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

DESTINYless
Seven

Arc Title: Destinyless
Mission Number: 296
Creator: Christopher Dickinson (Based on Storyline by Michael Jones)
Ship Manager: Christopher Dickinson & Michael Jones
Stardate: 10409.20

Previously …

"Is there an indelible line dividing sanity from insanity? Or do they change, one into the other, at the slightest turn of events? We'll find out, soon enough, that the world itself is insane..."

The Captain and crew found themselves the victims of a horrible punishment for their 'crimes' against the status quo of the world they found themselves a part of.  Placed into forced slavery, the crew toiled against their captors, split apart as they were.

The Captain, Exec, Chief of Science, and Tactical Officers found themselves in a fight for their freedom - and ended up killing Mayor Hardin.  This, in turn, triggered a cave-in, and now they find themselves face to face with a computer calling itself the Gateway.

Meanwhile, the others are under the watchful eye of a half-machine known as Janus, who will release them in exchange for participation in tactical exercise.  What decisions will be made tonight, and how will it affect the crew in an hour, tomorrow, next year...

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. Since the beginning of this Journey, Sulek has slowly begun to act with emotion. This soon culminated with the beginning of his relationship with Admiral Sheridan. However, his love for Sheridan (and growing emotions) posed a danger to the crew, and he was forced to end the relationship and lock up his emotions once more. The results of this action led to the supposed suicide of Admiral Sheridan. Sulek may feel remorse and worse … but no one can tell. He is beyond such things as emotions now.

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.

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.

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.

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. His relationship with the ship’s Doctor, Harriet Munro, was abruptly ended recently by her choice. Telarus’ subsequent beating given by the enigmatic Nero has not made his life any easier.

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 is doing so with the recent beginning of his relationship with engineer Erin Eisenhower.

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 recently chose to end her months old relationship with the ship’s CEO David Telarus due to personal reasons.

Host SM_ChrisD says:
<<<<<RESUME USS Quirinus MISSION 10409.20 >>>>>

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::Stands and faces the direction of the voice:: Gateway: It has indeed been some time since you sent us on this quest.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: gets to his feet, rubbing various bruised spots :: All: I know that voice.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Gateway: You are the Gateway, are you not?

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@::notices Janus seems to be having a reflective moment::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: I've tried turning the thing on, though I don't know how to. Is it sentient for all practical purposes?

Host Gateway says:
CO: Your notion of time is flawed and irrelevant, Captain.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::runs a weary hair through her hair::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@OPS/CEO/CMO:  So umm…what should we do here?

CMO_LtJG_Munro says:
@CTO: I have no idea... any one?

Host Gateway says:
CSO: I am.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::REB:: Gateway: Indeed.  How much time has passed then since we first left?

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@CMO:  I think we should take his offer and come up with a brilliant tactical plan to attack him with.

Host Gateway says:
CO: Much time has passed, and none at all.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::looks at the object in her hands and wonders just what Telarus was trying to give Janus::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::defers to pretty much EVERYBODY else for this science-type stuff::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Gateway: You speak in riddles.  Why do we now find ourselves in your presence?

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@::tries to think of a brilliant tactical plan, but comes up empty headed::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@CTO: Cherry, we go with the plan for now, give me his item I will return it and we are going to see how we can win our freedom, but as soon as we are ready to make a move we do it.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: begins examining the consoles nearby ::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::wonders if Janus can be shorted out::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@::looks at the CEO not quite trusting him::  CEO:  I think Jade should give it back to him.  ::looks to OPS::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@CTO: I need tools in order to get these items off us, I see that you have started some relationship with Janus, maintain that for now as well.

Host Gateway says:
ACTION: The monitors begin to come online, and display images and videos of the worlds visited in the past - the crew is clearly visible in many of the images.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@CTO: No I took it away I will give it back and apologize.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@CEO: I'll keep it for now, I think. I am trying to establish a trust.

