USS Hayden – NCC 73898
Stardate 10207.17
Episode 189 "Endgame"

Cast:
CO Cutter					Paul
XO Skye					Karen
FCO Knight	Trevor
CEO Michaels	Bryan
CTO Kostandinos	Erin
OPS Coreena	Karri
CSO Lys 	Brian
CMO Cutter 	Danielle

Guest Starring:
The Crew of the RHSC Thistle
Tedi			Captain Daria Longly-MacGregor

and featuring

FM John as Mayor Dread and the Klord

Klord
 Prologue: Hayden is in a face off with the Romulan ship and the Thistle is flanking her. The colonists are ignoring the force field and still working at a feverish pitch
     
Klord
 <<<resume mission>>>

TCO Longly
 # ::Is behind the Romulan Warbird with weapons trained on their warp drive and their disruptor canons.  Has the view screen on and has commed Jason::  COMM: CO: Well how about it Jason.  Up for roasted bird today?

CMO Cutter
 ::readies all weapons and then looks to Jason again::
 
CO Cutter
 COMM: TCO:  Not yet... stand by.
 
CO Cutter
 OPS:  Hail the Warbird

OPS Coreena
 ::At OPS 'listening'::

TCO Longly
 # ::Standing by::

CEO Michaels
 ::stares back at the warbird, like it'll do some amount of good::

OPS Coreena
 CO:  Hailing frequency open.

Klord
 <RomCO> COMM: CO: Hayden, do not interfere. We are following SF orders.

CEO Michaels
 CO: Since when do they follow orders from Starfleet?
 
CO Cutter
 COMM: RomCO:  I am Starfleet out here... so with all due respect....  [expletive deleted].  Stand down your weapons.

OPS Coreena
 ::Quietly::   CEO:  Did the orders say to destroy the colonists?

TCO Longly
 #::waiting to hear back from Jason::

CMO Cutter
 ::thinks: You tell them!  But says nothing::

CO Cutter
 OPS:  Call the Thistle and let them know I'm trying to talk the Romulan out of here.

CEO Michaels
 ::quietly in response:: OPS: Knowing Starfleet, they skirted around that issue, and left it up to Captain's discretion.  That way they aren't responsible and can court martial us all if we do a good job.

Klord
 <RomCO> COMM: CO: Hayden, we will back off if you assure us that the colonist will be removed.

OPS Coreena
 COMM: TCO: Ma'am, the captain is trying to talk the Romulans out of the area.

CO Cutter
 COMM: RomCO:  Warbird...  I can assure you that our goal is to remove the colonists.

TCO Longly
 #COMM: OPS: Acknowledged.  But tell him I am ready to assist any way that I need to.

OPS Coreena
 ::Frowns::  CEO:  But... That is... wrong.

CEO Michaels
 ::eyes narrow at hearing Daria's voice over the comm.::

TCO Longly
 #COMM: OPS: I am locked and loaded and if he can't talk him down we can sure as hell run him out of here between us.
     
Klord
 <RomCO> COMM: CO: A goal is not good enough.  We need assurances that they will be removed.

CEO Michaels
 OPS: Yeah...that's Starfleet for you.

OPS Coreena
 CO:  Captain, she says she is ready to fight if they will not leave.

TCO Longly
 #*Shuttles* Keep the Hayden shuttles away from the colonists if at all possible.

CMO Cutter
 ::stares at the panel in front of her, really wishing she could give it and its responsibilities back to Ash::

TCO Longly
 <RHSC Shuttles>  # *TCO* Aye Ma'am
 
CO Cutter
 ::Leans forward and glares at the Romulan::  COMM: RomCO:  You know...  I've been webbed, I've been shot at, I'm at odds with a good friend and I'm NOT IN A GOOD MOOD.  What I can assure you is that I will blow you out of the sky if you don't leave.

OPS Coreena
 CEO:  If you are given orders that are incomplete, are you responsible for what occurs if it goes wrong?

CMO Cutter
 ::winces at Jason's statement and tone but, again says nothing while wiping her face of all expression::

TCO Longly
 #::RHSC Shuttles pace the Hayden shuttles::

Klord
 <RomCO> COMM: CO: Hayden, by that reply  we can only infer that you intend to assist the colonists.

CEO Michaels
 OPS: The Captain is ultimately responsible for any actions by his crew...so, yes, in a sense you are correct.
 
CO Cutter
 ::motions back to weapons::  CMO:  Keely, bring all weapons to bear on the bridge of the Romulan warbird.

CEO Michaels
 ::mutters::  Self: Intergalactic incident, here we come.

OPS Coreena
 CEO:  I take it, that is also Starfleet for me?

CEO Michaels
 OPS: You're catching on.  ::grins::

TCO Longly
 #::Tapping her fingers on the weapons button, waiting for a call from the Hayden::
 
CO Cutter
 COMM: RomCO:  That is not what I said.  I believe I've made my intentions clear.  I intend to remove the colonists and I intend to destroy you IF you don't stand down and leave the area.  What part are you confused about?

CMO Cutter
 ::nods and brings all weapons to bear on the Warbird::  CO: All weapons directed at the Warbird's bridge.

CO Cutter
 ::nods::  CMO:  Very well.  Stand by for my order

OPS Coreena
 CO:  Shall I tell Daria that you did not succeed?

CMO Cutter
 CO: Standing by. ::voice much calmer then she was feeling::

Klord
 <RomCO> COMM: CO: Hayden... we will stand down. We will however continue to monitor the proceedings
 
CO Cutter
 OPS:  Not yet Coreena...  let's see what happens.

