Star Trek: A Call To Duty
U.S.S. Quirinus

Teaching Children About Fractals
Two

Arc Title: Teaching Children About Fractals
Episode: Two
Mission Number: 266
Creator: Michael Jones
Ship Manager: Michael Jones
Stardate: 10402.23

Previously …

The crew of the Quirinus is no longer in familiar territory.

Well, that’s been true since they began this peculiar Journey, but now they have arrived in an a world entirely different than the tropical paradise of the Ew. Traversing the pass between mountains, they found themselves on frigid tundra; more brutal than any Verun they ever fought.

Most of the crew fell before the onslaught of ice, wind and snow – Lt. Cmdr. Kraight being the worst out of anyone. However, hope was not lost. The crew were soon rescued by the mysterious Q’Ether – a people separated in two halves which work together: one is a humanoid group who are disfigured with black growths yet hardly consider themselves troubled, the others are their future forms – radiant beings of near energy who fly around, and wield yet to be truly revealed abilities. 

The Q’Ether bring the exhausted Q crew back to a town they have crafted in the midst of the tundra, a place of sunlight (w/o sun), warmth, and wheat. All thanks to their radiant evolved forms. However, while the situation may have started off similar to their encounter with the Ew … it is hardly going to proceed in that direction …

… Lt. Jg. Morgan has suddenly begun to grow these same mysterious black growths, and the Q’Ether have labeled her “the Guide.” What this means for her or the crew remains to be seen …

Dramatis Personae 

Mitch Travis is Captain Sulek – Commanding Officer of the Quirinus, the Vulcan / Deltan Sulek has been a member of the ship since its launch. Rising through the ranks onboard, he has come to find that his destiny is intertwined with that of his vessel’s, passing up offers of promotion time and again. Seemingly always logical and reserved, Sulek does indeed care for all of his crew.

Keith LaHue is Commander Ben Pangborn – Executive Officer of the Quirinus, the Human Pangborn has been through a lot in the last year or so. He recently came to discover that the Trickster, the being he destroyed to save his crew and the Universe has now been bonded to his mind. Ensnared there in some sort of horrific purgatory (for the Trickster, not Pangborn). However, the Trickster has found ways out of his “mental jail cell,” and is desperate for a release …

Jeffrey Brown is Lieutenant Commander Kraight – Chief Science Officer and Second Officer of the Quirinus, the Benzite Kraight may appear to less of a threat than expected, but his intelligence, cleverness, and wit have proven himself time and again to the Quirinus crew … and the foes they face.

Linda Davis is Lieutenant Teim Ris’Mor – Counselor of the Quirinus, the Caitian known as Teim has come to find herself in a conflict of identity upon starting this Journey. She seems torn between what she views as “humanity” and her feral Caitian self. Thanks to the Verun, she is more conflicted than ever. Yet, mysterious beings from her past (or future?) might hold the solution to her problems; that is, if the Journey before her does not. 

Jane Rowley is Lieutenant JG. Cherry – Chief Tactical Officer of the Quirinus, the human / Betazoid hybrid has come off as a distracted (mostly by clothing), opinionated, and flirtatious character whom not many may take seriously. That is their mistake. Cherry is a determined Starfleet Officer whose friendship with OPS Morgan is one of the many dedications she has onboard the Quirinus.

Edward Selgas is Lieutenant JG. David Telarus – Chief Engineering Officer of the Quirinus, the human Telarus has revealed himself to be a clever and creative force onboard the ship. Often giving ideas and plans to help the crew through their endeavors, Telarus is a fountain of ideas. Which should hopefully make his relationship with the ship’s CMO, Ms. Munro, an interesting one.

Fiona Sorel is Ensign Harriet Munro – Chief Medical Officer of the Quirinus, the Kriosian / Human is a delicate, soft-spoken woman who has proven herself capable of looking out for the crew. She is currently in a relationship with the ship’s CEO, Lt. Jg. Telarus.

Erryn Pollack is Ensign Lance Wolvington – Tactical Officer of the Quirinus, the human Wolvington is the newest addition to the ship’s crew, and has proven himself quite capable in battle. The atypical paranoid security officer, Wolvington still has a lot to learn … and may be on that journey of knowledge soon.

Pam Bruyere is Admiral Serena Sheridan – Former Counselor of the Quirinus, Admiral Sheridan is a long time friend of Sulek, and holds a psychic bond with him. There has always been a bit of romantic tension between the two … but nothing has ever come of it. Will this always hold true?

Ensign Albert Rio – Security Officer Rio seems to be struggling with his sense of identity: is he a fiancée to the woman he loves, is he a Starfleet officer with aspirations for greatness, or is he simply a man more confused than anyone else? Selected along with three other junior officers, this Adventure the crew are going upon may help him find a sense of identity.

