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

The Step Forward
Part Two (of Two)
2004 Game Season Finale

Arc Title: The Step Forward
Mission Number: 310
Creator: Michael Jones
Ship Manager: Michael Jones
Stardate: 10501.10

Previously …

For a year now they have Journeyed.

Against peril after peril, mystery after mystery, dangers and chaos that threatened to rip them apart from the outside and the inside they continued on.

Now, after both personal and physical sacrifice they have come to the end of their Journey. The mystery of the Construct is solved, as is the purpose of their Journey.

A new Historian must be chosen for the Construct to continue to exist.

Who will be it?

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 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.

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

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::looks up at the sound of the Library's voice::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
@ :: backs away from the onrushing mob of doppelgangers, firing as he goes ::

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: The crew on the beach is enveloped in golden light. They feel a familiar warmth and suddenly find themselves re-united with the CO.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
Self:  What the heck?  ::looks around curiously::

Host The_Library says:
@ ACTION: A look of rage fills every doppelganger’s face as they try to claw and take down the XO / CSO.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::looks around at the sudden appearance of the AT:: All: Welcome.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::nods at the CO::  CO:  What's going on, Sir?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
@:::thinks he sick of something taking his form and phasers the heck out of all of them he can see::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::looks around curiously::

Host The_Library says:
YOU HAVE RECEIVED YOUR CREW, SULEK OF QUIRINUS.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::startles a bit at the loud voice::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Library:  Not all, I believe.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
@ :: takes down a Pangborn doppelganger, but takes a nasty slash across his left arm from a Kraight wielding a tool of some sort ::

Host The_Library says:
THE OTHERS ARE COMING IN THEIR OWN WAY. YOU MUST BE THE NEW HISTORIAN. THIS ANOMALY IS NOT ACCEPTABLE.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
@::attempts to kill a Kraight model::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
Self:  New historian?  ::has no idea what this is all about::

Host The_Library says:
<Grey> ::Looks at the newly arrived crew, giving the CEO a brief look before turning to look up at where the voice came from::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
CO: What does he mean by you have to be the Historian?

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Library: Explain to me how the last Historian was created.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
@ :: checks phaser, yells :: XO: I have only a very few minutes of power left, sir!

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::notices Grey and wonders who the heck he is::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::looks back at Grey, still not willing to forgive him for what he did to him back on the train::

Host The_Library says:
HE WAS NOT CREATED. HE WAS CHOSEN.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
@ :: smashes another Kraight across the face with his phaser, shoots a Pangborn directly through the heart ::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::looks over at Jade to see if she look like she has a clue::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::Hasn't got a clue whets going on::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
All:  You are in the heart of a data collection entity called the Library.  Its singular purpose is to gather all that it can.  Until recently, it had a person known only as the Historian.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
CO: What happened to the Historian, sir?

Host The_Library says:
<Grey> ::Raises hand:: CEO: I killed him.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
All:  The Historian was dying and then was killed by the anomaly we know as Nero.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
Grey: Way to go, and now we have to pick up the bill for your mess.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
Self:  Nero?!  ::looks at Grey more closely::

Host The_Library says:
<Grey> CO: I-I'd prefer if you'd not call me that. CEO: He was dying anyway.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
@CSO: There's an exit::points:: we have to try

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
@ ::backs towards it, firing::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
All:  I have now been asked to be his replacement.  It is true, Nero...Grey did accelerate the inevitable.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::eyes go wide::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
@ :: sets his phaser to heavy stun, max dispersion, and fires at the mob ::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Library: How was the previous Historian chosen?

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
@ :: yells again :: XO: See if you can get it open!

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
Grey: You accelerated us into a situation we would have not been around for, you should be the one to stay behind.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
@CSO: I'll give it my best shot :: reaches the door and attempts to open it::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::looks puzzled::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::moves closer to OPS::  OPS:  The Captain can't stay here.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
@ :: fires at anything that comes near ::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
All: Grey was fulfilling his purpose.  My defeating of him in the Construct appears to make me a worthy Historian.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
CO: So sir we are leaving you behind?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
@::opens the door:: CSO: Hurry!

