AN END TO JOURNEY TOWARD 
INTERLUDE
"METHODS TO THE MADNESS"
 
Thorn smiled at those who just arrived like the cat who ate the canary.
        Seven others entered from various turbolifts to join Captain Walker and Thorn, all were armed. Casual glances from the harrowed Starfleet personnel soon gathered that the newly arrived men and women were all current Quirinus officers. And apparently operatives of Thorn's. One particularly strange looking figure walked around some of the newly reconstructed consoles and took Thorn's side. He was a humanoid being which could have descended from a creature of myth in another time and place. And perhaps he had. 
        Brown pebbled skin with flares of red adorned his muscular arms. His head was like that of a dragon’s, with endless rows of sharp fangs and jaws that looked as thought they could tear through titanium. The pebbled lizard skin was taut against his thick skull, leading up and wrapping around a jagged crest that graced his head like a crown. The "dragon-man" hovered around Thorn like a son who would lay down his life.
        David Thorn had changed little since the day he "died." He was a man of strength and wisdom and vicious cunning. And he looked the part. His dark hair had long since given to lines of gray, and his weathered face had a few wrinkles here and there. His eyes were cold and steel incarnate - impenetrable. Despite his many defeats it was quite apparent Thorn was still a very dangerous man.
        "You're looking remarkably well for a corpse," Sulek pointed out without any hint of surprise. Deep down, the Vulcan / Deltan mused, he had always supposed Thorn was still alive out there. 
        "I KILLED YOU!" YOU DIED! WE HAD YOUR BODY!!" Ben Pangborn exclaimed suddenly. The past week had been too much for him. The assault on his vacation spot, traveling through time and space; what had happened to Vee -- it was all too much.
        "I got better," Thorn smugly replies.
        At this point, Lance Wolverton had already formulated seven methods of attack. And those were only the ones allowing for the least amount of casualties. there were nine "more-than-likely-Storm-officers" before them: including Thorn and the now traitorous Captain Walker. He was not too surprised by the turn of events. After what he found on Eden -- Eden, of course, the Storm base of operations -- and after what had happened with Eisenhower, he was not surprised. All this planning, all this manipulation -- only one man could be responsible.
        "So ... clone, alternate version, evil twin? What are we dealing with here?" Jade Morgan spoke, wishing her abilities would allow her to see deep into Thorn to determine what exactly was going on. But since R'vwar had forced her to "read" the Blade, things were sort of on "the fritz."
        "None of the above," Thorn seemed to really be enjoying this.
        Pangborn practically growls, "Why does it not surprise me that you're behind all of this?"
        "I'm not," Thorn simply replies.
        There is a brief moment of silence before Morgan chimes in, "He's telling the truth. I saw into one of the Blades on Earth. Whatever is going on, it goes beyond Thorn -- beyond all of us really."
        Cherry nods, finally having gotten over the horror (somewhat) of Vee / Death's attack and the destruction of Earth, "The psycho that took Vee pretty much said that same thing. Only with a bit more cryptic talk." 
        "Why are you involved?" Kraight finally speaks, having been starting at Thorn's "dragon-man," but directing the question to Thorn himself. "You may not be involved in the erosion of the Universe, but you have been responsible for our recent 'problems,' haven't you?"
        "I always felt you were the most intelligent of the group, Mr. Kraight. And thus the most powerful. Knowledge is power, did you not know?" Thorn begins, enjoying hearing himself speak.
        "Yes, you have suffered my manipulations - for a lot longer than any of you have suspected. Ms. Morgan's 'homicide,' Mr. Wolverton being her rescuer, you three's adventure to the 'Tomb of the Obelisks.' That was all because of me. Seriously, what are the chances of the Quirinus being on hand to rescue you?"
        "What about Vee, you bastard? Did you hand her over to those monsters?!" Cherry chokes out in rage. Morgan places a hand on her shoulder as she takes a threatening step toward Thorn - a step that results in Walker reaching for his phaser. Telarus, still running on the adrenaline and pride of his codes helping in the defeat of the Horsemen, already has his phaser out and trained on the "former" Starfleet Captain, "No so fast."
        It is only a moment before Telarus realizes he has seven weapons similarly aimed at him. Thorn shakes his head and raises his hands, "That's enough, stand down. We're all on the same side here." Thorn's order was directed toward his personnel, who quickly back down.
        Sulek gives Telarus a look and he holsters his phaser, "Are we on the same side?"
        "Yes, Captain. We are. Two years now. Two years I've prepared for this moment," the group seems skeptical, so despite rolling eyes and sighs of annoyance, Thorn explains. 
        He speaks of assumptions for a while.
        How they assumed he was manipulated by the Trickster; how it had all merely been part of the demi-God's plan. He explains that they were wrong, all along.
        At this point, they moved into the rebuilt conference lounge to further discuss matters.
        "Not long after our failure to secure the Omega Fountain," Sulek's nose twitches at Thorn's blatant disregard for the Omega Directive, "I came to learn of forces that had long been at work to tear apart our Universe."
        "Morgadinn?" Pangborn inquires from where he is seated, his left hand in Cherry's right.
        "Beyond him. Way beyond him," Thorn leans across the quite brand new table, moving his hands for emphasis.
        "Someone or something that had been maneuvering us all like pawns for years. I have not yet learned its name, but it is behind your Mr. Troll, your Mr. Brute. As far back as decades ago, up to eight years ago with the kidnapping and creation of the Horsemen, you can see its influence. Our enemy already had a few centuries to prepare. So I chose to strike back for the sake of not only my people, but the Federation, the Klingons -- our whole Universe."
        "So you found the Trickster," Cherry muses.
        "It wasn't hard. The Trickster's kind had returned in anticipation of the rise of their God Morgadinn. Starfleet had, unintentionally, bungled that and their efforts to wipe out most life in the Galaxy. The demi-Gods went into hiding again - except for the Trickster. It kept going - it was determined. And thus easy to manipulate."
        Powers snorts back some laughter, and Thorn glares in his general direction. Azhure gives her significant other a concerned look, "Something humorous, Commander?"
        "You expect us to believe you thoroughly manipulated a 'higher being'? I've encountered my share of them in my time and they've achieve this amount of power for a reason. They're not pushovers," Powers replies smugly.
        "I did not call them 'higher beings' but 'Gods,' Mr. Powers," Thorn counters. "Take away the religious connotations and the term 'God' has a whole new meaning. In this history of many species, including humanity, you see evidence of beings who came to rule but instead found themselves at our service. The Greek and Roman Gods of Myth changed themselves to reflect humanity - in envy. The same could be said of the Trickster's race. They defined their existence by 'lower beings.' Someone with enough willpower could get them to do anything. And that's what I did. Of course, it was a God who had lived its life by manipulating others. I had to be extremely cautious. But in the end, the Trickster was no match for me ..."
        "The 'master manipulator,'" Telarus mumbles sarcastically to Wolverton who keeps a stern eye on the Storm agents in the room.
        Pangborn nods, "The Trickster said pretty much the same thing to me at one point. Called the 'Gods' tools." 
        "You did not seem in control back on Qo'nos," Cherry sneers, referring to when Thorn's body was possessed by the God Morgadinn. 
        "to fight the Enemy at Hand, I needed power. Morgadinn was the key to the power. Sure, severely thousand Klingons would be dead by the time I took control back from that demon - but I would have eventually. Then these two," Thorn points at Sulek & Pangborn, "Got involved and it all went downhill."
        "What is this Enemy trying to accomplish?" Azhure finally asked.
        "To start everything over, dear woman. Remove the old and in with the new. A whole new big bang. And at this rate, it's going to succeed."
 