Lieutenant JG. Erin Eisenhower – The Engineering Officer is a girl who may have just started to have the best day of her life, and is now having the worst day of her life. Looking forward to a date with a charming man from Astrometrics, she has now found herself torn away from her normal life to go on some “away mission” with the senior crew. Despite this perhaps being the chance for her to excel, she does not care. She didn’t join Starfleet for adventures on far away worlds; she joined to repair stuff.

Chief Petty Officer Beldaur – Yet another member of the Security force present on this expedition to regions unknown. The jolly Beldaur seems out of place amongst his peers. While not seemingly excelling in the matters of assault and fighting, he has a sharp mind when it comes to strategy. 

Ensign Y’Et – He’s furry.

The Trickster – Also known as the Unnamed One, the Trickster was an intangible shape-shifting entity who was but a member of a group of demonic demi-God like beings who once ruled the known Universe. That is, until Commander Ben Pangborn killed it. However, the Universe has a wicked sense of humor, and the evil entity has now been bonded to Pangborn’s mind in a form of purgatory. 

Neet – The adorable Monkey / Cat creature known as Neet introduces himself by scurrying amongst the Quirinus crew, until finally meeting a kindred spirit … Counselor Ris’Mor. For some reason, they are both able to understand each other. Whether this is some peculiar animal connection or something else is a mystery for another day … if a friendship will develop out of this odd pairing is what is wondered now.

John Summers is N’Terayk – The Protector of the Q’Ether present in this town. He is the atypical man of security: silent, dedicated, and waiting for the “other shoe to drop.”

T’Gaiver – The Leader of the Q’Ether present in this town. He is a heavily religious man, believing in the Gods for how they have provided for his people to survive through the Darkness. He has strong faith in all the prophecies left by the Gods. 

U.S.S. Quirinus Stardate 10402.23 "Teaching Children About Fractals" Episode Two
=/\==/\==/\==/\==/\= Resume Mission =/\==/\==/\==/\==/\=

ACTION: Ten hours have passed since the Quirinus crew first awoke to find themselves in the "bowl zone" of the Q'Ether.

CO_Capt_Sulek says:
    ::,moves through the village::

N`Terayk says:
   ::silently watches the crew::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
   ::still standing in the town center scowling at everyone who passes:

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::accompanies the captain:: Sulek: I'm concerned about Morgan

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
::looks around at the surroundings::

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::looks for the CSO::

ACTION: Although you could not tell anything has changed as it's still white in the sky with the rainbow Q'Ether flying about.

VADM_Sheridan says:
::follows the Captain but staying a respectful distance behind observing the villagers closely::

N`Terayk says:
CO: Anything you want to see?

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: spots Teim across the compound :: CNS: Good morning, Teim!

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::walks passed the annoyed CTO and blinks at her expression::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::bares her teeth at the CNS::

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Pangborn: I too am concerned about the change.  I am at a loss however as what we can do.

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::nods to the CSO and walks his direction:: CSO: how can you tell what time it is?

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::smiles for no particular reason, exposing an unnerving number of teeth::

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
CO: Sir I don't think were in Kansas anymore as it were.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: We are powerless to stop it ourselves. Possibly the Q'Etherians will have a solution. 

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: shrugs, laughs :: CNS: I admit, under this featureless sky, I can't. Might as well pick a time of 
day and run with it.

CMO_Ens_Munro says:
::Stands around watching a few people run by::

ACTION: Lt. Jg. Morgan stands near the CTO, keeping to herself ... more of the black "moles" have appeared over her body ... she seems paler than usual, and quite uncomfortable.

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
N'Teryak:  We were curious about the dark time.  Is there perhaps a museum in the village or a place where we could learn more about this time and your amazing evolution?

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Pangborn: Judging from their reaction, they do not seem to wish to stop it.

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Telarus: Kansas?

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
CSO: I'm more of a night creature myself.. how are your cold burns? or did you get any from your frost bite?

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::observes quietly::

N`Terayk says:
CO: There is a shrine dedicated to the Great Transition. Is that something that would interest you?

Lt. Jg. Eisenhower says:  
CMO: Hey there, how ya' doing?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: Couldn't hurt to ask. They might be able to shed some light on the situation. No pun intended ::wry smile::

VADM_Sheridan says:
::notices how all the villagers seem to be keeping a close eye on Morgan::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CNS: No, I appear to have survived unscathed. Benzites have a gland that produces what, for lack of a better term, we can call an 'organic antifreeze'. It is almost unheard of for a Benzite to freeze to death.

CPO Beldaur says:  
::Recovering from the earlier cold situation:: TO: Sir, is there anything you'd like me to do ... everyone seems ... uncomfortable here. Unlike the land of the Ew ...

