Star Trek: A Call To Duty – USS Huron
Season Eight, Episode Thirty-Six (Mission #346)
“Mechanical Things That Go Bump In The Night – Part Four”
Stardate 10711.10

Cast of Characters:
Commanding Officer    	 Captain Q’tor, House of Quveq 	played by     	Topper Loghry
Executive Officer		 Commander Naug 			played by	Jon Benson 
Chief Tactical Officer 	 Commander Ec’Thel’lon		played by   	Steve Weller 
Chief Engineering Officer Commander Holly Sparks 	played by   	Pam Bruyere 
Flight Control Officer	 Lieutenant T’Lar Bishara		played by     	Lynda Anderson 
Chief Medical Officer	 Ensign William Grenth Stradiot	played by     	Andrew Cotterly

NPC’s:
Doctor Neal								played by   	Linda Baus 
Doctor Jekyl							played by   	Linda Baus 
Transporter Chief							played by   	Linda Baus 
OPS Daniels								played by   	Linda Baus 
FCO [2]								played by   	Lynda Anderson
CTO [2]								played by   	Steve Weller
CMO [2]								played by   	Andrew Cotterly
CO [2]								played by   	Topper Loghry

Mission Prologue:  

Last time on the USS Huron …

The Away Team passed through a gateway and lost communication with their team members on the other side.  They were struck with dizziness, lightheadedness, and nausea, and instantly noticed they had doubled in numbers, each having a clone of them.

The team also noticed that the gateway home was no longer there, and their only clues to this mechanical world pointed them in the direction of a city off in the distance.  A few of the mechanical creatures have tried to make contact with the Away Team, but were shooshed away by the Executive Officer.  Hopefully he didn't hurt their feelings.

Meanwhile, the Captain and Chief Medical Officer are preparing to go through the gateway to find out what happened to the Away Team and why communications have been lost.  Boy, are they in for a big surprise!

Star Trek, A Call To Duty, is proud to present the USS Huron in “Mechanical Things That Go Bump In The Night”, Chapter Four, “It's the little things that matter” Stardate 10711.10

<<<<<<<<<<<< Resume Mission >>>>>>>>>>>>>

INFORMATION:  The gates and wall surrounding the city resemble that of a medieval castle.  From first sight it appears the wall was built for the sole purpose of defense and security.  A closer look will reveal all structures are made of a metallic alloy similar to the composition of the gateway.

INFORMATION:  The walls are approximately twenty feet tall and stretch beyond what the eye can see.  At 150 feet intervals, there is a wall tower built into the construction, which is about 10 feet higher than the surrounding walls.

INFORMATION:  The base of the wall appears to be thicker and looks like it is tapered upward.  Also at the top of the wall, there are vertical spiked objects with vertical slits to defend the city.

INFORMATION:  There appears to be no way into the city with the exception of the gateway which remains locked.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
CTO:  Looks as if they are prepared for an invasion.  I wonder who their enemy is.

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
@::Steps up onto the transporter pad.::

@ACTION:  The Chief Medical Officer steps up onto the transporter pad with the Captain.

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
::Walking along the gold stone path (trademark issues and all), looking at the city.::  All: Place looks cheery.  Guess they don't want any cookie selling robot girls.

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
::Looks around for the little doe that she saw earlier.::

Transporter Chief says: 
@CO:  Just the two of you beaming, Captain?

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
FCO [2]: What you looking for?

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says:
::Sees the walls rising up as she approaches the city.:: CTO: This place is certainly well defended.

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
XO: Guessing we should walk up and knock?

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
@Transporter Chief:  Yes, beam us down.

FCO [2] says: 
FCO:  That cute little doe you were playing with earlier.

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
CEO/ XO: Defenses might be a leftover.  There's still places like this in the Solar System, just a bit smaller.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says: 
CTO: I see nothing else to do. Give the all clear before I knock.

#ACTION:  The Transporter Chief beams the Captain and Chief Medical Officer to the transporter room inside the cave where the gateway is located.  They are met by Doctor Neal.

