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

The Peculiar Journey of Love
Chapter One: 
“At First Sight (Or Something Like It)

“Love does not begin and end the way we seem to think it does. Love is a battle, love is a war; love is a growing up”
-	James Baldwin

Arc Title: The Peculiar Journey of Love Chapter One: “At First Sight (Or Something Like It)
Episode: One
Mission Number: 285
Creator: Michael Jones
Ship Manager: Michael Jones
Stardate: 10407.05

Previously …

The Crew has just survived a harrowing experience.

Choosing to assist the Aquati, a tormented and subjugated species that have chosen to reside underwater within their Great Lake, against something called the Abyss nearly resulted in all their deaths. The Abyss, a mysterious nothingness that was sweeping through the Great Lake (and only the Great Lake), closed in on the submarine they were on. 

Clever thinking and steady investigation revealed to the crew that the Abyss was merely a side effect of an apparent malfunction. It appears that the Great Lake, perhaps the Aquati world, perhaps ALL of the worlds the crew has traveled to, is artificial in some form or another. A signal (the beams of light OPS Morgan was noticing, and which were causing Admiral Sheridan to be plagued by voices) that permeates this world (being relayed with specific instructions to something called “Stack 980511” to form the lake and all that resides within) was breaking up. The crew, with some quick thinking, managed to restore the signal, thus ending the Abyss and returning the Great Lake to normal. However, despite their victory, they are left with more questions about what this Journey is all about.

Meanwhile, Commander Pangborn concluded his own personal journey through his life … and came into a final confrontation with the “Trickster.” However, unlike their last “final confrontation,” this one turned out differently. The Trickster (or at least this last part of it which Pangborn had subconsciously kept within himself as a form of punishment for past sins) made the Commander realize that the only reason his life was so harrowed these days was because he made it that way, that he blamed himself for the suicide of his first love, and would not allow himself to let any other loves into his heart. After an emotional fight, Pangborn finally succumbed to the truth … and proclaimed his love for Cherry. 

In doing so, he set both himself and the Trickster free.

However, before moving on, the Trickster left Ben with an ominous message … 

“Oh, by the way, that whole black and white man … the Nero guy? He wasn’t you … he’s someone else … someone who’s really itching to kill Sulek …”

Dramatis Personae 

Keith LaHue is Commander Ben Pangborn – Executive Officer of the Quirinus, the Human Pangborn has been through a lot in his life time, but has recently come to terms with the tragedies of his past, and is now working to step forward in life. To help him on this Journey is his current love interest, Quirinus CTO, Lieutenant Cherry.

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.

Cathy Campos is Lieutenant JG. Jade Morgan – Operations Manager of the Quirinus, the quiet Minaran has come to be a valued member of the Quirinus crew, having proven this with all the responses of the crew when she was feared to be dying. Now, Morgan has been blessed (or cursed?) with an amazing new gift: to see the auras of people, and as well as their pasts, presents, or futures.

Jane Rowley is Lieutenant 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.

Erryn Pollock is Ensign Lance Wolverton – Tactical Officer of the Quirinus, the human Wolvington 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?

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.

Ensign Albert Rio – Security Officer Rio seems to be struggling with his sense of identity: is he a fiancee 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.

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. 

Neet – The adorable Monkey / Cat creature known as Neet was first found in the land of the Ew some months ago. At first he grew to be a constant companion of Counselor Ris’Mor, the crew’s resident Caitian. However, the Counselor has now vanished, and Neet has been drifting amongst the crew, alone and perhaps neglected. 

Host SM_Selan says:
=/\==/\==/\==/\==/\= Begin Mission =/\==/\==/\==/\==/\=

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: The Aquati vehicle continues its Journey through the glimmering Aquati forest.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::stretches tiredly::

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: Neet is curled up on OPS' lap.

Host SM_Selan says:
<Lt. Jg. Eisenhower> ::Asleep, leaning against the TO::

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::waked to find the Aquati land vehicle is coming to a stop:: All. Let’s take a break here....we could use some R&R. Looks like as good a place as any.::grins and stretches::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::looks down at the small creature with a sigh::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: hops out :: XO: Agreed.