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
N'Teryak: Yes. Please lead the way.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CNS: The gland starts secreting when we enter rekchava.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::follows the captain::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::frowns at some villagers::

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
CO: Old Earth saying sir. Kansas was a state in the United States of America

N`Terayk says:
CO: Gladly. ::heads for the shrine::

Ens. Rio says:  
::Steps up besides the Vice Admiral:: Sheridan: Excuse me, ma'am.

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
CMO: Hey sweetie see anything interesting?

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
CSO: I was thinking more along the lines of surface tissue damage due to female friction.. ::huffs:: But I doubt you remember that ::grins at him:: so what did you have for.. lunch..

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Pangborn: True.  ::follows N'Teryak::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
CPO: Nothing to do, really. And as for being more uncomfortable...a sure sign of civilization.

CPO Beldaur says: 
 ::Looks puzzled:: TO: You are uncomfortable with civilization?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
N'Teryak: We'd like to stop the transformation of one of our friends. Is that possible?

VADM_Sheridan says:
::hurries to catch up with Sulek but then stops:: Rio: Yes Rio? What can I do for you?

CMO_Ens_Munro says:
CEO: No, just standing around really. You?

Ens. Rio says: 
 ::Looks around, then silently whispers:: W says:  Sheridan: I heard you're a powerful telepath. Is there any chance you could warn us before they choose to infect the rest of us like they did Morgan?

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
CPO: I'm indifferent, personally. But it seems to make most people uncomfortable, even if they won't admit it.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CNS: The Q'Ether proved an excellent selection of greens from their gardens. They have adapted their agricultural practices to the climate.

Lt. Jg. Eisenhower says: 
 ::Sees the CMO is concentrating on speaking with her hubby, shrugs and walks off::

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
N'Terayk:  We are concerned for our friend who seems to be going through your evolutionary process.  We are different from you and worry about adverse effects this change might have.

N`Terayk says:
::arrives at the shrine:: CO: Here you are.

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
CSO: no meat huh..

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CNS: No. As you may have noticed, no animals have survived.

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
N'Terayk: Please tell me about the shrine.

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
CSO: well.. some did.. but I don't think anyone would like it if I ate them.. ::snorts and folds her arms:: I think I have some dried elk left in my pack..

VADM_Sheridan says:
::raises an eyebrow:: Rio: I'm sure no one is planning on infecting any of us Ensign, but if I get any "feelings" about it, I'll be sure and let you all know. ::smiles slightly::

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
CMO: Nothing here, I am going to go ahead and check out the terrain.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CNS: Keep it for yourself, Teim. I'll have no problems with a vegetarian diet for a time.

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
CO: Sir permission to scout ahead.

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Telarus: Granted.

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::looks over at Morgan::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CNS: I'd like to check on Jade, see how she is holding up. Will you accompany me?

N`Terayk says:
CO: She is not injured, there is nothing to heal.

CMO_Ens_Munro says:
CEO: I'll go with you.

CPO Beldaur says:  
TO: Hmmm, I remain puzzled. I have never felt uncomfortable in civilization. But that is just me.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
N'Terak: Yes, but she's transforming...can you stop it?

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
CSO: very well.. I don't think Cherry's recent level of.. how should I say.. hostility would warrant any consumption of flesh.. she might get meaner.. ::huffs and looks the direction of the CTO::

ACTION: Morgan remains leaning against a building, shivering, looking pale ... more moles on her than before.

VADM_Sheridan says:
::continues to catch up with Sulek::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::shrugs:: CPO: To each their own.

N`Terayk says:
CO: The shrine was erected soon after this village was built. As a way to honor the Great Transition which has saved the us.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: walks toward Cherry ::

N`Terayk says:
the us= us says: 

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::smiles reassuringly at Morgan::

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
N'Terayk: Still we would be more comfortable if we were sure that the change would not hurt her.  Is there a doctor or someone who does healing that could look at her?

N`Terayk says:
ALL: Stopping it is unheard of. It is a natural process. She is the Guide. She has been sent by the Gods to lead us into the New Age.

Ens. Rio says:  
::Calls out as the Vice Admiral rushes off to catch up with Sulek & Pangborn:: Sheridan: Thank you ma'am!

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::watches from her last position.. in her silk Pajamas..::

ACTION: Morgan tries to smile back, but she winces instead.

VADM_Sheridan says:
::picks up the end of the conversation with N`Terayk about the Transition::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CTO: Lt. Cherry... have you seen Lt. Morgan?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: I'd say we'd best look to the shrine for some kind of "divine intervention

Lt. Jg. Eisenhower says:  
::Joins Beldaur & the TO:: TO / Beldaur: Am I missing anything interesting?