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::nods::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Telarus: If I do not accept the Library will cease to function.  However, I believe there may be another alternative.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
CO: I would think that Grey would be the next Historian......

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
@ :: tumbles backwards through the door, still firing ::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::resists the urge to volunteer Telarus for the position::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
@::pulls himself through the door and closes it behind him::

Host The_Library says:
<Grey> CO: Why do you think I should be the next Historian?

Host The_Library says:
ACTION: The XO / CSO suddenly appear with the rest of the crew.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::sees the XO and CSO:: XO/CSO: Nice to see you, sirs.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Morgan: My thoughts too, but the Library has refused Grey as the successor.  It fails to see the logic of having such an adaptable being which is made up of so much as an ideal selection.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CO: Captain!

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: raises his phaser to fire again, then drops it when he sees who it is ::

Host The_Library says:
THE BEING IS AN UNKNOWN FACTOR. HIS PURPOSE IS UNKNOWN.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Grey: You must go beyond your purpose, however, if you are to succeed.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CEO: Um... yes... Hello.

Host The_Library says:
<Grey> CO: Succeed as what? A glorified book hound?!

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::is vastly relieved that the XO and CSO have arrived::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: notices the laceration on his left arm, for the first time :: Self: Oh, my...

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
All: A library represents the quest for knowledge. It should revel in the idea of an unknown quantity such as Grey.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kraight/Pangborn:  Good of you to join us.  ::quickly repeats what has happened::

Host The_Library says:
<Vee> ::Snoring on the floor of the white place::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CO: The Library is itself a sentient being, then?

Host The_Library says:
OPS: YOU MISUNDERSTAND, SEER. WE REVEL IN THE UNDERSTANDING OF THE UNKNOWN. NOT IN THE IDEA OF THE UNKNOWN CONTROLLING THIS PLACE.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::wonders what that noise is and notices Vee on the floor.  Takes a quick head count of the others::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
OPS: Then why can't you control him instead?

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kraight: To a degree yes.  I believe that in the collection of all this data, it has become aware.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::wonders if any of them are going to spill the beans about that scene on the beach::

Host The_Library says:
OPS: WHILE IT IS WITHIN MY / OUR / THIS ENTITY'S REALM OF ABILITY TO DO SUCH A THING, I DO NOT TROUBLE MYSELF WITH CONTROLLING SENTIENT ENTITIES.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: looks up :: Library: Library, why do you require a Historian? You are yourself sentient.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::concedes that this whole argument is getting way over her head, and contents herself with looking around for a way out::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CO: Captain, I just can't picture you as a living battery. There must be a way out of this

Host The_Library says:
CSO: THE LAWS OF THE UNIVERSE, KRAIGHT OF THE BENZITE. I / IT / THIS ENTITY EXIST BEYOUND THIS REALITY INTO MANY OTHERS. THERE ARE MANY FACETS TO THIS ENTITY / IT / I. A HISTORIAN ON THIS PLANE "GROUNDS" I / IT / THIS ENTITY AND ALL THAT I / IT / THIS ENTITY ENCOMPASS.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Grey: You said you sought a new purpose, did you not?

Host The_Library says:
<Grey> CO: Yes ... but ... ::Mumbles:: maybe I'd be better off dead.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
CO: Sir this is simple, we need you as our Captain. Grey should be the one to stay, he has no purpose in life.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Library: Is it necessary that the Historian possess free will to fulfill his purpose?

Host The_Library says:
CO: THE ANOMALY HAS SPENT THE BETTER PORTION OF THE LAST 365 SOLAR DAYS ATTEMPTING TO END YOUR LIFE, SULEK OF QUIRINUS. WHY DO YOU WISH HIM TO ACHIEVE WHAT YOU SHOULD?

Host The_Library says:
CSO: A LIFE FORM CAPABLE OF FREE WILL IS FAVORABLE.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Library: You are insane

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Telarus:  Grey must make the leap to go beyond the anomaly.

Host The_Library says:
XO: THAT IS A MATTER OF PERSPECTIVE, PANGBORN OF EARTH.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Library: You are being evasive. Is free will a *necessity* for the Historian?