Klord
 Action: the warbird moves away
 
CO Cutter
 ::mutters::  Self: You do that.  COMM: RomCO: Very well

CO Cutter
 OPS:  Get me the Thistle please

OPS Coreena
 CEO:  Seems odd.

CEO Michaels
 CO: Well that went well.  ::smiles lopsidedly::

CO Cutter
 ::shrugs:: CEO:  What can I say?  I'm a natural diplomat.

OPS Coreena
 CO:  Thistle on comm.
 
CO Cutter
 OPS:  Thank you

CEO Michaels
 CO: Don't even start with that diplomat stuff.  That causes war.

CMO Cutter
 ::coughs and then starts choking at the "natural diplomat" statement::
  
CO Cutter
 ::ignores his crew::

CO Cutter
 COMM: TCO:  Daria... you there?

TCO Longly
 #COMM: CO: Yes Jason I'm here.

CEO Michaels
 ::eyes narrow again::

TCO Longly
 #COMM: CO:  I see the warbird leaving.  Now about our business....

OPS Coreena
 CEO:  Isn't that what ambassadors do?
 
CO Cutter
 COMM: TCO:  Let me be blunt Daria...  you just damn near got either my crew or that Romulan crew killed.   With all due respect... what the hell are you doing?

CEO Michaels
 OPS: Actually, they try and prevent them, and it actually works...sometimes.

CMO Cutter
 ::sees Brynn's reaction:: CEO: Easy, Brynn. ::softly::

TCO Longly
 #COMM: CO:  Jason I'm simply doing what I have to do as I've seen you yourself do many times.

OPS Coreena
 CEO:  I did not get that impression from our last ambassadors.

TCO Longly
 #COMM: CO:  As you well know this area is essential to the Federation and I know that Francois is only after his own interests.  I suspect he is in cahoots with the Romulans for a monetary gain.
 
CO Cutter
 COMM: TCO:  You don't have to do this Daria... you're making a choice.  I'm begging you...  you can't stand up to the Hayden right now...  remove your colonists, work this through the Federation... I'll help you.

CMO Cutter
 ::closes her eyes for a moment.  Really wishes Daria didn't know her husband so well::

TCO Longly
 #COMM: CO:  what would you have me do otherwise.
 
CO Cutter
 OPS:  Get hold of the AT...  I want a report from the XO.

CEO Michaels
 OPS: Unfortunately a lot of times the best people for the job get left behind while someone else does it.

TCO Longly
 #COMM CO:  Jason I can't do that and neither would you.  Have you ever known me to give in or give up when I knew I was right....well, I am dead right if need be.

CEO Michaels
 ::busies himself with conn-things, giving the image of Daria on the screen dirty looks now and again::

OPS Coreena
 CEO:  Does that mean no one on this ship is the best for their jobs?
 
CO Cutter
 COMM: CO:  Funny you should use the word dead...  that's what we're talking about.  Don't do this.

TCO Longly
 # *Shuttles*  Do what you need to and what you can to counter the Hayden's shuttles.

CEO Michaels
 OPS: No, we get it right...most of the time.  ::thumbs at the Captain to indicate the situation at hand::

TCO Longly
 #COMM: CO:  Jason it was used intentionally.

CMO Cutter
 ::sees this going downhill quickly::

OPS Coreena
 ::Nods slowly, if a bit  uncertainly::

TCO Longly
 #COMM: CO:  I have just received word from the colonists that they are ready for visitors.  Would you like to beam down with me?

OPS Coreena
 *XO* Commander Skye, the captain would like a report.

TCO Longly
 #COMM: CO: So what do you say Jason?

CO Cutter
 COMM: TCO:  ::looks at her for a moment::  Yes... I believe I would.

TCO Longly
 #COMM: CO:  Alright then, I'll meet you on the surface

TCO Longly
 #COMM:  Then lower your shields Jason and we'll beam down

OPS Coreena
 ::Relays the message to the captain::

TCO Longly
 #COMM: CO:  Your force field…

CO Cutter
 COMM: TCO:  ::smiles tightly::  Noticed that shield?  I'm afraid I'm not in a position to lower it... we'll meet outside the shield

TCO Longly
 #::Enters coordinates and sets the transporter to beam in outside the shields.::

TCO Longly
 #COMM: CO:  See you there.

CO Cutter
 CEO:  You have the bridge Brynn.  Keep an eye out for the Warbird.

CEO Michaels
 ::very stiffly::  CO: Yes sir.

TCO Longly
 #::Goes to the nearest transporter and beams down to the surface. ::

CO Cutter
 ::transports to the surface::

CMO Cutter
 ::swearing softly under her breath::

On the planet below…

CTO Kostandinos
 $::looks up from her terminal:: XO/CSO: We can let down just one part of the force field to get something or someone in to stop the labor induction....
   
CSO Lys
 $ :: on the surface, going over the readings from his tricorder ::

CTO Kostandinos
 $XO/CSO: That's if we decide to do that, and if we find a way to stop the labor induction.

CSO Lys
 $ :: turns to the XO and searches her eyes seeing if she has come to a decision ::

XO Skye
 $All: Well we should be able to find an airborne agent to stop the labor.  That's medical's jurisdiction.  I'd also like to find a way to separate the pregnant women and doctors from the rest of the colony.  I'm not willing to risk anyone's lives, but I also have orders to follow.

XO Skye
 $All: We'll put the rest of the colony to sleep with an airborne agent, but we won't induce any sleep for the pregnant women.  I won't harm them in any way and putting them to sleep might not be good.

CTO Kostandinos
 $All:  We can take down the current force field and set up two smaller ones, but we have to beam all 600 pregnant women into the smaller one

CSO Lys
 $ CTO: The beaming operation would take hours.   XO:  I might be able to alter something to only affect the men

XO Skye
 $CTO: Do we have the capacity to make the two force fields?

