Host SM_Selan says:
U.S.S. Quirinus Stardate 10504.11
Host SM_Selan says:
AN END TO JOURNEY TOWARD
Host SM_Selan says:
CHAPTER ONE
Host SM_Selan says:
"Genesis"
Host SM_Selan says:
=/\==/\==/\==/\==/\= BEGIN =/\==/\==/\==/\==/\=
Host SM_Selan says:
NARRATIVE: When I was young, my father told me that I had eyes that could pierce any soul.
Host SM_Selan says:
NARRATIVE: He thought me so intelligent ... he thought the world of me.
Host SM_Selan says:
NARRATIVE: Last year I learned that I really could look into any soul. It's been a terrifying experience. And it hasn't gotten any better.
Host SM_Selan says:
NARRATIVE: That witch Yaga told me that I was going to be the cause of death for many people. R'vwar told me two hours ago that my powers were the only thing standing between the Universe and complete destruction.
Host SM_Selan says:
NARRATIVE: Now I'm standing on a dying world trying to read into a gigantic obelisk called a Blade that is going to annihilate a good portion of the Universe.
Host SM_Selan says:
NARRATIVE: Time to find out who was right.
Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: The Earth is dying. 
Sulek says:
::on secondary bridge as the ship makes a second pass at one of the blades:: Walker: Orders, Captain?
SO_Lt_Running_Horse says:
#::sitting in the shuttle with the Lt. JG::
LtCmdr_Powers says:
Captains: The Earth is going to be destroyed unless we can take care of those Blades.
Ben_Pangborn says:
@::watching it all in slow motion, thinks for a moment if he still has his communicator::
Host SM_Selan says:
@ ACTION: The wind roars against Pangborn and Cherry, they can barely stand. The ground rumbles beneath them.
Cmd_Azhure says:
:: In sickbay, her mind searching for the familiar presence.::
Cherry says:
@::struggles to keep on her feet::
Host SM_Selan says:
<Captain Walker> ::Stares at the screen where the atmosphere of the planet is turning red::
LtJG_Ahkileez says:
# ::fingers resting anxiously on the control, he eases the ship in to something resembling a safe flight pattern, out of the swarm of craft surrounding the mysterious obelisk::
Sulek says:
::Turning:: Kraight: Analysis?
Ben_Pangborn says:
@::flips open his communicator:: COMM: Any vessel in orbit, Mayday, request emergency beam out, this is Commander Pangborn, currently unassigned.
Host SM_Selan says:
<Captain Walker> Sulek: Perhaps if we arm all the quantum’s ... ram the Quirinus into it ...
Cherry says:
@::thinks she sees Jade nearby but decides she must be hallucinating::
Host SM_Selan says:
<Jade Morgan> @ ::Standing not too far from Cherry & Pangborn, eyes closed, hands up::
Sulek says:
Walker: We need to clear the area if possible.  An explosion of that magnitude...
Ben_Pangborn says:
@::looks up from the communicator at the impossible:: Cherry: Is that Jade?
Host SM_Selan says:
<Iu> @ ::Eyes open, picks himself up and mumbles:: Ah, the Wind speaker.
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: looks at the Captain with tired, green-rimmed eyes :: Sulek: The shuttles have been unable to scan the Blades themselves, sir...  *cough*  the effects on the planet's biosphere are plain enough, but we still have no useful data about the Blades themselves.
LtJG_Ahkileez says:
# ::glances over his shoulder at Running-Horse:: SO: Do you have any suggestions lieutenant? I don't think this ship's phasers are going to cut it with this device.
Cherry says:
@::hears Ben then lu.  Is confused, more than usual even::  Pangborn:  You see her too?
Host SM_Selan says:
<Captain Walker> Sulek: Would forever alter the planet, if not make a good portion of it unlivable. But you heard about what happened to Bajor. What's happening to Qo'nos. If this world goes, all the space around here and beyond vanishes.
Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Smiles as she realizes who it is, not even wondering why.::  *Powers*:  Bill, Iu is down on the surface of Earth.
Ben_Pangborn says:
@Cherry: Yes. I'm getting nothing on this communicator. We must go to her.
LtCmdr_Powers says:
::His eyebrows furrow::  *Azhure*: Are you... how do you know?
LtJG_Ahkileez says:
# ::returns his attention to the front and curses softly, banking the shuttle quickly to avoid collision with another craft:: Self: Idiots.
Cherry says:
@::nods and cautiously approaches Jade::
Sulek says:
Kraight: How close can we get to the Blade?
LtCmdr_Powers says:
Walker/Sulek: We could clear the areas... but we need to act.  Quantum torpedoes seem to be the next option...