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::points to OPS who is leaning against a building nearby::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CTO: Thank you.

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::narrows her eyes at the CSO::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
EO: Not really. Just waiting for the next shoe to drop.

CPO Beldaur says:  
::Looks up in the sky::

Lt. Jg. Eisenhower says:  
Beldaur: Figure of speech, Beldaur. There are no hovering shoes waiting to drop ...

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: walks over to Morgan ::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::smirks::

N`Terayk says:
CO: Anything else you need to know?

Lt. Jg. Eisenhower says:  
TO: I know better than to ask you if you think anything's going to happen, especially after last time, but ...

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Pangborn: Or for medical knowledge.  Check with others in the village.  If you find someone, perhaps he or she could look at Morgan.

ACTION: Morgan remains leaning against the side of the building, not really acknowledging the CSO.

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::smiles:: EO: I'm bound to be wrong sometime.

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
N'Teryak: Tell me about the transition.  What does your history tell you of that time.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: I'll do so...let me know if you find anything of interest in the shrine. I'm going to find Morgan

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::leaves back towards the others::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Morgan: Jade? How are you feeling?

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::bites back a "how does she look like she's feeling" sort of comment::

ACTION: The OPS looks really pale, and she appears to be sweating ... she's shivering a lot also, holding herself .. she mumbles ... "Could be ... better ..."

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
CMO: You worried about us getting back to the ship eventually, I wonder how much time has really passed.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::arrives to find the CSO looking after Morgan::

N`Terayk says:
CO: Great Darkness had fallen upon us. The cold had shattered and scattered our people. Death was upon us. Then the Gods provided. The Great Transition happened. Our people were given great powers, and we were saved.

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::looks at the XO as he arrives::

Lt. Jg. Eisenhower says:  
::Grins:: TO: Maybe this time around you will be.

CPO Beldaur says: 
 ::Still looking up::

VADM_Sheridan says:
::moves up beside N`Teryak and stands there looking from the shine to Sulek and back again::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Kraight: How is she?

CMO_Ens_Munro says:
::Thinks about this for a few seconds:: CEO: That is true. We may only be gone for a few short hours.

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::bites back another "how does she look like she is" sort of comment::

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::keeps watching the CTO, CSO and OPS from a distance..::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: nods sympathetically :: Morgan: I understand. We're going to find a way to help you, Jade. Remember that you are not alone.

ACTION: Morgan manages a faint smile like earlier ... "Never ... thought ... different ..."

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::looks thoughtful, yet mocking:: EO: Could be. I wouldn't bet against me, though. We ARE in Starfleet, after all.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CSO: I take it not well....

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::rolls her eyes::

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::watches Pangborn as she approaches Cherry and then the others..::

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
she=He says: 

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: takes XO's arm, moves off a few meters :: XO: No, not at all. Her empathic abilities are mimicking the pre-Change symptoms of the Q'Ether around her.

Lt. Jg. Eisenhower says:  
::Chuckles at the TO, then turns to Beldaur:: CPO: Beldaur, like I told you the first time, there are no shoes waiting to drop!

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Sheridan: You had a question about the shrine?

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::notes the CNS approaching and scowls at her::

CPO Beldaur says:  
::Still looking up:: TO / EO: I'm not looking for shoes. I'm looking at the floating Q'Ether who went from multi-colored to red a few minutes ago.

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::hasn't moved from her previous spot::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
XO: But I don't think her metabolism can complete the change... at least, I hope not. The stress on her body must be tremendous.

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::could have sworn she saw the CNS move, but is glad she seems to know her place::

VADM_Sheridan says:
CO: Just wondering who constructed it. ::turns to N`Terayk with that give me the answer look::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Kraight: Wonderful. Do we have any hope of helping her? The only thing I could think of was to leave to protected area. Possibly we could acquire the necessary gear to survive out there

N`Terayk says:
::looks at Sheridan with that are you crazy look::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Kraight: And dang is that ever ugly looking

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::thinks the OPS has enough 'company' and goes to find Neet::

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
::sees something out of the corner of his eye put pays no attention thinking it is just the sun::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
XO: I don't think that would be such a good idea. And I doubt that the Q'Ether have such gear -- they have no need of it.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Cherry: What is your opinion?

N`Terayk says:
Sheridan: We did.

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::looks up at Beldaur's comment::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
XO:  We have to get her out of here, but I don't see how.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
:;sighs:: Kraight: Again, your logic is impeccable

ACTION: As the TO looks up, he indeed sees one of the Q'Ether standing out ... glowing a bright, violent red. Electrical red energy crackles around it.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Cherry, XO: Have you any idea what the range of Jade's empathic abilities are? If we could put some distance between her and the Q'Ether, it might at least ease her pain.

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
SELF: Hmmm....