CTO Kostandinos
 $CSO: What if there are female doctors?

XO Skye
 $CSO: That's a distinct possibility.  Get working on that for me, please.

CTO Kostandinos
 $XO: Yes, we do, but like the CSO said, getting the pregnant women into one, and the non-pregnant into another would take hours....

CSO Lys
 $CTO:  I really can't think of a way to selectively [target] only pregnant women.

CSO Lys
 $XO:  Perhaps we should check with the library computer to see if there are any drawbacks to just sedating the whole colony

CTO Kostandinos
 $CSO: Wait though... there is some hormone/chemical that is present in pregnant women but not in others, it's the reason why pregnancy tests work... can we isolate that, in order to tell who is pregnant and who is not?

XO Skye
 $CTO/CSO:  I don't want a woman going into labor asleep. It potentially endangers her and the child.  Let's find something that works on just men, then we will head inside the force field and "supervise" the non-pregnant women if need be.

CSO Lys
 $CTO: I'll look into that also then

CSO Lys
 $ :: starts working furiously with his tricorder ::

CTO Kostandinos
 $All: We're going to need a lot more personnel to supervise them all, but ok.  Do you still want two force fields?

XO Skye
 $CTO: No need.

CTO Kostandinos
 $::nods to the XO::

CTO Kostandinos
 $CSO: Do we know the different races of pregnant women?  It might help in isolating the chemicals they produce when they're with child...

XO Skye
 $CSO: See if you can distinguish the pregnant women from the non-pregnant ones with a chemical agent as the CTO suggested.  Then we can wake up the doctors necessary from there.

Klord
 Action: A delegation from the colony approaches the AT on the other side of the FF

CSO Lys
 $XO/CTO:  The tricorder has isolated a compound that will put to sleep everyone except the pregnant women.  CTO:  Can you create a bubble in the force field?  We can fill that with the gas then allow the bubble to open on the inside, spreading the gas.

CTO Kostandinos
 $::sees the delegation:: XO: Ma'am, we've got company

XO Skye
 $::Sees the delegation and nods to the CTO while walking over.  Her hands clasped lightly in front of her.::

OPS Coreena
 *XO* Commander Skye, the captain would like a report.

XO Skye
 $ ::Turns around briefly so those on the other side of the force field can't hear.:: *CO*  We're working on a plan to isolate the pregnant women and put the rest to sleep; however, the Mayor of the colony seems to want to "talk" to us…

Back on the Hayden…

CEO Michaels
 ::slides down to the other side of the conn, sets a few scanning parameters and looks back up at the now starfilled screen::

CEO Michaels
 ::his shoulders tensed, eyebrows crossed, and lips straight across, he is not a happy camper::

OPS Coreena
 CEO:  The area is quiet.

CEO Michaels
 OPS: Let's hope it stays that way.

CMO Cutter
 ::looks at Brynn:: CEO: Soo.. do I keep the weapons locked on the Warbird still or....?

CMO Cutter
 CEO: I'm assuming no, but...?

CEO Michaels
 CMO: I supposed for intergalactic diplomacies sake, keeping them locked would be a bad thing.  Go ahead and stand down to yellow alert.

CMO Cutter
 CEO: Well... likely, yes.  But we seem to be pushing it lately.  Alright. ::stands down to yellow alert::

CEO Michaels
 CMO: It's not a normal day if we don't push people's buttons.  ::gets up and starts pacing::

CMO Cutter
 CEO: You got that right.. ::mutters::

CEO Michaels
  :: aloud :: Self: She never struck me as a fundamentalist...

OPS Coreena
 CEO:  What do you mean by a fundamentalist?

CEO Michaels
 OPS: The RHSC has high ideals, like peace in the galaxy high, and they believe that it's their right to do anything and everything, to achieve that.

CEO Michaels
 OPS: We tend to call organizations like that fundamentalist.  And most of them in Earth's history have turned into terrorists, their ideals get all twisted around, and their "anything it takes" attitude goes a bit too far.

OPS Coreena
 CEO:  But is that not what the captain does?

CMO Cutter
 ::Out loud:: No.. he has limits. ::quietly::

OPS Coreena
 ::Turns to look at the doctor::  CMO:  Limits?

CMO Cutter
 OPS: There are things Jason won't do.  Rules that he lives and works by, if you will.  And others that he will only do if ordered to - and he has no other choice.

OPS Coreena
 CEO:  Ohh... ::Thinks:: Then Daria has become a terrorist or will be?  That does not sound like her.

CEO Michaels
 OPS: Well, there's no saying she'll go that far...but no it doesn't sound like her does it?

OPS Coreena
 CMO:  Then he would not really have fired on those Ambassadors' sacred place?

CMO Cutter
 OPS: Honestly?  I'm not sure.  If he thought it was the only way to stop a war that would kill thousands of innocents?  I think he might have.  But just to be mean?  No.

CEO Michaels
 ::thinks "He damn well better not have ordered me to do that, it wouldn't have happened"::  OPS: No, he wouldn't.  That was a bargaining chip.

OPS Coreena
 CEO:  There is something she knows that we do not?

CEO Michaels
 OPS: Knowing Daria, there's a lot she knows that we don't.

OPS Coreena
 CEO:  What is a 'bargaining chip'?

CEO Michaels
 OPS: Something you can hold over someone else, and use to get them to do what you want.  In that case, it was the destruction of a holy site...he knew the ambassadors wouldn't let that happen, so they had to do what he wanted.

OPS Coreena
 CMO:  The needs of the many over the needs of the few?

CEO Michaels
 ::mutters::  Self: Damned Vulcan logic...