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
FCO [2]: It is gone but I wouldn't mind having it come back.  I think she is cute even if it is a mechanical animal.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
CTO:  And let’s just hope it is left over.

Doctor Neal says:
#CO:  Welcome, Captain.  As you can see, I've left the gateway open for you.  I have not heard back from your team yet.

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
Scoo/ Bee/ Rothemd: Spread out, keep an eye out for any trouble.  Give a yell if you see anything.

CTO [2] says:
CTO:  We'll do the same.  Two ears are always better than one.

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says:
::Scans the wall with her tricorder.::  XO/CTO:  Seems to be constructed of the same materials as the gateway we came through.

ACTION:  The Away Team approaches the city, and they can now see a moat that surrounds the city walls.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
::Coming up to the gate he looks at it curiously.::  CEO:  Then we might find our answers inside.

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
#Dr. Neal: Of course you haven't!  If I had known there wouldn't be any communication I would have never let my people go through.  Do you have a portable communications console?

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
All:  Hey look, it looks like...what did they call it?   Something like a moat right.

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
CEO: I don't get it, why would you build a lake around the castle.  Why not store the water inside?

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
::Looks at the water.::  FCO: Looks like dirty water to me.

Doctor Neal says:
#CO:  You'll have to take that disgruntlement up with Starfleet.  They are the one's that told me to cease my activities here.  There is a communication console over there. ::Points.::  But it is not portable.  You can't take it with you.  It's .. attached.

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
CTO: In earth's history, a moat was used to keep the enemy from scaling the walls.

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says:
CTO: Could be used to stop or at least slow down enemies that might come this way.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
CTO:  Maybe there is something in the water.

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
XO:  A very good guess, Sir.

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
All:  But it wouldn't work when it fro...er, never mind.  Sorry, planet centrism and all.

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
#::Grumbles.:: Dr. Neal: A distress beacon then?

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says:
::Continues scanning as they reach the moat's edge.::

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
::Stops at the draw bridge.::  CEO:  See any way to lower this bridge?

Doctor_Jekyl says:
CEO:  This alloy from the wall appears to be similar to the alloy from the gateway.  Do you have a tricorder on you that you can compare?

FCO [2] says:
FCO:  What was that?  I thought I saw something?

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says:
XO:  Looking for a way, Sir.

Doctor Neal says:
#CO:  No, Captain.  We have no need for anything like that here.  This was supposed to be a scientific mission, not a rescue operation.

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says: 
Jekyl: They appear to be the same alloy.

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
FCO [2]:  What did you see?

FCO [2] says:
FCO:  A shadow or something.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
CTO:  Perhaps shouting will get there attention.

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
XO:  Good guess, don't see another option.

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
#Dr. Neal:  What would happen if this facility were to lose power, Doctor Neal?  You would have no way of calling for assistance?  Bah!

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
#COM: Huron: Q'tor to the Huron.

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
::Reaches out with her mind and gets nothing but peace and serene and no danger at all.::

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
Out loud: Hello, is there anyone there to lower this bridge. We must speak to whoever is in charge here.  ::He calls loudly.::

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
XO:  Sir, I am not sensing anything bad.  Only peacefulness, serene, and calm.

OPS Daniels says: 
@COM: Huron: This is Lieutenant Daniels, Sir.

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says:
::Walks a few feet along the moat.::

ACTION:  The drawbridge makes a loud squeaking noise and begins to lower, but then stops 1/4 of the way down.

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
::Watches the bridge come to a point and stop.::

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says:
XO: Keep it up, Sir. Someone heard you.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
::Watches the bridge lower.::  FCO:  Hope it stays that way.

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
CEO: Yeah, but why did it suddenly stop?

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
#COM: Daniels: Lieutenant, we're going to need a portable communications console or a distress beacon beamed down here right away.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
CTO:  Looks like it worked.

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says:
FCO: I don't know, but it got the attention we needed.

Doctor_Jekyl says:
XO:  Looks like something is happening.  ::Points to the drawbridge.::  But why did it stop?  Maybe you could catapult me up there?

OPS Daniels says:  
@COM: Huron:  Right away, Sir.  Give me two minutes, and I'll have it beamed to your location.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
Jekyl:  I am not throwing you over first, Doctor.