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::opens the door and gets out::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::slowly stands and stretches::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::yawns, half asleep::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::sleeping in a sleeping bag in the truck's flatbed::

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CSO: Kraight: Interesting crystalline structure to the trees wouldn't you say? ::scratches his back::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
OPS:  Ummm.. you want some help getting that out of your lap?

Host SM_Selan says:
<Neet> ::Perks up, as if understanding that it was referred to as "that"::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::points at Neet::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::grins ruefully:: CTO: I hate to disturb the little guy......

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: The crystal trees glimmer in the late afternoon light as the crew begins to wake from their naps.

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::stretches a bit, slowly waking::

Host SM_Selan says:
<CPO Beldaur> ::Steps out and peers around::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
OPS:  You need to stretch your legs... and it should run around while it can.  ::leans forward to pick Neet up::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
XO: I've not seen its like, although crystalline organisms are not unknown in Federation space.

VADM_Sheridan says:
::looks over at Neet and smiles::OPS: New friend?

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::finds beauty in the trees:: CSO: Me either. And I was your predecessor as CSO on the Quirinus. You'd never guess it, as much of a bone head as I can be.

Host SM_Selan says:
<Ens. Rio> ::Steps out as well, peering down the road:: CSO / XO: I would've expected to have gotten slaughtered by those Argac ... or whatever the Aquati called their land friends.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::grins back:: ADM: Apparently so.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
CTO: Thanks! ::stands and stretches::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
XO: "Bone head"?

Host SM_Selan says:
<Neet> ::Rubs up against the CTO, although he still misses the CNS::

VADM_Sheridan says:
::leans on the back of the truck and stands::All: I'm getting down. ::hops down::

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::laughs:: Kraight: Human euphemism for dumb...

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
Self:  Cute.  ::pets the little furball then heads out of the truck::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::stretches again and slowly stands, taking in the surroundings::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::gets out from the vehicle::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
All: Who wants dinner?

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::looks out a window of the fully-enclosed vehicle with plenty of room for all of them::

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CEO: I'll take you up on that. As long as I don't have to hunt, kill and cook it.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
XO: Ah. I would respectfully disagree with you, in that case, sir.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::steps out and looks around::

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Kraight: I'll take that as a compliment

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::follows Cherry out the door::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::looks around at the scenery with interest::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
OPS:  It was kinda cool looking for the first couple of hours..  ::gazes at the crystals::

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Cherry: Nice trees huh?

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
XO:  Those are trees?  ::looks more closely::

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Cherry: Well, for lack of a better term.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CTO: They seem to serve the purpose of trees, in this ecosystem.

VADM_Sheridan says:
::stretches her arms above her head and looks up at the trees::All: This is like a fairytale book isn't it?

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::something green catches her eye a bit further along the path::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
CSO:  You mean they are alive?

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
VADM: Would that make you  Cinderella?

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::idly pokes a crystal with a finger::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
XO: Give me a few moments I will get the food out and ready.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
CTO: I think there are regular trees and plants down that way. ::points down the path::

VADM_Sheridan says:
::looks over at Pangborn and smiles::XO: No, but it's a lovely thought.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::starts prepping the crew's evening meal::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Lt. Jg. Eisenhower> ::Wakes:: Mmhmm ... flush the twibbles ...

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::quietly:: OPS: How's my aura now? CEO: Thanks. VADM: That's right...you needed no transformation to become a princess

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CTO: They seem to be. I have observed that they grow 'buds' of a sort, and every so often you will see tiny crystalline flakes blow off the surface of the organisms. I theorize that those are seed crystals, which will grow into new trees in the proper environment.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
OPS:  Peers down the path::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
CSO:  I wonder what the proper environment is?

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::wonders for a while::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::looks at Pangborn and smiles::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::blinks, trying to make sense of what she said:: EO: You say something?

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CTO: One similar to what we see around us, no doubt.

Host SM_Selan says:
<Ens. Rio> ::Peers:: OPS: Yeah. Is that a ... city? ::Thinks he sees the outline of buildings in the distance, but can't be sure ... too much reflection from the trees::

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CTO: Seems like there natural environment to me.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::whispers:: XO: As pure as the rest of ours, Sir. Quite pretty.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
CSO:  What I wouldn't give for a tricorder.  ::grins::

VADM_Sheridan says:
::walks towards one of the trees and touches the trunk::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
XO:  Right Sir.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
Rio: I'm not sure....