Host Gateway says:
CO: You find yourself in my presence because you are here, Captain.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@CEO:  I think you've caused enough problems for now.  ::still doesn't trust him::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
All: As I suspected...this has been a ruse from day one ::bemused::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: looks at the record of their journey, fascinated ::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::thinks the CEO has to think a bit more calmly and clearly::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@CTO/OPS: This is not a discussion unless you have a better plan.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Gateway: Will you bring our comrades to us here, as well? We fear they may be in danger.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@CEO: No offense, Sir...but you aren't getting it back.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@CEO:  Since you are not in possession of the item at the moment, I don't think you have much to say about it.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@CEO/OPS/CMO:  So we have to come up with a plan of attack, and quickly.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::turns to face the monitors:: Gateway: It is not the question I asked.  A circular answer will not avoid the reality.  Was the death of Hardin beyond your capability to program an appropriate response?

Host Gateway says:
CSO: I cannot do such.  There are no protocols allowed to affect the normal flow of the Construct.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@OPS: Lt may I remind you here who has the rank, I asked you for a plan not for you to countermand my order. We do not have the tools to execute a plan we take Janus' offer for now.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Gateway: What is the Construct?

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@CEO:  What the heck are you talking about?

Host Gateway says:
CO: I was unable to cease the termination of the one known as Hardin.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::shrugs:: CEO: Take it up with the Captain. You aren't getting me killed....Sir.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::tense:: Sulek: This is something I suspected. Now my fears are confirmed

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@CEO:  If we take his offer, our side of the bargain is to coordinate a tactically sound attack on him.

Host Gateway says:
CSO: The Construct is what you have been experiencing.  Nine worlds with nine adventures.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@OPS: I will I know what I am doing. Now give me the device I am going to return it to Janus and take him up on his offer and apologize.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::glares at Telarus:: CEO: Not likely.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@CTO: We need to go along with Janus' offer Cherry, we don't have tools for us to perform and type of escape plan or for me to get these devices off of our necks.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Gateway: Were the worlds we visited artificial in nature... sophisticated simulations?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: I suspect we are still where we were when we entered. And that no time as we know it has passed

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::feels a bit smug about ruining the Gateway's plans::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Pangborn: I have for sometime suspected that we were outside of the known reality.  I would guess that it is a type of holographic test.  We have, however, in some way effected its normal operations since this is not one of its nine worlds.

Host Gateway says:
CSO: The worlds you experienced are indeed real, in every way you can conceive.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@OPS: Lt. should I need to use force I will not hesitate to do so and will report this to the Captain, should you want to salvage a court martial you will comply with a lawful order.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@CEO: His "plan" will get Jade killed.....as well as the rest of us.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@CEO:  Were you listening?  If we engage him in battle, he'll remove the collars and let us go.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Gateway: Our friends need our help. Will you allow us to go to them?

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@CEO:  Just shut up already, would you?

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::smiles:: CEO: Please....fell free to try and take it...Sir.

Host Janus says:
@ ::Begins to walk over to the crew::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: It is not a holodeck. My empirical senses distrust this possibility

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@CTO: Yes and what if he is lying. We need a plan B.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::notices Janus and hides the "item" quickly.::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@CEO:  First we need a plan A.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kraight:  I suspect the Gateway is unable to answer beyond its programming.  It does what it is programmed to do.  If it is AI it is limited in what it can do.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::silently agrees with Cherry::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@::walks away from the rest of the crew:: Janus: I apologize for before Janus.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@::looks at Jade and rolls her eyes::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CO: We have to try to help them, sir.

Host Janus says:
@ ::Watches the CEO walk away:: CEO: So noted. ::Turns to the others:: CTO / OPS: Have you come to a decision?

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@::gives some serious thought to the concept of teamwork::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::watches warily for Janus to squash the CEO like a bug.::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@ Janus: I would like to return your item, I am trying to procure it from my OPS officer, although she doesn't trust me to return it to you.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@Janus:  We'll take you up on your offer.  What are the terms specifically?

