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

Teaching Children About Fractals
Conclusion

Arc Title: Teaching Children About Fractals
Episode: Four - Conclusion
Mission Number: 268
Creator: Michael Jones
Ship Manager: Michael Jones
Stardate: 10403.08

Previously …

The problems surrounding the Q’Ether and the changing Jade Morgan have reached their climax.

The Q’Ether leader, T’Gaiver, gathered his people in the center of their town to celebrate the arrival of the Guide, while the Guide’s friends desperately tried to save her life. However, actions were hampered by problems caused by Lt. Jg. Cherry’s “rampage” through the Q’Ether town. 

Cherry was eventually “taken into custody,” however; the attempts to get to the bottom of what was wrong with her were short lived, as Morgan’s current situation got even direr. Emitting intense waves of heat, Morgan drove Lt. Jg. Telarus and Doctor Munro out of the building she was in … and suddenly let loose with a horrific scream as she was consumed in the fires created by her mutating body. 

The house exploded.

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.

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.

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 10403.08 "Teaching Children About Fractals" Episode Four
=/\==/\==/\==/\==/\= Resume Mission =/\==/\==/\==/\==/\=

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::at the gathering place unaware of the happenings with OPS and the others..::

ACTION: A fireball is seen on the edge of town.

VADM_Sheridan says:
::grabs at her stomach as she's doubled over in obvious pain but trying to shield herself from the voices in her mind::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::screams::  All:  Nooooo!

CMO_Ens_Munro says:
::Her body aches, screams in protest of much movement::

ACTION: A dark plume of smoke rises into the air soon after, quite obvious against the pure white sky.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: stares in shock at the house he left Morgan in... The scroll slips from his fingers and falls to the ground ::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::picks himself up following the explosion and heads to the sight, having not gotten very far into town at all...::

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::looks around the building.. still searching for the source of the smell.. ::

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::stands facing Kraight and then turns to see Sheridan::

 T`Gaiver says:
::Looks at the explosion:: What in the --

N'terayk says:  
::Lets go of the CTO in surprise at her scream and the explosion ... suddenly aware what that means:: The Guide ...

Neet says:  
::Jumps at the explosion, clings to the CO's leg::

VADM_Sheridan says:
::falls to the ground writhing in pain now::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::released at last, she takes off at a full run toward the explosion::

ACTION: The CEO & CMO are the ones closest to the building. Flames pour out of it from all windows and openings.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: slumps to the ground, buries his face in his hands ::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::yells:: Telarus, Munro, investigate with me now!:: moves to the sight where the building was::

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kraight: Return to the scroll.  ::crosses to Sheridan:: Sheridan: Serena, can you shield your mind.  You have opened up too broadly.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Self: Damn!

N'terayk says:  
::Watches the CTO take off, looks to T'Gaiver::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::keeps running::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: tonelessly :: CO: Yes, sir...

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::realizes any investigation is impossible now::

 T`Gaiver says:
N'terayk: Go ... see ... see if she is still alive ...

VADM_Sheridan says:
::looks up at her old friend:: CO: I'm trying to, but the pain.......it's so.....intense.

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::is nearly there::

ACTION: Upon seeing T'Gaiver's face, a solemn realization spreads across the Q'Ether. Murmurs of pain and fear are heard. Their last hope may be gone.

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
CMO: Sweetie wait here ::drops her down by the fence::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: picks up the scroll and hands it to T'Gaiver without a word... then goes and sits on a boulder, oblivious in his shock and grief ::

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
::runs over to the hut::

Ensign Rio says: 
CNS: Lieutenant ... ::Points at the smoke on the other side of town::

CMO_Ens_Munro says:
::Feels the ground under her, and her body once again cries out::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::arrives at the fire::  All:  No!   ::frantically looks for a way in::

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::paces a bit more and then picks up the smell of smoke and burning wood.. something that’s rather out of place here...::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CEO: Telarus, I fear she is lost:: drops to on knee and watches it burn::

 T`Gaiver says:
::Holds the scroll and looks into the distance::

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::he grabs Sheridan and quickly re-establishes their old link using his shields to bolster hers::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
XO:  No!  She can't be.