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
#COM: Daniels: And Lieutenant, make sure it has a hard line with it.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
CTO:  Any idea how to get on the bridge.  ::Looking up at it.::

Doctor_Jekyl says:
XO:  How about some of those vines over there?  ::Points to the trees.::  They're made of that metallic element.  They look strong enough.  Maybe we can loop it over the bridge.

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
XO:  Depends.

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
XO:  Will there be anyone dropping boiling oil or the like on our way over?

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
::Looks at the vines.::  Jekyl:  Good idea.     
CTO:  I hope not, but we got to get in there.  Take the Flight Control Officer with you and let’s get some of that vine.

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
::Walks to the vines Jekyl's pointing to and starts pulling on them, seeing how strong they are.::

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says:
Jekyl: They might think we're attacking them if we start climbing.

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
XO: Keep yelling, someone's in there obviously.

ACTION:  The vines appear to be strong, but alive, and wrap around the Chief Tactical Officer's waist.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
Out loud:  Lower the bridge more.  We can not come inside.

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
XO:  Sir, the vines are alive.

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
All:  Ech!  What in the frozen wastes is happening?  ::Tries to step back from the tree.::

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says:
::Looks over at the vines and sees them wrapping around the Chief Tactical Officer.:: CTO: Icky!  Look out!

#ACTION:  The portable device transports to the Captain's location.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
::Turns to the Chief Tactical Officer and sees he is in trouble.  Runs over to help get him loose.::

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says:
::Heads towards the Chief Tactical Officer.::

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
::Walks up to the Chief Tactical Officer.::  Vines:  Please, we need your assistance.  Could you intertwine to make a rope to help us to get to the bridge?

ACTION:  The vine detaches from the plant when it sees the Executive Officer approaching.  There is a good 10 foot of vine rope that was pulled.

FCO [2] says:
FCO:  You are nuts?

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
CTO:  You okay, Commander?

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
All:  It's all right, the stuff seemed to want to, I don't know, introduce itself?

Doctor Neal says:
#CO:  It looks like your package has arrived.  You ready to go through now?  I'll keep the gateway open as long as I can.

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
#::Examines the device and plugs the hard line into it.::  Dr. Neal:  See to it that this stays connected to your communications.

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
CTO:  You okay, Sir?

Doctor Neal says:
#::Nods to the Captain.::

FCO [2] says:
FCO:  You know, you are really nuts.  ::Stomps off.::

#ACTION:  The Chief Medical Officer seems anxious to see what's on the other side.

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
XO:  I'm fine.  It didn't even try to injure, I don't think.  More like a hug almost.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
CTO:  Is it still alive?

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says:
CTO: Icky, stop scaring me. ::Hits his arm.::

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
#::Picks up the beacon and nods to the Chief Medical Officer.::  CMO:  Let's go.

ACTION:  As the Executive Officer turns, the vine slaps him in the butt, and then retracts.

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
XO:  I think so...er, yeah, definitely.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
Out loud:  HEY!

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
::Nearly falls over laughing.::

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
XO:  Planet seems to not like you much.

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
#::Pulls his phaser and heads through the gateway::

ACTION:  Both the Captain and Chief Medical Officer pass through the gateway, however only the Captain steps through the other side.  The Chief Medical Officer is nowhere to be seen.  The Captain, being the big strong Klingon that he is, only experiences a small amount of dizziness, but soon realizes there is two of him, and …

FCO [2] says:
FCO:  Everything here is alive you idiot!!!

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says:
::Chuckles at Toir's reaction.::

ACTION:  … The Captain has been reduced to about half of his size.  As a result, his voice is now high-pitched when he speaks.   It is impossible to know which one is the original, and all features, including scars and memories are identical.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
CTO:  Funny, Commander.  Just grab the vine and see what we can do with it.

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
XO:  Won't be enough, only about 3 meters worth.

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says:
::Scans the vine section.::

ACTION:  The gate makes another squeaky noise and then drops about halfway.