Host The_Library says:
CSO: YES.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Library: You have failed, as did the former Historian to explain why I am suitable.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Library: Yet, if you force Sulek to become the Historian, you will deprive him of his free will. You will, in effect, make him your slave.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Library: So you thrive on an eternity of struggle, as any sentient being would resist::

Host The_Library says:
CSO: IF I WERE TO FORCE SULEK TO BECOME THE HISTORIAN THIS WOULD HAVE BEEN SETTLED SOME TIME AGO.

Host The_Library says:
XO: ANY SENTIENT BEING WOULD NOT RESIST UPON SEEING THEIR RESPONSIBILITY AND WHAT DESTINY LIES BEFORE THEM.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Library: Then you do not propose to force Sulek into the role? He is therefore free to leave.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Library:  Agreed.

Host The_Library says:
CSO: IF HE WISHES THE DESTRUCTION OF THE CONSTRUCT AND THE BILLIONS OF LIVES WITHIN, THEN YES.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
Library: I have a tricorder, may I scan this facility?

Host The_Library says:
CSO: HE MAY LEAVE. ::Stated as if a dare::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::wanders among the rest of the crew checking for injuries, battle-readiness, etc::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Library:  I do not however believe in a pure destiny.  If I left, then what?

Host The_Library says:
CEO: YOUR TECHNOLOGY IS NOT CAPABLE OF UNDERSTANDING THIS "FACILITY."

Host The_Library says:
CO: THIS ENTITY / I / IT WOULD LOSE GROUND WITH THIS PLANE OF EXISTENCE. THE CONSTRUCT WOULD COLLAPSE.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Library: We did not agree to be brought here to serve your purpose, Library. If you are insufficiently skilled to maintain the Construct without a Historian, that is hardly Sulek's responsibility.

Host The_Library says:
CSO: THIS HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH SKILLS. MERELY THE RULES OF THE UNIVERSE.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CO: Captain...I must point out...the construct can not be real...I can't believe it harbors real living souls, and not some artificial life

Host The_Library says:
XO: THE CONSTRUCT IS REAL. ALL THOSE WORLDS GREW OF THEIR OWN ACCORD. IF THE LIFE WERE ARTIFICIAL, WHY WOULD THE EL AURIANS HAVE BOTHERED TO WONDER AND QUESTION THE MATTER OF THEIR EXISTENCE?

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
Library: I wish to try anyways, my imagination is something without limits.

Host The_Library says:
CEO: AS YOU WISH.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Pangborn: From what I have been able to gather, most if not all members of the construct are as real as you and I.  They are, I believe variants.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Library: The rules of *your* universe. None of us is responsible for your lack of foresight in not finding a replacement Historian before now.

Host The_Library says:
CSO: JUDGING BY YOUR STATEMENT ABOUT THE UNIVERSE I DO NOT EXPECT YOU TO PROPERLY UNDERSTAND WHAT IS HAPPENING HERE. ::The ego bruised Library sounds snotty:::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Library:  You still have not explained how the last Historian was selected.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Library: How long did the last Historian live here with you?

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::starts to scan the facility and adjusting to try to decipher the readings::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CO: Then that would make the Library a little more than a machine would it not? More along the lines of demi-god

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::notices an emotional tone to The Voice and looks intrigued::

Host The_Library says:
CO: IT DOES NOT MATTER. YOU WASTE TIME HERE BY ATTEMPTING TO FIND EXCUSES. IF YOU WISH TO LEAVE AND END THE CONSTRUCT, THEN DO SO.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Library: I wish to find a satisfactory solution.  I am not prepared to be Historian.  Is there another?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CO: I think the choice here runs deeper than you know....