CMO Cutter
 OPS: Depends on the definition of needs, I suppose.

OPS Coreena
 ::Eyes the chief::  CEO:  There are no Vulcans here.  But... maybe we could ask Daria what she knows that we do not?

OPS Coreena
 CMO:  Talan was upset with the idea the captain would kill a few people, in order to save the majority.

CEO Michaels
 ::chuckles::  OPS: I don't think she's going to tell us much of anything.  The more cards she holds, the better her hand.

CMO Cutter
 ::covers a smile at the CEO's expense.  If nothing else, a conversation with Coreena always made you consider all the angles::

OPS Coreena
 CEO:  But if she shares the cards, maybe we would know how to help?

CEO Michaels
 OPS: Well...you do have a point there.  For the moment we'll have to leave it up to the Captain though.  He'll be looking for a mutually beneficial agreement, if he's smart.

CMO Cutter
 ::nods:: OPS: I can understand that.  I would have been upset as well.  As would have Jas.. I mean the Captain.  Would he have done it?  Only if he felt it necessary and I can't answer for what he feels he must do.  I can't be anyone's conscience but my own. ::smiles::

OPS Coreena
 ::Sighs::  CEO:  Yes, but I too would like to know.

OPS Coreena
 CMO:  Do all living things have a conscience?

CEO Michaels
 OPS: Me too Coreena, me too.  ::stops pacing and stares out at the screen, then looks back at Keely::  You know, I really don't want his job.

CMO Cutter
 ::Smirks at the CEO and raises an eyebrow:: CEO: If he's smart?

CEO Michaels
 ::just grins at Keely, saying nothing::

CMO Cutter
 OPS: I'd like to say yes.  But then, I've met a few individuals who appear to have none at all.  At least, if they had one they sure didn't listen to it.

OPS Coreena
 CMO:  Do I have one?

CEO Michaels
 ::stops himself before saying "Of course you do" and stares at Coreena, truly pondering that question::

CEO Michaels
 OPS: You've got perhaps the purest conscience of us all.

CMO Cutter
 OPS: You can answer that yourself, Coreena.  Do you know the difference between right and wrong?  Do you try to do what is right or what you feel is right?  That you are concerned about the CO taking actions that might injure others suggests that you do.

OPS Coreena
 CEO:  I do?  Then how come I never here it talking to me?

OPS Coreena
 ::Frowns::  CMO:  I am not sure.  I have never heard my conscience.  I did listen to my mother and father and Bafii and what others have told me.  Is that the same?

CEO Michaels
 ::laughs, relaxing just a bit::  OPS: You don't "hear" it...it's more something you just know, in here.  ::points to his heart::

OPS Coreena
 ::Looks at the CEO's chest and then down to her own::

CEO Michaels
 ::Grins::  Self: I really have to stop using metaphors.

OPS Coreena
 ::Looks up, wondering if an x-ray would show if she has a conscience there or not.::

Back on the planet…

CSO Lys
 $ :: continues with his preparations - sending orders to the shuttle replicators ::
   
XO Skye
 $Delegation:  I'm LtCdr Samantha Skye of the USS Hayden.  You do realize you are on this planet illegally, correct?

CTO Kostandinos
 $CSO: Don't see why not. ::bends over her controls for the force field::  You create the gas, then let me know when you're ready

Mayor Dread
 $XO: If you would lower these shields I would like to parley with you.
   
CSO Lys
 $CTO:  We will have to coordinate this just right - I'll beam it in from the shuttle and you close the bubble around it.  Replication complete in 3 minutes.

CTO Kostandinos
 $XO: I wouldn't if I were you, we can talk just as well through those things.

XO Skye
 $Dread: You may speak with me through these shields, but I'm more than willing to open a conversation.  ::Looks to her crew nodding, hoping they realize they should continue their preparations.::

CTO Kostandinos
 $CSO: You got it

FCO Knight
 $ ::Sits quietly and watches how the XO handles the situation::

Mayor Dread
 $XO: very well... although it doesn't seem very hospitable. We would like to inform you on our intent to formally apply as a federation colony.

CSO Lys
 $CTO:  The replication is complete, but perhaps I'll hold it in the shuttle until Commander Skye gives the order.

CTO Kostandinos
 $CSO: Well we should let her know, the sooner we can do this the better
   
XO Skye
 $::Nods her intent to the CSO to give the order.::

CTO Kostandinos
 $::has her hand on the button, nods to the CSO saying "Ready when you are"::

XO Skye
 $Mayor:  Federation Colony?  I assume you believe you've met all the requirements?

CSO Lys
 :: whispers :: $CTO: Now :: beams the gas into the bubble ::

CTO Kostandinos
 $Creates the bubble::

Mayor Dread
 $XO: I believe that if you would care to inspect our fair facilities you will agree... ::Smiles::
   
CSO Lys
 $CTO: Done - seal the bubble.

XO Skye
 $Mayor: I'm sorry, I'm unable to at this time, however we plan on inspecting them shortly.

CTO Kostandinos
 $::seals it and releases inside the force field::

CTO Kostandinos
 $::doesn't trust this mayor guy - he knows something that they don't::

TCO Longly
 $::waits for Jason to beam down to the surface::

TCO Longly
 $::Sees Jason materialize:: Jason: Hello Jason.  It's good to see you even if it is as adversaries.  You know that's not what I wanted.

CO Cutter
 $ Daria:   So... what did you want to show me Daria?

TCO Longly
 $ Jason:  I want to show you what the colonists have accomplished in such a short time.

CO Cutter
  $ *XO*  Sam...  I just wanted to let you know that I am on the surface with Daria.