Doctor_Jekyl says:
CTO:  Maybe we can get some more vine.

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
::Walks up to another vine.::  Vine: Please, we need a little more of your vines to help us.  Can you assist?

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
::Wraps the vines into a coil, then goes back for some more.::  All: I'll see if I can gather some more.  
FCO: Just stand back in case I get in trouble.  No sense two of us getting in the way.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
::Looks at he bridge lower some more.::

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says: 
::Phaser aimed.::  CO [2]: 'IvSoH (Who are you?)

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
::Steps back to the vines and pulls again, with a firm but gentle pull.::

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says:
Self: Hmm, alive, yet like nothing we have in the database.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
Out loud:  This is not funny.  I do not like to play games.  Lower the bridge.

CO [2] says:
CO:  I am Captain Q'tor tuq Qaveq of the Federation Starship Huron.  Who are you?

ACTION:  The vines release a long stretch of vine, enough to hoist up to the drawbridge.

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
XO:  For what it's worth, this stuff might be good for Keel Hauling.  ::Grins, then takes the vines to just beneath the bridge.::

ACTION:  And just as the Chief Tactical Officer gets the vine, the drawbridge lowers the rest of the way.

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
CO [2]:  What sort of trickery is this?  Who are you and where are my people?

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
CTO:  Seems they are playing around with us.

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
::Steps out of the way.::  All: everyone grab some, no telling if we'll need more inside.

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says:
::Walks back to the drawbridge as it lowers.::

Doctor_Jekyl says:
ALL:  Look, the bridge is down.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
CEO/Jekyl:  Is there any way to isolate the gateway on tricorders?

CO [2] says:
CO:  I told you who I am, and I've come here to retrieve MY people.  Now who are you and what have you done with my Doctor?

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says:
::Reaches for a section of vine.::  CTO:  This stuff feels strange.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
::Steps on the bridge and feels under his feet.::

ACTION:  As the Chief Tactical Officer walks past the Executive Officer with the vine, the vine grabs hold of the Executive Officer's leg and attaches itself to him.

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says:
XO: Isolate it, Sir?

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
CEO: Strange is relative in this place.  I think it's safe enough.  Ugh, for most of us.

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
CO [2]:  I AM Captain Q'tor, and I've had enough of this.  Tell me what I want to know or die!

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
CEO:  I just want to find it and get ..........................  
Out loud:  Get this thing off me  ::Shaking his leg.::

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says:
XO: Sir, it seems to like you.  ::Smiles.::

ACTION:  Inside the city, there are mechanical robots scurrying around, none seem to be bothered by the presence of the outsiders.

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
::Works to get the vine off the Executive Officer's leg.::

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says:
::Reaches down and tries to remove the vine as well.::

CO [2] says:
CO:  You DARE to threaten me?

ACTION:  The trees bend slightly at the presence of the newcomer through the gateway as if they are sniffing him out.  The Captain is greeted by the small mechanical poodle-like puppy, who does not get very close cause he looks too much like that “other” Klingon that tried to hurt him.

ACTION:  The vine seems intent on not wanting to let go of the Executive Officer's leg.

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
::Pushes the trigger on his phaser.::

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says:
XO:  It seems to be stuck, Sir.

ACTION:  As the Captain pulls the trigger of his phaser, nothing happens.

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
XO:  Maybe if you try relaxing it, petting it even?

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says: 
Out loud: Where is a phaser when I need one?  GRRRRRRRRRR…..

ACTION:  The vine twists up the Executive Officer's leg, planting itself firmly in place around the Executive Officer.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
ALL:  Fine I'm stuck with it.  Let’s go in.  ::Walking funny with a vine around his leg.::

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
::Taps his comm-badge.::  *Doctor Neal*:  Doctor Neal, is the Doctor still with you?

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says:
:;Stands back up and winks at Icky.::

FCO [2] says:
XO:  Be kind to it if you can, and it will let you go.

ACTION:  The comm does not go through from the Captain.  There is no response.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
FCO:  GRRRRR.  ::Trying to forget about the blasted thing.::

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
::Sees the small creature looking at him but doesn't pay much attention... yet.::

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
All: Okay, everyone keep a sharp eye out.  Things seem to not care about us, at least for now.