***
 
"He's lying."
        Three hours had passed, and the group had broken up. The adrenaline from their battle with the Horsemn and the destruction of Earth had long since faded. And they had quickly grown tired of Thorn's explanation of everything that had happened up until this point - most of which sounded more like gloating. Thorn was in control at the moment; he had the upper hand, most of the weapons, and his personnel were not exhausted from a week of terror and adventure combined. 
        The Horseman War had practically rebuilt the ship with it's unnatural abilities. It was better and stronger than ever before. Combining this with the fact Azure had spent three days removing the corpses of the crew, and it was quite easy to find a place to rest.
        "Which part?" Pangborn asked in response to Morgan's declaration.
        "There was only one part?" Cherry snarls rhetorically.
        Four of them were gathered in the quarters - Pangborn who was seated beside Cherry on the couch, Wolverton by the windows, and Morgan who sat in a chair across from the couch. Wolverton had not moved from the spot he stood for a while now, staring out at the spatial distortions caused by the Transwarp Corridor and not saying a word. Although it was quite apparent he heard everything they said. Morgan's face was tense, her hands steepled. Whatever she had seen in "reading" the Blade had made some not so very nice things apparent to her.
        "There's more to all of this than simply some evil being out to destroy the Universe. I'm just not sure what."
        Cherry shakes her head and looks at the floor, "I can't believe he framed you for murder just to get a hold of your abilities. I can't believe Rio actually helped hi -- Well, no, that I can believe."
        Pangborn smiles for a moment and rubs Cherry's shoulder, "It makes sense for him though. If he approached you straight out, you wouldn't believe nor trust him. You would simply run to Starfleet, and away from his grasp. And the Tal Shiar, who are working against him, would close in and snatch you up. Frame you for murder, convince the quite efficient and quite inclined crew-mate," a nod to Wolverton, "to rescue you. That way you're out of both Starfleet and the Tal Shiar's hands."
        "And drive you into the palms of his ..." Cherry murmurs.
        "It saved my life. And cost an innocent man his," Morgan states blankly, the guilt finally settling in.
        "He would have died anything. Don't blame yourself," Wolverton finally speaks, not turning away from the window.
        Morgan stares at Wolverton's back, not needing her abilities to sense his confusion and pain, "I'm sorry about Erin, Lance. Thorn is very manipulative, I'm sure she--"
        "It doesn't matter," he cuts her off.
        They all go silent; not really wanting to speak of another crewmate who had betrayed them to Thorn's cause. Yet they felt, for Lance's sake, they should. He, however, would not let them. Wolverton sharply turns to face the room.
        "Jade, did you notice that Ferengi Doogie was with them?"
 
***
 
"You were responsible for Grey."
        It rises into the air, less a question and more an accusation. Thorn smiles, and finishes pouring his drink on a table that once belonged to Sulek, but had since moved onto other Captains. He lifts the bad tasting replicated scotch, and takes a sip -- wincing almost instantly. Taking a breath, he responds.
        "The enigmatic Nero, yes. But I'm responsible for a great deal more than that, Sulek, and you know it."
        Sulek takes a steap around a chair and contemplates for a moment, "Daimon Doogie. Jade mentioned he was responsible for the ambush of the Tal Shiar. He is one of your agents?"
        Thorn takes a seat and drinks some more scotch, "He owes me a few favors. Help yourself, by the way."
        "I'll pass," Sulek responds, sitting opposite of his occasional nemesis.
        "You were responsible for our Journey through the Construct. Were you in league with the Library?"
        Thorn laughs, "Certainly not. I was aware of what the Library wanted to do. The 'gauntlet' it would put those the Gateway selected through. All in the cause of finding a new Historian. I just made sure the Gateway selected you. It suited my purposes."
        "And what purposes are those?"
        "All in good time, Sulek!" Thorn exclaims, getting up to refill his glass.
        Sulek had earlier asked why wait a day to make preparations for their next step, and his crew was surprised that Thorn had done it for their benefit. "Your comrades have been on the run, under attack, and most likely barely rested this whole past week, Sulek. I feel they've earned a few hours of sleep." Yet with the Universe giving way to entropy around them, perhaps now was not the time to relax ... 
        So instead he asks a different question, with a barely noticeable hint of anger in his voice.
        "Why Nathan?"
        Thorn lifts the replicated jug and pours, "I would have half expected you to ask how first."
        "The cloning techniques of the Storm are well known and well regarded. I want to know why." 
        "Don't call us that. The Storm is dead and behind me - behind us," Thorn practically snaps, turning to see Sulek. The Vulcan / Deltan says nothing, his question already asked and now awaiting answer.
        "Because ... because you have defeated me so many times. And I know deep down, as a leader, this was a defeat for you. Nathan Grey - El Aurian pal who spent the last days of his life trying to show his friend the better things in the Universe. To get him to 'live a little.' It burned, didn't it?" 
        Any other man would have gotten up and shattered Thorn's arrogant jaw at this point, but Sulek did not. 
        "I was counting on the emotional ties to your foe to put you off. There was no reason for you to suspect my involvement ..." 
        Sulek rested a hand on the armrest of the chair, "Were you counting on him becoming the new Historian?"
        Thorn takes a seat and smiles, "No. But with you, I can never count on anything, now can I? 
        "Nonetheless, that also serves my purpose. As I'll explain tomorrow."
        "You're acting quite ... content, for someone whose homeworld was just destroyed," Sulek notes.
        Thorn shakes his head.
        "I haven't considered Earth home in nearly twenty five years, Sulek. The last place I considered a true home was Setlik III ... and that's long since gone. Why don't see as distraught as the others, or apprehensive about the end of the Universe? Because I know we can win this day. Those worlds have not been destroyed, Sulek. Despite all the completely mind-blowing metaphysical nonsense that we've had to deal with recently, the basic rules of the Universe still apply. Energy cannot be destroyed. Those worlds, those people, everything has simply been reduced back to their original state. We simply have to reverse the process, and it will all be restored back to normal." 
        Sulek tilts his head, skeptical, "You seem quite certain of this."
        "I've had plenty of time to research and plan this, Sulek. We're going to win."
 
***
 
"We're doooooooomed."
        The shot glass cracked as David Telarus slammed it down onto the bar counter with a drowsy gleam in his eye. Ten more lay either on the counter, or on the floor around him. A horrid smell permeated the air. If Kraight had a proper nose, it would twitch in minor disgust. Yet this was not the first time he had been in the presence of a complete drunk, and he supposed Telarus had more than enough reason to intoxicate himself. Of course, none of the group that he knew were medics. And he didn't trust any of Thorn's people. 
        "What exactly are you drinking?" the Benzite inquired, taking up a bar stool beside the Engineer. 
        Telarus rubbed his chin and looked upward, as if there were an answer floating there. 
        "No idea," he responded.
        "Well, perhaps you should cut back for a little while, Mr. Telarus. You never know when we might need your services," Kraight suggested, looking around for the bottle that had filled up the shot glasses and not seemingly able to find it. 
        "'oesn't 'atter," Telarus slurred out. "None o' it 'oes. We're doomed."
        "So you said," Kraight leaned over the counter, finding a cloth to wipe up Telarus' mess and momentarily wondering if War had re-created that as well. 
        "I think she's dead." 
        Kraight stopped at the statement, confused and concerned at the same instant, "Who?"
        Telarus stared at the counter, his eyes watering. 
        "Harriet." 
        Kraight frowned. He hadn't had time to think about any of their crewmates who had been put on forced leave. Since their return from the Construct, he had had little contact with most of them, "You don't know that."
        Telarus shook his head as if Kraight were insane, and turned to look at him, "Well we don't know anything, ain't that the point!? She could have been on any o' the worlds that went! She could have died and I wouldn't have been there to tell her --!" 
        Telarus stops himself. Despite his intoxication he endeavors not to reveal too much of his internal feelings. 
        Kraight smiles and puts a hand on Telarus' shoulder, "I'm sure she knows, wherever she is." 
        "Hello, father."
        The voice startles Kraight, causing him to practically fall off of his barstool. He swivels to see the "dragon-man" from the bridge ... the one who had seemed familiar in some instance, but he couldn't quite put it. He now stood beside him, his hands clasped behind his back. Kraight could almost swear that his lips were curling back into a smile ... he looked like he was hungry. 
        "What did you call me?" Kraight asks, confusion enveloping him. 
        "You are Kraight, Chief Science Officer of the Quirinus. And my father," the Dragon Man says again. "I have waited for this moment my whole life." 
        Kraight stares at the Dragon Man in disbelief. Telarus peers drunkenly around the Benzite, blinks, takes a sip of a yellow bottle that he had been hiding from Kraight, and chuckles, "Congrats Daddy -- Hic!" 
        "I do not have any children," Kraight states in a matter of fact manner, wondering if this is some sort of ploy of Thorn's. 
        "Not in the traditional manner, no. But I am a genetic creation from part of your DNA. Essentially, I was born of you. My name is Oedipus," the apparent son of Kraight's fully grins, his long line of sharp fangs revealed. 
        Telarus mumbles something about the mother being a looker and lies his head down on the bar, dropping his bottle which spills all over the carpet. Kraight is in too much shock at Oedipus' claim to notice. 
        "You said ... you were made from part of my DNA. Where did the rest come from?" There was no point in Kraight asking who was behind this. It had Thorn written all over it. 
        "Can't you tell, father? Just look close ..." Oedipus said, a gleam of excitement in his eye.
        Kraight studies him for a good long minute, and finally what he has been trying to determine slaps him in the face. 
        "You are D'gari."
        Oedipus nods with a smile.
        The D'gari, the near extinct species of three-headed, three-personality carrying Dragon they had encountered in the Construct. To save the species, or rather, to bring it back, Kraight had acquire some of their blood in hopes of bringing it back to the normal Universe for further study. It had been the only physical evidence of any merit that came back with them from the Construct ... and had mysterious disappeared in the Federation investigator Zachary Marshall's holding, seemingly never to be reacquired again. Since Thorn had hinted at Marshall actually working for him, it was easy to see where it had gone. 
        "Thorn created you ..." Kraight began.
        "Yes, he genetically engineered me from both yours, and D'Gari DNA," Oedipus explains, like an excited child explaining their first school project to their parents. "Surprisingly, both interact quite well. It would no doubt be feasible to breed both species together!" 
        Kraight was skeptical at this, and did not even want to imagine trying to do so. 
        "Why?" 
        "Hmmm?" Oedipus was confused at the question. "Why what?"
        "Why did David Thorn create you?" Kraight elaborates. 
        "He said that one day I would serve a great purpose to my father. And to his friends. David Thorn is a brilliant man, but he said not as brilliant as you. He said when I finally came to meet you, I would be able to learn much from you. Once this crisis is done and over with, I look forward to learning all I can," Oedipus responds. His body would suggest he was nearly Kraight's age, but he had the spirit of a child. And Kraight could not shake the feeling of being unnerved by this turn of events. And as a result, felt guilty - Oedipus was looking for a willing father figure here. And Kraight was still dealing with the fact the Universe was collapsing around them. It was just too much. 
        "I -- Of course. I'm sure we can work something out ... once this is done. If it is all right with you, Oedipus, I'd like to help my friend here to his quarters ... he needs to rest."
        "Of course, father. I'll be on the bridge if you need me," Oedipus gets up, smiles, and then leaves. 
        Kraight stares at his "son" exit and shakes his head, mumbling to himself.
        "Now I need a drink."
 