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::points unobtrusively at Telarus::

Host The_Library says:
<Grey> I'm getting sick of this. Library! I am a suitable replacement. You sought Sulek as he is formidable in intelligence and cleverness. He has a view of this Universe that would bring much to your findings. I have the same. I was crafty enough to BREAK into your Construct and elude your Gateway's defenses. I am just as good as he.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::at last::

Host The_Library says:
::Ignoring Grey:: CO: YOU NEVER ANSWERED MY QUESTION. WHY WOULD YOU HAVE A MAN WHO HAS ATTEMPTED TO MURDER YOU SERVE HERE?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Gery: Great the construct will be run by a psychopath. ::Makes mental note to say "No" the next time::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::suspects that Grey and the Library would have a serious personality clash, not that either of them have a "personality" per se::

Host The_Library says:
<Vee> ::Slowly begins to wake up::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Library: Because that was the purpose given to him by his creation.  He has moved beyond that purpose.  He is no longer a conglomeration of beings.  He has become one.  His very statement proves this.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::notices Vee awakening and looks somewhat alarmed in Jade's general direction::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Library:  I cannot have the single purpose that you seek.  Only one such as Grey can.  I will not bear him a grudge because he did as he was built to do.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::is suddenly overwhelmed by grief::

Host The_Library says:
CO: AND DO YOU NOT WORRY ABOUT WHO BUILT HIM TO KILL YOU?

Host The_Library says:
ACTION: The white room shudders.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Library: Do you know?

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
All: They...are dying......millions of them...are dying....

Host The_Library says:
<Neet> ::Shrieks in pain and falls over::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::turns to Jade sharply::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
OPS: Who is dying?

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::tears begin to run down her face as she falls to her knees::

Host The_Library says:
CO: NO, AND THAT CONCERNS I / IT / THIS ENTITY.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::quickly wheels around to see Neet fall::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: stoops to examine Neet ::

Host The_Library says:
<Ris`Mor> ::Takes a step forward, but stops::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
OPS:  The creatures in the construct are dying?

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: looks up, at the Captain and Grey :: CO: Neet is dead, Captain.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
CTO: Millions....death...despair......the Ew.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::gasps::

Host The_Library says:
<Grey> ::Shows no remorse::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Library: If you are to fulfill your purpose in this universe, then you must accept an appropriate Historian.  Grey has demonstrated this.  Fulfill your purpose.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
CTO: They are...gone.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
OPS:  Sheriff Johnson too?  ::looks horrified::

Host The_Library says:
CO: YOU ... DO NOT KNOW WHAT YOU ASK OF ME.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::shakes her head:: CTO: Just....the Ew. ::catches back a sob:: Millions....dead.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Library: Then explain it.  You speak in riddles.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Library: We ask you to act to preserve the lives in the Construct. You must accept Grey as the Historian... now.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
Library: He doesn't belong to this universe he belongs to the one we were came from. When we started this we were never told by the Gateway this would happen, we are not responsible for your issues, as much as we want to help you we can't.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::continues to look horrified::  OPS:  We have to stop this before it moves to the next level!

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CO: Captain I believe it has killed one of it's worlds in an effort to persuade you

Host The_Library says:
::The emotion is filtering through into his voice:: CEO: YOU CAN, YOU CHOOSE NOT TO.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: cradles Neet's small body in his hands ::

Host The_Library says:
XO: I HAVE KILLED NOTHING. I AM LOSING PHASE WITH THIS PLANE OF EXISTENCE. THE CONSTRUCT IS BEGINNING TO COLLAPSE.

Host The_Library says:
CO: HE IS UNKNOWN. IF HE IS A DANGER, THEN ALL I HAVE ACCOMPLISHED ... ALL I HAVE WORKED FOR ... IS COMPROMISED.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::nearly hysterical::  All:  We can't let this happen.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::from far away:: Library: Who are you?

Host The_Library says:
<Vee> ::Looks up and sees the CEO, assuming he was the one who shot her, begins to growl::

Host The_Library says:
XO: I AM THE LIBRARY.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Library: You are killing the people of the Construct with your obstinence, with your insistence that only you know how to proceed. Accept the solution at hand, even thought you do not believe it to be the optimum choice.

Host The_Library says:
::His voice is practically shouting::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::hears growling from somewhere over the shouting::

Host The_Library says:
CSO: AND WHAT IF HE DESTROYS THE REST OF THE CONSTRUCT?