ACTION: Nothing can be seen within the flames, which rage on intensely.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::Sees Cherry and looks at her::

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
XO: Sir look...

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kraight: You'd better to take us to where Morgan was.

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
XO: I think she is alive within the flames

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::walks back out into the open with Beldaur and Rio in tow.. followed by Erin who just woke up from a long induced nap.. ::

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Sheridan: Can you stand?

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
::hears his wife:: CMO: Are you ok?

VADM_Sheridan says:
::smiles weakly:: CO: Sulek, I can feel your strength. I'll try.

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::is raging close to the flames::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CEO: What? How? Show me where she is.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::moves toward the flames::

CMO_Ens_Munro says:
CEO: Just... ::Feels very tired even when trying to speak:: CEO: Just fine.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: looks up at Sulek :: CO: Was. Was. I failed her, Captain. I failed us all.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CEO: Nothing could live through that

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::staying in contact with her, he helps Sheridan to stand::

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
XO: Right there it looks like she is just sitting in the flames sir. Keep your distance though she maybe withstanding them but we cannot.

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::backs up slightly from the intense heat::  OPS:  Jade!

VADM_Sheridan says:
::holds on to Sulek and pulls herself up::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::looks into the flames::

The Trickster - Lt. Jg. Jade Morgan says: 
 ::Suddenly appears beside the XO, as usual only he can see her. Her body looks scorched and crackled, "she" walks with a limp around the XO:: XO: Oh ... woe is me ... there's hardly enough of me ... ::Coughs:: .. left to fill an ash tray ...

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kraight: You are not responsible.  We do not yet know what exactly happened, but we need to find out.  Take us there now.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::just stares at the trickster::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::finally realizes there is nothing she can do.  Screams and cries::

VADM_Sheridan says:
::looks towards the smoke:: CO: Sulek......Morgan?

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Sheridan: Yes.  I believe so.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: stands, starts walking toward the inferno :: CO: Yes, sir.

 T`Gaiver says:
::Shaking, steps to the CO:: CO: How ... how can this happen?

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::sees the smoke in the distance forming a cloud against the white sky.. heads that direction in a decently paced jog::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CEO: Nothing could live through that. You're hallucinating ::looks at his own hallucination::

CPO Beldaur says:  
::Looks at the figures in the distance running to the building:: CNS: Something bad has happened.

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::falls to the ground::  Self:  No.  No.  No.

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
T'Gaiver: She is not of your species.  For her the transformation may not have been as you are used to seeing.  ::follows Kraight:: Come, tell me all that you know of the Guide.

Lt. Jg. Eisenhower says:  
::Yawns and tries to keep up:: Rio: What's going on?

Ens. Rio says:  
Eisenhower: Nature created an alarm clock to wake you up ... 

Lt. Jg. Eisenhower says:  
::Glares at Rio::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::moves to Cherry and reaches out to comfort her, secure in the knowledge that the trickster is right, Morgan is dead::

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
CPO: good guess.. what do we have that can put the fire out? water? vinegar and flour?

VADM_Sheridan says:
::closes her eyes and tries to pick up on Morgan::

 T`Gaiver says:
::Walks along, looking pale:: CO: The Guide was to lead us to our future. To show us the way to re-build our civilization.

CPO Beldaur says:  
CNS: They have to have a water source of some sort, don't they?

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::sobs::  XO:  She didn't even want to come on this.....

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
XO: I need to check out Ensign Munro sir.

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::grabs a shovel and a bucket from a farm field as she runs by.. heading for the flaming house::

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
T'Gaiver: How could you be so sure that Morgan was to be that Guide?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::holds her close::

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
::walks back over to his wife:: CMO: Sweetheart where does it hurt?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::feels defeated::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::pounds her fists on the XO's chest in frustration, then collapses into sobs again::

VADM_Sheridan says:
::stands still as the others walk away:: CO: Sulek! She's still here! ::opens her eyes::

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::feels that Sheridan's shields are stronger and in place.  Slowly he releases her allowing the link to subside into the background.::

CMO_Ens_Munro says:
::Tries to think, but her head is a jumble:: CEO: My head. I'm ill in my... head.