***
 
Soriq Ahkileez was having a hell of a day. 
        It had started off innocently enough. He had woken up to a gorgeous sunrise with an equally as gorgeous Orion female at his side. An Orion ... on Earth! What were the chances? He wasn't sure, but if he felt inclined enough he could do the calculations. The previous two days they had been discussing everything, from the metaphysical consequences of the Borg assimilating God to Kohlinahr for dummies ... and it had all given way to passionate love making the night before the end of the world. He had been looking forward to introducing this incredible woman to his friends, and eventually, his family. He was sure she could match wits and intellect with most of them, and they wouldn't see it coming because of the fact she was an Orion. Of course, when they landed ... everything changed. 
        It had not been long after sunrise that there had been a weird rumble in the air. Followed by an electric charge that caused even hairless beings to have hair stand up on their arms. The collision of the three Blades with the surface of the planet caused a worldwide tremor measuring 2.1 on the richter scale. Those in the immediate vicinity of the Blades' landings were either incinerated instantly or had their bodies shattered by the shockwaves of the collision. Starfleet was on the move instantly - one thousand five hundred and seventy two shuttles & runabouts were deployed to all three Blades to immediately start scanning. Any and all Starfleet personnel were called into active duty if there were in the immediate area. Not that most of them were needed. Plenty of Starfleet vessels had been attempting to pursue these Blades since they launched from a dying world in the Aquilae Star Cluster days earlier. A hard task when they weren't detectable by sensors. 
        As the day progressed, the weather on the planet went insane. The tectonic plates that had been manipulated by Federation scientists so that the planet could be encouraged to exist properly, yet not destroy property and lives at the same time, defied the technological measures in place. In four hours time, 10,478 people had died due to various reasons: fire, earthquake, tornado, tsunami, etc. All of this caused by three objects that no one could name (at the time), or explain why they were there. This was not the first time a giant unidentified object had arrived in Earth space and caused havoc with the environment. Measures had long since been in place to prevent an occurrence like that (further enforced by not one, but two, Borg incursions) again. Nothing could stop these things. 
        His Orion lover vanished into hour six of the crisis, no doubt giving into fear and joining the millions of non-Starfleet personnel who were hopping onto every vessel possible to escape a world gone mad. Ahkileez had been torn between chasing her or giving into the annoying sense of responsibility of leaping into the fray and trying to save lives that most of his family (especially his uncle) shared. He chose the latter, found an available shuttle, and an available Starfleet science officer in need of a ride, and followed the small armada of Starfleet shuttlecraft trying to get close to the Blades. 
        Next thing he knew, he was face to face with the actual embodiment of a biblical metaphor who was trying to kill him with a scythe. 
        Hell of a day. 
        Now Earth, with most of the surrounding space, was gone. Along with the Orion woman of his dreams. Along with perhaps his family. Perhaps a lot of people. He rubbed his arm at the thought of everything he ever cared for being taken away. And now he was an outcast amongst outcasts. He was slightly familiar with the investigation of the former Quirinus crew, although it had only been by accident four months ago that he read the report. They had gone A.W.O.L. for a year and nobody knew where. Their story didn't really hold up to examination, and everyone was suspicious of them. But, at this moment, he trusted those who had saved his life (despite their questionable recent history) ... more so than he trusted those who were running the vessel. 
        David Thorn and the Storm.
        During his various stays on various Starfleet vessels, Soriq had heard a few stories of the Storm. None of them pleasant. Those who had not been in that "unfortunate sector of space" during that week of hell seven years ago referred to them as "fools who couldn't be as bad as people made them out to be." Those who had been there ... well, that was a different story. Several hundred Starfleet officers, who had at one point in their lives experienced pain and suffering due to Starfleet Command and the Federation Council's seeming inability to properly keep their enemies at bay, chose to betray their friends and comrades in favor of a madman's dream. Captain David Thorn, Commanding Officer of the Galaxy Class U.S.S. Falcon. If he had been brought to justice, the list of charges against him would be incredible. Thorn had felt so strongly that the current leaders in Starfleet Command were going to lead the Federation into defeat in their war against the Dominion that he prepared to overthrow them ... and eventually the Council. 
        They, of course, failed. His uncle pretty much summarized it up for him in one sentence to him one day over a cup of Airilian tea - "David Thorn may be one of the most ingenious tacticians that had been introduced into the Fleet, but he had one fault - he was an arrogant prick." 
        Soriq's train of thought is derailed as he passed by the entrance to the ship's brig. He had been wandering the corridors for hours now, thinking to himself, but being aware of his surroundings at each moment. The vessel was a ghost ship. Over 90% of the original crew was deceased, apparently killed by a psychotic Horseman who had somehow managed to integrate himself into the vessel's computer system. Supposedly he was still in there; but dormant. With their luck, Soriq wondered how long that would last. 
        There was someone in the brig. His Vulcan hearing could determine that much. He also had a good sense for these things. After being alone so long on the vessel, he could easily tell when someone nearby. Quirking his eyebrow, his interest piqued, he entered the brig. 
        There was no doubt the Brig was the cleanest it had been in years. More than likely the area of the ship took heavy damage during War's initial attacks, and had been repaired better than new when War was attempting to make its new "body" a weapon of his namesake. It was deserted, except for one cell which had a force field up. Seated in it was an semi-attractive (by Soriq's tastes) woman in her mid twenties, whose head was in her hands. She had been crying, he could tell. No one had mentioned to him that they had a captive. Of course, they hadn't really talked to him much since he got onboard. She couldn't be a member of the Storm (unless she had gotten on their bad side), as they more than likely wouldn't keep her in a cell. And he doubted the loyal Starfleet personnel would stand for her being held here.
        "Hi."
        She didn't respond to his greeting, nor did she seem to acknowledge he existed. Soriq took a few more steps toward the field, curious at finding out what exactly was going on here, "Hello?" 
        The woman snarls, "Go away." 
        Soriq refrains from smiling. A challenge.
        "You're not really in the position to make requests, you know."
        She rips her head from her hands. She had the most beautiful eyes, he noted. Unfortunately they were red and puffy from endless crying. He's quite sure they would extraordinary under normal conditions, "It wasn't a request!" 
        Soriq crosses his arms, and leans against the control console for the brig, staring at her. Unfazed. 
        "I'm Soriq Ahkileez. A guest onboard. You are?" 
        She stares at him as if he were insane, then shakes her head and slumps against the wall in defeat, "No one that matters." 
        "Well that isn't true. If you didn't matter, someone wouldn't have gone to such extravagant means to keep you here."
        At the mention of this 'someone,' the woman looks as if she's about to burst into tears again and Soriq realizes he made a mistake. 
        "Are you hungry?"
        "No," she quickly responds, staring off to the side of the cell with her eyes watering once more. 
        "That's okay, neither am I," Soriq points out, sliding down against the console so he sits on the floor, cross-legged. Right now, she is sitting above him. He wants to give her the impression that she has the focus here -- she is not simply just a prisoner. Her eyes slowly turn to look back toward him, "You're not Starfleet." She points out in a matter of fact manner at his lack of Starfleet uniform. He notes her staring at his clothing, "Well to be fair, most of those onboard who could be considered Starfleet aren't really in proper attire either. But no, I'm not Starfleet." 
        She makes a noise, as if making a sudden judgment of him.
        "I'm not one of them either," he quickly states to shatter her assumptions.        
        "Them?" she asks.
        "The Storm. The bad guys. The traitors who are in control of the ship."
        She stares at him skeptically for a moment. Despite her sorrow, she actually did not mind the company. 
        "Who are you with then?"
        Soriq smiles, a dialogue had been started, "As I told you, a guest. The ship was my best way out of certain death, so I took it." 
        "Erin." 
        "Hmmm?" he asks, although knowing she just stated her name, he wanted to keep the conversation going.
        "My name. I'm Erin Eisenhower," she says as if the name should have some deeper meaning to him. It does not. No one had mentioned an Erin to him. 
        "Well it's a pleasure to meet you, Erin. Are you a crewmember her on the Quirinus?" 
        She's silent for a moment, as if she were trying to pick the right answer that wouldn't make her sound stupid. 
        "... Not for a long time now, no." 
        Soriq's curiosity peeked it's head out again, "But you were?" 
        "Once. Yes. I'm on forced leave." 
        Soriq tries not to laugh, "It looks like you're on a little more than that at the moment ..."
        She laughs too, and he's glad for it. She looks much more attractive when she smiles. But that could be said of many people. 
        "So why are you here, Erin?"
        She goes silent for a moment, and Soriq worries that the dam will burst again. 
        "I'm one of them - the traitors," she responds simply; not really wanting to discuss it any further. 
        "I see," Soriq responds. "Well, don't let that get you down. Did you hear the Universe is going to be destroyed? No more traitors or loyal folk. We're all equal in our terror and confusion and painstaking last minute attempts to save all of reality." 
        The enthusiasm in his voice makes her laugh. Another smile. 
        Soriq could see some real beauty here, but had been involved with enough women to know that her heart belonged to another. Or was focused on another. He could sense it. It didn't take much for him to determine that this "other" was no doubt onboard as well ... and may have very well been responsible for putting her here. There were so many questions he wanted to ask, so much he wanted to know so he could ease her guilt and pain. She did not seem like the sort to betray Starfleet the wrong reasons. He had a feeling she had been tricked into it. But that would be a conversation for another time. 
        For now, they sat in the brig.
        And laughed.
        And talked.
        As the Universe died around them.
 
