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

The Death Sentence of Conformity
One

“A heretic is a man who sees with his own eyes”
-	Gotthold Ephraim Lessing

Arc Title: The Death Sentence of Conformity
Mission Number: 301
Creator: Michael Jones
Ship Manager: Michael Jones
Stardate: 10410.25

Previously …

Following the night of the reality storm at the Tavern at the End of Times, the crew has now departed for the continuation of their Journey.

A sense of impending resolution hangs over the group as hope for finding the believed still alive Admiral Sheridan & Counselor Ris’Mor rises, and eagerness to solve the mystery of the Construct grows.

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.

Vikki is Victoria Shakaku Sagan – The human woman known as Sagan has no part in the Journey of the Quirinus crew, nor was she selected by the Gateway to join it. She has no joined the crew through accident; slipping through the “cracks of the Universe” during a reality storm and meeting the Starfleet personnel along the way. Who she is and what her past holds remain a mystery, for now …

Host SM_Selan says:
=/\==/\==/\==/\==/\= BEGIN MISSION =/\==/\==/\==/\==/\=

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: The dream has been the same for nights now. Sulek wanders abandoned corridors ... they are lit and bright, but there is a sense of loneliness.

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: As he continues on ... the corridors begin to change ... going from the familiar ones of the Quirinus to the scorched hallways of the Griffon. There is a rumbling in the distance, ever so familiar. If he listens quietly he can hear screams.

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: The Griffon corridors give way to a hallway on the Train the crew took to Trellis City. "Sulek," a voice calls. 

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: He turns, and before him is the broken and bloody body of Serena Sheridan, "You broke my heart." And then the train gives way, and Serena falls screaming into the abyss.

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: Everyone wakes up.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::wakes up::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::awakens with what might be described a start for a Vulcan::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: blinks, yawns (a sight most humans prefer not to see), and sits up ::

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: Sunlight filters through the trees of the forest where they slept. There is a cool morning mist along the ground, and a chill fills the air. Birds chirp around them. 

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: Neet is cuddling with Cherry, as opposed to Commander Pangborn.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: arises and shakes out his bedroll ::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::rising, he neatly folds his blanket and puts it in his pack::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::takes a deep breath, then cautious reaches over to pet Neet::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Ensign Rio> ::Walks up to the crew:: ALL: Glad to see you're awake. There's a clearing up ahead. There's something familiar about this place ... I can't put my finger on it though.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::blinks her eyes wearily::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Neet> ::A sound like purring is heard::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::squints up at Rio::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::wondered when Rio got so damn annoying::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CO: Captain, permission to scout the clearing with Mr. Rio.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::sits up and runs a weary hand through her hair::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
Neet:  Sorry little buddy.  ::gets up and moves Neet from the bedroll::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Neet> ::Rolls off with a growl::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kraight: Granted.  ::looks in the pack and removes a packet of food for breakfast::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::starts packing up her stuff::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Rio: Lead on, Ensign.

Host SM_Selan says:
<CPO Beldaur> ::Wakes up and yawns, and begins gently singing some Bolian opera to himself::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::winces::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Ensign Rio> ::Nods, and waves for Kraight to follow as he heads down the path::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: follows ::

Host SM_Selan says:
@ <Ensign Rio> CSO: Do any of these plants look familiar to you? ::Points to a large spotted one that seems to curl around a tree::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::kicks back the blanket and stands up::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::does not like camping at all::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::opens the food packet and begins dividing it up for the AT::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Lt. Jg. Eisenhower> ::Snores into Wolverton's shoulder::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::pulls a small twig out of her hair with a sigh::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
@ :: looks at the plant for a long moment :: Rio: Difficult to say... we've been through so many environments. Tell me what it reminds you of.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::accepts some food and offers a bit to Neet::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Neet> ::Looks around for berries::

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
::slept in a tree and yawns as the morning fog hangs in the trees close by.. everything smells funny and musky::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Neet> ::Squeaks and takes the food from Cherry::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::nibbles as she finishes packing::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::takes the food reluctantly::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Neet> ::Sniffs the air, and looks upward ... suddenly flies from the ground and scurries up a nearby tree::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::distributing the food to each::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::watches Neet dash up a tree and looks around warily::

Host SM_Selan says:
@ <Ensign Rio> ::Scratches chin:: CSO: A Jolanian fauna ... hmmm. 