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::arrives at the fire and looks around.. Getting an idea of how to put it out.. gathers the attention of a few local aliens and begins to co-ordinate an effort to douse the flames with dirt::

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Sheridan: But she is different is she not?

VADM_Sheridan says:
::grabs the Captain's arm:: CO: It's Morgan, she's still with us but she's different somehow.

 T`Gaiver says:
CO: All the signs were there ... a woman ... not of our own ... but like our own ... blessed with the change like us ...

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: stops a few meters from the still-blazing house ::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::calms down as shock and disbelief set in::

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
::strokes her hair and gives her a kiss on her forehead and takes out a canteen of water:: CMO: Drink some...

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::Sees Kraight approaching:: Kraight: When the flames die down, I'll want you to...::quiets his voice for Cherry:: Gather the remains and examine them with the Doctor

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: points to the house without looking at Sulek or any of his crewmates ::

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
T'Gaiver: That would lead you to believe that it was Morgan.  How did these prophecies come into existence?

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::stares blankly into the flames::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: shouts :: CO: THERE! That's where I left her.

ACTION: Suddenly, familiar beams of rainbow light "rain" down upon the inferno.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::wonders if mankind is so different from animals when you take away the technology::

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::gets the men to start tossing dirt into the burning building to kill the flames.. since water isn't available::

CMO_Ens_Munro says:
::Parts her lips to except the cold liquid::

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::sees the XO as he approaches the house.:: Pangborn: She is not dead.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: looks up in disbelief :: CO: What?

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::overhears the CO::

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::ignores them as they explain the radiant Q'Ether usually provide water from the snow that’s always gathering on the shield::

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
T'Gaiver: See if you can gather some people to put out the blaze.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: Pardon? How could anything live through that? Are you saying the "Transformation" was successful ::looks at the light::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::turns to look at the Captain::

VADM_Sheridan says:
::watches the goings on but feels strangely odd::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::slowly lets go of Cherry and stands::

CMO_Ens_Munro says:
::Feels the pain in her subsiding slightly::

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::notices the aliens pause and step away from the fire as funny light starts to break in between the orange and yellow flickers of burning wood::

ACTION: The fire suddenly vanishes in a puff of disappearing oxygen. The charcoaled remains of the house collapse soon after.

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::states simply for all:: Pangborn: The admiral still senses her.  She has changed, but she lives still.

ACTION: Three radiant Q'Ether hover above, their hands outstretched, shining their light down below.

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::stands there with the shovel and blinks::

VADM_Sheridan says:
::smiles at Pangborn:: XO: It is true. Morgan is still with us, just different.

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::looks up at the radiant Q'Ether and wishes there was some way to strangle them::

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
::turns around:: CO: I had a feeling about that sir, something just doesn't fit in about the fire, I also think that she is alive

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::approaches the remains of the house::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::doesn't believe any of this::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Kraight: Look for remains as soon as it's cool enough. Sulek: Explanation? How do you know this?

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
VADM: But... but she wasn't Q'Ether. Her physiology was all wrong to make the Change.

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Telarus: We just don't know in what form.

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::sticks the shovel into the ground and looks up as the other aliens around cheer and bow to the new light creature over head::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::looks at the light being in disbelief::

Ens. Rio says:  
::Points upward:: Uhm ... inbound nude woman.

VADM_Sheridan says:
CSO: She may not be Q'Ether, but something else.

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Pangborn: If she were dead, Serena would not sense her. There would be nothing.

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::looks over at Rio and then back up:: Rio: you would notice that wouldn't you...

ACTION: Two radiant Q'Ether are carrying a non-black mole covered Jade Morgan down from the sky. She seems healthy and well ... rainbow energy starts to crackle around her as they approach the ground.

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::stares in disbelief::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
VADM: What did you "feel" when the transformation, if there was one, occurred? Did she cross over into the unknown, or is she indeed this creature above us?

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: Kraight's expression mirrors that on Cherry's face ::

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
CO: Well judging from her state before we Ensign Munro and myself exited the hut she could have ascended to whatever form she was transforming to, we should ask T'Gavier or another among the population they might know what she may look like or may have gone to.