Host SM_Selan says:
<Lt. Jg. Eisenhower> ::Blinks as she tries to fully wake:: TO: Uh ... not sure. ::Shifts as she sits up:: We stop?

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::just looks off in the distance and smiles at the operations officers comment:: Yes indeed...::to know one::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::supposes they are lucky they can even breathe here::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: nods :: CTO: And I as well, Lieutenant.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
CSO:  You think they might make a noise if you hit them with something?

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::starts up a fire to warm up the food and get the crew some heat::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
EO: At least for a while. Want to stretch your legs?

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Cherry: Remember, they are as alive as you and I. Try not to hurt them. ::grin::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::looks over at the CEO and wonders if he might have a big metal spoon or something::  XO:   I was just thinking of dinner music.

Host SM_Selan says:
<Lt. Jg. Eisenhower> ::Smiles and leans against him:: TO: Probably a good idea. If I get too comfy I might never want to leave.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CTO: The trees? Possibly... but caution is indicated. We have no idea what, if any, defense mechanisms the trees may possess.

CPO_Beldaur says:
::gets out of the car and stretches wow that was a long nap::

VADM_Sheridan says:
::likes the feel::All: Hey feel this. It's like rubbing a cool piece of metal or something.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::tries to resist the urge::  CSO:  Right Sir.

Host SM_Selan says:
<Neet> ::His fur seems on edge as he sniffs at the forest::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::thinks that doesn't sound so bad, actually, and smiles a bit::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::reaches out a hand and runs it gently along the nearest trunk::

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Cherry: I hope that’s not a request to sing around the campfire. ::laughs at himself::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Ens. Rio> ::Rubs head and stares into distance at what he could swear are buildings::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
XO:  Hey... that's not a bad idea....

VADM_Sheridan says:
OPS: Isn't that something?

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::looks down the path again and decides to take a walk::

CPO_Beldaur says:
:: walks around::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::turns back to the Admiral:: ADM: Like fine glass.

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Cherry: Well...:::sheepish::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
All: The Aquati were able to help me out by getting some fruits and vegetables that are similar to us and also some meats that are almost like ours ::cuts some toratari root that looks like onions and the rejoja fruit that looks like tomatoes::

VADM_Sheridan says:
::sighs wishing Sulek could enjoy this::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::winks at the XO::  OPS:  Wait up!

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::turns and waits for the CTO to catch up::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::catches up to OPS::  OPS:  Let's not wander too far.

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::gets up with Erin to move around outside a bit::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Lt. Jg. Eisenhower> ::Stands up::

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CEO: Good fire there ::hesitant:: What are you burning?

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::nods:: CTO: I just want to check out the path a bit.

VADM_Sheridan says:
::walks away from the tree and down the path to catch up with the ladies::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
OPS:  I'll come with you.  ::walks with Jade::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::smiles at Cherry:: CTO: How are things going with you and the XO?

CPO_Beldaur says:
::leans against a tree and takes a nap::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Ens. Rio> ::Looks at the Bolian sleeping against a tree:: That guy gets weirder and weirder every day.

VADM_Sheridan says:
CTO/OPS: Ladies, slow down please. ::runs to catch up::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::turns and waits for the Admiral::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::stops and waits for the Admiral::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
XO: Funny sir

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CEO: Well, what ARE you burning?

Host SM_Selan says:
<Lt. Jg. Eisenhower> ::Smells stuff:: TO: Food?

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
OPS:  Okay I guess

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::sniffs:: EO: I hope so. Let's find out, either way.

VADM_Sheridan says:
OPS: Thanks. So where are we going anyway?

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::points:: ADM: Just to see what the green is.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: sits down against a tree trunk, closes his eyes... begins to realize that the koualis had taken more out of him than he had thought ::

VADM_Sheridan says:
::looks down the path, shading her eyes to get a better view::OPS: What is it?

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::smiles at the Admiral and resumes walking::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
ADM: That’s what we're finding out.

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: As the trio of empowered Starfleet women travel down the path, the crystal forest begins to get replaced by actual trees and shrubbery.

VADM_Sheridan says:
CTO: Too bad we don't have a tricorder. ::shrugs and keeps walking::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
XO: I making an Earth delicacy, known to originate from the Latin American area, known as steak sandwiches, hope you like yours extra crispy.