***
 
They had sat in silence for the longest time.
 
It was not one of the uncomfortable silences couples sometimes share when some dark secret of the past has been learned, or the wrong thing had been said.  No, it was not even the silence of defeat.  If you had been able to peer into their minds, one would be overwhelmed by the cacophony of thoughts.
 
Azhure's head rested on Powers' shoulder.  His upper body was moderately still, but his mouth, arms, and hands were moving constantly, working out silent plans.  Even in the worst of times, Bill refused to admit defeat.  Defeat was when he and his men were dead, and they were far from that.  Azhure waited in silence, letting Bill contemplate, sensing his increasing frustration.
 
Touching his shoulder, she whispered, "We're not in danger now, Bill."
 
"Not at the moment, Azhure.  But how long do you think it will be before our 'associates' try to betray us?  Despite being guests here, I am still a Starfleet officer aboard a Starfleet vessel with training that can prevent further harm."  Bill stood, gently removing her head, and walked towards the window.  Azhure quietly watched knowing he needed to work this through his own way.  Their romance was not new, but it was not old - they were still learning things about each other, learning to live in each other's worlds - learning to love.  Bill's destiny, he felt, had been on Abertura Station and Hais V.  It was where he had met Azhure - would they settle down on the planet that drew them together?  Azhure had adopted parents on Vulcan and therefore citizenship, but in reality, she had no true home anymore.  
 
Taking up farming might not be Bill's style, but she was a gardener; she had enjoyed rebuilding the stations arboretum from scratch.  Perhaps they would even have a family together.  Azhure was still working through her pains of her past; though she had come a long way since they had first met.  She had opened up to Bill in ways he couldn't believe.  On occasion, he thought Azhure and her brilliant and old El-Aurian eyes could see right through him and realize his dreams.
 
"Well, I wouldn't go to sleep any time soon."
 
Soul mates.  It was a very comforting thought.  And he feared that it was going to end soon. But if they were to perish -- or never to have existed at all (he wasn't entirely sure if time would continue to exist with the end of the Universe) -- it was better that they were together. He glanced out the window, the green glow of the transwarp conduit punctuating the dim lighting in their room.  Powers had been concerned about the ship's ability to maintain integrity, but the Storm operatives (who, incidentally, HATED being referred to by that name) assured him that the Horsemen had rebuilt the ship perfectly - better than perfectly.  It was entirely possible the Quirinus was the most advanced vessel in the Fleet. The fact that the ship was re-constructed by an entity that, not even four days ago, had been trying to kill them all was not a comforting thought.  Azhure would not admit it, but her thoughts were not far from the Borg. It was an El Aurian thing - no doubt ingrained into them after the destruction of their home world. Transwarp corridors equated death.
 
"So what do we do now?"
 
Azhure looked at him.  "I thought you were working on the plan."  Bill let a light smile permeate his face until a voice rang out: "It is curious, I think..."  Bill was slightly startled, but Azhure did not appear to be.  The voice was familiar, and Bill had learned long ago from this very person to not allow startling things to push him into a blind response.  "... that we would travel the veins of the Universe."
 
"Iu," Azhure said.  She had sensed him on some level on the planet, made sure Bill had grabbed him from the surface with the transporter.  But last word was that he was in Sickbay.  Indeed, the tall and thin Haispoi from the planet they are stationed is there.  He steps from the shadows, his yellow skin looking green in the light, staring out the window, his mysterious wisdom no doubt asking many questions and giving many answers in his own thoughts.  Iu had apparently somehow joined Ben Pangborn & Cherry in their quest to save their friend Vee - a quest that failed.  No one had really asked how he managed to join them.  Pangborn had figured he was simply another "guide" like the late female Cainia had been.  Azhure & Powers had been more curious, but Iu had never been one to give easy answers.
 
Both Powers & Azhure were stationed previously on Abertura Station, a former Dominion station that was put under Klingon control after the end of the War.  It had recently been given to Starfleet control when the Klingons had grown tired of the constant trouble with the Jem'Hadar that were still residing there.  The station was in the mountains that looked over Kayairn City, the capital city of Hais - the planet the station was on.  The Haisians were a pleasant people who were capable of space travel, but had kept to themselves.  The Dominion used their planet as a "relay station" of communication traffic during the war.  After Starfleet had set foot there, they began to realize there was more to the Haisians than met the eye. For starters, Iu's people - the Haispoi.
 