XO Skye
 $*CO*: Understood, Sir, We're handling the situation until we receive further orders from you.

CSO Lys
 $ :: scans the colony, watching the gas disperse ::

CO Cutter
 $ Daria:  It won't make any difference Daria...  my orders are to remove the colony...  whatever it takes.

TCO Longly
 $ Jason: Jason, if they can show they are an established colony, it will be a moot point.

TCO Longly
 $Jason:  You know that I'm right to settle this area for the Federation.  It's the only thing that will stop another war in this galaxy
 
CO Cutter
 $ ::shakes his head sadly::  Daria:  Even if I agreed with you, it wouldn't matter.  The Federation is not going to let you show them up on this.  But we can make this work WITH the Federation.

TCO Longly
 $Jason:  If you can do that without removing these people then I am fine with that.  They have met every criteria and have an established colony

TCO Longly
 $Jason:  The Federation has lost on this one and will thank me for it one day
 
CO Cutter
 $ ::eyes Daria for a moment::

CO Cutter
 $ *XO*  Sam, in your opinion, have all requirements for colonization been met here?

XO Skye
 $*CO*: I'm told they have, Sir, though I have no proof of it and I'm not willing to lower the force field at this moment to find out.

CSO Lys
 $ :: aside :: XO: The gas is released and appears to be working.

XO Skye
 $::Nods her thanks to the CSO.::

TCO Longly
 $Jason:  Do you really think I would ever do anything that would go against the Federation or Starfleet?

CO Cutter
 $ *XO*  Sam, lower the force field.  Make a determination if all requirements have been met.

XO Skye
 $*CO*: Aye, Sir.

XO Skye
 $CTO: Lower the force field, monitor those on the surface though for their location.

Mayor Dread
 $::really angry:: XO: I offered you our hospitality... we are trying do be civilized.... we are TRYING to do what is best for the federation!

CSO Lys
 $XO: Ma'am - the gas will then affect us
   
XO Skye
 $All: And other than monitoring those here, stop all other efforts to remove or stop the colonists.

CTO Kostandinos
 $::incredulous that people are breaking the rules and they're getting away with it, but waits until she answers the CSO's concern::

XO Skye
 $CSO: That's why we take rebreathers until the gas is dissipates enough not to affect us.

CTO Kostandinos
 $::takes out the rebreathers and lowers the force field::
   
CSO Lys
 $ :: gets the counteragent from the medkit ::  XO/CTO:  This will counter :: injects everyone ::

XO Skye
 $Mayor: What's best for the Federation should be determined by the Federation.  You have circumvented the proper channels......

Mayor Dread
 $XO: sometimes you have to save pompous asses from themselves
   
XO Skye
 $::Receives the hypo from the CSO and heads in surveying the premises.::

XO Skye
 $::Wonders why the mayor isn't asleep yet.:: Mayor: And sometimes you have to trust the powers that be to know what right to do.....
   
CSO Lys
 $ :: starts surveying the colony ::

FCO Knight
 $::Hopes that  the gas doesn't affect his piloting::

Mayor Dread
 $XO: Respectfully ma'am, may I ask you a question?

XO Skye
 $Dread: You may, respectfully.
   
CSO Lys
 $ :: sees crops already planted in the plowed ground ::

Mayor Dread
 $XO: Just how closely do you watch the idiots at headquarters? Do you seriously think that this whole issue isn't a political football?... This is what's best for the federation... any fool can see that.

CSO Lys
 $ :: wonders when a handful of people became the authority on what was best for the Federation ::

Mayor Dread
 $XO: All that is an aside. Would you care to tour our [new] fair home?

XO Skye
 $Dread:  Sometimes you have to let people fall, they learn that way.  And sometimes you have to have faith.  Yes, you may show me around.

FCO Knight
 $::Wonders if the Romulans are planning some sort of attack, and if so, should he plan countermeasures for them::

CSO Lys
 $ :: finds that the colonists have already tapped wells to reach the ground water - a scan shows it to be drinkable ::

CSO Lys
 $ :: wonders what the colonists are going to use for an energy source - begins scanning ::

Mayor Dread
 $::starts walking with the XO:: Waves at the fields and the hospital and the homes:: XO: We were totally prepared for this. I doubt there has ever been a colony started with the precision timing that we had here... We will harvest our first crops tomorrow.

Mayor Dread
 $XO: We have at last count 85 second generation children born already. Our charter has been filed with the Federation....

TCO Longly
 $Jason:  Have your XO run a thorough scan and she will see that what I'm saying is the truth.
 
CO Cutter
 $Daria:  We're checking

TCO Longly
 $::waits while the Hayden's XO runs her scan::
 
CO Cutter
 $*XO*:  Sam, in addition...  ::sighs::  secure all efforts to stop or remove the colony.

TCO Longly
 $Jason:  It's very good to see you even though it's under these circumstances.

CO Cutter
 $::smiles briefly::  Daria:  It's good to see you too.

TCO Longly
 $Jason:  I remember a few rogue missions you have been on yourself. ::laughs::

TCO Longly
 $Jason:  Scotty and I plan on going before the Federation Council with proof that the colony has been established and further proof that Francois is corrupt.  This was the only way to do that
 
CO Cutter
 $ ::turns away::  Daria:  Not like this Daria

TCO Longly
 $::Hates to see her friend turn away from her but has to hold fast to her beliefs::

TCO Longly
 $Jason:  Why do you think the Romulan warship was here when we got here?  Francois is in league with them and forewarned them.  He would stop at nothing to stop this colony.

CO Cutter
 $ *XO*:  Report Sam

XO Skye
 $*CO*: As far as I can tell they have fulfilled all the requirements of a colony, Sir.