ACTION: The same glossy silk like clothing the Counselor acquired appears on Morgan as she lands on the ground thanks to the radiant Q'Ether with a smile, "Hi all."

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::stunned::

VADM_Sheridan says:
XO: I cannot explain what I felt, just that I knew Morgan was not dead, just changed.

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::still doesn't believe her eyes::

ACTION: All the non-radiant Q'Ether bow at the sight of the well healed Morgan.

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::crosses her hands on the shovel handle and glances back at Rio::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
Self:  What the....

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: And I'll be damned if you weren’t right!

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: approaches Morgan, hesitantly :: Morgan: Jade?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Morgan: Morgan! Report ::tries to appear non-chalet::

Jade Morgan says:  
::Smiles, staring at all of her crew in seeming disbelief:: Wow ... it's so ... different ...

VADM_Sheridan says:
::smiles as she sees Jade:: CO: Sulek, you may want to have the doctor verify that it's Morgan just to reassure the crew.

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::starts to wonder::  Morgan:  Is that really you?

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
CMO: Wait here sweetie I am going to go over an get some help for you, you don't look so good.

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::he looks at Morgan:: Munro: Please examine Morgan.

CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::quietly:: Sheridan: But is her presence different still.

Jade Morgan says:  
::Grins at the sight of Cherry:: CTO: In the flesh ... and these quite comfortable silky pajamas they put together for me.

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::grins in return::  Morgan:  The color looks great on you.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: for the first time in his life, Kraight fully understands the meaning of the human word 'dumbfounded' ::

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Morgan: How is it "different?"

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: You'll have to teach me that trick of knowing whether someone is alive or dead following a horrific explosion ::Grins::

VADM_Sheridan says:
CO: She is still a little different. I just wish I could explain it.

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
CO: Sir we need to get Ensign Munro to a bed, she isn't looking so hot pardon the pun. She felt faint and disoriented when I was pulling her out of the hut right before the incineration of the hut.

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::moves over to check out the damaged building and make sure no one was injured on the other side of the building.. since the captain is here and the others.. doesn't see a reason to stand around staring too::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::accepts it at last::

Jade Morgan says:  
::Turns to look at the Captain:: CO: My way of ... looking at you all. It's like there's some beautiful aura that surrounds each one of you. Like you all each have your own private rainbows. I think they reflect your inner emotions, thoughts, pasts and presents. I think that's what I was seeing earlier, in my fever dreams.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CMO: Please, come examine Morgan

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::grinning happily::

ACTION: The Q'Ether continues bowing and humming.

VADM_Sheridan says:
::sees that the doctor is ill and walks over to Morgan herself:: Morgan: May I check you out just to reassure the crew?

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Telarus: I believe you will find the Doctor has recovered.  I suspect that Morgan's change tends to effect females.  If what T'Gaiver says is accurate, then the guide will be a female not of the village.  That would seem to indicate the effect might be on all women not of the village.

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::finds the aliens are hard to check for injuries.. goes back to Rio and the other 3 officers.. makes sure everyone is ok and then tries to find some water and fruit.. what little there is of it::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: reaches out, tentatively touches Morgan on the arm :: Morgan: I thought I had failed you, Jade. I really thought I had let you die.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::listens:: Sulek: That would explain the guide part

VADM_Sheridan says:
All: A medical tricorder please. ::smiles at Jade::

CMO_Ens_Munro says:
::Lays next to the well, however her body no longer protests to her movements, and so she begins to stand::

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Pangborn: There is no trick to this knowledge.  I have an absolute trust in the Admiral's abilities.  If she says it is so, then it is so.

VADM_Sheridan says:
::remembers they don't have one::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
VADM:  Umm... we haven't got tricorders

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
CO: I was unaware of that fact let me check on her she is right behind us, when I left her laying down she wasn't doing so well.

VADM_Sheridan says:
CTO: I remember now. So we do it the old fashioned way.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: I'm going to hand it to you this time ::smiles gladly:: You 're right

Jade Morgan says:  
CSO: Nonsense, Kraight. ::Stares at him:: I see ... tribal paint in your future?