ACTION:  The mechanical deer approaches the Flight Control Officer, and walks up to her.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
Out loud:  Who is in charge here?  ::Walking through the gate.::

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
*Doctor Neal:*  Doctor Neal, come in!

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says:
::Hefts her vines onto her shoulder.::

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
::Puts her hand out to the deer as before.::

CO [2] says:
CO:  It would seem that communications through the gateway are not possible.

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
Deer:  Come on, there.  That is it.  I won't hurt you.  You are cute.

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says:
::Moves forward slowly.::

ACTION:  No response to the Captain's comm, but just as he does, the gateway spits out the Chief Medical Officer, two of him, each of them half the size as the original, just like the Captain.

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
::Walks along, pulling out hand lamp just in case the castle is dark.::

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
*CO*:  Sir?  Is that you?

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
::Hears something on his comm badge sounding like the Captain.::

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
CMO:  Doctor!  ::Looks at both of the doctors and then at his own doppelganger.::

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
*CO*:  Sir, I am hearing you.  Are you on the ship or here with us?

CMO_William_Stradiot says:
::Looks around.::  CO: You've got to be kidding me...Two of me?

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says:
::Stays right behind the Chief Tactical Officer.:: CTO: This is really weird, isn't it?

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
CMO:  So it would seem.

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
CEO:  Weird is an understatement, but it's also relative.

CMO [2] says: 
CMO: Greetings...::Shakes hands with other Chief Medical Officer.:: Strange, isn't it?

CMO_William_Stradiot says:
CMO [2]:  Indeed it is...

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
*XO*:  Commander!  I am here.  We lost communications with you.  I came over to tell you to return to the gateway.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
*CO*:  Great!  Seems like we are all stuck here.  Where are you?  And you sound squeaky.  Are you alright?

ACTION:  As the Executive Officer speaks through his comm badge, the vine releases its grip on him and slithers off.

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
CMO:  We're not here to make friends, Doctor.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
Out loud:  About time.  ::Rubbing his leg.::

ACTION:  The giant mechanical sunflower plants lining the roadway, bend curiously at the Captain from behind him and then quickly straighten out when he turns around.

CMO_William_Stradiot says:
CO:  Yes, Sir.

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
*XO*:  I am at the gateway, Commander.  And it would seem that there are copies of both Doctor Stradiot and myself.

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
::Is still preoccupied with the deer.::

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says:
::Scans the mechanical creatures as she walks by them.::

CTO [2] says:
::Walks to the closest robot.::  Robot:  Hi, anyone around we can talk to about where we are?

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
*CO*:  Same here, Captain.  Is there a yellow road before you?

ACTION:  The deer pulls at the Flight Control Officer's clothing as if to pull her into the city.

CMO [2] says:
::Chuckles to himself as he watches the flowers.::

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
Deer:  You want me to go into the city with you?

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
ALL:  I think we should wait here till the Captain can catch up to us.  We need to all be together.

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
*XO*: That would be affirmative.

ACTION:  The mechanical puppy returns and is barking up a storm.  It approaches the Chief Medical Officer and playfully jumps up on him.

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
XO:  Sir, the deer is pulling me into the city.  I believe she wants me to go with her.

ACTION:  The deer bobs her head as if it understands the Flight Control Officer.

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
::Turns his attention to the little creature jumping on the Chief Medical Officer.::

CMO_William_Stradiot says:
Puppy:  Curious...::Pets the creature.::

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
*CO*:  Follow it.  We did and are standing before a great castle.  We will await you before we continue.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
FCO:  Do not go any further until the Captain is here.

ACTION:  The puppy licks the Chief Medical Officer's face, and as it jumps up, a squeaky sound can be heard as if it needs oiled.

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
::Bends down.::  Deer:  Right now I can't go with you, but I will go with you as soon as my superior officer arrives.  Okay?

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
Robots: Anyone here speak Federation Common?  Or Andorian maybe?

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
*XO*:  Commander, despite having a portable distress beacon hardwired back through the gateway and to the facility's comm system, we still do not have communications with the other side.