Host SM_Selan says:
<Lt. Jg. Eisenhower> ::Walks over to the fire with the TO::

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::leaves the fire as he sees Kraight alone:: Kraight: Commander? Why don't you join us?

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
VADM:  Funny... I was just saying that to Commander Kraight not five minutes ago.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::breathes in deeply::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: snaps eyes open with a start :: XO: Ah. Sorry. I drifted off for a moment. Thank you, Commander... I would like that.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::admires a shrubbery::

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: OPS sneezes.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::sighs::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
All: Pardon me.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: gets up and moves to near the fire ::

VADM_Sheridan says:
OPS: You ok?

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::grins:: ADM: Allergies, I guess.

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: The trio see an end to the forest, and see the road leads to a small city from which an apparent rail-road departs.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
OPS/VADM:  Do you see that?!  ::points excitedly::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::arrives at the fire, wondering how it was started::

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::accompanies Kraight:: CSO: Our illustrious Chief Engineering officer is making us some steak sandwiches. Do you eat meat? I can't remember?

VADM_Sheridan says:
::looks where Cherry is pointing::CTO: A city!

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::looks at the city carefully::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Lt. Jg. Eisenhower> CEO: Are you actually burning the crystals? ::Looks around at the trees::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
VADM:  That looks like a railroad!

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Eisenhower: Thank you.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
Eisenhower: No I am burning some form of petrol that the Aquati gave me.

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: Small houses speckle the region around the small city, an alien vehicle of some sort can be seen "rolling" into town.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::wraps up:: All: Come and get it!

VADM_Sheridan says:
CTO/OPS: Shouldn't someone tell the others about this? ::smiles wryly::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Lt. Jg. Eisenhower> CEO: Oh. ::Takes a step back nervously::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::nods reluctantly::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
VADM:  Right.  I'll go do that.  ::runs back towards the group::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
XO: Yes, Commander. Benzites are carnivorous by nature, although many of my people have adopted a vegetarian lifestyle. You may recall, however, that I upset Lt. Morgan some weeks back with my eating habits.

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::wonders what the XO is thanking Erin for::

VADM_Sheridan says:
OPS: Let's get closer shall we?

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::yells as she runs::  XO:  Hey Ben!  We found something up the road.  A city!

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::nods slightly and follows the admiral down the path::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: turns at the sound of Cherry's voice ::

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Kraight: Eat what you like. I don't think it matters at this point do you? We're kind of in close quarters here and need to be able to live with each other if we are ever to find our way back

Host SM_Selan says:
<Ens. Rio> ::Refrains from screaming "Told you so"::

VADM_Sheridan says:
::continues to walk and notices the little house::OPS: Look there's a vehicle moving down there.

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Cherry: Really? I say we eat before investigation. Relax for a moment, before we begin the next part of the journey, please. All of you, come back to the fire.

VADM_Sheridan says:
OPS: So they have some technology at least.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
ADM: I see it....::voice trails off::

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: A shrill horn call is heard from the city. The sound rumbles and vibrates throughout the crystalline forest, causing some crystal leaves to drop to the ground.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
XO: Thank you, Commander.  :: reaches for a rejoja fruit ::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::jumps at the sound of the horn::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: looks up at the noise ::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::frowns:: SELF: That doesn't sound good.

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::mildly annoyed that they can't enjoy a simple meal::

VADM_Sheridan says:
::jumps::OPS: A horn?

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
ADM: Perhaps we should head back....it could be an alarm of some sorts. Like an intruder alarm.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::catches the scent of food and moves closer to the fire::

CPO_Beldaur says:
::slowly wakes up::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Ens. Rio> ::Shrugs and heads over to the fire::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Lt. Jg. Eisenhower> TO: Well, I suppose we should eat ...

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
CEO:  You have food?

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::looking sideways toward the sound:: EO: Quickly, I think.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
CTO: Yes, take what you want.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
CEO:  Thanks.  ::helps herself::

VADM_Sheridan says:
OPS: Maybe you're right. Let's go. :;turns and heads back::

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
ALL: Please take a break, ignore the horn, and unless the cavalry comes charging over the hill, Get something to eat. I'm sure if they need us, they'll continue blowing the horn.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: grabs another rejoja, then stands :: XO: Commander, I will stand watch down the path while the rest of the party dines.