Ben_Pangborn says:
@::moves toward Jade::
Ben_Pangborn says:
@Lu: You know of her? ::points::
Cmd_Azhure says:
::Simply smiles and shakes her head.::  *Powers*:  It would probably be to our benefit if we can contact him... actually, bring him aboard given the situation on Earth.
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Powers: There's nothing solid to affect with our weaponry. We'd be firing at a ghost.
Host SM_Selan says:
<R'vwar> @ ::The elderly Excalibian stands by Jade's side, staring at the Blade in wonder::
Host SM_Selan says:
<Iu> @ Pangborn: Hmmm? No, I'm not familiar with her.
SO_Lt_Running_Horse says:
#Soriq: Sir I am trying to figure out that part of the problem.  There has to be something we can use to make the Blades completely inoperable.  I will not sacrifice our planet in vain.
Sulek says:
Powers: If we were to throw all power to the front shields and fire torpedoes at point blank...
LtCmdr_Powers says:
Kraight: All we need is a location.  A normal matter/antimatter reaction wouldn't seem to work, logically... but a time-space distortion?  It's possible it could do something... just not certain what, of course...
Cherry says:
@::looks at R'vwar wonderingly::
LtJG_Ahkileez says:
# ::nods grimly:: SO: The other ships aren't having much look. I suspect soon they'll try suicide tactics. Perhaps a core breach?
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: shakes his head :: Powers: No...
Host SM_Selan says:
<R'vwar> @ ::Turns and sees the two approaching:: Pangborn & Cherry: I did not expect to see you two.
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: stands, unsteadily ::
Host SM_Selan says:
<Morgan> @ ::Blood is trickling down out of her ears::
Sulek says:
Kraight: Scan the area. Beam up any life forms.  Powers: Can we adjust a torpedo to the subspace level of a blade?
Ben_Pangborn says:
@R'vwar: What were you expecting?
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Sulek: Yes, sir...   :: turns to implement the order ::
Cherry says:
@::watches Jade carefully and tries to resist the urge to interrupt her::
Host SM_Selan says:
<Iu> @ ::Looks up:: Cherry: The planet is dying quick.
LtCmdr_Powers says:
::Breathes out, his cheeks puffing::  Sulek: To be honest... I'm a security specialist.  I have limited experience with ship based weaponry... ::Thinks::
LtJG_Ahkileez says:
# ::brings up the engine control panel and starts a calculation of explosive force based ont he current payload::
Host SM_Selan says:
@ ACTION: Those on the ground feel lighter. The gravity of the world is slowly giving way.
SO_Lt_Running_Horse says:
#Soriq: Quite possible. But there is something else I possibly had in mind.
Cherry says:
@::nods::  lu:  Do you know what she's doing?  ::gestures toward Jade::
Host SM_Selan says:
<R'vwar> @ ::Stares at Pangborn:: Pangborn: Something else, I suppose. Nothing is going according to plan anymore.
Host SM_Selan says:
<Iu> @ Cherry: I suppose you would have to ask her.
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: turns back :: Sulek: Sir, the destruction of the upper atmosphere is giving rise to thermolytic distortions. I am unable to obtain a transporter lock on anyone on the surface.
Ben_Pangborn says:
@R'vwar: You tell me. You seem to know more of what’s taking place here than me.
Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: The Quirinus begins to rumble. Gentle gravimetric waves are pushing outward at the vessels in orbit.
Cherry says:
@::shakes her head::  lu:  I don't believe I want to disturb her.
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Sulek: Request permission to take a shuttlecraft down and fly into the Blade. I can outfit it with the sensors we designed for the probe.
Sulek says:
Kraight: Do it.
Host SM_Selan says:
<Morgan> @ ::Eyes open, and smiles:: Cherry: Cherry, it's good to see you.
LtCmdr_Powers says:
Kraight/Sulek: What about dipping into the atmosphere?  Go in fast enough to skim under the atmosphere and come back out the other side?  Or would the frictional forces be too much with our shields down?
Cmd_Azhure says:
*Powers*:  Bill, whatever you guys decide up there had best be quick, including saving who you can.  The Earth's is not far from imminent destruction.
Host SM_Selan says:
<R'vwar> @ Pangborn: I know what I've been told. We are witnessing the end. Jade here is the key to saving it.
Cherry says:
@::is startled then overjoyed.  Gives her ex-roomie a quick hug::
LtJG_Ahkileez says:
# ::makes sure to keep one eye on the ships buzzing overhead and underneath this time:: Horse: And that would be, ma'am?
Sulek says:
Kraight: You haven't much time.