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kraight: Sometimes we must wait for outcomes.  Not all of them are going to be bad.  The transition would be difficult.  She was being altered at a cellular level.

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::looks over at the CSO and giggles at the thought of him in tribal paint::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Morgan: How do you feel?

VADM_Sheridan says:
::gently takes Jade's wrist and feels for her pulse rate::

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
CMO: Harriet are you ok now feel any different?

Jade Morgan says:  
XO: Amazin -- ::Cuts short at looking at the XO::

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::goes over to the small tree that was near the building and has a seat under it.. Erin is standing close by with her arms crossed and Rio talking to Beldaur about Jade.. and Y`Et is just there.. as usual::

VADM_Sheridan says:
CO: Sulek, Ms Morgan's pulse is racing but I believe that is due to the excitement of the moment.

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
Morgan:  What's amazing?  ::looks at the XO as well::

CMO_Ens_Munro says:
CEO: I feel much better. ::Hugs Telarus::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::wonders if she finally noticed that he has a nice butt::

Neet says:  
::Squeaks and comes up beside the Counselor:: CNS: What's going on?

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Sheridan: I would say her experience would qualify.  Morgan: What do you see for the Q'Ether?

Jade Morgan says:  
::Stares, puzzled at the XO::

VADM_Sheridan says:
Morgan: Does anything hurt? ::feels her neck::

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
Neet: That’s what I'm watching to find out ::picks Neet up and sets him on her knee::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::Wonders why Cherry is staring at his...what an odd time to be thinking of.,......not that he wasn't always thinking of it::

Jade Morgan says: 
XO / CTO: Your aura ... it's ... disjointed, as if ... something forced itself in.

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::eyes widen as she looks at the XO::

Jade Morgan says:  
::Is somewhat ticklish around her neck, and tries not to wriggle:: Sheridan: No, I'm fine.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::bristles, wondering if she knows about the trickster. not that that would explain the CTO::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Morgan: My Aura?

Neet says:  
CNS: Kind of hard to watch from this distance ... no?

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::looks at the XO:: Pangborn: All too true, I suspect.  Have you had more visits?

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
Morgan: Thank You very much I love the whole radiance thing. ::hugs Harriet and the same time::

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
Neet: I have good ears.. I can hear most of it.. 

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
XO:  More visits?  ::raises an eyebrow::

Jade Morgan says:  
::Steps closer, brushing a hand against his face:: XO: Yes ... you're so troubled, Ben ...

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: finally recovers sufficiently to start thinking semi-clearly :: 

VADM_Sheridan says:
::smiles at Jade again then looks at the Captain:: CO: I'd say Ms Morgan is just fine Sulek. A little excited but we all are at this point.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::brow furrowed:: Morgan: Troubled? ::voice trails off:: Nooo......

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Morgan: Jade... what happened to you? Can you remember anything after we brought you to the house?

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Sheridan: You have lost none of your skills I see, Dr. Sheridan.  ::raises and eyebrow::

VADM_Sheridan says:
::steps back, happy that Jade is all right and she's not in pain herself. Smiles at Sulek and nods::

 T`Gaiver says:
::Finally gets off his knees:: Morgan: Oh Great Guide, please ... what is our destiny?

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::scratches her neck and huffs.. no one's dead or injured.. that’s good::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::looks over at T'Gaiver in annoyance::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::hopes she tells them to all go jump in a lake::

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::is waiting for the CTO to have another mood swing and go nuts again.. maybe assault the XO this time or something::

Jade Morgan says:  
::Smiles at T'Gaiver:: T'Gaiver: T'Gaiver, you have led your people well.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::amused, raises his head:: Morgan: Looks like you out rank me here ::grin::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::moves closer to the XO::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::whispers::  XO:  Are you all right, Sir?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: I feel there is even more to this than meets the eye:: smiles at the vice admiral and Sulek, takes Cherry's arm::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Cherry: I am fine

Jade Morgan says:  
::Puts a hand on T'Gaiver's shoulder and narrows her eyes at him ... seeming to stare hard ... focusing:: T'Gaiver: When the time comes ... the Radiant Ones will make a path without your request. At that moment, gather all your belongings and follow that path. It will lead you to safety and to the future of your people.