Mayor Dread
 $::grins:: all we lack is a proper bar....

CSO Lys
 $:: looks around at the slumber forms that start to wake, can't help but feel torn between duty and soul ::
   
XO Skye
 $*CO*: Jason....Hold that.....

XO Skye
 $Mayor: Proper, what?

Mayor Dread
 $XO: Pub, watering hole... you know... drinking establishment?

FCO Knight
 $::Figures that he should consult the Captain before he plans for any sort of tactical excursion::

XO Skye
 $*CO*: Never mind.....

CSO Lys
 $ :: offering his hand, he helps one of the colonists to his feet, looking him in the eyes for a moment he feels what the man does... the eagerness to help... the excitement of the unknown... the joy of family...  ::

CO Cutter
 $  ::turns back::  Daria:  He may be... he may be an idiot...   you can't know.

TCO Longly
 $Jason:  Scotty and I have been investigating Francois and we just about have all the proof we need.  Why do you think Klord sent YOU?

TCO Longly
 $Jason:  Do you really think that he thought you would destroy us?

CO Cutter
 $ Daria:  What proof!  Show me!

TCO Longly
 $Jason: Scotty has the proof on Earth in Scotland.  I couldn't bring it with me but as I said, why do you think the warbird was here by the time we got here.  Coincidence...I think not!

TCO Longly
 $Jason:  You can contact Scotty if you wish and he can show you the proof

CO Cutter
 $  ::growls slightly and turns away...  takes a few steps away to think::

TCO Longly
 $Jason:  As I said, do you really think Klord thought you would destroy my ship or these people?

CO Cutter
 $  ::hears the XO's report and turns back around::  Daria:   I'm going way out on a limb here Daria.....  I'm trusting you....

CO Cutter
 $ *XO*:  Sam....  ::hesitates::  Recall all teams... remove all our equipment and return to the ship.

XO Skye
 $::Hears the hesitancy in his voice, but can sense his truthfulness in his order.:: *CO*: Aye, Sir.....

FCO Knight
 $*CO* Cap'n, I believe that I should prepare for any sort of run in with the Romulans. It appears that these people are really planning on stayin'.
 
CO Cutter
 $ *FCO*   Good idea.

XO Skye
 $*AT*: The Captain has asked us to pack up and head back to the ship.

CSO Lys
 $ :: hears the order but hesitates - quietly to the young man :: Colonist:  Good luck.  :: Talan turns and heads for the shuttle ::

CTO Kostandinos
 $::resigned, begins to gather her equipment and heads back to the shuttle::

FCO Knight
 $::Shrugs at the new command and preps for launch::

CSO Lys
 $ :: boards the shuttle silently, takes his seat, and prepares for take off ::

TCO Longly
 $Jason:  As you always have you should continue to do so.  I would never do something that was wrong for the Federation.  You know where my loyalties are

TCO Longly
 $Jason:  To ease your mind how about coming on to the Thistle and contacting Scotty?  Anyway I could use your engineering dept. to even get back to Earth

CO Cutter
 $ *CEO*  Brynn, draft a message to Starfleet Command.  Tell them...  tell them in my opinion, this colony is established and is due full Federation protection.

CEO Michaels
 *CO*: Oh they're going to be real happy with that...ok, will do.

CO Cutter
 $  Daria:  I don't need to talk to Scotty.  But I will provide you an Engineering assist.

TCO Longly
 $Jason:  I surely appreciate that.  The Thistle is limping a bit

CO Cutter
 $ *CEO*  Also... have Davidson take an Engineering team to the Thistle to help with repairs and recall all shuttles

CEO Michaels
 ::thinks "so now we're helping and are going to get skinned alive by Command...ok sure"::  *CO*  Right then, consider it done.

TCO Longly
 $Jason:  Before I go back to the ship I would like to invite you and Keeley to the castle for Christmas.  Will you come?

TCO Longly
 $*Thistle Shuttles*  return to the Thistle

CO Cutter
 $ ::gives a half smile::  Daria:  I don't know Daria...  you never can tell.

TCO Longly
 $Jason:  Good then we'll expect you.  You'll have a great time.

XO Skye
 $*FCO*: Fly the shuttle back up to the ship.  *All other AT members*: Beam up to the ship in short order, please.

FCO Knight
 $*XO* On my way. Sure you don't wan' me to wait?
   
CSO Lys
 $ :: hears the new orders, contacts the ship, and beams up ::

XO Skye
 $*FCO*:  No, thanks.  Go ahead back.

FCO Knight
 $::Activates engines and begins to take off:: *AT* All right. I'll see ya on th' Hayd'n.

FCO Knight
 $*AT* Watch ya bums.

TCO Longly
 $Jason:  I'm so sorry we all had to go through this but it was good to see you again.  And I would do it again if I had to,  you know that

TCO Longly
 $::hears the comm to Jason::

CO Cutter
 $  *CEO*  Beam me up

TCO Longly
 $*Contacts her ship and orders assistance to the Hayden::

OPS Coreena
 *CO*  I have a message from Admiral Klord.  He says that if you have confirmed the colony as viable, you are authorized to protect it.

CO Cutter
 $ *OPS*  Well....  some good news

TCO Longly
 $*TCTO*  Assist the Hayden and fire on the Warbird!

TCO Longly
 $*Thistle:*  Beam me up.

XO Skye
 $*OPS*: Beam me back up, Please.

CEO Michaels
 OPS: You heard the man, tell Starfleet the bad news.

CMO Cutter
 OPS: It's not really a physical voice.. more a feeling, I guess.  A feeling that something is wrong.  ::frustrated that she can't explain it better::

OPS Coreena
 ::Nods and begins to prepare a message while listening to the doctor::

OPS Coreena
 CMO:  Can an examination show if I have one or not?