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@Janus: I would also like to agree to your offer sounds fair enough.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::glares at the CEO and hopes for an opportunity to even the score with him.::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@OPS: Lt Morgan Mr. Janus' item. ::glares at her::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@CEO: Is in a safe place.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Pangborn: I use the idea of holographic capability as a referent only.  It is obviously much more than this.  The very nature and number of the computer banks would seem to indicate this.  It is real in every sense.  But reality is done only within its construct.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@::chuckles::

Host Gateway says:
CSO: I reason that you are unable to climb far enough to save your crew.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::looks at Janus::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@Janus: I apologize as you see I can not acquire the item as my OPS officer has it now and refuses to give it back.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Gateway: Then help us find a transport. Even a ladder, or some rope, would be valuable to us.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Gateway: Can you at least show us our comrades on one of these screens?

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@Janus: I do not mean to be rude or disrespectful, but I would prefer to keep the "item", and assure you that it will come to no harm, as a "guarantee" that you will honor any agreement we come to.

Host Janus says:
@ ALL: It is simple. There is a tent over there ::Gestures to where, indeed, a tent resides:: in which plans and schematics for my citadel are present. There is also a bio on me. There are supplies which should be suitable for an assault.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kraight: It could be that like us, the rest of the AT must offer something unexpected.  How we could communicate this to them, I am uncertain since they are now controlled by a different part of the construct.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@Janus:  Oh cool.  ::can't wait to get her hands on something sharp::

Host Janus says:
@ ::If there were a real eye to be seen, it would starring daggers at OPS. She can tell from his aura he is angered:: OPS: I see. 

Host Gateway says:
CSO: I am unable to interfere in the course of the Construct.  However, I can display it as such.  ::A computer screen displays the requested information::

Host Janus says:
@ OPS: You can keep it. I will kill you if any harm comes to it.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::resists talking directly to the gateway::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: turns to the active screen ::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::continues:: Janus: I will, of course, return it at the end of our conflict, unharmed.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::looks at the monitor::

Host Gateway says:
ACTION: Voices can be heard from above the CO's team... "Go get some rope!"  "They're down here!"...

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@Janus: I would expect no less. One must always protect their children.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@OPS: I trust Mr. Janus here and if you continue down this path, I am sure we will return to the ship and you will be court martial, need I remind you about the laws that govern a Starfleet Officer being captured and doing everything to escape we have been presented a situation and that the highest ranking officer is in command of those below him.

Host Janus says:
@ ::Head turns in the CEO's general direction::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@CEO:  This is not the time.

Host Janus says:
@ ALL: Another requirement of this event is that your Tactician be in charge.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: continues to try various controls on the panels around him :: CO: I am not willing to give up just because this... thing says we can't help the rest of the crew.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@CEO: You are within your rights....as am I.

Host Janus says:
@ ALL: She is, after, your tactician ... right?

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@CEO:  Hah!

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
All: Gee, looks like par for the course, Telarus is acting like an ass

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Gateway: Tell us more of the Construct. What is it? Did you create it?

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::nods:: Janus: She is our chief tactician.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@CTO: This is this the time Janus has given us an offer and I acted as a fool before.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@CTO: As a show of good faith we return his item.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
TO: Give me your assessment

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@CEO:  As you still are.  Shut up and follow me.  ::heads towards the tent::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::looks at the panel below the screen:: Kraight: It is a computer.  Like most programs, its creator surely left entry...a backdoor.

Host Janus says:
@ ::Watches them head toward the tent, turns and walks toward the citadel::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
XO: Can't one of you hack this thing or something?

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CO: That's my hope. If it's here, I'll find it.

Host Gateway says:
CSO: The Construct is the nine worlds you have been sent to explore.  They are real worlds, in so far as you can understand reality.  The Construct exists outside of space and time, within a tesseract.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::follows Cherry::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
TO: Like I haven't tried

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@::enters the tent and looks around for the plans::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::looks around:: XO: I don't see much else we can do from here, sir.

Host Janus says:
@ ACTION: Everything Janus spoke of is present in the tent.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@CTO: Since we have agreed to Janus' offer if Janus is ready to go I follow his lead not yours Lt.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::pushes back the flaps and enters the tent::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Gateway: Sounds like what some of our theoreticians would call a 'pocket universe'. How did it come to be?