Host SM_Selan says:
<Morgan> @ ::Closes her eyes and smiles, putting one hand around Cherry:: <W> Cherry: You have no idea what I've been through ...
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: nods, walks wearily to the turbo lift, giving orders via his comm. badge to the shuttle bay crew as he goes ::
LtCmdr_Powers says:
*Azhure*: One problem, Commander... the atmospheric interference is too much to break through with a transporter beam....
Cmd_Azhure says:
*Powers*:  Below the stratosphere?
Host SM_Selan says:
# ACTION: Something slams into Ahkileez's shuttlecraft, and it starts to fall.
Ben_Pangborn says:
@  R'vwar: Then destiny is written. We don't seem to have a part here, but you do. What caused you to bring this plague. Or in the universes own inimitable way, what way did I cause this?
Cherry says:
@Morgan:   No, I don't.   But what's happening now?
Lt_Running_Horse says:
#Soriq: If I could possibly get the right frequencies I might be able to use them in an inversion or even by using the deflector to make a frequency .......Argh!!!!!!!!!!

Sulek says:
Powers: Prepare a quantum torpedo.  As soon as Kraight has any information on telemetry, we will need to be ready.
Host SM_Selan says:
@ ACTION: Those on the surface hear and see the smoking shuttlecraft approaching.
LtCmdr_Powers says:
Sulek: We need to find a way to get those people out of there... there is... someone down there I know, someone who could be very helpful to us.
Host SM_Selan says:
<Morgan> @ Cherry: The end of the world. We have to get out of here. ::Looks up::
Lt_Running_Horse says:
#Soriq:  Pull up the nose quick.
LtJG_Ahkileez says:
# ::wrenches violently to the side as all hell breaks loose, alarms wailing, smoke filling the cabin:: Horse: Hold on, Lieutenant!
Sulek says:
Walker: What if we tried to tip it out of alignment?  The Blade may not respond to phasers, but the ground around it will.
Host SM_Selan says:
<Iu> @ ::Narrows eyes:: They're here.
Cherry says:
@::looks up as well::  Morgan:  Does it really matter?  Is there any escape that isn't temporary?
Cmd_Azhure says:
:: With a final glance around the empty sickbay, everything in order, something she needed given the chaos around them, she leaves for the bridge.::
LtJG_Ahkileez says:
# ::grunts against the shear forces:: Horse: The ship's not responding... ::slams his fist down on the row of red lights::
TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::finally on the Quirinus, wondering what's going on::
Ben_Pangborn says:
@::shades his eyes at the approaching shuttle:: Cherry/Lu/Jade: We may have a way off of here, if he can land. It would buy us time. Time to figure out how to repair this damage
Host SM_Selan says:
@ / # ACTION: The shuttlecraft crashes, hard, consoles blow. It creates a 50 yard ditch as it slides across the ground.
Cherry says:
@::nods at Pangborn::
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: arrives in the shuttle bay to find all the sensor equipment loaded into a Type 16 shuttle pod ::
LtCmdr_Powers says:
::While talking, skimming what technical data he can about quantum torpedoes and their modifications::
Cherry says:
@::quietly::  Morgan:  You were right about Vee.  She's involved in this somehow.
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: checks his PADD ::
Host SM_Selan says:
<Morgan> @ ::Looks upward, dawning horror:: Cherry: I know.
Ben_Pangborn says:
@ALL: Lets go.
Host SM_Selan says:
<Iu> @ ALL: We have to run.
Ben_Pangborn says:
@::runs toward the shuttle::
Cherry says:
@::sadly::  Morgan:  She's not human anymore.  ::breaks into a run::
LtJG_Ahkileez says:
# ::out cold, thrown over the controls against the forward view screen::
Host SM_Selan says:
<R'vwar> @ ::Looks upward, and starts running:: Cherry: Who are they?!
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: enters the shuttle :: *Sulek*: Sir... sensors have reported several objects of unknown type heading for the Blade from space.
Cherry says:
@::as she's running::  R'vwar:  You think I have a clue?
Lt_Running_Horse says:
#:: unconscious and bleeding sitting in her chair::
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
*Bridge*: Shuttle Feynmann awaiting clearance to launch...
Sulek says:
Kraight: You may need to delay launch until we understand the nature.
Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Steps into the turbo lift::  Computer, bridge.
Host SM_Selan says:
@ ACTION: From above, those responsible for attacking Ahkileez's shuttle reveal themselves ... it is Death (Vee), Pestilence, and a new figure. All are riding some sort of alien like horse.