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::wonders if it is too late::

Host The_Library says:
<Vee> ::Slowly begins to rise, still growling::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Library: A library is not a "Who" it is a "What"

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Library: What will you have lost?

Host The_Library says:
XO: BY YOUR DEFINITION!

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Library: Any Historian has that capability, so long as he has free will. That's a given.

Host The_Library says:
CO: I -- I PUT SUCH WORK INTO IT

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::draws and points at Vee:: Vee: Down! Now!

Host The_Library says:
<Vee> ::Not phased by the appearance of the phaser::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::whirls around and glares at Telarus::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
All: Anybody that can give me some assistance.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
CEO:  Don't look at me.  You relieved me of duty, remember.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Library: Am I any less an unknown than Grey...or this Girl? ::Points to Vee::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::sets to maximum stun:: CTO: Fine by me.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CEO: Stand down and leave the girl alone

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::begins to advance on Telarus, slowly and menacingly::

Host The_Library says:
CO: DON'T EVEN THINK OF OFFERING THAT "THING." ::More gently:: YOU WILL NOT SERIOUSLY TAKE THE POSITION?

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Library: Every second you delay endangers millions more lives. Accept Grey as the only viable choice you have.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Library: No

Host The_Library says:
::Silence:

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
XO: Sir she is showing a menacing posture sir.

Host The_Library says:
CO: FINE.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Library: Fulfill your program.

Host The_Library says:
GREY: YOU ARE WILLING TO FULFILL THE POSITION OF THE HISTORIAN FOR THE REST OF THE LIFE SPAN OF THIS UNIVERSE?

Host The_Library says:
<Grey> ::A panic fills his eyes:: CO: I don't know if I can do this.

Host The_Library says:
<Vee> ::Bares teeth and begins to advance on the CEO::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::dodges out of the way::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
XO: Sir!

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::quietly:: Vee:  Stand down.  He'll just shoot you again.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::walks over to Grey and places a hand on him::Grey: Remember the time this place sent us to Bajor.  You can have great purpose.  I believe in you.

Host The_Library says:
<Vee> ::Turns at the CTO's gentle voice::

Host The_Library says:
<Grey> CO: I -- don't remember. But okay ... ::Takes a breath::

Host The_Library says:
<Grey> Library: Yes, I am.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::irritated:: CEO: Stand Down. Now.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
Vee:  Stand down, and I won't let him hurt you.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
XO: Aye sir.

Host The_Library says:
<Vee> ::Stops growling and slowly lowers herself to the ground as an animal would do, never taking her eyes off the CEO::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Grey:  You shall have purpose...more than I can imagine.

Host The_Library says:
GREY: THEN YOU ARE NOW THE HISTORIAN.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::moves towards Vee protectively::

Host The_Library says:
ACTION: Grey is suddenly wearing the clothing of the Historian whose corpse has vanished. All of Grey's injuries have vanished and he does not appear panicked anymore.

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::stares at Grey::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::has a sense that something has been settled, but isn't quite sure what::

Host The_Library says:
<Grey> ::Speaking as though he has been gone for months:: CO: Ah, Sulek. It is good to see you again. You cannot imagine what the Library has to offer.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: approaches Grey :: Grey: Congratulations, Historian.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::looks at Grey:: Historian:  You understand?

Host The_Library says:
IT IS DONE. DEAL WITH THEM AS YOU MUST, HISTORIAN.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::kneels beside Vee and murmurs words of comfort::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Grey: I almost envy you

Host Grey_The_Historian says:
::Smiles:: CO: Yes, I do now. I understand it all. Thank you, Sulek.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: holds out Neet :: Grey: This is his native Universe. He should be laid to rest here. Will you see to it, please?

Host Grey_The_Historian says:
XO: One day, I shall envy you. ::Glances in the CTO's direction::

Host Grey_The_Historian says:
CSO: Of course, Kraight of Benzite. ::Gently rests his hand on Neet's body::

Host Grey_The_Historian says:
ACTION: Neet vanishes.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::is looking at Neet's small body, tears in her eyes::

Host Grey_The_Historian says:
ALL: Your Journey is over.