Some decades ago, a group of Haisians went into the mountains surrounding Kayairn City and vanished.  They returned months later, as a part of religious "cult" that believed that the Haisians had descended from the mountain range and spread across the planet.  "The Mountain provides," was what Iu would always tell them.  The Haispoi had evolved to be a religious farmers, with several small villages that were scattered throughout the mysterious mountain range.  What made them so mysterious was that you could never find these villages unless they wanted you to.  It was as if the Mountain hid them intentionally.  The Haispoi were also unnaturally stronger than most Haisians, and had this annoying ability to sneak up on you without knowing it.  There had been plenty of evidence to suggest that there was more to the Mountain than was being suggested, but nothing had ever come of any inquiries into that.  And Powers doubted that anything ever would.
 
"The veins of the Universe?"
 
The Haispoi ignores Powers' question, and steps across the room, hands clasped behind his back. He stared outward.
 
"You will not be returning to Hais," he says matter of factly.
 
A cold feeling fills both their guts. Iu had always known more than any of them, and a claim like this was not a good one.
 
"What do you mean?" Azhure asks, standing up, joining the two of them at the window, again reminding herself that nothing was written in stone, not even when it happened, but what she had known before leaving the station had not been negated yet either.
 
Iu pauses for a moment, and one hand rises up and rubs his head.  He seems confused for a moment: "I'm sorry - you will.  But you will not.  Time and space are altering, shifting.  Things are not as clear as they used to be."
 
Powers and Azhure share a concerned look. The wise old Haispoi had never been like this.
 
"I've lost touch with the Mountain .." Iu mumbles to himself.
 
Azhure hears him, "Hais?"
 
"It's gone," Powers concluded.  "That much is clear."  Everything was going... the Universe destroyed one piece at a time...
 
"Things were so certain.  I fear because of the uncertainty.  I fear."
 
Azhure reaches out to grasp Powers' hand tightly, for a moment, anchoring herself in this shifting time and place, just as uncertain as Iu.  But it is his fear that worries her.
 
Iu stares out at the green - the veins of the Universe.
 
***
 
She hurt.
All over.
Pain.
Her life had been about pain.
It began in pain.
It would end in pain.
Accept it.
Use it.
Live the pain.
She was Thanatos.
Death.
Maker of the End.
Her first job was completed.
Now she would see the end through.
She could feel them.
The Man.
The Woman.
They had tried to make her feel something other than pain.
Now they would pay for it.

To Be Continued ...

Host SM_Selan says:
U.S.S. Quirinus Stardate 10504.18

Host SM_Selan says:
AN END TO JOURNEY TOWARD

Host SM_Selan says:
CHAPTER TWO

Host SM_Selan says:
"Entropy Effects"

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

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: A day has passed. The Quirinus continues to travel through the trans warp corridor, for parts unknown.

Host David_Thorn says:
::In the Conference Lounge where a nice array of food and beverage has been put out::

LtJG_Soriq_Ahkileez says:
::wandering the corridors of the ship, struggling to get his emotions under control::

LtCmdr_Powers says:
::Stepping into a turbo lift::

Captain_Sulek says:
::enters the conference room and moves to a viewing port at the bulkhead::

CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Looks at Bill quietly.::

Host David_Thorn says:
Sulek: There's plenty of seating room, Sulek.

LtJG_Soriq_Ahkileez says:
::turns the corner and spots a man and a woman getting in. Debates whether to turn around, decides that would be cowardly, and approaches::

Captain_Sulek says:
::turning:: Thorn: I see.  Thank you.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::is in a snit having failed to hack into the ship's tactical systems::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::finds his way to the conference room, looks over the food, spies Sulek. Wonders what is next::

LtCmdr_Powers says:
::Flashes a small smile to Azhure::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: follows close on Sulek's heels ::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::in Main Engineering monitoring systems::

CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Watches a stranger coming to join them, her eyes narrow as there is something about him.  Looks at Bill.::  Powers:  One more....

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::still pondering over the "soft" intelligence he's gathered in the last day::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::heads to the conference room hoping for a fight::

LtJG_Soriq_Ahkileez says:
::stops the door with his hand and steps inside before it can close::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: finds a seat... pointedly ignoring the presence of Thorn ::

Captain_Sulek says:
::he sits at the center of the table, taking a glass of mineral water from the food, first::

LtCmdr_Powers says:
::Looks at the hand... then at the collar::  FCO: Lieutenant.

Host David_Thorn says:
::Watches them all gather::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::awkwardly sits down, quiet::

CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Quietly:: Ahkileez:  Ahkileez...

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::stomps into the conference room and glares at everybody::

SO_Lt_Running_Horse says:
::walks for the conference room::

LtJG_Soriq_Ahkileez says:
::looks over his shoulder:: Powers: Excuse me?

CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Smiles::  Ahkileez:  You have a strong family resemblance to Jyg Ahkileez.

Host David_Thorn says:
::Sees that most of them have arrived:: ALL: Well then, I hope you all have gotten plenty of rest. We have a lot of work ahead of us.

LtJG_Soriq_Ahkileez says:
::stares at the woman for a long time, deciding how to respond:: CNS: I'm related, yes.

Captain_Sulek says:
::sits quietly and steeples his hands on the table, as he waits for the meeting to begin::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::stands by the door and watches the ones she doesn't know::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::still standing pretty darned motionless in a corner::

SO_Lt_Running_Horse says:
:enters the conference room and sits::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::decides it's time to try one of his crazy plans grabs an engineering kit heads to the computer core via the Jeffries tubes::

CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Nods::  Ahkileez:  I am Commander Azhure. :: Steps from the turbo lift as it stops.::  I knew your....

LtCmdr_Powers says:
::As the turbo lift arrives, he steps out and walks into the conference lounge::

LtJG_Soriq_Ahkileez says:
::feels compelled to follow her out:: CNS: My uncle. ::fills in the blank::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::leaves his comm. badge underneath a panel in Main Engineering::

CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Nods::  Ahkileez:  Yes... a very strong family resemblance.  :: Starts to ask about his family, only to stop.::  Welcome aboard Lieutenant.  :: Takes a seat next to Bill.::

Host David_Thorn says:
ALL: As you're all aware, the Universe is coming apart at the seams around us. Entire galaxies have no doubt given way to abyss.

LtCmdr_Powers says:
::Raises his hand::  Thorn: Question.

Host David_Thorn says:
ALL: One might assume we've run out of time to rescue our loved ones. But this is not true. Energy cannot be destroyed.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::refrains from interrupting, for a change::

Host David_Thorn says:
::Pauses:: Powers: Yes, Mr. Powers?

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::eyes the newcomers hostile-like::

LtJG_Soriq_Ahkileez says:
::finds himself inside a conference room, unsure of how he got there:: ::stands by the door::

LtCmdr_Powers says:
Thorn: I was thinking how great it was that you hijacked this ship and all so you can play hero... but what do you get out of this?  Other than your continued miserable existence, of course.

CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Noting the lost look, motions for Ahkileez to join them.::

Host David_Thorn says:
Powers: The continued existence of me, and all that I hold dear. I gain nothing from ceasing to exist.

Captain_Sulek says:
Thorn: Then there are Blades already in other galaxies?  It would take billions of them to cause the complete destruction of the universe.  Or is it by collapsing one galaxy that there will be entropy?

LtCmdr_Powers says:
Thorn: No offense, but you don't strike me as the helpy helper type.

LtJG_Soriq_Ahkileez says:
::frowns but does as asked, taking a seat next to her::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::listens to the not so subtle irony::

Host David_Thorn says:
Sulek: When the Blades finish at one point, they continue to another.

SO_Lt_Running_Horse says:
Self: Hate those blades.

Host David_Thorn says:
Sulek: They merely need to take out a few "lyncpin" worlds for everything to come apart.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: finally brings himself to address Thorn directly :: Thorn: It is true that energy cannot be destroyed. But it can be transmuted into a form from which no useful work -- or information -- can be extracted. That is what the Blades are doing... they are accelerating the heat death of the Universe.

Host David_Thorn says:
ALL: I understand none of you trust me. That is all right. I am not here to be trusted. Some of you view me as a megalomaniac out to control the Federation or the Universe. Obviously you don't know me very well.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
Mutters to self:  On the contrary....

Captain_Sulek says:
Powers: Simple logic.  If there is no galaxy to rule, then much of what Mr. Thorn has tried to accomplish cannot happen.  Thorn: And their travel time to each galaxy?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Thorn: Then what are you?

LtJG_Soriq_Ahkileez says:
::feels distinctly out of place but can read enough in the eyes of some of the people in the room to tell they're dangerous::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Thorn: We have all seen your handiwork.