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::smiles up at the XO::

Jade Morgan says:  
::Stops staring, and shakes her head ... as if coming out of a daze. She looks tired:: Phwew.

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
CO: Sir I just remembered something, I could have sworn when I passed those caves earlier when I was scouting ahead towards the beginning of the mission. There seemed to be a rune glowing for our path matched a sign in the caves.

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Pangborn: It seems a pattern is beginning to form on our journeys with the Gateway.

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
CO: With all this I forgot until now

CPO Beldaur says:  
CNS: Well it seems we might have a happy ending here too.

Neet says:  
::Stares at the peculiar blue person beside them::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::pats Cherry on the back, loving her at the moment:: Cherry: This thing she had become...this change...somehow it bring me great comfort

VADM_Sheridan says:
::watches T`Gaiver as he seems soothed by Morgan's words and then moves off a little further to keep an eye on everyone::

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Telarus: Or perhaps you were not suppose to remember until just now.

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
XO:  I'm happy to hear that.  ::smiling still::

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::perks ears up at the word caves:: Beldaur: yes.. and it would seem we might be going caving next.. humph..

 T`Gaiver says:
::Smiles, tears appearing in his eyes:: Morgan: Oh ... how we thank you great Guide ... thank you ... ::Bows again::

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
All: The appearance of the runes mean but one thing...it is time.

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
Morgan:  Are you feeling up for a walk, Jade?

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
CO: You bring up a valid point sir. what if it is the Gateway that is affecting us while we journey continually giving us the information we need.

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Pangborn: Call for the AT. I believe our adventure here is done.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::feeling strangely fine:: ALL: Feeling adventurous? ::wonders what is up next::

VADM_Sheridan says:
::listens to Sulek and knows that it is time to move on to the next adventure::

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
T'Gaiver: It is time that we journeyed on.  I am pleased that despite earlier turmoil that you have received the information you need.

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
T'Gaiver: Thank you for your hospitality.

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
All: The runes await.  Telarus: Lead on.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::coughs:: T'Gaiver: I'm ...uh....sorry of one of our party may have displeased you....::coughs::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: It is time.....

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
CO: Aye sir. ::starts to lead off to the caves::

TIME WARP: An hour or two later, after all have calmed down. The crew have moved, with new supplies, and for some, new clothing, to the entrance to the caves the CEO mentioned earlier. The runes indeed have appeared on the sides of the cave, leading further down into it's dark passageways ..

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::wonders who the XO was referring to back there when they took their leave::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: watches the runes carefully... notes that each one begins to glow as the corresponding crewmember approaches ::

VADM_Sheridan says:
CO: Sulek, we may need torches in here.

ACTION: The Q'Ether have pretty much left the crew alone to handle this on their own. Not seeing them off like the Ew have. Despite one of their own giving the Q'Ether the guidance that may make their lives easier one day, they seem happy to see these mysterious folk off ...

Neet says:  
::Is on the CNS' shoulder, not looking happy at the inside of the dark cave::

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Sheridan: A wise precaution.  Kraight: See if you can construct a few torches.

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::has her gear ready and a set of cloths for Neet incase they end up in snow again.. misses her meat stash.. wearing a nice mix of her old furs and new silks.. and taking an extra set with her just in case.. makes sure Rio and Erin are in tow as well as Beldaur and Y`Et::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CO: Yes, sir.  :: begins foraging for materials ::

Jade Morgan says:  
::Staring at each one of the crew, not focusing, just admiring their auras::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::sticks close to Jade::

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::has opted for the silks but has his warm clothing neatly stored in his pack::

Lt. Jg. Eisenhower says:  
CNS: I'm hoping for another paradise for our next arrival. What about you?

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
Neet: don't worry.. no dogs this time.. I think..

VADM_Sheridan says:
::falls behind to check on Jade:: Morgan: Jade, are you still feeling all right?