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::takes some food from Sulek, having been unusually quiet::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::picks up a slightly pointy stick::

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
::checks her backpack to make sure no snakes got in it overnight again and grabs her sword from a near by branch  with another yawn::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Neet> ::Gets to a branch and spots the CIV, starts shrieking::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::hears all kinds of bizarre noises from the tree.  Moves to the base and looks up::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Cherry: I am weary of our travels. I could use something a little different

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::as he hands the food to the XO; quietly:: Pangborn: I have now had the same dream for several nights.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::plops back down on her blankets so that she could savor her delicious repast::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
@ :: shakes head :: Rio: I can't say that I recognize it. What else have you found?

Host SM_Selan says:
<Neet> ::Shakes the branch and points at CIV, hoping the others can see him and the CIV up there::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::looks at Pangborn then at the Captain, then back up the tree::

Host SM_Selan says:
@ <Ensign Rio> ::Kneels down next to it:: CSO: Just that ... it was native to the El Aurian home world.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::calls out::  CIV:  Hey!  You in tree!

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: Care to elaborate?

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
::hears the shriek and screams back.. grabs her knife and gets ready for the furry screaming thing to attack or run::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Neet> ::Squeaks at the sight of the knife::

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
::climbs up another branch at the sound of voices:: Neet: Back off hair-ball!

Host SM_Selan says:
@ <Ensign Rio> ::Rubs his chin and stands up again::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::sees the flash of a blade up above::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::looking up:: Sagan: Who are you?

Host SM_Selan says:
@ <Ensign Rio> CSO: Humph, maybe we're in the land of the Listeners. ::Shrugs and begins to walk on to the clearing::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
@ Rio: Well, it's not inconceivable that the Gateway has some knowledge of worlds in our universe.   :: follows Rio ::

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
CTO: yes who ever is on the ground.. I think.. this your hair ball? ::still pointing knife.. thinking breakfast::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
CIV:  Put the knife away and come down!

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::looks up at the voices and frowns::

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
CTO: why? ::eyes the furry thing closer.. he's pretty fat.. good 1 pan fryer::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
XO:  Neet's up there, and whatever that is has a knife.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::has a strange feeling of....yes....doom.....but it may be indigestion, so chooses not to say anything::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Ensign Rio> @ CSO: We did go to Earth at some point, so ...

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Pangborn: It starts on the Q. I wander the corridors.  I am quite alone.  Then I am on the Griffon.  I can here the screams of those dying as she was destroyed. Finally, I am on the train.  I here a voice that calls me by name and then Sheridan falls into the void.

Host SM_Selan says:
<Neet> ::Scurries back down the tree in fear::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
CIV:  So we can see what you are.  Come down.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Sagan: Yes, Please come down. We will do you no harm.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::nods:: Sulek: I have a theory about Sheridan...I am not certain she is dead

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
<here =hear>

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::overhears the XO and is momentarily distracted from the drama in the tree::

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
::gets her backpack on and sword.. and switches blade hands.. shifts a bit to have a look at the ground.. figures her leather trench coat hides her pretty well::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
@ Rio: It would be too much to hope for, I suppose, that we have been returned to our own universe...

Host SM_Selan says:
<Ensign Rio> @ CSO: If so, not at the right time period ... there IS no more El Aurian home world. Remember? ::They arrive at the clearing::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Pangborn: It is the repetitiveness of the dream that concerns me.  Unlike most dreams, there are no variants.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
@ Rio: That's true enough.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::watches the dram play out before her::

Host SM_Selan says:
@ ACTION: The clearing is similar to that of an African plain ... it extends for a good distance with various alien animals, most unrecognizable, as they eat and drink amongst a few watering holes.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
<the drama>

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
CTO: who sent you? I don't have your money.. so go back and tell Kebbo to forget it..

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: Is it normal for Vulcans to dream?

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
CIV:  I have no idea what you are talking about.  We are Starfleet officers.  Now come down!