LtCmdr_Powers says:
::Shrugs at Thorn's words and puts his feet up on the table::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::notes Wolverton on the opposite side of the room::

Host David_Thorn says:
Kraight: That is what I thought too. But something else is happening. The worlds ... the matter ... the energy is returning to a basic state. To be re-molded. Someone is re-creating the Universe with this process, not destroying it entirely. I believe the process can be reversed.

Host David_Thorn says:
Pangborn: An ally. In uncertain times.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::ponders::

Host David_Thorn says:
ALL: We must get to the creator(s) of the Blades.

Captain_Sulek says:
Thorn: And you know where these creators are?

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::keeps crawling through the Jeffries tubes to gain access to the core control::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::stands:: Thorn: Which you just 'happen' to know I take it?

Host David_Thorn says:
ALL: I have learned that this person or persons exist in a place called the White. Or the Ether, if you will. There are multiple accesses to this place, most of which Starfleet has encountered in the place ...

CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Glances at Bill, saying nothing, reading the danger just below the surface and understanding it.::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::would be interested in lu's take on Thorn::

Captain_Sulek says:
::looks at Thorn:: Thorn: Omega....

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::can't help but roll his eyes at the mention of the "Ether"::

Host David_Thorn says:
::Nods at Sulek & Pangborn:: ALL: The Guardian of Forever. The Algernon Device. The Millennial Gates. The Library. All but a few of the many ways to get to the White.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: looks puzzled... has not heard of the "Ether" except in long-discredited theories of space time ::

Host David_Thorn says:
Sulek: The Omega Fountain could have conceivably been used, but Starfleet practically handed that over to the Bellicose, so that's out of the question ...

SO_Lt_Running_Horse says:
::looks up at the mention of Omega::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::arrives at core control and hops out of the Jeffries tube access::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::leans against the wall watching Thorn, eyes narrowed::

Host David_Thorn says:
<Walker> ::Leaning against a wall in the computer core:: CEO: Hello, Mr. Telarus.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::thinks:: Thorn: I think I'm understanding you. It is those places that keep the rhythm of the universe internally.

Host David_Thorn says:
Pangborn: Yes.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Thorn: And as such, would contain a record off all that would be, and could be again ::flashes::

Host David_Thorn says:
ALL: When I set into motion the chain of events that led you all into the Construct, it had been my hope that one of you would be selected as the new Historian. My best bet was Sulek would be chosen, and accept, the position. Apparently I miscalculated.

Host David_Thorn says:
Pangborn: You're getting it now.

SO_Lt_Running_Horse says:
::shoots a look at her superior::

LtJG_Soriq_Ahkileez says:
::narrows his eyes, listening, reverting to his training to Observe and Assess::

Host David_Thorn says:
ALL: Lucky for us, a good friend of yours is now the Historian and care-taker of the Library.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::looks at Sulek: Sulek: Grey. 

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::tries not to roll her eyes at the "good friend" comment::

Captain_Sulek says:
Thorn: Then we are looking at the space between the dimension of time.  What purpose would destroying the universe serve these creators?  I was offered the position of librarian but as you know he may not interfere.

Host David_Thorn says:
<Jade Morgan> ::Remaining silent and looking down at her hands::

Host David_Thorn says:
Sulek: They are looking to re-start the Universe. Their reasons are their own. I only know that they are doing it.

CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Hears again Iu's words and wonders briefly where he went to.  It would be well if he were here as well.::

Host David_Thorn says:
Sulek: As for "interference" ... the Library came to destroy the Federation because its continued existence was threatening it's data stores. The destruction of the Universe will likewise endanger it. There is no doubt in my mind the Library will "waive" it's "non-interference clause" just this once ...

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::opens her mouth to protest, but promptly shuts it again::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
Walker: How you doing today?

Host David_Thorn says:
<Walker> CEO: I'm doing okay, despite everything. How about you?

Captain_Sulek says:
Thorn: Grey, may consent to this use for our purpose.  But we must become very careful.  The library may wish to archive the destruction of the universe.  It's storage program is very specific.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
Walker: Good so what are you doing here? ::gets at the ready with the type I phaser in his back::

Host David_Thorn says:
Sulek: This isn't a natural destruction, however.

Host David_Thorn says:
<Walker> ::Gently brushes hand against something on his hip:: CEO: Making sure no fool-hardy ex-Starfleet engineers attempted to get us all into trouble.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Thorn: And how do you propose to reverse this cascading entropic failure?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: We must be careful - I'd hate to accidentally reconstruct the universe with Thorn at the helm. ::Looks at Thorn:: Thorn: But that never occurred to you right?

Host David_Thorn says:
::Leans forward:: ALL: We need to find the Library. And use it to get to the White.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::eyes widen at the XO's statement.::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Thorn: It took us a year to travel to the Library through the Construct. I doubt we have that much time.

LtCmdr_Powers says:
All: Sounds easy enough.

Host David_Thorn says:
Kraight: The Creators are key. The Library itself may have more information on what is going on.

Captain_Sulek says:
Thorn: Neither are the countless other destructions that the library has encountered.  It may simply view this as yet another species against species war.  Grey is the librarian.  We do not know how much specific control the library itself will allow him if we conflict with its programming.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
Walker: Well I am no ex-Starfleet engineer and I would appreciate it if you would let me do my job because it is...::pulls out the Type I on maximum stun and hits Walker right in the chest:: ...my duty.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Thorn: Yeah, yeah, we hear you, enough with the melodrama. You need us, otherwise we wouldn't be alive.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Thorn: You've merely replaced one problem with another: finding the Creators.

Host David_Thorn says:
Kraight: That was from the Construct itself. I hope to track down the massive moon-base that serves as a direct entrance to the Library stores. The Quirinus has encountered it before.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: looks at Thorn dubiously ::

Host David_Thorn says:
Sulek: We're running out of time, Sulek. I think it's worth a shot, don't you?

LtJG_Soriq_Ahkileez says:
::thinks the other people in the room are mad, casually discussing the destruction of the universe as if it's just some ordinary undesirable event to be dealt with::

Host David_Thorn says:
<Walker> ::Is stunned. Collapses to the ground::

Captain_Sulek says:
Thorn: Agreed

Host David_Thorn says:
ACTION: A force-field shimmers around Telarus, entrapping him.

Captain_Sulek says:
::looks around the table at each of his crew:: All: For this purpose, we must set aside our differences temporarily for the good of the infinite lives that are at stake.

Host David_Thorn says:
ACTION: A recording starts playing around Telarus, it's Thorn - "Mr. Telarus. I had assumed you may attempt something like this. I sent Walker in the event you tried to alter the computer core. In about twenty seconds, the oxygen will be removed from the force field you are in. Unless of course you agree to cease and desist immediately."

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::nods at Sulek and stands at attention::

CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Turns to look at Ahkileez, a look of understanding in her eyes, before turning back to the discussion.::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: There is the risk I mentioned. But I agree. We must trust him. ::glare at Thorn:: For now.

Captain_Sulek says:
Thorn: You must give us access to our ship.

Host David_Thorn says:
::Nods at Sulek:: ALL: I am willing to hand control of the ship over to you, within reasonable bounds ... I'm not planning on spending the rest of this seated in the brig. I feel it would be better, however, if you were running main operations of the ship during our quest.

Host David_Thorn says:
<Jade Morgan> ::Leans over to the CTO:: <W> CTO: Didn't you say that those creepy guys claimed we were all responsible for this stuff? They never did mention anyone in specific ... certainly no creators ...

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::smiles slightly imagining getting full access to the armory again::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::looks at Jade::  Morgan:  You're right.  ::looks back at Thorn suspiciously::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::takes his Engineering kit and then starts to fiddle with the phaser to try to take down the force field::

Captain_Sulek says:
Thorn: and Thorn if I find that this is an elaborate plan...

Host David_Thorn says:
ACTION: The oxygen is removed.

Host David_Thorn says:
Sulek: Well, it has been and will always been an elaborate plan, dear friend. One that shall save us all.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::connects a portable power supply and shoots a wide beam at the force field::

Host David_Thorn says:
ACTION: The field shimmers, but holds.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::the phaser continues to fire and draw from the portable power supply::

Host David_Thorn says:
ACTION: The field continues to shimmer and hold.