ACTION:  The deer nuzzles up against the Flight Control Officer, then snorts and runs off.

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
::Smiles at the deer as she runs off.::

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says:
::Continues to scan the area.::

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
*CO*:  That does not surprise me, Captain.  I believe there might be a another gateway or some one in charge at this castle.

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
Self:  Of all the stupid dumb idiotic fools.

ACTION:  The robots in the city do not appear to respond to the Chief Tactical Officer's quest for answers.

CMO_William_Stradiot says:
::Looks back at the "Gateway".::  CO: There is no gateway to return too, Sir...

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says:
CTO: Guess you don't have the magic word, Icky.  ::Smiles.::

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
*XO*:  Very well, Commander.  Hold your position until I arrive.  The Doctor and I are on our way.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
::Looks at the robots.::  CTO:  It seems either they do not know we are here or do not acknowledge us at all.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
*CO*:  Yes, Sir.

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
::Still looking over at the Doctor and the playful creature::  CMO:  Doctor do you suppose that thing can communicate?

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
ALL:  The Captain is on his way.  Stand fast.

CMO [2] says:
::Whispers.::  CMO:  I'm sure you told him that this entire idea is awful.

Doctor_Jekyl says:
XO:  Sir, I do believe that the animals were leading us here for one reason or another.  If we are given the opportunity, we need to find out where they are taking us.  Then perhaps we may be able to find the gateway home.

CMO_William_Stradiot says:
CO:  I am not sure.

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
XO:  Acknowledge or recognize, Sir?  You think they view us as sentients?

CMO_William_Stradiot says:
Puppy:  Can you communicate with us?

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
CTO:  There is no way to tell.

ACTION:  The puppy just wags his tail and barks.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
Jekyl:  We are going to wait for the Captain.

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
CMO:  I'll take that as a no.

CMO_William_Stradiot says:
::Whispers.::  CMO [2]:  You can be sure I did tell him, but does anyone listen to us? 
CO:  Yeah, evidently not.

ACTION:  The deer returns with something in its mouth and gives it to the Flight Control Officer.

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
CO [2]:  You might as well come along.  Strength in numbers and all that.

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
Doctor Jekyl: That is what I was going to suggest.  Apparently they are able to sense that some of us do have nice hearts and feelings.  Remember this place is peaceful and in general pleasant.

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
CMO:  Let's go, Doctor.

CTO [2] says:
XO:  No, but there is a way to guess.  After all, if you saw these things walking down the halls at the Academy, would you think them anything more than a simple experiment?

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
::Sees the deer and what it has in its mouth.::

CMO_William_Stradiot says:
CO: Yes, Sir.  ::Follows the Captain.::

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
::Starts off down the yellow road.::

CMO [2] says:
::Sighs and follows the Captain [2].::

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
CTO [2]:  Good point.  Let’s stay clear of them for now.

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
ALL:  Oh my goodness!!!  ::Takes the head.:: 
XO:  Look what the deer has brought me?  The head of a Borg drone!!

ACTION:  The puppy runs off in front of the Captain and Chief Medical Officer headed toward the city, wagging its tail and waiting for them to follow.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
FCO:  WHAT?!  Give that here.  Let me see.

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
::Turns fast, reaching for the Phaser out of reaction.::  FCO: Drop it, don't let it leak on you!

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
::Gently takes it from the deer and hands it to the Executive Officer.::

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says:
::Moves to push the Flight Control Officer away.::  FCO:  Be careful!

CMO_William_Stradiot says:
CO:  No offense, Sir, but I've got a feeling we should hurry.

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
CTO: I am not fool hardy, Sir.  I have dealt with the Borg before.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
::Gently holding the head and places it on the ground.::  CEO:  What do you make of this and how did we not detect it on tricorders?

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
FCO:  Guess resistance is either not futile, or else it's a head only a mother can love.

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
CEO:  Relax Holly, please.  It is dead.

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
CTO:  Well maybe since all what we see around us is mechanical, maybe this is the next evolution of the Borg?