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
@ :: surveys the alien life forms carefully... looking for anything that might be a predator ::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Pangborn: It is not common, but it does occur.  For most, it would be what you would call a nightmare.  It is a price we pay for the locking away of our emotions.

Host SM_Selan says:
@ ACTION: A shadow suddenly falls upon the CSO ... and a shrill cry is heard in the sky. A massive hawk swoops down and grabs the CSO up with its talons. 

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
CTO: Starfleet? Here! Ok.. so Kebbo didn't send you.. ::gets closer to the bottom branch to have a better look.. can be seen now:: how did you get here.. or better question.. how did you drag me into this?

Host SM_Selan says:
<Ensign Rio> @ ::Dives:: Holy --!

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::frowns at the newcomers words:: Self: A thief, eh?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: Captain!

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
CIV:  Come down and address the Captain directly.  Or are you a coward?

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
@ Rio: Tell the Captain! No one is to come this way! Run!

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Pangborn: Yes?

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
CTO: Coward?! fftt.. maybe.. cowards stay alive.. ::has a seat:: throw down your phasers first..

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: Either I'm hallucinating of Kraight is being attacked by a giant bird ::points::

Host SM_Selan says:
@ ACTION: The CSO disappears upward into the clouds as the giant hawk carries him ...

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
CIV:  Oh... just stay up there, I don't care.  ::turns her back and goes to make sure Neet is okay::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Ensign Rio> @ ::Watches the CSO go up:: Uhm. Right. ::Runs back to the camp::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::gives Jade a meaningful look as she walks past::

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
::hangs upside down to watch the CTO.. then has a look around for others in the area::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::looks up in time to see the CSO being carried off into the distance:: All: We apparently have another matter to deal with.  Sagan: You may join us.  We are not responsible for your arrival here, but we can explain this later.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::is trying to get a look at the tree dweller::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Ensign Rio> ::Arrives out of breath:: The Commander ... ::Gasp:: ... giant hawk ... ::Gasp:: ... crud!

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
Captain:  Join us?  Are you nuts?!  ::realizes how out of line that remark was and shuts up::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::sees the CSO fly away and frowns::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Rio: We saw that.....

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::didn't see a thing::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::at the camp with the crew::

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
CO: That’s peachy keen-O with sugar.. ::gets down and checks her gear, looks a bit ratty compared to the others::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Rio: Yes.  We saw him being carried away.  All: Let's get a move on. ::grabs his pack and begins moving in the direction he saw Kraight being carried::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::eyes her with distaste::

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
::looks at the CTO and the hair ball:: CTO: you gonna eat that?

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::quickly rolls up her bedding and falls into step::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: The story was a break from the constant state of crisis this journey had been, maybe you dreams were the result of being given time to think. ::sighs:: Let’s move ::motions to the crew::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::scoops up Neet:: CIV: Over my dead body.

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
CTO: well if you don't want it I could use breakfast

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::follows the Captain in a bit of a huff::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
CTO: We have much to teach Sagan.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
CEO:  Humph!

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
CIV: Ms. Sagan, Neet is her pet not her dinner intention.

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
CEO: how did you know my name?

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::grumbles about Neet not belonging to anybody but himself::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::turns back and looks at the stranger:: Sagan: We don't eat our friends.

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: In the skies, the crew hears two BOOMs ... followed by a series of flashing lights.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::following at a quick pace, with crew shortly behind::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::listens to the flashing booms::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::looks to the sky::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
OPS:  Yikes!  What was that?

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::ignores the CIV's comment at the booms:: All: What was that?

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::shakes her head:: CTO: It doesn't sound good, whatever it was!

Host SM_Selan says:
<Neet> ::Squeaks::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::has a pointy stick in one hand and Neet in the other::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::looking up and still following::

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: The Hawk is seen flying away out of the sky, without the CSO ... and suddenly, a craft floats out of the sky ... it is streamlined and brown. A glowing ball of energy contains the CSO before it, he seems relatively unharmed (a bit scratched up) as the vessel begins to lower itself toward the ground.