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
CSO:  It's a good thought Sir, but I have no idea.  We've never discussed it.

Lt. Jg. Eisenhower says:  
::Sees the crackling being:: Oh that can't be good ...

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::yells:: CO: Captain!!

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::looks over at Jade worriedly::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
XO: She's never discussed it with me ::looks at Cherry::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
EO: What did I tell you??

ACTION: The Q'Ether in the sky sticks it's hands out ... and several bolts of red lightning lash out at Captain Sulek ... crackling across the air and toward the ground at him ...

VADM_Sheridan says:
::turns quickly back to the Captain: CO: Um Sulek, something is not quite right here. I suggest we move away from this place.

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::stalks around in the wheat grass field a bit but perks up at hearing the familiar voice.. looks up to see what’s going on::

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
N'Terayk: During this time of darkness, were your people always aware of the change or did it just seem to suddenly happen...as if you went to sleep and when you awoke, the change had occurred?

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: nods :: Cherry, XO: We can at least ask the Q'Ether if they would mind all moving to one end of the village for a while, and take Jade to the other end. It might help.

VADM_Sheridan says:
CO: Sulek, duck!

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::looks up as the lightening flashes::  CSO/XO:  We need to get her inside somewhere.

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::bolts for the CO, diving to knock him down to safety::

N`Terayk says:
::moves out of the way::

ACTION: Wolverton tackles Sulek just as the bolts hit where he was.

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Sheridan ::looking at the ground before him:: I concur.

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::gets a good mouthful of dirt::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Cherry: Please ask the villagers to move as far away from Jade as possible. I'll help Kraight move her

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: looks up as well, realizes where the lightning is headed :: Cherry, XO: Come on!

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: runs to where the Captain has been knocked to the ground ::

VADM_Sheridan says:
::tugs at Sulek's arm:: CO: Let's move it!

ACTION: The sound of thunder rumbles through the entire "bowl zone." It is a sound none have heard in a long time. Dozens of concerned non-radiant Q'Ether come out of their homes.

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::clambers up, watching the sky, and helping the captain up::

ACTION: The red radiant Q'Ether in the sky returns to it's normal multi-colored luminisicity, and fades in with the rest of it's brethren in the sky.

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::waits to see which direction they are moving Jade to, plus is a bit curious about what's going on::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Kraight: Lets get her into a hut...it may help

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::watches from a distance and then creeps .. or more.. stalks closer to the scene of the activity..::

VADM_Sheridan says:
CO: I don't think someone wants us to ask any more questions.

N`Terayk says:
ALL: Back to your homes!

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::Stands brushing himself off:: Wolverton: Thank you.  ::Takes Sheridan's proffered arm:: All: I think we should be moving on.

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
CMO: What was that?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::starts to pick up Morgan::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::nods in agreement::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:; stops, a bit confused ::

 T`Gaiver says:
::Approaches quickly:: ALL: What has happened?

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: sees that the Captain is unhurt, returns to Pangborn and Morgan ::

CMO_Ens_Munro says:
::Looks around:: CEO: I don't know.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Kraight: Help me move her into a hut

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Kraight: I fear we are too late

N`Terayk says:
T'Gaiver :One of the Radiant Ones attacked Sulek!

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::watches in the sky trying to get a fix on what just assaulted the others.. huffs as it all blends together in white blur::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: picks up Morgan in his arms :: XO: We can still try.

VADM_Sheridan says:
::looks at Sulek:: CO: Are you sure you're alright?

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
CMO: We should get to the rest of the crew if possible and seek shelter.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: begins walking to the far end of the village ::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::helps move her:: Kraight: Lets get her inside

 T`Gaiver says:
::Looks shocked:: N'Terayk: What? That is impossible. They would never do such a thing!

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Sheridan: I am unharmed.

 T`Gaiver says:
Sulek: What did you do?

CMO_Ens_Munro says:
CEO: okay. ::nods her head::

N`Terayk says:
T'Gaiver: I saw before me eyes.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
XO: Yes... but as far from the Q'Ether as possible.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Kraight: The furthest one out: ::points::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
XO: Right. I see it.

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
T'Gaiver: I assure you N'Terayk is correct.  We were talking about the dark time and the shrine.

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
::starts running back with Harriet:: ALL: Anyone here me, anyone out there Captain, Commander Pangborn, Commander Kraight, anyone...

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::talks to Morgan, unsure if she can hear:: Morgan: We're doing our best here. Hang in there.