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@::gives up::  CEO:  Fine.  ::starts studying the plans of the Citadel::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
TO: I'd like to push a button that will make the CEO behave.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::looks around curiously::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@CMO:  Could you take an inventory of the weapons?

Host Gateway says:
CSO: Those who created me also created the Construct.  It was seeded with genetic material and allowed to develop independently, and compared to other life.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@OPS:  Could you go over Janus' bio?

Host Janus says:
JANUS NARRATIVE: From the Personal Journal of Janus Exquisiant - "Since there arrival in our land, I have watched these visitors closely. Studying them. Learning their habits and their ways. They are a peculiar group, but not unlike any unit I have served with in the past." 

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::nods and pick it up::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Gateway: So you are the caretaker of the Construct?

Host Gateway says:
CSO: I am not.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kraight: I have every confidence that you will.  If the construct is subspace, then perhaps the input is as well.  The void of the Aquati was a virus...we were able to overwrite that virus...perhaps we need not destroy Janus, only alter his ability.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@::continues to pour over the schematics, trying to find a weakness::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Gateway: What purpose do you serve, then?

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::wonders what the XO was starting to say::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: still testing various controls ::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@::starts studying the area::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CSO: Kraight, see if you can obtain root level access

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
XO: I'll be happy if I actually manage to turn something on, sir...

Host Gateway says:
CSO: I control your passage through the construct and monitor your progress.

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
XO: No comment on the CEO, sir.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Gateway: What is your propose?

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Gateway: Have there been other visitors to the Construct before us?

Host Gateway says:
XO: That is my purpose.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@CEO:  Why don't you help your wife sort through the inventory... Not an order, just a suggestion, Sir.

CMO_LtJG_Munro says:
@ CTO: Yes, sir.

CMO_LtJG_Munro says:
@ ::Begins inventory::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Gateway:  Then you are not a part of the construct.  By this standard, we should not be in your presence again until the completion of the 9th world.  Have you violated your programming?

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@OPS/CEO/CMO:  Look, there's an air duct system, looks big too.  I bet we could get in that way.  ::points at the schematics::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@CTO: Good idea, Cherry. ::walks over to where his wife is and helps her::

Host Gateway says:
CSO: Those invited visit.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::continues to read Janus' biography::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Gateway: Why were we invited?

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@CMO/CEO:  I don't suppose there are any explosives in here?

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Gateway: I understand. How long has the Construct been in existence?

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@CTO: Probably booby trapped, we need to find a way to recon it without putting ourselves in harms way.

CMO_LtJG_Munro says:
@CTO: I don't think so, but I’ll check.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@CEO:  You can go first then.  ::grins::

CMO_LtJG_Munro says:
@CTO: Oh... never mind.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@CTO: I'd love to, I just have a thing about living.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@CEO:  Coward.  Fine, I'll go first.

Host Janus says:
JANUS NARRATIVE: "I have studied the four I shall face in battle soon extensively. I know them not by name, but by their true selves - Tactician, Communicator, Healer, Builder." 

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::raises a brow::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Gateway: Why were we invited?

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@::studies the plans trying to memorize the route::

Host Gateway says:
CO: No violations have occurred.  The parameters have been altered to allow you to understand your journey, at great risk to itself.

Host Gateway says:
XO: Your reason for invitation is unknown to me.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@CTO: No I will.

Host Gateway says:
CSO: The Construct has existed as long as I.

Host Janus says:
JANUS NARRATIVE: "The Healer is of no threat, nor do I believe she will be used as one. She is a gentle creature; fragile and innocent. But when one is harmed, I have no doubt she is quick to help them. I will keep in mind they may attempt to be clever and use her against me in some fashion."

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@CEO: Oh no…wouldn't want you to muss your hair up.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::realizes that he has indeed been watching them all along. That he may indeed be the black and white man::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@CTO: I was being sarcastic if you really believe the best way to find out if that is booby trapped or not is to recon it ourselves then I will go I have more experience.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@CEO:  More experience at?

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
::mutters:: Self: Straight answers aren't your strong suit, obviously...

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Gateway: Why were we invited?