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
::doesn't re-act much.. spent too much time already getting use to the oddness of where ever::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
Self:  What the heck?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: Well I'll be damned. Kraight hitch-hiking

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
CIV: Just lay off our CTO and Neet ::concentrates on the incoming vessel and the CSO::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::pauses to put Neet down in case he wants to run away or something::

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
CEO: do I know you or are you always this pushy?

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::stopping and looking up at the vehicle::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::catches up the Captain and XO::

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: The brown vessel swoops over the crew's heads, and comes to a landing in the clearing before them. The ball of energy dissipates and allows the CSO to be lowered softly to the ground.

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
CTO: friends of yours, Starfleet?

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::stops in surprise::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
CIV:   Possibly....  ::continues watching the spectacle::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Lt. Jg. Eisenhower> TO: Do you recognize that type of vessel?

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
EO: Not a clue.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: stumbles a bit as the force field dissolves, then gets his feet under him ::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Self: Remarkable.

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
CTO: possibly? should I be worried again?

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kraight: CSO, are you unharmed?

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::brandishing her stick walks toward the CSO::

Host SM_Selan says:
<CPO Beldaur> ::Has long since stopping reciting Bolian operas::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CO: I... ah... seem to be, sir.

Azhure says:
::Throwing back the hood of her flyer, she steps out with a smile.::  All:  Welcome to my world of El-Auria.   ::Steps out to join the group::  We have been expecting you.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Kraight: That was quite a trick

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::glances at the CSO and sighs in relief when he seems to be unharmed::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Neet> ::Squeaks and hides::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
Self:  El-Auria?  Expecting us?  ::pastes a phony friendly smile on her face::

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
::puts her knife away and looks around for plants that are digestable while they go check out the funny blue alien guy::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::raises a brow::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Azhura: El-Auria? What is the year, in your reckoning?

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::glances at the newcomer and concenrates::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::looking at Azhure:: Azhure: El-Auria? Most interesting.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::ponders how Sagan's name came to him without knowing her::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::outlound:: All: El Auria?

Host SM_Selan says:
<Ensign Rio> ::Harumphs:: Told ya so.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::wonders if they are in a twilight zone of some sort::

Azhure says:
CSO: Time?  Time is relevant.  Depending where you are from.   The current date here is 13th of Astriala in the year 15000.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
Rio:  Oh, shut up.  ::turns her attention back to the El-Aurian::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
CSO: Glad to see your alright.

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
::pulls a plant up and checks out the flowers.. watching the aliens, starfleet and so on.. ::

Azhure says:
CO:  Yes, my homeworld is interesting.  Once again welcome.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::hears Azhure's statement::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Azhure: You said you were expecting us. Can you tell us why?

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
::snickers at the CTO and Rio.. eyes Neet again.. little butter.. salt.. flour.. where's the beef!::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CEO: Thank you, Mr. Telarus. I am... somewhat surprised to find myself unharmed.

Azhure says:
::Smiles::  XO:  Yes and no.  Come.  My home is not far from here.  Break your fast.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::stands quietly while her commanding officers handle the situation::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::glances back and forth at the two newcomers::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Ensign Rio> ::Smiles at the CTO snarkily::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Azhure: I am Sulek.  I thank you for your saving of my companion.  ::He introduces each until he comes to Sagan:: and this is our newest companion, her name is....

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::has an overwhelming urge to backhand Rio but somehow manages to refrain::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
Azhure: You said the year 15000 is that relative to what our timeline is?

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
CTO: The scraggly looking one.....she has a dark past....is no threat right now.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: thinking furiously, trying to convert the El-Aurian calendar into Federation standard ::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::looks at Sagan, expectantly::

Azhure says:
::Nods a greeting::  CO:  Oh... I have a gift.  ::Goes back to the flyer and reaching in, picks up a box, to return to the captain.::  CO:  A welcoming gift.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
CO: Captain, I don't know how I know here name, but she is called Sagan.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
OPS:  Thank you for that information.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::motions to the crew again:: All: You heard the man ::ponders there last invitation::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Neet> ::Stares nervously at the CIV::

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
::looks at Sulek:: CO: what?!.. oh right.. Call me Vicky

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::eyes the visitor, doing his normal job of looking for weak points of attack::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
CTO: The other...she seesm sincere....she believes she is telling the truth.....but there's something weird about her aura.....but then again, I've never read a El Aurain before.