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::takes a steak sandwich and eats::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::munches::

CPO_Beldaur says:
::smells the food::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
XO:  You know.... we might be the cause of the alarm....  ::takes another bite::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: moves a few tens of meters down the path, eating the rejoja as he goes ::

CPO_Beldaur says:
::walks over to where the food is::

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CEO: Good job. This really looks like real food. And tasted like it.::wonders what he is eating::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::takes a bit of steak and tears off a piece with his canines::

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Cherry: I'm sure it will be fine

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::looks over at Wolverton momentarily::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Ens. Rio> ::Gets one of the sandwiches the CEO made, takes a bite. Tries to keep it down:: CTO / XO: Dunno, sounded like a train horn to me ...

VADM_Sheridan says:
::sees everyone eating as they approach::OPS: Food!

Host SM_Selan says:
<Lt. Jg. Eisenhower> ::Gently nibbles at her food as she sits obviously close to the TO::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
Rio:  A train!  Your probably right.  XO:  There was a railroad there.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::nods distractedly::

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Rio: Then we'll catch the next train. Eat. That’s an order.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::hands a sandwich to his wife and sits next to her::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::tears off another chunk::

VADM_Sheridan says:
::stands by the fire and smells the food::All: Any left?

Host SM_Selan says:
<Ens. Rio> ::Takes a big gulp, nearly chokes:: XO: So noted, Commander.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::loses her appetite::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::finds a spot to sit and takes a sandwich::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
VADM:  Lots.

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: The rest of the crew join them for the meal. Captain Sulek subconsciously has himself sit close to the Admiral.

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::finishes eating and sits back to relax::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::stands and wanders away from the group where she can better keep an eye on them all::

VADM_Sheridan says:
::smiles at Sulek and takes a sandwich made with some meat::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Ens. Rio> XO: So, Commander, that bugger in your mind reveal anything more about that black 'n white dude?

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
All: You must really all be my friends...::grins::

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: Sulek smiles back, and doesn't realize it.

Host SM_Selan says:
<Lt. Jg. Eisenhower> ::Takes another bite and really doesn't want to ask her boss why::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::looks over the crystals and recalls what Commander Kraight said about them being alive::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Neet> ::Leaps onto the CTO's shoulders, sniffing at the sandwhiches in the air::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::thinks the sandwich is a bit tough and hopes they aren't eating one of the horses::

VADM_Sheridan says:
::pokes at the sandwich and makes a face::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::eyes the sandwich and then the CEO:: CEO: Why?

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::taken aback:: Rio: Yes, he did. The man in black and white was Not the being...that...Anyways, it wasn't the trickster, and it wasn't me. It's something else, something that is coming after Sulek::distracted::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::raises an eyebrow as he gulps down the last bit of meat::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::is momentarily startled::  Neet:  I suppose you're hungry.  Here.  ::holds up her unfinished sandwich::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Neet> ::Takes the sandwich, nibbles, then promptly spits it out::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
All: For trying this not knowing if the Aquati ingredients would make the sandwich taste good

VADM_Sheridan says:
::puts the sandwich down without eating it and looks over at Cherry::CTO: Is it good?

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: Sulek looks at the XO for a moment, nodding at the knowledge that was probably already passed on at an earlier point. A look of consideration ... and perhaps worry? Crosses his face.

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CTO/OPS: We need to keep Neet. Somehow, I think Ris' Mor would have wanted that.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::nods rather sadly::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
XO:  We've taken it this far from home.  I suppose we are responsible for it.

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::gets up and gently pets Neet::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
VADM:  No. Not really.  ::grins::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Neet> ::Enjoying all this attention::

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CTO: Kind of cute isn't he? Or she....

Host SM_Selan says:
<Lt. Jg. Eisenhower> ::Grins at the TO:: TO: You really gobbled that all down.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
XO:  You think so?  Here.  ::removes Neet from her shoulder and passes him to Pangborn::  You take it.

VADM_Sheridan says:
::sits there and takes the folded cloth that contains the amulet and opens it::

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
TO: Have you been starving yourself?