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@CTO: I am not superficial, I have been a Tactical Officer more than you have and have had more training time on infiltration and extraction.

Host Gateway says:
XO: Again, the reason for your invitation is unknown to me.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Gateway: And if we already understand our journey's purpose, then is there not a fault in your calculations?

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@CEO:  Fine.  You come up with the plan.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::thinks that this is really getting them nowhere::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::glances up from her reading::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@CMO: Harriet, I need some gear get me together a small amount of weaponry.

Host Gateway says:
CO: You did not fully understand your purpose; no fault is detected.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: looks up :: Gateway: How can you not know the purpose of an invitation that you yourself issued to us?

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@::tries to think of a way to cause maximum disruption to the Citadel::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@OPS:  I got it.  We should raid the kitchen and steal all the food.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@CEO: This is not a pissing contest or a game. Janus put her in charge. You wanted to follow his orders, so why don't you do so?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Gateway: How can you know so little and so much? It's a paradox...a conundrum

Host Gateway says:
ACTION: Commotion can be again heard from above the Gateway room...

Host Gateway says:
XO: I know much about several subjects, and little about others; no fault is detected.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Gateway: The purpose was one of self-discovery.  What we believed to be our boundaries and how we might expand our understanding of what those boundaries were.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@OPS: Stay out of this

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: without taking his eyes from the panels before him :: CO: Sounds like we're going to have company, Captain. Should we organize a defense?

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::raises a brow:: CEO: Make me.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Gateway: Yet you are at fault...your reasoning is nonexistent

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Gateway: Each world has offered us a problem to solve and in someway has necessitated a change in at least one member of the company. Is there more?

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@CTO: That is a good plan, we need to sour their food stores better make them think nothing is out of the ordinary.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@CEO:  With what?  Oh never mind.  It's your plan.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::sighs:: All: there is no them. There is a him...a robotic him. Who says he even eats?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::Listens:: Sulek: Captain, there is something above us, I suspect it the other members of the crew

Host Gateway says:
CO: That of which you speak is not the primary purpose, but a coincidence and theories to fit what you suspect are the facts.  Your attempts at change led you to face me; your fault was detected.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@CTO: No it's yours you came up with it I gotta give you credit, although instead of taking the food we poison it, but how?

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@OPS:  Hmm...what's his power source?  Does he need to recharge?

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: points to the screen :: XO: Not likely, sir. They're accounted for elsewhere.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kraight: Agreed.  Pangborn/Wolverton: Defensive positioning.  Pangborn: conceal yourself.  Wolverton: take point.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::shrugs:: CTO: Still reading..... ::smiles::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Gateway: Then clarify our purpose, since that is the reason that you have altered the construct.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CSO: And were is elsewhere? ::takes defensive measures::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@::looks for an obvious power source in the Citadel::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@CMO: Did you finally find any explosives in the weapons stockpile?

Host Gateway says:
CSO: Primary purpose was exploration and observation of targeted beings.

Host Janus says:
JANUS NARRATIVE: "The Builder is their weak link. He is quick to action and slow to planning, unless of course it is related to building. There is no doubt in my mind he is quite capable of concocting a dangerous scheme or device against me if he takes the time to do it. Yet he seems quick to action, perhaps fearing inaction would cause harm to his friends or loved ones."

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@CTO: So far....it looks like Janus has been watching us all along.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Gateway: Why were we targeted?

Host Gateway says:
XO: That is unknown to me.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@OPS:  Whatever for?

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Gateway: "Targeted beings". Can't say I like the sound of that.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::agrees with some of the narrative::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Gateway: Hell of a lot of good you are

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Gateway: What happens to "targeted beings" when the observations are complete?

Host Gateway says:
CSO: They exit the construct.

Host Gateway says:
CSO: Provided they meet the requirements.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@CTO: I will run recon and place explosives in these locations ::points at the map of the Citadel:: I need you to hit the food stores, the OPS and the CMO guard our "base".

Host Janus says:
JANUS NARRATIVE: "The Communicator is troubling. She seems to know more than any normal person would. Perhaps some sort of gift graces her ... and ability to see beyond the surface? There is too much mystery there. She must be watched."