OPS Coreena
 ::Sends the message::

CMO Cutter
 ::looks at her readings, frowning:: CEO: Ah Brynn, the Romulan ship is moving in again..

CEO Michaels
 ::leaves a message on Jay's terminal to send a team to the Thistle, and calls back the shuttles::

OPS Coreena
 CEO:  They should receive our message quickly.

CEO Michaels
 CMO: Aww hell, can this day get any worse?  Move us between them and the planet.  Go to red alert.

CSO Lys
 :: arriving back on the Hayden, starts to head towards the bridge, his mind still troubled ::

CTO Kostandinos
 ::materializes aboard the Hayden and goes toward the bridge::

CMO Cutter
 ::does the red alert thing::

CEO Michaels
 OPS: Open a channel to the Romulans.

OPS Coreena
 CEO:  Sir, I have a reply from Admiral Klord.  Shall I relay it?

CTO Kostandinos
 ::hears the red alert just as she enters the bridge:: CMO: What's going on?

CMO Cutter
 CEO: Don't ask if it can worse.  It always can.
   
CSO Lys
 :: hears the klaxons go off and wonders why things never go smoothly on this ship - races to his post ::

CMO Cutter
 CTO: Oh thank goodness you're back.  You can shoot stuff!  The Warbird is moving in again.

CEO Michaels
 ::itches to know what it says::  OPS: Yeah, relay without accessing.

OPS Coreena
 ::Looks oddly at the chief::  CEO:  I already know what it is.

CTO Kostandinos
 CMO:  We should have known it wouldn't be so easy...  ::retakes her post:: Thanks for covering for me.

CEO Michaels
 *CO*: Captain, we've got Romulan friends en route.

Klord
 <RomCO> COMM: Hayden: We have intercepted you communications with your CO... We will destroy the colony if you don't

CSO Lys
 :: nods to Parli and takes over at SCI ::

CMO Cutter
 ::nods:: CTO: I know.  Nothing ever is.  ::relinquishes the weapons, gladly::

CEO Michaels
 CTO: Drop shields and beam the Captain aboard.

OPS Coreena
 ::Glances back at the Talan with a smile.::

CTO Kostandinos
 ::drops them::

CTO Kostandinos
 CEO: Let me know the second he's back

Klord
 Action: the Warbird fires a volley at the colony
 
CO Cutter
 ::races to the bridge::  CEO:  Report Brynn

CEO Michaels
 OPS: Get that green monstrosity on the comm now!

CTO Kostandinos
 ::raises the shields immediately::

OPS Coreena
 COMM:  RomCO: Please reply.

XO Skye
 ::Heads to the bridge quickly, sensing something's a foot.::
   
CSO Lys
 CTO: Are the force field generators still on the planet?

Klord
 Action: The fire is blocked by the Hayden.

FCO Knight
 $*Hayden* ETA fifteen minutes. Prepare to open SB doors and receive shuttle.

CEO Michaels
 CO: All hell's breaking lose sir.  All hands accounted for, the Romulans have opened fire.

CTO Kostandinos
 CSO: No, we'd have to beam them down there.
 
CO Cutter
 CEO:  I can't leave you alone for a second, can I?
 
CO Cutter
 CTO:  Status of weapons and shields?

CTO Kostandinos
 CSO: They're still in the shuttle, which Mr. Knight has en route.

CTO Kostandinos
 CO: They're holding, sir.
   
CSO Lys
 CTO: Understood.
 
CO Cutter
 *FCO*  We're in a shooting match Othello... steer clear

CEO Michaels
 CO: Maybe you'll learn one of these days.
 
CO Cutter
 CEO:  Take the helm

OPS Coreena
 CEO:  They are not responding... beyond their initial message.

Klord
 <RomCO> ::yelling:: COMM: Hayden: You will NOT interfere!

TCO Longly
 #COMM:CO:  Jason the Thistle is ready to assist

CEO Michaels
 CO: Aye sir.
   
XO Skye
 ::Arrives on the bridge to see everyone busy at their stations.::

CEO Michaels
 OPS: That's never a good sign.

CTO Kostandinos
 CSO: That, and the fire would burst through it in a matter of minutes...

CEO Michaels
 ::takes the conn::
 
CO Cutter
 COMM: TCO:  Daria... let's make that sandwich you were talking about.

CMO Cutter
 ::at Medical, prepared to make a mad dash down to sickbay if need be::

OPS Coreena
 ::Repeats the message to the Romulans.::

TCO Longly
 #COMM: CO:  You got it Jason.
 
CO Cutter
 CTO:  Target the warbirds weapons array...  FIRE!

CTO Kostandinos
 ::fires::

CEO Michaels
 :: aloud ::You know, as much as the Romulans wanted this alliance, they don't try very hard to keep it.
   
CSO Lys
 CTO: I had a plan to boost them, but that isn't an option now

TCO Longly
 #::maneuvers the Thistle on the opposing side of the WB

FCO Knight
 $ *CO* That's easy. keep 'er in one piece. I'd like t' fly us outta  'ere.

Klord
 Action: The WB receives fire from both ships and shudders at the impact.
 
CO Cutter
 CEO:  Keep us on the other side of the warbird from the Thistle

TCO Longly
 #COMM: CO:  OK Jason ready for roasted bird.
   
XO Skye
 ::Begins battle damage assessment to the ship and crew casualties as the reports come in.::
 
CO Cutter
 OPS:  Keep trying to raise the warbird.

CEO Michaels
 CO: Understood sir.  ::maneuvers around the warbird::

OPS Coreena
 CO:  Yes sir...