Ben_Pangborn says:
@R'vwar: Save it. ::reaches the shuttle::
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
*Sulek*: Not recommended, sir. The planet is running out of time.
Sulek says:
Kraight: Understood.  Good luck, commander.
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
*Bridge*: Launching...
Host SM_Selan says:
@ ACTION: The shuttle is in bad condition.
Ben_Pangborn says:
@::awestruck by the apparition:: Cherry: I think I understand. We set something free that should have remained in chains.
Cherry says:
@::stops and stares at the three::  Self:  By the goddess....

Host Death says:
<Morgan> @ ::Tries to pull the door open::
TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::finishes shutting down the largely ruined shuttle before heading for the bridge::
Lt_Running_Horse says:
@::begins to come around moaning::
Host Death says:
@ ::Pulls back her hood to reveal the bald, pale face that once belonged to a lovely young woman. Grins:: Hello friends
Sulek says:
Weapons: Target the area around the Blade and fire.  Let's see if we can move the thing.
Cherry says:
@Death:  Hello Vee. ::moves to help Jade::
LtJG_Ahkileez says:
@ ::shudders awake, the scream caught in his throat as emerald blood drains out of his mouth:: Self: awwwgggaaa......  ::spits out the blood and pushes his body off the controls, sliding to the floor::
Cmd_Azhure says:
:: As the lift stops, she steps onto a badly damaged bridge, glancing around as its very emptiness tears at here too.::
Ben_Pangborn says:
@::helps Jade into the shuttle, looks over the flight control officer, not recognizing him::
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
# :: flies down into the maelstrom around the Blade in North America ::
Host Death says:
@ ACTION: The three horsemen slowly begin to descend toward those trying to get into the shuttle.
Lt_Running_Horse says:
@All:  Ahhhh ohhhhh my head owwww my shoulder.  What the blazes happened?  Where am I.
LtCmdr_Powers says:
Sulek: Understood.  Retargeting phasers.  Torpedoes on standby.
Host Death says:
@ ::Her horse lands, she gets off:: It is hopeless. This is the Design. All shall be well.
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
# *COM*: Kraight to Quirinus... on course for the Blade. Encountering atmospheric disturbances.
LtJG_Ahkileez says:
@ ::gazes dazed out the smashed view screen to see the clumps of dirt heaped over it and inside:: Horse: I think we crashed...
Host Death says:
<Morgan> @ ALL: Anyone have a weapon?!
Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Stills::  Powers:  Now....
TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::heads for the turbo lift, thinking things seem suspiciously quiet::
Ben_Pangborn says:
@Running horse: We're trying to get out of here is what we're doing. Are you well?
Cherry says:
@::turns to face Death::
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
# :: activates his special sensor equipment ::
Ben_Pangborn says:
@Morgan: I have a hand phaser
Sulek says:
Kraight: We are going to see if we can shift the blade.  Perhaps realigning it...
LtCmdr_Powers says:
::Looks up from her voice::  Azhure: Now... what?
Host Death says:
<Morgan> @ Pangborn: Well start shooting, Ben! ::Points::
Sulek says:
Powers: Fire.
Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Turns toward him::  Powers:  If you do not do something now, we will loose them.
Ben_Pangborn says:
@::fires at the face of death::
LtCmdr_Powers says:
::At the Captain's command, presses the button to fire the ship's powerful phasers::
Host Death says:
<Telarus> Sulek: Captain, if the Warriors are down there. The modifications we used for the ship. They should work against them. If Commander Kraight modifies their phasers like we did the ship, they should be able to penetrate their shields.
Lt_Running_Horse says:
@Ben: What is going on?  No I am not well I am bleeding anyway where are we going?
Host Death says:
@ ::Takes the phaser blast full on, and keeps walking::
LtJG_Ahkileez says:
@ ::feels along his body and winces:: I might have a broken rib.. or ten. ::looks up at her, reaching for the chair::
Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Glancing at the screen, moves toward science.  Using the usual guest codes, logs in.::
Cherry says:
@::steps toward Death::  Death:  Stop.
Host Death says:
ACTION: The Quirinus opens fire again, attempting to dislodge the Blade. The phaser burns into the ground around the Blade. The ground rumbles everywhere.
Ben_Pangborn says:
@::looks at Cherry::
TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::recognizes the sounds and vibrations of the ship firing and hurries::
Host Death says:
@ ACTION: Suddenly, the roof of the shuttle is ripped off. Pestilence and another are hovering there, holding the roof.
LtCmdr_Powers says:
::To himself::  Guess this isn't as bad as the quantum torpedoes, but not much better....