CMO_Ens_Munro says:
::Yells and runs with the CEO::

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::grabs Neet from his feast of seed and moves around the village like a stalking cat.. watching for anything else to happen.. from above or forward::

 T`Gaiver says:
CO: But that makes no sense. We always talk about the Great Transition. They have never assaulted before for that ... reason ... ::Voice starts to trail off as he stares at the Captain::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::sees where they are heading with Jade and proceeds to a nearby building to try and "convince" the occupants to move to the other side of the village::

VADM_Sheridan says:
T'Gaiver: Is talk about the dark time forbidden to outsiders?

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::still peeking up at the sky::

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::turns as he hears Telarus:: Telarus: We are here.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: reaches the remote hut :: XO: Sir, perhaps we should see if anyone is inside.

Neet says:  
::With plenty of seed falling from his mouth, he squeaks out between mouthfuls of seed:: CNS: What's ... goin' on?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Kraight: Good idea:: knocks on the hut door::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::barges into the building waving her puny spear and insisting they move to the opposite end of the village::

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
Neet: I don't know.. but I'm sure we are going to find out.. ::keeps a distance from the hut and watches the surroundings::

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
::sees the Captain:: CO: Sir we should seek shelter immediately, I found these caves about a click and half up the path.

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
T'Gaiver: And what is the reason that they have assaulted persons?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Kraight: Her body temperature is increasing. Are you able to notice? She's getting really warm.

N`Terayk says:
CEO/CMO: Please be calm and keep peaceful.

 T`Gaiver says:
::Steps to the CO, and pulls something off his person:: CO: What are you doing wearing this? ::He holds a series of small black twigs and berries which are peculiar and spiked::

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Telarus: There is ample shelter here in the village.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
XO: Yes, sir. It does not seem to be typical of humanoid fevers. It is as if her entire body is heating up uniformly.

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::repeats the procedure at the next dwelling::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::opens the door to the hut, his knock unanswered::

CMO_Ens_Munro says:
::Stops and looks at N`Terayk:: N`Terayk: Sorry.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Kraight: No one's home, lets move her

VADM_Sheridan says:
::looks at what T'Gaiver has in his hand:: T'Gaiver: They're just twigs and a few berries.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: steps in behind Pangborn, finds a cot and lays Morgan down on it ::

 T`Gaiver says:
::A very serious look on his face:: CO: This is Dark Malice ... it is very dangerous to wear it ... and hazardous to your health. The Radiant Ones instantly purge it from existence. That is why they struck, one of them must have sensed it on you.

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::looks at the twigs:: T'Gaiver: Until just now, I was unaware that these were on my person.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
XO: I'll try to find some water... perhaps we can cool her off.

Neet says: 
 ::Eats some wheat while watching the CTO clear out housings with the CNS::

ACTION: Morgan passes out ... a fever striking her hard.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Kraight: I'm going to stay with her. Go, get some water

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::removes the twigs:: T'Gaiver: Is there a way in which I should dispose of them?

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: checks the house for water ::

N`Terayk says:
T'Gaiver: It someone is trying to kill Sulek.

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::raises an eyebrow, deciding it's time to keep a very close eye on anyone that comes anywhere near the CO::

VADM_Sheridan says:
::thinks to herself:: Self: Dark Malice?

N`Terayk says:
It seems says: 

 T`Gaiver says:
N'Terayk: But where would anyone get the Dark Malice? It hasn't existed in these parts for ages.

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::moves to the next house and does her best to bully them into moving on as well::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: finds a pitcher and brings it to Morgan's bedside ::

N`Terayk says:
T'Gaiver: Still it is a threat. It must be investigated.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: rips several strips of lining out of his tunic :: XO: Here, soak these in the water, and let's try to get her temperature down.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Morgan: Jade, try and drink some of this ::offers the water::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::soaks the strips in the water::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
XO: I think she's lost consciousness, sir.

ACTION: No response from Morgan.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: applies some wet strips to Morgan's legs and arms ::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Kraight: She's not dead yet....::feels for a pulse, working around the moles::

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::continues to watch the CTO act irrationally and watches the sky again.. still white.. yawns::

Neet says:  
CNS: What's up with her?

 T`Gaiver says:
N'Terayk: Begin so.

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::moves onto the next dwelling.  Is starting to enjoy this task::

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
Neet: hard to say.. she might have mating fever for all I know..

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
XO: No... Minarans have an exceptionally strong metabolism. They have to, to heal the wounds of others. But this is clearly a strain on her.

N`Terayk says:
T'Gaiver: I insist we protect our visitors first. Then begin.

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
T'Gaiver:  And the black malice? What should I do with it?

 T`Gaiver says:
CO: Place it on the ground.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::brushes against a mole on Morgan, pulls back at the heat:: Kraight: Damn that hurt. The moles are on fire, heat wise

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::does so and steps back::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::chases them out with a particularly vicious round of verbal abuse::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Kraight: Go find Dr Munro - I'll apply more of the wet cloth

 T`Gaiver says:
::Pulls out two peculiar looking rocks and kneels down .. he smacks them together next to the Malice, and it bursts into purple flame ... followed by acrid smoke::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
XO: I'm afraid that her body is trying to mimic the Change.