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
CMO:  Don't the Humans have a saying about fools rushing in, Doctor?  We'll keep a brisk pace, but we don't know how far we have to go to reach the away team, and we will need to conserve some strength for anything ... unexpected.

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says:
XO:  I don't know why it didn't register, Sir.  ::Scans it.:: It is not alive, Sir.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
CEO:  Nothing on scanners?  Not even a trace of Borg technology?

Doctor_Jekyl says:
FCO:  Or maybe the Borg tried to invade this world and this was the result.

CMO_William_Stradiot says:
CO:  As you are so fond of pointing out, Captain, I'm also Vulcan. I'm personally ready for anything, and personally, we should catch up with them sooner rather than later.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
::Stands up.::  *CO*:  Sir, we have a Borg head in out possession.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
Jekyl:  If that is the case, then maybe we might want to try and make the robots our friends, with fire power like that.

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
Jekyl: That was option A.  They disarmed us, but the Borg are a threat not easily disarmed.  Take out all their weapons and this might be the result.

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says:
XO: The scans show that the head is made up of the same alloy as the gateway and the Borg nanites have been modified somehow.

Doctor_Jekyl says:
XO:  Trouble is, with friends like this, are they really friends?  Or another enemy?

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
CTO:  Scan for anymore Borg, just in case.

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
*XO*:  Borg?  Commander, I'm guessing that your phasers are non functional as are mine.  Are you armed at all?

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
XO:  I always carry my Kut'luch and D'tagh.

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
::Pulls them both from her pack.::

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
*CO*:  Only with my blade.  ::Nods to the Flight Control Officer.::  And Lieutenant Bishara has one too.  We are checking the perimeter now.

CMO [2] says:
::Whispers.::  CMO:  If you ever figure out what they're saying, do tell me?

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
XO:  See?  ::Holds them up.::

CMO_William_Stradiot says:
::Whispers back.::  CMO [2]:  Indeed I shall...

FCO [2] says:
FCO:  I also have mine as well.  ::Pulls her own blades out.::

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
CMO:  I have no doubt that you could keep up with me, Doctor.  However, I will not go rushing headlong, in unfamiliar territory, straight into whatever awaits us.

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
XO:  On it.  ::Pulls Tricorder and sets it to detect the hybrid Borg/alloy signal, then scans for known Borg Technical signals.::  XO: Picking up multiple signals, 5 dozen or so.  And I'm....we're never disarmed.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
::Grins at the Chief Tactical Officer.::  CTO:  Can you tell if they’re active?

CMO_William_Stradiot says:
CO: Yes, Sir.

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
XO:  No guarantees, but I think not.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
ALL:  Stay on your guard.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
*CO*:  We have scanned 5 dozen Borg drones, but we can not tell if they are active or not, so be careful.

Doctor_Jekyl says:
CEO:  If the Borg are here, I will protect you.  I won't let them hurt you.

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
XO:  On guard for what, Sir?  I sense nothing dangerous here.  Only peace and serenity.

CMO_William_Stradiot says:
::Follows closely behind the two Captain's conversing with the Chief Medical Officer [2] about what could await us all.::

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
*XO*:  Very good, Commander.  We're on our way.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
FCO:  Don't let your senses fool you, Lieutenant.

Doctor_Jekyl says:
XO:  I am also sensing a peacefulness as well.

CTO_Cmdr_Ec`Thel`Ion says:
Jekyl:  If the Borg are here, we'd know it I think.  Place is too peaceful.  No signs of battle, or even fear of impending battle.

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
XO: They are not, Sir.  I am very sure, Sir.

CEO_Cmdr_Sparks says:
Jekyl: Thanks for that, but I think the Commander here can handle it.  ::Nods at Icky.::

FCO_Lt_Bishara says:
XO:  All I sense is total peacefulness and bliss.

Host CO_CAPT_Q`tor says:
CMO:  You see Doctor?  Borg.  I thought Vulcans were renowned for their caution.

Host XO_Cmdr_Naug says:
ALL:  I don't care how peaceful this place seems, do not let it fool any of you.  Stay sharp.  It's too quiet.

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