Sulek says:
Com to \Kraight: Be sure to modify phaser for the warriors.
Ben_Pangborn says:
@ Ahkileez/Running horse: See if the shuttle is flight worthy if you are able
Lt_Running_Horse says:
@::sees the monstrosity and begins to struggle from her chair to avoid it only making her condition worse::
Ben_Pangborn says:
@All: Guess that answers that
LtCmdr_Powers says:
::Checks the readings::  Sulek: The Blades are buried in pretty far, it's going to take more volleys... ::fires again and again::
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: arrives a few hundred meters above the Blade... sensors now indicate several humans in a badly damaged shuttle, as well as reading that indicate multiple Warriors nearby ::
Lt_Running_Horse says:
@Ben:  Look out!!
LtJG_Ahkileez says:
@ ::looks up sharply at the deafening wrenching sound and slowly stands:: Pangborn: I don't think it is... sir.
Host Death says:
<Famine> @ Famine. ::Waves at Running Horse::
Host Death says:
@ ACTION: Running Horse starts to wither before their eyes, as if she had been malnourished for weeks. She feels her body rapidly eating all her muscle, fat, and internal organs.
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
# *Sulek*: Acknowledged.  :: begins necessary modifications to phaser firing programs ::
Cherry says:
@Death:  Stop this.
Host Death says:
@ Cherry: Why?
Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Intuitively searches for Iu, but the atmospheric disruption prevents her from narrowing it down to what she needs.::
TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::exits onto the bridge, looking for somebody to report to::
Ben_Pangborn says:
@ Death: Because it is wrong. Why toy with us. If you're going to kill us, do it!
Host Death says:
@ ACTION: The emaciated corpse of Running Horse collapses to the ground with a clatter.
Cherry says:
@Death:  Respect Vee.  You were human once...you had a right to live.
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
# :: targets the middle Warrior, that ensembles a skeleton ... and fires ::
Lt_Running_Horse says:
@Famine:  No you can not kill me I am stronger than........you!!  ::feels her will beginning to disappear::
Host Death says:
<R'vwar> @ ::Cries out and jumps back::
Sulek says:
::turns seeing the TO:: Wolverton: Your timing is impeccable.  Could you assist at weapons.
Lt_Running_Horse says:
#::dies as her body is now ashes::
Host Death says:
@ ACTION: Phaser fire slams into Famine from above. Fire from the Gods.
Host Death says:
@ ACTION: A scream that tears into all their souls is heard as Famine's armor is punctured and she is hurled to the ground.
Host Death says:
@ ::Turns rapidly and surprised:: HOW?!
Cherry says:
@::holds position unflinching::
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
# :: targets the next Warrior... and fires ::
LtCmdr_Powers says:
::Looks up at the TO::  TO: Ah, you are a tactical officer, then?  ::Begins to fill him in on the proposed quantum torpedo modifications::
LtJG_Ahkileez says:
::shields himself from the intense heat and light::
Ben_Pangborn says:
@::looks on::
TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
CO: Aye sir. ::heads over to tactical:: And Jade, sir? If I may ask....
LtJG_Ahkileez says:
@ ::runs out of the shuttle, away from the obvious target::
Host Death says:
<Pestilence> @ They penetrate us. ::Her horse gallops up toward Kraight's shuttle, maneuvering around phaser burst after phaser burst::
Sulek says:
Wolverton: Not here...Was she with you?
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
# :: dodges as best he can ::
Host Death says:
<Morgan> @ ::Grabs Cherry:: Cherry: DOWN!
Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Turns to look at the screen, her body stilling to that of a statue, as if she were listening.::
Host Death says:
@ ::Cries out in anger and swings her scythe at Cherry, catching R'vwar instead::
Cherry says:
@::is pulled to the ground::
Host Death says:
@ ACTION: R'vwar dies.
TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::sighs, as he goes over the modifications:: CO: Several days ago...hopefully it will all be in my report, sir.
Ben_Pangborn says:
@::defensive crouch::
Host Death says:
@ ACTION: The Horseman known as Pestilence is in aerial combat with Kraight's shuttle.
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
# :: takes a dangerous chance... performs a 200-kilometer Picard Maneuver ... for a moment, the shuttle pod appears to be both above the Blade and halfway across the sky ::
Sulek says:
COM: Kraight: Telemetry would help...
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
# *Sulek*: As soon as I can, sir... a bit harried at the moment...
Cherry says:
@::pulls away from Jade and gets back on her feet::
Host Death says:
@ ACTION: Pestilence broadsides Kraight's shuttle for one moment, then tries to keep up.
Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Turns to look at the others.::  CO:  A relay system.