CTO Kostandinos
 CO: Their shields are still holding

TCO Longly
 #::Fires on the warbird...targeting the warp engines::
 
CO Cutter
 CTO:  Continue fire until we've disabled the warbird's weapons.

OPS Coreena
 ::Begins a looping message to the Romulan ship.::
 
CO Cutter
 COMM: TCO:  Daria... target weapons and fire

CMO Cutter
 ::shakes her head and heads down to sickbay.. quickly::

Klord
 <RomCO> COMM: Hayden: You intend to pursue this?

TCO Longly
 #COMM: CO:  Ready here

CTO Kostandinos
 ::continuously fires phasers, alternating torpedoes as well::

TCO Longly
 #::fires all weapons!

OPS Coreena
 ::Adjusts power supply to the shields::
 
CO Cutter
 COMM: RomCO: I intend to keep you from firing on an officially recognized Federation colony.

CEO Michaels
 ::mumbles::  I just love when Starfleet can't make up their minds.

Klord
 Action: The warbird moves off again

FCO Knight
 $ ::raises shields and keeps his eyes peeled for stray blasts::
 
CO Cutter
 CTO:  Cease fire

CEO Michaels
 CO: Your diplomacy worked again.

TCO Longly
 #::Thanks her husband for updating this old bucket with the latest weaponry and technology.::
 
CO Cutter
 COMM: TCO:  Daria.. cease fire

TCO Longly
 #::Ceases fire::

CTO Kostandinos
 ::discontinues weapons::

TCO Longly
 #COMM: CO:  Ceased fire
   
XO Skye
 CO: They won't stay gone for long.
 
CO Cutter
 OPS:  Scan the warbird... did we damage her?
 
CO Cutter
 XO:  I know Sam...  I know

CMO Cutter
 ::directs traffic.. er... deals with wounded in sickbay.  Glad that there are nothing more then broken bones, bumps and the odd laceration::

OPS Coreena
 ::Runs a SRS::

Klord
 COMM: Hayden: We will settle this at the Federation tables.
 
TCO Longly
 #::Brings the Thistle around again and runs scans for damages to the warbird::
 
CO Cutter
 ::jaw drops at the comm::

OPS Coreena
 CO:  Sir, there has been minimal damage.

TCO Longly
 *Mayor Dread* Mayor, continue with the plans for the colony.  It looks like all will end well here.
 
CO Cutter
 COMM: RomCO:  ::trying to cover his shock::  Very well.  See you in council chambers
 
CO Cutter
 OPS:  Very well

CTO Kostandinos
 ::thinks "at least they want to try negotiating" but wonders how long that will last::
 
CO Cutter
 XO:  Bring the FCO onboard

TCO Longly
 #::runs internal scans on her ship::
   
XO Skye
 CO: Aye, Sir.   OPS: Lower the shields to let the FCO enter, then raise shields again.
   
CSO Lys
 :: sits and reflects on all that has happened ::

FCO Knight
 *CO* Looks a li'l calmer out 'ere. *CTO* Nice shootin'.

TCO Longly
 #COMM: CO:  Jason don't forget the engineering loan.  I could use that before I pull out of here.
   
XO Skye
 *FCO*: Shields will be lowering, Othello.  Get yourself on board as soon as possible.

TCO Longly
 #COMM: CO:  And Jason, thank you for trusting me.
 
CO Cutter
 COMM: TCO:  You'll get it Daria.
 
CO Cutter
 COMM: TCO:  You're welcome

CTO Kostandinos
 *FCO* Nice flying ::grins::
 
CO Cutter
 CTO:  Stand down from Red Alert

TCO Longly
 #::She smiles for the first real time in three weeks::
 
CO Cutter
 CTO:  Keep an eye on the warbird.

CTO Kostandinos
 ::takes the alert down, which in turn lowers the shields, and keeps the warbird on tactical sensors::

FCO Knight
 $ *XO* I'll be inside in a minute. Raise shields on my mark.
 
CO Cutter
 CEO:  Send an engineering team to the Thistle to assist
 
CO Cutter
 XO:  Put together a colony assist team...  if these people are going to colonize, they might as well do it right.

TCO Longly
 #::orders red alert down:;

CEO Michaels
 CO: Aye sir.  ::forwards the message he had sent to Jay to Lt. Perkins, and receives confirmation::  They're on their way sir.
 
CO Cutter
 CEO:  Very well
   
CSO Lys
 XO:  Request permission to join the assistance team.
   
XO Skye
 CO: Aye, Sir..... I'll get right on it.....

FCO Knight
 ::Quickly clears the threshold of the SB doors and begins the landing sequence:: *XO* OK. I'm in.
 
CO Cutter
 ::watches his crew gets busy, then leans back with a sigh::
   
XO Skye
 CSO: Mr. Lys, I want you to head the team.  Send me your recommendations and I'll add to them as I see fit.
 
CO Cutter
 XO:  Sam...  I don't know if I did the right thing....  but it feels right.

TCO Longly
 #::relaxes finally with the assurance that this mission is ending right.::
   
CSO Lys
 XO: Aye ma'am
   
XO Skye
 FCO: Understood.

CEO Michaels
 CO: Was there a right thing in these circumstances?

CMO Cutter
 ::stands in the middle of sickbay watching the relatively minimal flurry of excitement.  Wonders how Jason is doing?::
 
CO Cutter
 CEO:  I have no idea...
   
XO Skye
 CO: Well, if the colony was established, you did all you could do.  Right or wrong it is done.

OPS Coreena
 ::Sends a supply list to operations to prepare for those going down to assist.  Requesting suggestions as well.::

Klord
 <<<End Mission>>>