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
::takes her hat off and dusts her red hair.. making a cloud::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Azhure: This is Vicky.  Telarus: Sagan?

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: A few more El Aurians step out of the craft, staring at the newcomers ... one of them looks quite familiar to the Captain ...

Azhure says:
::nods::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::looks over the others::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::confused yet resigned, wonders where the new civilian came from::

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
::wonders that too::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: quietly :: CO: Captain, a word, if I may...

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::looks over making sure the CIV isn't trying to kill Neet::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kraight: By all means.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::sees the others and remains quiet::

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
::catches the CTO cathing her eyeing the hair ball and grins.. dust off her hat and puts it back on.. looks innocent::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: walks a few meters away from the group, with Sulek in tow ::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::makes a rude gesture toward the CIV with her stick::

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
CTO: fine you can eat him.. or get his fleas or what ever..

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::looking at the gift as he moves off with Kraight:: Azhure: Thank you.  ::he studies the crystal flower::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
Neet:  Come 'er baby... I'll protect you.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::looks at Sagan:: CIV: Not good at making friends, are you? If you are going to stay with us, Neet is off limits.

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
::pats her backpack:: CTO: plenty more where that came from.. it's big tree country

Azhure says:
All:  May I introduce people of my village.  My mother T'winn, Orian, Talsa and Lahn Everitt.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: voice still lowered :: CO: Captain, we have no way of knowing whether this is another construct of the Gateway, or our own universe. If it is the latter, we have been returned at least two centuries before our own time. We must adhere to Starfleet protocols regarding time travel.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::nods at each of them as they are introduced::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::nods at each as well::

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
OPS: hey.. finders-keepers.. I'm good with that

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Kraight: Help me out here. I'm a little culturaly inept. Do El Aurians live in villages still?

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::listening to the introductions:: Kraight: Agreed.  Now we must return. We are being rude.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::nods:: CIV: Good...we found him first. So....find something else to play with.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
XO: Some may. The El-Aurian culture was a mix of urban and agrarian in the last years of its existence on this world.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: walks back to the group with Sulek ::

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
OPS: Play...eat...you Starfleet have a weird sense of humor and survival.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::Nods to each:: All: Time directive to apply until further notice.  ::knows that his statement should make no sense to the El_Aurians::

Azhure says:
::Patiently waits for them to work things out.::

 CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
CO: I don't know how I know sir, but I called her by name and she responded.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Kraight: Crud...your right...I remember reading something about that...so my guess is we are in the construct. Or someplace else, where as Azhure implied,  time is not relevant here

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
::bows slightly to the new alien people but keeps her distance.. been through too much to be trusting too fast::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::vaguely recalls the Time directive::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::looks at the woman silently for a long moment:: CIV: We survive because we take care of each other.

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
OPS: peachy Keen-O with me..

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Azhure: We are pleased to be with you.  Again I thank you for the gift.  Does it bear some significance to your culture.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::whispers to Cherry:: CTO: The time directive? Hmm...what was that again?

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
Azhure: pardon me.. umm did you say you were fixen food?

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::blinks::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::whispers::  OPS:  Something about not doing anything to influence the time line.  Although I suppose even breathing could change things... treading on the grass...  ::shrugs::

Host SM_Selan says:
<CPO Beldaur> ::Stomach grumbles::

Azhure says:
CO:  It is a symbol of my family as we are the ones to greet you, or at least the honor became ours as we meet on our lands.

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
::pulls at her coat a bit and waits for a reply.. ::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::silently figures that they'll screw things up as usual anyway::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Azhure: It is a most gracious gift.  I have little in the way to repay you except with courtesy.

Azhure says:
::Smiles::  CIV:  Yes.  All is prepared if you would care to come with us.

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
Azhure: That’s very warming to hear.. lead the way

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::observes the situation as it evolves::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
XO: Time may not be relevant to the El-Aurians. But if... and I emphasize *if* ... we are back in our reality, we must do everything possible to preserve the timeline.