VADM_Sheridan says:
::looks at Sulek:: CO: Where did you get that stuff in the first place?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::put some of the cloth on one of the moles::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
XO: Yes, sir.  :: leaves the cabin, and heads back to the village at a run ::

N`Terayk says:
T'Gaiver: We  must get them in doors.

 T`Gaiver says:
CO: That is what I'm wondering. ::Having heard the Admiral's question:: I had thought you were sent by the Gods ... but perhaps that is just your person "Morgan" ... I wonder about the rest of you ...

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::tries to hold her hand, but is burned by the moles::

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Sheridan: I do not know.

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::watches the CSO leave one of the houses and stands up as she goes past::

 T`Gaiver says:
N'Terayk: Do so. Gather them. One building. The Gathering Place. It is large enough. There should be enough bedding for all.

ACTION: Cherry's voice fills the XO's ears, but he knows it is not her ... "Wow, doesn't take much for you to wander, does it?"

N`Terayk says:
CO: Gather your people and follow me now. At once.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: spots Munro :: CMO: Doctor Munro!

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::looks for her next victims...  err.... dwelling to clear out::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
:;carefully applies the wet strips to the moles, watching them steam:: Damn it all, I don't know if I'm cooking her or helping her.

The Trickster - Cherry says: 
 ::Steps around the XO and the fallen Morgan with a grin on "her" face:: XO: You're quite the player, aren't you?

CMO_Ens_Munro says:
::Turns to the sound of her name::

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
T'Gaiver: I assure you that we mean no harm to you or any of your people.  I do not know how the malice came to be on my clothing.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Trickster: Not now tricky dude, I'm busy

The Trickster - Cherry says:  
::Kneels down beside them:: XO: Lady's Man of the Quirinus crew. ::Glances at Morgan:: What's left of them.

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
All: Please gather to N'Terayk and follow him.

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::enthusiastically bounds up to the door and bursts in waving her spear::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
:;tries to put the trickster out of his mind::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CMO: Come quickly. We've moved Lt. Morgan as far from the village as we can, but she has developed a high fever.

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
CO: Aye Sir

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::gets closer to the house where the CSO came from to see what’s got everyone excited::

CMO_Ens_Munro says:
::Nods and follows him::

ACTION: A large bit of commotion is happening in the Q'Ether village as the CTO continues to harass people out of their homes.

N`Terayk says:
::signals two men to grab Morgan and bring her::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::yells insults after them as they move out::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: takes off back to the distant house... the taller Munro matching his stride easily ::

N`Terayk says:
::sends four people to detain the CTO::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::hears some ruckus::

VADM_Sheridan says:
CO: Sulek, what would you like me to do?

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
CO: Captain, do you think you'll be safe enough for me to go check that out? ::gestures toward the commotion::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::applies another wet cloth::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: Munro and Kraight arrive at the house and go inside ::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::moves onto the next dwelling, a nasty gleam in her eye::

N`Terayk says:
::moves toward the gathering place::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CMO: Take a look at her. Pull out all the stops and tell me you can help her

The Trickster - Cherry says:  
::Appears to sit down, but really isn't:: XO: Well I did promise you that you would be the death of all of them, didn't I?

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::finds a fairly tall tree and climbs up in it to watch what’s going on.. sits Neet down to finish off his seeds::

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Wolverton: N'Teryk has asked us to stay together.

ACTION: Four Q'Ether move to stop the CTO, carefully tracing her movements.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: takes a wet cloth and tries to cool Morgan's brow ::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::nods:: CO: Aye, sir.

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::doesn't even notice so intent is she on her mission::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Trickster: Not Now! ::tries to ignore him::

CMO_Ens_Munro says:
::Goes next to her and begins checking her::

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::still in her Tree::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::bursts into the home and does the usual routine::

N`Terayk says:
::arrives at the gathering place:: CO: This is where you will stay for your protection. I will send men for your other crew members and bring them here.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
XO: Sir?

Neet says:  
::In the tree with the CNS::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CSO: What?

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Sheridan: We need to be careful here.  If you can get any reading at all, please inform me.  We must not make these people any more nervous than they are.  I am concerned about the other members of our party.  If you have any sense of their whereabouts, inform N'Terayk.

ACTION: The four Q'Ether catch up with the CTO, one steps forward - "Miss, please come with us."

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::enters the building::

ACTION: Eisenhower, Beldaur, Rio & Y'Et are brought to the Gathering Place.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
XO: I thought you were addressing me when you said 'Not now'?