Host Grey_The_Historian says:
ALL: It is time for you to return to where you now belong.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::puts his arm around Cherry:: CTO: I'll miss the fur ball too

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Grey: You are not the anomaly, you are one with all things.  You shall seek knowledge beyond all realms. Your purpose is met.  I wish well...old friend.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::nods sadly::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::glad that the journey is coming to an end::

Host Grey_The_Historian says:
CO: I have sought knowledge and found it. I know what is and what shall be, Sulek. ::Looks at him sadly::

Host Grey_The_Historian says:
ALL: Reflect upon this Journey, crew of the Quirinus. While it may have cost you much, it has made you stronger for the days ahead.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::still can't quite believe that all the Ew are dead::

Host Grey_The_Historian says:
ALL: I regret the injuries which I inflicted upon you all in my actions. Especially you, Telarus of Earth. You have suffered much.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::strangely sad that the journey is coming to an end::

Host Grey_The_Historian says:
ALL: Fare well, crew of the Quirinus. This shall not be the last time we meet.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: looks at Grey with interest on hearing that last comment ::

Host Grey_The_Historian says:
ACTION: And with that, all fades to white.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::sighs::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::closes his eyes as the whiteness envelops him::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::closes his eyes in the bright flash::

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: The white fades to black, and the black to gray. They soon realize they grayness is merely dull sunlight filtering through windows on them. They seem to be in some sort of storage room. Shelves line all around them with various objects and items lying on them. A very confused female SF officer stands nearby with an inventory PADD.

Host SM_Selan says:
<SF Officer> ::Stares at the people who suddenly appeared out of nowhere with wide eyes::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::looks around::

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: The crew are still in their tattered Starfleet uniforms, and Vee is even with them. Ris`Mor has mysteriously vanished. 

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::stays close to Vee in case she panics::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::looks around and kisses the floor at the sight of the SF officer with the PADD:: All: We are home!

Host SM_Selan says:
<SF Officer> ::Still quite frozen with the PADD in her hands::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
:::blinks and looks around::

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::opens eyes:: Officer:  Do not be frightened.  We are the command staff of the USS Quirinus.  I am Captain Sulek and we have come home.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::gets up::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::wonders how long they were gone::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: looks at the officer :: Officer: Where are we, and what is the date, please?

Host SM_Selan says:
<SF Officer> ::Faints::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
All: Sorry guys I had to do that, I missed the place.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: moves to catch her ::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
CO: Well sir can't win them all.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
XO:  About that shower........

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::grabs her PADD to see the Stardate::

OPS_Ltjg_Morgan says:
::smiles::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Self: Oh, fretz...

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CTO: Me first....unless.....::wicked grin:

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CO: Captain, try your comm badge.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Telarus: But we did win.  We have found a replacement for the Historian and ensured the lives in the construct.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
CO: The Stardate is 10501.10, sir.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: lowers the Officer to the floor, and tries gently to revive her ::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::grabs her comm. badge:: CO: Sir I am going to call for a medical staff and someone in command.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::pushes the badge:: Open Frequency: This is Sulek.  The AT from the Quirinus has returned.  We await your response and your arrival.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::hits the comm. badge:: *Medical Staff*: This is Lt. Telarus, Chief Engineering Officer USS Quirinus, requesting medical attention at my location.

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: And we fade out on the Quirinus crew, who have finally returned to "their" Universe (did they ever really leave it?) and to Earth. Supposedly to the lives they so easily left behind. But as we pull away from this visage of them over the fainted SF officer, we find ourselves back in the White Room with Grey and the Library.

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: Grey looks around, the smile faded - "I wanted to tell them. But I could not. Why couldn't I?" The Library's voice booms - BECAUSE IT IS NOT THE WAY OF THINGS. Grey gulps, "But if they're warned ..." IT WOULD ONLY MAKE THINGS WORSE - The Library replies.

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: "They're all going to die" Grey states. YES, the Library replies.

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: THEY ARE.

Host SM_Selan says:
=/\==/\==/\==/\==/\= THE END =/\==/\==/\==/\==/\=