= End Epilogue =/\= =/\= =/\= =/\= =/\=

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