Azhure says:
CO:  You honor us with that.  Come...  ::Turns and heads away, nodding for Orian to take her flyer back.::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::thinks she's going to have to give the CIV a crash course in Starfleet protocol when she gets a chance::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
XO: We cannot try to prevent the Borg destruction of the El-Aurian home world, no matter how much we may want to do so.

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
::daddy was Starfleet.. never listened to him anyway.. follows along for the food::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::gives the CIV an odd look::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::follows Azhure:: Azhure: Your family has lived in this place for many generations?

Host SM_Selan says:
<CPO Beldaur> ::Heads onto the craft::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::frowns:: CSO: Why do I get the feeling that even of we tried we could not do that. There is something greater at work here. Something for us, and us alone. This construct is no different from the others. I do not believe time and space are relevant here, nor are our actions, or inactions

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
::looks at the CTO:: CTO: what?

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
CIV:  What species are you?  ::looks closely::  Human?

Azhure says:
::Leads the group over her ancestral lands, pointing out some of the scenery as she goes.::  CO:  Yes.  Many generations... which translate as thousands of years for you.  I have never been to Earth, unlike some of my people.

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
CTO: last time I checked yeah.. 

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: shakes head :: XO: It is tempting to take that view... but what if you're wrong, and we are in our own past? Do we dare take the chance of changing our own history?

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::nods::  Self:  Humm....

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
XO: We have to assume this is part of the construct, sir. If we assume that we could consequently effect our role here.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CSO: No. We have our orders, and will follow them. It was simply an opinion

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
::wonders why she had to ask::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::follows silently::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CEO: No, Lieutenant. We must assume the exact opposite. The cost of guessing wrongly is too great.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CEO: Actually Dave, all bets are officially off

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::has a really odd thought, then decides she's just been hanging around humans too long::

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
::still following along.. thinking food::

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: As they move along the path, they eventually come to a massive village with floating cars and signs and even trees. Various people can be seen milling around down there.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Pangborn: The gateway's instructions were that we are to observe.  Despite our other travels, for the time being, I propose we do exactly that.  I will however do what is necessary to survive.

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
::looks around and pauses to check the place out::

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
::thinks maybe a bath and new cloths could be in order.. ::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::thinks this is the weirdest thing she's ever seen::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: I agree, whole heartedly

Azhure says:
CO: Observe?

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CO: I am not eager to embrace death, Captain, but consider that our Prime Directive requires that a Starfleet officer be prepared to give his life at any time to uphold it. Can we do less when the stakes are not another world's development, but our own future?

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::looks at the floating trees with a bit of wonder::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::thinks this all seems oddly familiar::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Azhure: We are travelers.  We wish to learn of the cultures we encounter.

Azhure says:
::Nods::  CO: Of course.  And to that end, my people have many questions for you.

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
::thinks Starfleet think too hard.. looks for food::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: Odd, usually we're asking the questions

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::gives the CIV another odd look::

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
Azhure: about that food.. 

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Azhure: I have heard of your race.  You are listeners, I am told.  ::loud enough to remind all what the El-Aurians were known for and to be careful how they speak::

Azhure says:
::Chuckles::  CIV:  Not much further... ::Points::  Just beyond those trees.  Don't mind the various animals about.

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
Azhure: That’s ok.. fuzzy things are good in my book..

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::shakes her head::

Azhure says:
CO:  Yes, we are.  And we will listen to your answers.  ::Smiles briefly before a frown comes to her brow::  There are many things about us.  But please, for now, it will wait till you have eaten.  And my father... ::Shakes her head.::  Trust me, some things will fall into line with him.

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
::hurrys ahead of the others toward the farm as indicated..::

Host Seurare says:
::Steps out of the farmhouse as the group approach. He is a short, tubby man with jolly red cheeks and puffs of red hair ... no, he does not deliver toys on Christmas:: ALL: Ah, Captain Sulek, crew of the intrepid Quirinus, welcome ... welcome!