CPO_Beldaur says:
::finds some rock and put them in a circle and starts a fire inside the stone so I don’t set the hole place on fire and starts a little fire and takes a nap near a tree::

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::Takes Neet::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Ens. Rio> ::Looks at the Bolian taking more of their supplies to make another fire:: Weirder and weirder.

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Neet: Do you miss the big Kitty Cat that isn't here? ::kisses Neet on the nose::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
EO/XO: Old habit from when I served....errr...when I was in training. Had to eat fast.

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::smiles uncomfortably for a moment::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::wonders when Neet is going to bite the XO in the nose::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Neet> ::Tries not to sneeze in the XO's face:: XO: Squeak.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: stands on the path watching the city... reflects upon absent comrades ::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Lt. Jg. Eisenhower> ::Smile lightly fades at his sudden change in demeanor:: TO: Ahhh oh-kay.

CPO_Beldaur says:
Rio: I can hear you sir and thank you I am a little weirder.

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::settles comfortably with Neet on his lap::

VADM_Sheridan says:
::holds up the amulet and watches it sparkle in the campfire light::Self: What is it about you?

Host SM_Selan says:
<Ens. Rio> ::Half smiles and waves at the CPO as if he didn't understand what he said::

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
TO: Better slow down. ::tells himself that too::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::approaches the CSO::  CSO:  Are you all right Sir?

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::straightens out his expression quickly:: EO: Most of the tactical guys do that.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CTO: Hm? Oh, yes... just thinking about Y'et, and Ris'Mor... wondering if we could have saved them...

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CSO: We have yet to determine if Ris' Mor needed saving. She may be alive.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
CSO:  We don't know for sure that they’re dead, Sir.

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::nods, already done eating::

VADM_Sheridan says:
::folds the cloth again and puts it away::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::puts the sandwich aside as she starts to feel drowsy::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
XO/CSO: We can only hope that is the truth.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CTO, XO: I hope you are right. I can't help but wonder, nonetheless.

CPO_Beldaur says:
::wakes up::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
XO: Sir I hope you enjoy your meal sir I am gonna turn in with Ensign Munro.

CPO_Beldaur says:
OPS: sir join me here I am taking a nap near this warm fire.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
CSO:  We won't know until we get back ourselves Sir.  ::smiles::

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CSO: Don't worry. It makes you old before your time::sleepy::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CTO: Yes...  when we get back.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::nods::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::raises a brow at Beldaur and stays put:: CPO: I'm fine here...but thanks.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
XO: I feel quite refreshed, Sir. I volunteer to take first watch.

CPO_Beldaur says:
OPS: any time sir.

CPO_Beldaur says:
::goes back to sleep::

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::grabs a piece of fruit:: CSO: As you wish.

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: As the Admiral puts the amulet away ... a familiar voice and memory is spoken in her mind ... "So nice, I wonder if El-Aurians evolve when they die? I hope I go through space to travel there. See everyone again ... so ... nice ..."

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
XO: Rest well, Sir.

VADM_Sheridan says:
::sits straight up and looks around::Aloud: Who said that?

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::curls up with Neet and begins to nod off, thinking of Cherry::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::recalls the sight of Wolverton eating and shivers::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: begins quietly pacing the perimeter of the camp ::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Ens. Rio> ::Trying to finish his meal ... stops at the Admiral's near shout::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: turns :: ADM: Admiral? Something wrong?

VADM_Sheridan says:
::gulps and turns away::Self: Oh no, it's back.

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::snores, sleeping well, for what seems the first time in an eternity::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::looks at the admiral::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::wonders what's up with the Admiral::

VADM_Sheridan says:
CSO: Wrong......oh no, nothing's wrong. Just a bit of indigestion. ::smiles slightly::

CPO_Beldaur says:
::belches out loud and keeps on sleeping::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::hears the Admiral's response and frowns::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::thinks men are such unpleasant creatures::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::eyes the Admiral questioningly::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Ens. Rio> ::Shakes head at the Bolian::

Host XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::sleeps, dreaming of Lauren, a smile comes to his face, and he dreams only of the good time::

VADM_Sheridan says:
::has to remember to think before she speaks::

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: The horn is heard again, waking everyone up.

Host SM_Selan says:
=/\==/\==/\==/\==/\= Pause Mission =/\==/\==/\==/\==/\=