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
Q'Ether:  Leave me alone.  ::glares at them and pokes her spear in their direction::

The Trickster - Cherry says:  
::Giggles in the background:: XO: Oh, you know what?

CMO_Ens_Munro says:
XO: As far as I can tell, her body is treating this like an infection. Minarans are probably not made to evolve like this, not like the Q'Ether. It is like her body is falling apart and getting hotter, but since I don't have my equipment I can't tell anything more.

The Trickster - Cherry says:  
XO: Think I can drive you to insanity and then maybe murder-suicide at this rate? ::Giggles some more::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
:;taken off guard:: Kraight: No...I was...referring to her dying...as in "Not now"....::lies::

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::scratches and gets out of her tree.. Going with the other crew members.. Glances at the human assortment and the blue guy::

VADM_Sheridan says:
::notices that Sulek never answered her, so walks into the building anyway::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: still puzzled :: XO: Oh... I see...

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Kraight/Munro: Look after her. I need some air ::steps out of the hut::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
Q'Ether guys:  I'm warning you.  Don't mess with me.

The Trickster - Cherry says:  
::Walks through a wall to keep up with the XO:: XO: Ahhh. Fresh air. Although I note a hint of anxiety ... maybe some ozone .. ::Sniffs:: ... do you smell that? You should. It's your nose.

ACTION: The Four Q'Ether close in on the CTO. Slowly and fearfully.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CMO: That was my conclusion as well. Unfortunately, we are limited in our means to help her. The best thing to do would be to take her far from the village, but the idle environment beyond the energy dome makes that unlikely.

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::sits on her bedding and chews her nails to remove the dead layers.. looks over at Rio::

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
Rio: having fun yet?

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::glares at them all while she continues to fend them off with her puny spear::

N`Terayk says:
::sends more men to check on the CTO's detainment::

CMO_Ens_Munro says:
::Looks down at her thinking::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::taps his feet, keeping a watchful eye on the captain and wondering what the ado was::

Ens. Rio says: 
CNS: Not at all. What's going on? I heard lightning ... and then some Q'Ether mooks made me come over here.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CMO: Are you aware of any pharmaceuticals that can suppress the Minaran empathic abilities?

VADM_Sheridan says:
edit last Sheridan out says: 

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Trickster: I will bury you....I will set you free from me. But I will not harm myself. Being a living being, which you are not, I have more...weapons at my disposal

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::suddenly realizes she's outmatched and considers making a run for it::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Trickster: Care to relive your death? ::imagines killing the trickster::

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
Rio: not sure.. the OPS is being called a Guide and is turning black.. and then the Captain got assaulted.. and now we have to stay here.. so your guess is as good as mine.. You’re not hurt are you?

VADM_Sheridan says:
::makes an effort to try and get a feel for the situation as far as the crew goes::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::immerses himself in the image of the trickster dying, over and over::

Ens. Rio says:  
::Rubs arms:: CNS: Not yet. Probably going to be another fight ...

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
Rio: oh. and our Tac officer is having a breakdown episode.. very eventful day...

The Trickster - Cherry says: 
 XO: Wow, that's pretty graphic imagery there.

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::screams like a banshee and dashes out of the building::

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
Rio: what makes you think that? ::chews her other hand::

CMO_Ens_Munro says:
CSO: nothing that is naturally available only some synthesized thing, and still those are experimental.

ACTION: Cherry rushes out, with the four Q'Ether in pursuit.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Trickster: Glad you like it :: stays focused::

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::looks around the enclosure and crosses to a mattress on one side and calmly sits, contemplating the recent developments::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: nods dolefully ::

=/\==/\==/\==/\==/\= Pause Mission =/\==/\==/\==/\==/\=

Mighty_Mouse says:  Okay ... then .... one day time lapse. You guys are "held" there w/o being allowed to leave for ten more hours into that day. Cherry has disappeared. The XO / CSO / CMO remain with Morgan in the stone hut at the edge of the village as it's avoided for some reason. Morgan is getting seriously worse. It's up to you Keith, Jeff 'n Fiona how you'd like to proceed. You can reveal yourselves to the Q'Ether and ask for help, or try to locate a doctor, or try to make a run for it.
If you leave the protected area would probably just take you to the frozen tundra. Make up your own options as well. I'm quite flexible as you know. :-)

As for the rest of you guys, after the ten hours are up, you're free to leave that Gathering Place. The ten hours was just for T'Gaiver to get his "bearings," to try and figure some stuff out (ever since the arrival of the "Guide" he's been out of it), and to allow all the people the CTO scared out of their homes to get back into their homes. So you have fourteen hours of freedom. If the XO's group chooses to remain in hiding, I'd be careful about approaching their "hut."

Okay, good mission all, please do your logs, and post them, dismissed ... :-)