LtJG_Ahkileez says:
# ::stumbling from his injuries, he looks at the others who seem to know what's going on:: Pangborn: What is this? What is this madness?
Host Death says:
<Morgan> @ ::Nearly gets hit by Death's next swing:: A little help!
Host Death says:
@ ::Trying to kill both Cherry & Morgan with her swings::
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
# :: the image of the near shuttle fades, and the far one... the real one... fires upon Pestilence ::
Sulek says:
Azhure: By that do you mean that the Blades are relays?
Ben_Pangborn says:
@Ahkileez: It would take some explaining. Just bear with us.
Cherry says:
@Death:  You saved my life Vee.  Twice.  Do you remember?  ::dodges out of the way::
Sulek says:
::turns to noting for the first time that Walker no longer seems to be on the bridge.::
Host Death says:
@ ACTION: Pestilence is shot through the chest, her horse cut in half. She plummets from the sky.
LtJG_Ahkileez says:
# ::feels the ground giving way underneath them and hopes it's a short story::
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
# :: closes on Death ::
Cmd_Azhure says:
CO:  You asked for telemetry.  A relay system might be set up to get through the interference.  As for the blades, they appear to be instruments of destruction, their sole purpose to destroy the planet... if they are not disrupted first.
Sulek says:
Computer: Locate Captain Walker...
Host Death says:
<Computer> Sulek: Captain Alan Walker is on the Bridge.
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
# *COM*: Shuttle Feynmann to damaged shuttle on the surface... please respond...
Sulek says:
Azhure: We need probes.  COMM Kraight: Do you have any probes??
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
# :: activates telemetry back to the Q ::
TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
Powers: Doesn't look like it should be a problem.
Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Looks toward Kraight.::
Host Death says:
ACTION: Suddenly, the Blades burn red ... and brilliant white energy shoots from all three out from the tips of the Blades. Puncturing the atmosphere, vaporizing whatever vessels or planets that were in the way.
Host Death says:
@ ACTION: The surface is shaking uncontrollably. This is it.
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
# *Sulek*: Negative, sir. The sensor systems were removed from the probe for installation aboard the shuttle.
Cherry says:
@::stumbles as the earth shakes::  Death:  Remember Vee?  Remember the swimming in the ocean?
LtJG_Ahkileez says:
# ::almost thrown to his knees from the force, happy his family got off the planet, but wondering if his uncle escaped::
Cherry says:
<remove first "the">
LtCmdr_Powers says:
Sulek: Mister Sulek, we are running out of time.  It's now or never to make something happen....
Host Death says:
@ ::Losing her footing:: Cherry: SHUT UP! ::Tries to take another swing, but falls into an opening chasm, and vanishes::
Sulek says:
Wolverton: Target  Telemetry Kraight just fed us. Fire one Quantum Torpedo.
LtCmdr_Powers says:
Sulek: At best guess, we're going to slip one of the Blades - but that leaves two...
Cmd_Azhure says:
::Looks toward the screen. Quietly::  Time runs out...  ::Turns to take advantage of the holes left behind.::
Sulek says:
Powers: If I am right about the nature of the Blades, one should be enough to stop all activity.
Cmd_Azhure says:
CO:  Captain, the planet is about to blow.  I can get a lock on those below.
Host SM_Selan says:
<Iu> @ ::Eyes widen, has never felt a planet die before::
Sulek says:
Azhure: Beam them aboard.
Host SM_Selan says:
<Morgan> @ ::Looks around in horror::
Ben_Pangborn says:
@::shocked::
Sulek says:
Wolverton: Fire!
Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Her fingers dance along the board, as she automatically finds Iu and those around him, then activates the transporter.::
Cherry says:
@::is ready to follow::
Sulek says:
COMM Kraight: Get out of there...full impulse
Host SM_Selan says:
@ ACTION: Those on the surface are beamed to a transporter room on the Quirinus.
TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::with a flurry of digital activity, does as ordered:: CO: Torpedo away.
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
# :: sees his crewmates beamed away :: *Sulek*: Acknowledged...
Host SM_Selan says:
@ ACTION: China and most of the Pacific ocean explode outwards as the core of the planet gives way.
Cmd_Azhure says:
:: One by one she locks on any she can and beams them in.::
Sulek says:
Wolverton: Tracking on target, please.
Host SM_Selan says:
@ ACTION: A chain reaction begins to build around the planet.
Ben_Pangborn says:
::steps down off the padd:: All; This transporter room look familiar....