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@CEO: Okay then.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Gateway: And yet there is another in the Construct.  One who would prevent our simple observation.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: looks dubious :: Gateway: Define these 'requirements'.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@::wonders what he plans to blow up and what she's supposed to do to the food, but figures at least Jade and Harriet will be safe::

Host Gateway says:
CSO: Fourteen must begin the Journey and fourteen must end it.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Gateway: That's it?

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@::notes where the central room of the Citadel is::

Host Gateway says:
CO: They are not responsible for his actions.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@OPS: I need you to construct a replica of Janus' device, I am gonna have some fun with him and I need you to continue to help the CMO locate some tools to help me get these damn things off of our neck.

Host Gateway says:
CSO: Yes.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@::moves off to sort through the pile for some sort of weapon... something that will short out a big electronic thing preferably::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Gateway: They? who?

Host Gateway says:
::Processes for a moment::  CO: Unknown.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@OPS: In the replica we will need some explosive in the center and get whatever you can that is electronic in nature so we can remote detonator or set a timer.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@CEO:  What are you talking about?  What replica?

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::doesn't say a  word and continues to read::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Gateway: Are you telling us that there are intruders in the Construct?

Host Gateway says:
CSO: There are always visitors to the Construct.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::looks up:: CTO: It’s impossible.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@OPS:  You know what he's talking about?  ::looks incredulous::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kraight: The black and white man is not a part of the construct.  Gateway: When did he arrive in the construct?

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Gateway: Invited visitors, yes. Are there any beings present who are not native to the Construct, and who were not invited to enter?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Gateway: Do these interlopers interfere with your functioning?

Host Janus says:
JANUS NARRATIVE: "The Tactician is the one who most interests me. She is a furnace of emotions and passion hiding behind a facade of ignorance and naivety. She is clever and quick, and could make it more obvious but chooses to chase her male and clothing. It is a clever idea - make her opponents think less of her."

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@CTO: Yep. But it’s not viable. We need another plan....hey...escape might work.

Host Gateway says:
CO: Time has no meaning.

Host Gateway says:
CSO: They are aware of the others.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@OPS:  We promised

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@All: The item contains a life force. It cannot be faked.

Host Gateway says:
XO: My functionality is correct; no fault is detected.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@All: Its faint, but its there. He'd know the difference. I will not play with his soul.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CO: I think this AI has a diode or two loose. Its answers are becoming more irrational as the questioning continues.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Gateway: In reference to our arrival.  Did this visitor arrive with, before, or after?  Has he been in your control center?

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Gateway: Where are we now, Gateway? What is the function of this place?

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::All: He has assessed us all...strengths…weaknesses...the lot.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@CTO: Let's move, get what gear you need. ::picks up what he needs from the stockpile of weapons::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@ ::finds a very sharp boomerang and a taser-whip.  Picks them up and purposefully leaves the tent::

Host Gateway says:
CO: The one of which you speak arrived after, and has not been within the Stack.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CSO: I'm trying to interface with the damn thing, I'm unable to. It's on auto pilot that’s for sure

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@::heads towards the Citadel at a fast run::

Host Gateway says:
CSO: You are currently in Stack 981105.  Its primary purpose is to provide the material and instructions for the worlds.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::pulls out the item and looks at it...trying to "feel" who or what it once was.::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::walks over to the panels in front of each bank and begins to examine them for signs of entry:: Gateway: Can he control the Stack...perhaps with some device?

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@:follow the CTO but turns to the OPS and CMO before he leaves:: OPS: You are in charge if we don't get back, make the replica of the device with the explosive center, see what you can find to work on the control devices and to set a detonator on the replica.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@::looks for the grid for the airshaft as she runs::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@CEO: I told you. I won’t do it.  But...I will protect Harriet to the best of my ability.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::suddenly interested:: CSO: Could that be the address in memory that the location is stored?

Host Gateway says:
CO: He cannot.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CO: Stack 981105... The Aquati! Sir, this is where the data that maintained the Aquati lake came from!