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Ashure: I look forward to our meeting.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: Captain...these are the first to truly acknowledge where we are from

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::looks around the amazing display of hovering objects with abject amazement;;

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
::hops past the fat guy and into the door way.. looking for the food::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::stops dead in his tracks, if ever a Vulcan could be caught off guard...::Seurare: You know us?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: Endgame perhaps?

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
Self:  Humm....

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Pangborn: Most puzzling.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: as surprised as the others ::

Azhure says:
::Smiles and heads on up the porch and into the house.::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: To say the least

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::looks at Azure and her father....clearly seeing the family resemblance::

Host Seurare says:
CO: I have heard much of you in the last few weeks. Please do not be put off guard, we are well intentioned ... and mean you no harm. Please, come in, we're preparing food for you and yours.

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
::goes on in the house.. checking for anyone she knows.. decides it's safe for now and proceeds tot he table::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::eyes the jolly fat man for weak points of attack::

Host Seurare says:
ACTION: There is a large table before the CIV, without any legs it floats in the air. Various El Aurian foods lie on plates and bowls in the midst of it.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Seurare: You have heard of us.  From whom? ::follows::

Host Seurare says:
CO: All in due time, Captain. ::Waves them in::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: quietly ::  CO: This would indicate that contamination of the timeline has already occurred, sir. We must be doubly cautious.

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
self: yeah.. this is good.. ::goes about helping herself::

Azhure says:
CIV:  Enjoy...   ::Smiles as she turns back to the others.::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kraight: Or that we cannot damage what is already known.  I believe the expression is Pandora's box has been opened.

Azhure says:
All:  Please... eat.  There is a time and place for everything.

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
::eats fast.. hasn't seen a real table for.. oh I lost count how long::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::takes a small portion of food and eats sparingly::

Host Seurare says:
<CPO Beldaur> CIV: You certainly know how to enjoy a meal.

Azhure says:
::Quietly::  CIV:  There is plenty... enjoy it.  There should be nothing here you cannot eat.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::timidly begins to eat, as if testing the waters::

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
CPO: ohh.. ::mouth full:: been a while.. been lost since the accident.. can't remeber how long thats been.. can't tell time here.. ::eats more::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::watches the CIV, waiting to see if she drops dead from some poison::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Seurare: We are pleasantly surprised by both your hospitality and your knowledge of us.

Host Seurare says:
::Comes in and watches them:: CO: Let me see if I can identify you all ... ::Turns:: XO: Ben Pangborn. CTO: Cherry. OPS: Jade Morgan. CEO: David Telarus. TO: Lance Wolverton. ::Notes Eisenhower, Beldaur, Rio, and Munro:: I'm sorry ... I had been under the impression there was a Ben Grainger with you as well?

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
Azhure: you got a place for a bath.. and maybe some trading?

Host Seurare says:
<CPO Beldaur> CIV: Accident? ::Curiosity piqued::

Azhure says:
::Smiles at Morgan::  OPS:  No poison, honest.  ::Takes a bite of bread.::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::drops her head as she hears Grainger's name::

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
::pauses and looks at the blue guy:: CPO: umm.. forget I said anything.. really.. ::eats more::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::stops eating:: Seurare: You seem to know us well...care to tell us how?

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::raises an eyebrow at the El Aurian's insight::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::eyes Seurare for weak points of attack::

Azhure says:
::Hands him the other half of the slice.::  OPS:  My favorite.  Caltasa bread.

Host Seurare says:
XO: You fear us I suppose. ::Notes the TO's staring:: You believe we may be in league with the Black & White Man?

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
::looks over at the TO.. he seems to like to stare.. picks up a dinner roll and bongs him on the head::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::Gives the TO a look that says "Yes you WILL be an Ensigns forever::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::raises a brow at the CIV's excruciatingly bad behavior::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Seurare: Grainger is no longer with us. ::again is taken aback, a feeling he is unaccustomed to:: Seurare: Your information is most astonishing.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::drops his spork:: Seurare: Okay, now you've really got some explaining to do. Let’s hear the story. Now please, everything you know of us.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Seurare: How is it that you know of us, sir?

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
TO: lighten up.. you only die once

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::instinctively deflects the roll and nearly takes off the CIV's head on one quick motion:: CIV I wouldn't do that.