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
# :: the shuttle lurches wildly as the planet's gravitational field shifts suddenly ::
Cmd_Azhure says:
CO:  Captain.... the planet will soon explode.  A chain reaction has begun.  ::She does not stop her transports.::
Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: Vessels are attempting to warp out of the area.
Host SM_Selan says:
<Morgan> ::Collapses:: Oh God. All those people.
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
# :: punches in a course straight up, at maximum impulse ::
Cherry says:
::can't quite believe she's still alive::
Sulek says:
Azhure: Lock on to Kraight and beam him out.  Helm: as soon as he is aboard, get us out of here.
TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::confused, but fires another torpedo as ordered::
Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Gets a lock on the shuttle and beams whomever aboard.::
Host SM_Selan says:
# ACTION: North America begins exploding next. Molten rock and fire erupt outwards after Kraight's shuttle which is desperately trying to escape the Earth's last gasps of life.
Ben_Pangborn says:
::moves to the nearest consol:: *Med*: We need medical personnel in the transporter room one.
LtCmdr_Powers says:
::Looks to Azhure::  Azhure: Did you get him?
Host SM_Selan says:
# ACTION: Kraight and those on the shuttle are beamed onboard a moment before the shuttle is enveloped in the fire.
Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Quietly::  Powers:  Yes... and many others below.
LtJG_Ahkileez says:
::stumbles off the transporter pad and leans against bulkhead, eyes shut tight, thinking of his family:: Self: No...
Sulek says:
Wolverton: Any effect on the blade?
Cherry says:
::sees Jade down and snaps back to reality.  Kneels beside her::  Morgan:  Jade.  Your alive.  We need you
Sulek says:
Helm: Hard over.  Warp as soon as we clear...
Cherry says:
Pangborn:  Where are we?
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: sits down heavily on the edge of the transporter pad ::
Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Hearing the captain, grabs one more batch and beams.::
Cherry says:
::notices a familiar face:  Kraight:  Commander Kraight!
Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: The Quirinus comes about hard, War's impossible modifications of the ship being made apparent. It suddenly leaps to warp, faster than ever before.
Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: The Earth explodes.
TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::tracking::
Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: One would expect a shockwave, but in that moment, time seems to blur ... slow down.
TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
CO: Doesn't look like it, sir.
Ben_Pangborn says:
Cherry: Looks federation standard to me ::hits the comm.:: *Bridge*: This is commander Pangborn, currently unassigned, can you give me basic status...we're the ones you pulled off the surface
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: stares, unseeing, at Cherry :: Cherry: Yes...?
LtCmdr_Powers says:
::Watches the Earth blow apart... his family... his friends... ::
Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: From the explosion of Earth comes a great darkness. The escaping fire and rubble vanish into the darkness which rapidly expands, the Sun disappears, as do all the planets of the star system.
TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
CO: Sir, there's an odd energy pulse around the blade.
Cherry says:
::feels like she's moving very slowly::  Kraight:  It's Cherry.  errr... Lt. Cherry.
Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Her hands clench tightly as she bows her head a moment before turning around, her face showing no emotion, it settling all in her eyes.::  CO:  I have acquired various members of your crew and 16 civilians.  ::Does not mention the loss of those lost because of the signal.::
LtJG_Ahkileez says:
::moves away from the strangers, in to the corridor to be alone::
Sulek says:
Wolverton: What is its nature?
Sulek says:
Azhure: I know...a great loss.
TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
CO: Unknown.
Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: The Quirinus increases speed, outrunning the darkness ... the systems around the Solar System begin to vanish. A whole fleet of starships that were trying to get out give way to entropy.
Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Suddenly falls unconscious.::
Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: All humans onboard feel as if someone punched them in the gut. In the very fiber of their being, they feel as if something has been ... cut away.
Sulek says:
Wolverton: But the blade is still there?
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Cherry: Cherry... Cherry... Of course... :: straightens ::   I am pleased to see you have survived.
TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::grunts:: CO: Yes sir...
LtCmdr_Powers says:
::Screams out::  Azhure!!!  ::Wants to run to her, but suddenly feels so sick... so sick, and collapses on his side, clutching his stomach::
Cherry says:
::turns a bit green::  Kraight:  And I'm not sure I'm happy about it.  ::smiles weakly::
Ben_Pangborn says:
Kraight: Greetings old friend
TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::checks again:: CO: Err....no sir. It's gone now.
Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: The Quirinus suddenly seems to breach a trans warp corridor as it increases speed. The corridor begins to collapse behind them, but they continue moving onward. Escaping the entropy and certain death.
Sulek says:
Self: If there were only time...
LtJG_Ahkileez says:
::his whole body goes cold, as if his soul has been stolen and feels empty and black inside::  Self: Kat...
Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: Alpha Centauri and its surrounding worlds are swallowed next. The wave expands more.
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: smiles, just a bit :: Pangborn: Commander Pangborn... Hello. I apologize for my... evident confusion. I have not slept... for several days.
Ben_Pangborn says:
Kraight: What a long strange trip it's been indeed. I'll have to fill you in, assuming we live.
Cherry says:
::returns to assisting Jade::
Host SM_Selan says:
<Iu> ::Sits off to the side, thinking to himself::
Host SM_Selan says:
<Morgan> Cherry: R'vwar ... he expected this. He kept on saying weird things. He said he was told that I would be the Key. That what I was able to "read" from the Blade would save us all. This goes beyond all of us.
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Pangborn: Yes...
Host SM_Selan says:
<Morgan> Cherry: He also mumbled something at one point ... "there is only one man who could have planned all of this." He wouldn't elaborate.
LtCmdr_Powers says:
::Breaths deeply and tries to pull himself together, pull himself up::
Cherry says:
::raises an eyebrow::  Pangborn:  Did you hear this?
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: stands, stumbles ::
Ben_Pangborn says:
Cherry: I heard it, but I'm not sure what it means. Help me get Jade to sickbay. Kraight, you look like you could use a once over yourself, as can the rest of the party.
Cherry says:
::tries to recall::  Kraight:  Who was that guy we battled on Qo'nos?  ::tries to help Jade up::
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Pangborn: Yes... yes, I think so...
Sulek says:
::Notes that there warp is off the scale::
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Cherry: Uh... Mod... Morgadinn?
Host SM_Selan says:
<Iu> ALL: Morgadinn.
Sulek says:
Wolverton/Powers: How would you feel about violating the temporal directive.  We certainly have the speed.
Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: Suddenly, Walker's voice comes over the comm. "Senior crew of the Quirinus, report to the main bridge immediately."
Cherry says:
Self:  Quirinus?
TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
CO: I don't think there's anyone left to tell us "no", sir.
Cherry says:
Pangborn/Kraight:  We went there, in our search for Vee.  Everywhere else seemed connected to her but that.
LtCmdr_Powers says:
::Once he gets enough control of himself, he moves to Azhure, and checks her over...::
Sulek says:
::stands:: All: Well this should be interesting.
TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
CO/Self: Then again...
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: looks up at the announcement ::
Sulek says:
::moves to TL:: All: Care to join me?
LtCmdr_Powers says:
::Nods to Sulek::  TO: Mister... Ensign.  Give me a hand.
TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::follows::
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
All: We should go...
Sulek says:
::as they pile on the TL:: Main Bridge.
Ben_Pangborn says:
Cherry: Looks like it's time to get reacquainted with old friends ::heads to the meeting::
Cherry says:
lu:  Follow us.  ::assists Jade::
Host SM_Selan says:
<Iu> ::Comes along::
LtCmdr_Powers says:
::Rides up the lift, shaking lightly at Azhure::  Azhure: Azhure?  Can you hear me?
Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: Those that are heading to the bridge, soon arrive there from separate turbo lifts simultaneously.
Cherry says:
::thinks this can't be the Quirinus as the lifts never used to work that fast::
Host SM_Selan says:
<Captain Walker> ::Stands near the view screen, wearing an ominously familiar black uniform ... ::
Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Her eyes open to stare blankly at Bill.::
Ben_Pangborn says:
::walks on to the bridge, helping Jade::
LtCmdr_Powers says:
Azhure: Come on, time to get up... ::Puts her arm over his shoulders and lifts her, carrying her from the lift::
Host SM_Selan says:
<Captain Walker> Sulek: Sulek, thank you for coming. I thought you should be present when we initiate Phase Two. And to meet with my superior.
Ben_Pangborn says:
::looks over his old crewmates, a touch of melancholy seeping in::
Cherry says:
::eyes widen in horror::
Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Her arms tighten instinctively around Bill.::
Sulek says:
Walker: Your superior?
LtCmdr_Powers says:
::Looks amongst the crew, not thinking this is for the best::
LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: looks on, uncomprehending ::
Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Slowly she turns to look towards the man in black.::
LtJG_Ahkileez says:
::wanders the empty corridors, kin to its twisting, dark passages, reflecting the chilling black inside himself::
Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: A very familiar voice is heard ... "Well Sulek, old friend, that would be me." The Captain's chair swivels around, and seated in it, black leather uniform and all, hands in a steeple and a smile on his face is ... David Thorn.
Host SM_Selan says:
=/\==/\==/\==/\==/\= PAUSE =/\==/\==/\==/\==/\=