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@::approaches the grid covering and looks it over carefully::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::sighs when she only catches a fleeting feeling of happiness::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@::pries it off with the boomerang::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Gateway: Gateway, this stack maintains the world of the Aquati, correct?

Host Gateway says:
CSO: Correct.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@CMO: Harriet, what kind of weaponry is left?

Host Gateway says:
CSO: Do you wish to view this world?

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::tucks her stuff in her handy dandy utility belt and climbs in::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kraight: Consider our adversaries ability to enter dreams of the participants and to change form.  Could he have place by transport some control.  It would explain the sudden appearance of the void as well as other occurrences.  The placement must be concealed but at an intricate juncture of each of the controls for the nine worlds.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Gateway: When we were there, we detected your data stream, and found that it had been corrupted. How would such corruption be introduced?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::correct in his assumption:: CSO: We should be able to access any world in this manner

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@::tries to keep the schematics in mind as she climbs upward and inward::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@::looks at the CTO entering the gate::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CSO: We could attempt to hyper thread it, thereby granting access

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Gateway: Show us the monitor system for the Aquati world.

Host Gateway says:
ACTION: Several strands of rope finally drop from the large crack in the ceiling.  Faces can be seen peering down - multicolored beings.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
XO: Yes, but perhaps not from here. This may merely be a data storage and transmission facility.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@OPS: I need you to do it that is our plan B, like Cherry said escape is another option, we need a plan B. I need to go now it's my turn to go in. ::starts off towards grate::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::looks at the multicolored faces::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@::keeps climbing and hoping Janus is in the central room::

Host Gateway says:
CSO: I introduced such corruption to inform you that you were not in your known Universe.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: World are colliding. ::points::

Host Gateway says:
ACTION: The Gateway shows the Aquati world.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Gateway: Clever, if a bit obscure.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::thinks something very uncharitable::

Host Gateway says:
<Voices> "There they are!"  "What is this place?"  "Capture them dead or alive!"

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@::thinks she should be just about there.  Turns left and sees a grate dead ahead::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@::enters the passage way::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kraight: Check the panel beneath.  What the Gateway may think of its own action may be a part of protective shielding.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@::tries to quietly pry the grate open::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@::succeeds and jumps down into a room::

Host Gateway says:
ACTION: Four persons grab hold of the ropes, each carrying a weapon of some kind.  They raise them and fire off energy blasts in the direction of the Captain before beginning to slide down the rope.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Gateway: Did your creators include any central controls? Any place from which the worlds could be directly controlled, in case of a catastrophic failure of your own systems?

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@::arrives at point number one for the explosives and places it on a support beam for the citadel::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: ducks behind a console and starts trying to pry off any access panels he finds ::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::as they slide down, runs forward, grabs the ropes, and swings them viciously::

Host Gateway says:
CSO: No fault is detected.

Host Gateway says:
CO: They do not belong here.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::looks through the weapons::

CMO_LtJG_Munro says:
@ OPS: There are some blades... some energy weapons and some boomerangs... oh! And Projectiles.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@::looks around with interest noting that it seems to be an energy generator of some sort::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::looks up at the faces and moves to the side as he sees the weapons charge:: Pangborn: They have seen me.  You are another matter.

Host Gateway says:
ACTION: Two of the beings begin to bounce into each other and get slapped by the rope.  They begin to fire straight downwards.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
@::smiles:: CMO: Maybe we can shoot his nonexistent eye out, huh?

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
@::gives the generator a flick with the taser whip::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::dives away quickly::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: shouting over the weapons fire :: Gateway: Just answer the question! Is there a central control room for the Construct?

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::is disappointed they didn't drop a weapon::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: Another matter?

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::plans to give one a good flying kick when he's low enough::

Host Gateway says:
CSO: This Stack controls the Construct.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
@::keeps walking inside the citadel’s interior placing charges now at location and then at location three has five more to go::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Pangborn: They have not seen you...perhaps if you were to flank them.  ::runs directly across the path of the ropes where they will see him::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::follows::

Host Gateway says:
CO: If you cannot protect the Stack, you will be unable to leave the Construct...

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