Captain_Sulek says:
Thorn: Access now.  Kraight/Running Horse: Find the most recent position of the library and track its course.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::takes out his tricorder and starts to control the modulation, pitch and angle::

Host David_Thorn says:
ACTION: Telarus is starting to get drowsy, he can no doubt only hold his breath so long ...

Host David_Thorn says:
::Taps a button:: Computer: Activate program Q-OCAlpha.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::starts to fire at quick non-repeating random frequencies::

SO_Lt_Running_Horse says:
Thorn: Accessing sir!

Captain_Sulek says:
Soriq: You are a navigator?

Host David_Thorn says:
<Computer> ACKNOWLEDGED. MAIN COMMAND CONSOLE ROUTINES / SUBROUTINES GIVEN TO CONTROL OF NOTED PERSONNEL.

Host David_Thorn says:
ALL: You have your control. ::Smiles::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::doesn't like the smile::

Host David_Thorn says:
ACTION: Telarus can't hold his breath anymore.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: looks at Sulek :: Sulek: I am not certain I understand, sir. What are we supposed to track? So far as we could tell, the Library was part of Construct space, was it not?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Thorn: Thanks for the favor ::sarcastic::

LtJG_Soriq_Ahkileez says:
::looks up, lost in his thoughts:: Sulek: Sir?

Host David_Thorn says:
ACTION: He passes out ... and is beamed out soon after.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::is on deck of where ever he was beamed to::

Captain_Sulek says:
Kraight: If you look up the original encounter with the Library, you will discover that it travels in this space as well.  We should be able to track it.

Captain_Sulek says:
Soriq: I asked if you could helm the Quirinus.

Host David_Thorn says:
::Something beeps:: Azhure: Ms. Azhure, could you please tend to Mr. Telarus in sickbay. He attempted to alter the computer core and met with some of my security devices.

SO_Lt_Running_Horse says:
CSO: Sir what are the parameters for the search?

Host David_Thorn says:
::Stands:: ALL: Well then, I shall retire for the moment. You can reach me in my quarters.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::wakes up short of breath coughing excessively::

LtJG_Soriq_Ahkileez says:
::frowns:: Sulek: Begging the Captain's Pardon, but I'm not a part of this crew. I just took the opportunity to save my skin. I don't know who you people are.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::steps away from the door::

Captain_Sulek says:
Soriq: You are now.  Can you helm this ship or no?  What was your previous function?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: I'll be on that bridge I've been dreaming of for the last year or two ::leaves for the bridge::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::runs after the XO::  XO:  Wait, Ben.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
Sulek: Yes, sir.

CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
<EMH> :: Appears beside the CEO::  CEO:  How might I help you?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
:;stops:: CTO: What is it?

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
EMH: Check me out doc and see if I am fit to return to duty.

LtJG_Soriq_Ahkileez says:
Sulek: Liaison officer for the VSC. Ship Navigation is one of my qualifications. But this isn't my fig.... ::stops:: Are we going to find the people who destroyed Earth?

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
SO: I am not at all certain, Lieutenant. I will need to research the earlier encounter.   :: rises and heads for the Bridge ::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
XO:  We're not going to trust Thorn?!  He's lying.  All that crap about the creators

Captain_Sulek says:
Wolverton:  Commander Powers has background in security as well.  We do not know what we will face when we reach the library.  I am relying on you both.

CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
<EMH> :: runs a scan on the officer.::  CEO:  Why were you brought here?

SO_Lt_Running_Horse says:
::does so in like fashion and follows her superior::

LtCmdr_Powers says:
::Nods at his name::  Sulek: You could... say that.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CTO: It appears we have little choice. ::rubs his chin:: His logic is sound. It's his motivation I question.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
EMH: I passed out from lack of oxygen I was encased in a force field in the Computer Core.

Host David_Thorn says:
::Exits::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::shakes her head emphatically::  XO:  I'm going to the armory.  ::stalks off::

Captain_Sulek says:
Soriq: Yes.  Find out all you can about navigating under our present circumstances.  As soon as science locates the library, get us there.  Am I being clear?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::resumes course for the bridge:: Self: This is Not going to be fun.

SO_Lt_Running_Horse says:
CSO: Sir, this is all so confusing.

CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
<EMH> ::Closes the tricorder::  CEO:  You appear to be undamaged.  You must not have been long without oxygen.

Host SM_Selan says:
<Jade Morgan> ::Stops Wolverton:: TO: Lance ...

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
SO: I am as confused as you are. We must endeavor to learn more.

LtJG_Soriq_Ahkileez says:
::nods and stands:: Sulek: Very clear, Captain. But just so I'm equally clear, I'll get you there. But once we find who's responsible for this... don't get between us.

Host SM_Selan says:
<Iu> ::Sitting in the middle of the corridor outside Sickbay, cross legged and silent::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::enters the bridge, looks around::

Captain_Sulek says:
Soriq: We will cross that bridge as the saying goes...now get after it.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
EMH: I need your help once you check me up, I need you to transfer your program to the holo-emitters in the Computer Core and do something for me.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: enters the Bridge and heads for Science One ::

CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
<EMH> CEO:  I am a doctor, not a computer expert.

LtJG_Soriq_Ahkileez says:
Sulek: Aye sir. ::steps outside, gets his bearings, and heads for the bridge.

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
Sulek: Understood.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::arrives at the armory::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
Jade: Yes?

CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Watches as each person exits to perform some particular job of another.::

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: There are green flashes outside the windows ... and the Quirinus violently drops out of the Trans warp corridor.

Captain_Sulek says:
::stands and looks out the window one more time:: Self: I am where I was meant to be. ::turns and heads out the door::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Jade Morgan> ::Looks concerned:: TO: I wanted to talk to you, about Erin ...

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CSO: Damn. Location please.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: grabs at the console to avoid being thrown out of his chair ::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
XO: Scanning...

CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Looks up, noting the ship had dropped.::

Captain_Sulek says:
::feels the drop as he enters the bridge and moves to the chair:: Pangborn: Status?

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::puts up a hand:: Jade: Don't.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::stumbles:: Sulek: I think we've been thrown out of the trans-warp corridor

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: If one glances out the windows, they'll note there aren't that many stars left in some patches.

SO_Lt_Running_Horse says:
::grabs console::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
:: looks, shakes his head, and rechecks the data :: 

Captain_Sulek says:
Light_Horse: Cause for loss of the conduit...

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
EMH: I would program or take control of you from here since I am the expert, but can you transfer yourself there?

LtJG_Soriq_Ahkileez says:
::steps out of the lift and grabs on to the doorway as the ship rocks:

SO_Lt_Running_Horse says:
::rechecks her data::

CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Stands and walks over to the window, her fingers lightly touching it.::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: The stars...they're wrong

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::enters armory and begins equipping herself::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
XO: Sir... we are somewhere in the Delta Quadrant...

SO_Lt_Running_Horse says:
CSO: Sir I believe the stars are incorrect.

LtJG_Soriq_Ahkileez says:
::picks his way past the consoles to what appears to be the nav console:: All: I need someone to unlock this console for me.

Captain_Sulek says:
Pangborn: They are gone.  It is the entropy effect.

LtCmdr_Powers says:
::Stands up to follow Azhure::  Azhure: Azhure?

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
*CO* Telarus to Sulek. What is our status, sir?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::shakes head:: CSO: Did I hear that correctly?

CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
<EMH> ::Looking insulted::  CEO:  No, nor can you.  I am unable to honor your request, whether I would wish to or not.  My programming has been altered to limit my access.

Host SM_Selan says:
<Jade Morgan> ::Sighs:: TO: You can't keep this in forever, you know ...

CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Sighs and looks back at Bill, tears shimmering in her eyes.::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CO, XO: Entropic effects are causing instability in the trans warp corridors.

SO_Lt_Running_Horse says:
CSO: Sir there is no direct reasoning why it de-stabilized.  It’s possible with the erosion of the Universe, the corridor system is collapsing.