Jade Morgan says:  
CTO: I'm sort of optimistic to get home to the Quirinus and figure out why I can ... see how I can. Not that I want to change ... it feels right.

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Sheridan: Do you suppose Morgan's abilities are permanent?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
:::catches up with Cherry and Morgan for a moment:: Cherry: Howe are you ::feels free somehow, knowing he is subconsciously trying to change his auras that Morgan mentioned::

Neet says:  
::Squeaks a response:: CNS: Hope so.

Jade Morgan says: 
Sheridan: I'm feeling great, Admiral.

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
Erin: oh.. I could go for some nice grasslands and a good herd of cattle.. or sheep.. anything that’s good with BBQ sauce..

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::smiles at Jade then looks to the XO::  XO:  I'm good Sir.  Yourself?

Lt. Jg. Eisenhower says:  
::Stares at the Counselor blankly::

VADM_Sheridan says:
::smiles and steps back up to Sulek:: CO: I don't know about that, but for now she seems very happy.

Neet says:  
::Licks his lips to share the CNS' sentiments::

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
Erin: well.. you did ask...

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::moves to Pangborn drawing off and quietly speaks:: Pangborn: If Morgan can see the disruption of the Trickster, perhaps we can find a way of stopping it.

Ens. Rio says:  
::Smacks Eisenhower hard on the back:: Eisenhower: Yeah, besides, some meat on your bones might do you good ...

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: I hope we didn't tick off the Q'Ether too bad. Not good karma.

Lt. Jg. Eisenhower says:  
::Glares at Rio::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: returns with several stout branches, wrapped at one end with an oily moss found among the underbrush ::

VADM_Sheridan says:
::waits for her torch anxiously::

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
Erin/Rio: be good you two.. 

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: hands torches out to the crew, keeping one for himself :: CO: I'll try to get this one lit, sir.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: kneels, gets out a stone and some flint he found near the Ew village ::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
:;takes a torch:: Sulek: Onward Captain?

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
CSO: Let's hope we keep them lit up I don't want to play the guessing game in the dark

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::walks along beside Jade wondering what it must be like for her::

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Pangborn: Onward.  Cherry: CTO: You have the point. All: Find your rune.

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
CSO: perhaps only 2 at a  time should light their torches..

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CEO: That is my intention, Lieutenant...  :: strikes the stone and flint near a small pile of dry bark ::

Jade Morgan says:  
::Still walking around like a child on her first day of school::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::approaches the rune::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::steps to the front::

VADM_Sheridan says:
::moves ahead to look for her rune::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: the bark catches fire :: Self: Aha...

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: touches torch to the flame, watches it light ::

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::takes a torch and hands it to Cherry::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::accepts the torch::

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
::takes his torch up and lights it up::

VADM_Sheridan says:
::lights her torch from Cherry's::

ACTION: The runes just lead into the cave system, and simply remain on the walls and glow. There is an obvious path.

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::keeps her un-lit and stays to the back of the group.. After all she can see fairly well in the dark anyway::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::Lights his torch::

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::keeps walking down the path::

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
ALL: I hope this path takes us to and advanced species next, that is peaceful to I don't want to see the other end of an energy weapon.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: points :: CO: I believe the way has been marked for us, sir.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::follows Cherry::

VADM_Sheridan says:
CO: I guess we follow the path.

Neet says:  
::Remains on the Counselor's shoulder::

 CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Sheridan: So it would seem.  Cherry: Move out.

ACTION: The Counselor's "Cadets" - Beldaur, Y'Et, Rio & Eisenhower walk toward the back of the group.

CTO_Ltjg_Cherry says:
::steps forward into her future::

CNS_Lt_Ris`Mor says:
::needs a bath::

CEO_LtJG_Telarus says:
::follows Cherry into what they have liked come to refer as the unknown::

ACTION: As the crew exit the last "outpost" of the Q'Ether amidst the frozen tundra that was once their home world, and into a forgotten cave system, Morgan hears one last word from the radiant Q'Ether, those that saved her life ... the final translation of what they tried to say earlier ... "Focus."

=/\==/\==/\==/\==/\= End Mission =/\==/\==/\==/\==/\=