Host Seurare says:
<Lt. Jg. Eisenhower> ::Looks concerned at the TO's quick movements. Gently places a hand on his arm:: TO: Lance ...

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
TO: Ooh…the bouncer eh? Nice to meet you too.

Host Seurare says:
ALL: I will try to make this as easy to understand as possible. We El Aurians have been called Listeners by many ... or at least we remember being called so. Yet there has been no one to tell us that. We've always had a ... skewed understanding of the Universe, and now find the Universe skewed. Suffice it to say, within the last few months many of us have come to have horrid dreams and come to realizations. A good many of us should

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::smiles at Erin:: EO: Just training and reflexes.

Host Seurare says:
ALL: Soon after this realization struck us, we began to realize this world of ours was not ... right. One clue after another fell into place. We've reached a strong stage of advancement, yet every attempt to depart our world has met with failure. 

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
::eats what she wants and looks around::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::looks the CIV up and down:: CIV: Obviously, you're a civilian then.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::listens with a growing sense of horror::

Azhure says:
::Hands the CSO a plate of food.::  CSO:  Help the shock to your system.  ::Smiles::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Seurare: Failure in what manner, sir?

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Azhure: Thank you.

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
TO: yeah so?

Host Seurare says:
ALL: While our species has not unified to understand what has happened here, word has spread and discussions have mounted. Slowly but surely, we have come to realize that things have not been right on our world for some time now. It seems as though many of us are reliving past lives in our dreams every night. Some of us, like my dear daughter here, have been thankfully excused from this.

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::smiles at Vicky, showing an unsettling number of teeth:: CIV: It shows.

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
TO: How would you like me to add a little more bone to yer smile hot shot?

Azhure says:
CSO:  There is also the fact that some of our people have memories of having gone to Earth, hence my earlier reference.  Yet we cannot.

Host Seurare says:
CSO: Incentive to leave has dropped. Missions have failed, resulting in deaths. Mysterious malfunctions, apparent sabotage. Bad weather conditions for a launch ... you name it, it has happened.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::has never seen Wolverton lose his temper but hopes that now is the time::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Seurare: In other words, the odds seem stacked against you.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Seurare: Then you are aware that things are not as they should be.  I do not know how much I should tell you.  Of some I know much and of others in this world, I know a little.  But your dreams do not explain how you know of us.  ::looks at Kraight, knowing full well how the CSO will react::

Host Seurare says:
CSO: Certainly so.

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
CIV: If that was supposed to be a threat, then...you're welcome to try.

Host Seurare says:
<Lt. Jg. Eisenhower> ::Growing concerned with the confrontation brewing between the CIV & TO::

Host Seurare says:
<Ensign Rio> ::Chuckles to himself and sips his drink::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::glares at Rio::

Azhure says:
::Looks at her father and shrugs her shoulders.::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: purses his lips at Sulek's last comment, but says nothing ::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::hearing the growing discussion, he looks over at the conflict between the Sagan and Wolverton:: Wolverton: Stand down, Ensign.

Host Seurare says:
CO: That is true. And the answer to that does not lie in me, but a visitor to us ... 

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::doesn't move:: CO: Already down, sir.

Host Seurare says:
ACTION: "Who better to tell them our story than someone who's been in on most of it, Sulek," speaks a familiar voice ... and as the crew turn, they see Admiral Serena Sheridan, alive and well, leaning against the door frame.

CIV_Vicky_Sagan says:
TO: So you do have some vinegar in your blood huh? Not much of a man to beat up a girl.. or do you always like to start small to feel big? with character like that you wouldn’t even be worth the try.. ::thumbs her nose and walks off with a huff::

Host Seurare says:
<Ensign Rio> ::Sips his drink, and gestures at Sagan:: She's a hoot. ::Stops as the Admiral appears::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::turns towards the voice and gasps::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
VADM: Admiral!

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::turning, both startled and pleased a brief smile crosses his lips:: Sheridan: Serena!

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::smirks at Vicky, not bothered in the least by mere words::

Host SM_Selan says:
=/\==/\==/\==/\==/\= PAUSE MISSION =/\==/\==/\==/\==/\=