Captain_Sulek says:
*Telarus* We are in control.  I need you at station.  We just fell out of the trans warp conduit.  Kraight believes we are in the Delta quadrant.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::thinks to self this is bogus:: EMH: Leave that to me to fix. ::logs in to the EMH program protocols and accesses his personal database::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::passes by what used to be her office::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
*CO*: Aye sir as soon as I am cleared by the EMH.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::stops in at the brig and checks to be sure it is functional::

LtJG_Soriq_Ahkileez says:
::waits by the nav console::

CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
<EMH> ::Crosses his arms and waits, at the same time forwarding a message to the current medical officer.::

LtCmdr_Powers says:
::Wipes her eyes::  Azhure: If we succeed... all this can be fixed... ::Silently: "I hope"::

Captain_Sulek says:
Computer: Helm access for Lt. JG Soriq Ahkileez.  Authorization level...FCO.

CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Leans her head against his chest, taken back once again to the loss of her world, her family, her life, not so very long ago.::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
<W>Sulek: Do we know this guy? How do we know he's on the 'right' side? ::wary::

LtJG_Soriq_Ahkileez says:
::slips past the captain:: Sulek: Thanks. ::eases down in the chair and brings up the controls, getting a quick status report n the ship's engines and navigation::

Host SM_Selan says:
<Computer> Sulek: Acknowledged.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::ducks into a TL and orders it to the bridge::

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
Jade: I'm not keeping anything in. I've washed my hands of it.

Captain_Sulek says:
Pangborn: We have little choice...besides, what could he do?  Even Thorn sees the logic in our somewhat uneasy alliance.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
EMH: You will go offline for about a nanosecond while the program I just set in takes control, I have uploaded you with something that has been given to us at Starfleet R & D, and it’s called the ECH protocol. This will allow you to take command in situations where the normal command staff is incapacitated and should allow you to execute what I need you to do.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::begins upload and upgrade and bypasses all the lock outs and safety protocols::

LtJG_Soriq_Ahkileez says:
:;finds it difficult to retain his patience while the computer crunches on the star charts to give him navigational data::

CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
Powers:  It has been a long time I have felt so helpless.  I swore I would never find myself in such a situation again.  There is irony here.

LtCmdr_Powers says:
::Smirks::  CNS: I think I would have gone with "tragedy."  Let's find some way to make ourselves useful....

Captain_Sulek says:
Kraight/Light_Horse: The library?

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
EMH: The ECH also has a nice new security protocol I have been working on, it will protect your program both ECH and EMH from tampering.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::arrives on the bridge, obviously well-armed::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CTO: You look good. Dressed for Armageddon I see ::smiles::

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CO: Still scanning, sir...  :: an alert goes off on another panel ::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
XO:  Permission to take Tac 1, Sir.  ::grins::

CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Looks up and smiles, giving him a kiss.::  Powers:  Make a claim this entire situation is certifiably insane?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CTO: Permission granted

Captain_Sulek says:
::looks over at Cherry:: Cherry: I see you are dressed for ...what exactly?

Host SM_Selan says:
<Jade Morgan> TO: It's not like she's as "evil" as Thorn is, Lance ...

CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
<EMH> :: Watches the officer curiously and dubiously::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: I'm guessing the end of the world

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
Sulek:  Thorn's inevitable treachery, Captain.  ::moves to the main tactical station::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::walks out of Sick Bay and let's the algorithm take over and heads to the Bridge to take control of Engineering I::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
EMH: I will monitor the progress from the Bridge.

LtCmdr_Powers says:
::Smiles::  CNS: Definitely worth a shot.  ::Looks upwards::  I'm a security officer.  I should check what I can do.

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: A violent yellow rupture appears on the view screen.

CSO_LtCmdr_Kraight says:
CO: Sir! Spatial ruptures at 193 mark 27, 900,000 kilometers. Energy signatures match those of Species 8472 bio ships!

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
Jade: Sorry, but "less evil than Thorn" doesn't do it for me.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
*CO*: Sir I need to speak with you I am en route to the Engineering I Bridge station now.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::looks at the view screen and thinks that is the worst shade of yellow she's ever seen::

Captain_Sulek says:
Cherry: I see.  Wolverton and Powers are working on the unexpected.  As CTO, I expect you to oversee....Shields.

CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
Powers:  Go ahead....  I think... ::pauses and looks back through the window.::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::notices the Red Alert as he hops in the Turbo Lift:: TL: Bridge, Emergency Override.

Host SM_Selan says:
<Jade Morgan> ::Hears the 8472 bio-ship mention, and looks at Lance:: TO: I think we need to talk about this further, for your sake. But later. Okay?

FCO_LtJG_Ahkileez says:
::reports automatically:: CO: Taking evasive action. ::slows to 1/4 impulse and banks to port::

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::attempts to raise shields::

LtCmdr_Powers says:
::Taps his comm. badge::  *CTO*: Lieutenant Cherry.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Self: Damn: Sulek: Have you read about those guys?

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
*Powers*:  What?

TO_Ens_Wolverton says:
::mutters as he heads off to his station:: Jade: "Death before disloyalty" would have worked.

Captain_Sulek says:
Soriq: Get us out of here, hard about in the opposite direction.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CSO: Kraight: Track them. I want to know if they take notice of us and pursue.

Captain_Sulek says:
Pangborn: I have read the reports.  We are fortunate that we are not Borg.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
Sulek:  Shields up Captain.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::arrives on the Bridge and sees that Species 8472 is heading right for them and takes his station:: Computer: Log In Station Telarus 11 Alpha. :: computer screen comes on at station::

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: The rupture opens, and dozens of 8472 vessels come pouring out. "Burning" liquid matter comes flying out, and if one were inclined to look, they could see darkness overtaking the 8472 Universe.

LtCmdr_Powers says:
*CTO*: That's "Yes, Commander," Lieutenant.  Or at least a "sir."  ::Shakes his head::  I was going to ask what I can do to assist.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: Captain....I think they are about to be....deleted

CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Quietly:: Powers:  They are on the run.

FCO_LtJG_Ahkileez says:
::blinks as his nictitating lids slide in to protect his eyes from the bright light:: CO: Orders, Captain?

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: The 8472 bio-ships seem to ignore the Quirinus, and just keep on heading into the Delta Quadrant. The rupture collapses soon afterwards.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
Bridge: Bringing Secondary and Auxiliary Batteries to full. Power routed to forward shields, forward shields reinforced.

Captain_Sulek says:
Pangborn: Then perhaps we can add to our alliance.  Hail them.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: Not like we can't use the help

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
*Powers*: Rather hard to tell your rank from a comm.  The Captain said he gave you and Wolverton orders.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::hails them::

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: No response.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::brings up the work he was doing with the EMH on his console and monitors weapons and shields power as well as warp core status::

FCO_LtJG_Ahkileez says:
::matches a parallel course to the bio ship, keeping his distance. These people have answers, he's sure of it::

Captain_Sulek says:
Kraight: all translators on line.  send a repeating signal that we face the same threat.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: They're not responding. They may be in distress.

Host SM_Selan says:
ACTION: Suddenly all the systems start going hay-wire.

CTO_Lt_Cherry says:
::looks down at her console in alarm::

Captain_Sulek says:
Pangborn: A helping hand....Soriq: Find us a conduit and get us out of here.  Maximum warp.

CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Looks up and around.::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
CO: Sir, Engineering Report at the ready and I need to speak with you. ::walks over and whispers to him:: We will be in control soon, without Thorn's assistance.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::walks back to station::

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CSO: Quickly, pick up on the comm. telemetry, they're flooding us with data

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
All: On it.

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: They're responding now, I just hope it's not too fast for us to use

FCO_LtJG_Ahkileez says:
CO: Helm's responding sluggish, Captain! ::wrestles with the controls to set the ship on course for the nearest detected trans warp conduit::

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
::starts to shut down non-essential sub processors and route data through there and creates software based information buffers::

Captain_Sulek says:
Telarus: I appreciate your actions, but do not place yourself or us at risk.  I will want complete control eventually, but I would just as soon let Thorn think he had the upper hand.  Do you understand?

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CSO: Watch it...we're nearing comm. telemetry overload...see if you can slow it down

Captain_Sulek says:
Helm: Add the thruster if you must.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
All: Data Buffers online, I am routing non-essential sub processors to the data we are receiving.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
CO: Aye sir.

Captain_Sulek says:
Soriq: We need to clear the area.

FCO_LtJG_Ahkileez says:
::increases thruster mass, cursing the Captain in his mind... as if he wouldn't think to add the thrusters if he must:: CO: On our way, Captain.

CEO_Lt_Telarus says:
All: We have taken in as much data as possible, disconnecting all external comm. systems, severing data link.

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