Star Trek: A Call To Duty
U.S.S. Quirinus NCC-83942 - SD 10610.30

Starring:

Mitch Travis 		as 	Captain Sulek – CO
Keith LaHue		as	Commander Ben Pangborn – XO

…and…

Matthew Bordewick	as	Lieutenant JG Zee Alexander – CMO
Jeffrey Brown		as	Commander Kraight – CSO
Erin Cody-Allen 	as 	Lieutenant JG Adrienne Kostandinos-Michaels – TO
Christopher Dickinson 	as 	Commander Billy Bob Powers Jr. – CTO
James Homuth 	as 	Ensign Michael Jervase – MO
Karriaunna Scotti 	as 	Commander Azhure – QXO
Edward Selgas	as	Lt. Commander David Telarus - OPS
Eric Woo		as	Captain Kelhyn Tannis - CIV

                        …with…

Christopher Dickinson	as	Richard - OPS
Kurt Goring		as	Captain Cassius - Annapurna CO
Karriaunna Scotti	as	Admiral Harlan - CinC Fourth Fleet

                        …with…

Christopher Dickinson 	as 	SM

MISSION PROLOGUE: The USS Quirinus has been issued additional orders while on patrol along the Synod border - locate the missing USS Annapurna.  Where has the vessel gone?

=/\==/\=BEGIN U.S.S. Quirinus Mission=/\==/\=

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::looks down at incoming orders and transfers it to Pangborn:: Tannis: We have a mission  We will need last route of the Annapurna.  Please transfer necessary information to helm.
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: I don't like the sound of this - or the look of this....or anything about this
Host CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Manning the tactical console, preparing for search and rescue operations ::
CIV_Capt_Tannis says:
::takes a step closer towards the captain:: CO: Yes, I've been briefed. If you don't mind, may I take helm control itself? 
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Tannis: Of course.  Powers: Shields.  Tannis: Lay in course best speed.
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: at Science One ::  CO: Sir, I recommend we launch several Class II probes, programmed to run a grid search pattern, to extend our search radius.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kraight: As soon as we intersect the Annapurna's last course.
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
CO: Aye, sir.  Maintaining alert status.
CIV_Capt_Tannis says:
::he moves to the helm and takes a seat, setting a course for the region of patrol of the Annapurna:: CO: The Annapurna was assigned to general patrol duty, along with numerous other vessels on the front lines. To say that its disappearance is unusual would be an understatement, and I expect we should be prepared for conflict, sir
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::itchy feet::
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: turns back to his console :: CO: I'll prep the probes for launch...
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Tannis: Understood.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Powers: Take us to yellow alert and prepare weapons.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kraight/Powers: Full 360 scans.
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: sets up sensor sweeps as ordered ::
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
CO: Scans are picking up nothing unusual yet, Captain.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Pangborn: Lay in tactical response in case of attack.
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: Aye Sir
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Finishing up with a patient, she shows them out the door with a smile, before turning back inside to clean up.::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
*Azhure* It looks like we might see some action and I believe sick bay will be able to use your inestimable talents.
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::pulls up some classic tactical responses and input them into current tactical responses::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Tannis: Time to intersect with last known course?
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
::Placing the tea set away:: *CO*: I think I have been spending too much time there lately
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::avoids two dimensional thinking in doing so::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
*Azhure* Indeed, then you should know where everything is. ::a Vulcan attempt at humor::
CIV_Capt_Tannis says:
::makes an adjustment to the course:: CO: We are at maximum warp, on a direct course for the Annapurna's patrol route, ETA 5 minutes, sir. Thus far, nothing unusual on sensors. 
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
::Chuckles:: *CO*: Almost like the back of my hand.  Azhure out.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Tannis: Send necessary probe telemetry to science.
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CO: Long-range sensors are picking up signatures of eleven Starfleet vessels assigned to the task force, Captain.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
::Still smiling, she closes her files and heads out the door.::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kraight: Can you identify?
CIV_Capt_Tannis says:
CO: Will do, sir. ::notes the CSO's reports:: CO: Despite the loss of the Annapurna, the task force was instructed to compensate in order to maintain front line integrity
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Ops: Send a coded transmission asking if any of the ships in the area have contact with the Annapurna.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: As she heads for sickbay, her smile slips and is replaced with concern for Zee.::
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CO: All ship's transponders are registering, sir.  :: throws up a schematic in one corner of the main viewer, displaying the other ships' positions relative to the Quirinus ::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Tannis: I would expect no less, but I believe that part of the mission is not just to find a missing ship but to try and save here personnel.

ACTION: One of the starships responds to the operations manager's transmission.

CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Slipping through the glass doors, she nods to the staff already there, preparing for the worst.::
OPS_Richard says:
CO: Captain?  Getting a transmission from the USS Azimuth.
CIV_Capt_Tannis says:
CO: Indeed. But you may not have the luxury of accomplishing both goals... or either goals. Whereas the integrity of the front lines is of the utmost importance.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Ops: On screen.
Host Captain_Dripp says:
#COM: Quirinus: USS Quirinus, this is the USS Azimuth, in command of the task force  Please transmit security codes and identify yourself.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Tannis: I understand the tactical necessity. I also understand the orders from Command
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
COM: Clearance Code incoming on alpha security band.  I am Captain Sulek.
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::looks at the captain::
Host Captain_Dripp says:
#COM: Quirinus: Captain Sulek.  What are your orders here?
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Moves to one of the stations to pull up her files.::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::presses a few buttons that identifies the ship:: COM Azimuth: We have been authorized and ordered to look for the USS Annapurna.  Have you had contact.?
Host Captain_Dripp says:
#:: Shifts nervously for a moment before answering ::  COM: Quirinus: We've lost contact with the Annapurna, Captain.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
COM: Azimuth: Have you a last known location.  We are currently following her patrol route, but anything that would speed up the process of the search would be greatly appreciated.  Please also be aware that we will be sending probes out to expand our scan range.
Host Captain_Dripp says:
#:: Clearly conflicted ::  COM: Quirinus: I'm afraid the Annapurna has been acting strangely lately.  A day or so ago, she ceased answering hails.  Several hours ago, she just.. dissapeared.  We think into Synod space.
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
COM Azimuth: Do you have the coordinates at which the Annapurna crossed into Synod space, Captain?
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Quietly listening to those around her, she sits back considering.::
Host Captain_Dripp says:
#COM: Quirinus: Not exactly.  She was in this general area, and headed in.  We think directly into the heart of Synod space.  We didn't dare cross the border after her, lest it look like an overt tactical invasion.
CIV_Capt_Tannis says:
COM: Azimuth: Kelhyn Tannis, captain. What was the last message that you received from USS Annapurna... CO: If I may?
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
COM Azimuth: Understood. Please send any coordinates and notify all ships in the area that we may have a hole in the line.  Send them to high alert status.  I will inform Command.
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CO: Permission to launch a probe to the last known coordinates of the Annapurna, Captain?
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::rising:: Kraight: Granted.
Host Captain_Dripp says:
#COM: Quirinus: Captain Tannis, her last transmissions were confusing... almost like the Captain didn't want to do this anymore.
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: launches the probe ::
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Looks up curiously from his console, suddenly paying full attention to the communication ::
CIV_Capt_Tannis says:
COM: Azimuth: Please transfer all transmissions, captain. They may be helpful in our search.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::quietly to Tannis:: Tannis: I need to know what the tactical nature of the Annapurna was.  If she's gone over, I need a clear reason to follow.
CIV_Capt_Tannis says:
::nods slightly to the captain::

ACTION: The CSO's probe streaks across the Synod border into their space.  It flies through empty space....

XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CSO: Anything from the probes yet?
Host Captain_Dripp says:
#COM: Tannis: I'll see what we can declassify for you.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
COM Azimuth: Thank you for your assistance.  Quirinus Out.
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CO: Just now getting the first readings, sir...  
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Ops: Contact Fourth Fleet Command.
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::sits back:: CSO: Very well, keep me informed
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Ops: Full encryption.
Adm_Harlan says:
@::Looks up and nods to her aide:: COM: Quirinus: This is Harlan.  How can I assist you?
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Tannis:  Take us to the line coordinates.   Do not cross into Synod space.
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
XO: Still thinking this is a hostile attack?  None of the other ships seems to have noticed the ship being destroyed...
Adm_Harlan says:
@::Nods to an officer off to the side as she hands him a padd::
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CTO: No, I'm not drawing any conclusions yet.
CIV_Capt_Tannis says:
CO: Understood, sir. As for the Annapurna... There is nothing of note with regards to that vessel. Her mission did not extend past routine patrol. Nevertheless, it would not be in Starfleet's best interests to allow a fully-equipped Galaxy-class vessel in the hands of the Synod.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
COM Harlan:  This is Sulek.  The appearance is that the USS Annapurna has crossed into Synod space.  We are not sure if she has gone rogue, but there are indications that her behavior and that of her captain became unusual.   Do you want us to follow
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Tannis: Agreed.
Adm_Harlan says:
@COM: Quirinus: What kind of behavior?
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
COM Harlan: Sending what we have of her last transmissions.  Captian Dripp indicated that the Captain of the Annapurna acted as if he didn't want to do this anymore  A galaxy class ship in the hands of the Synod would be of great value to them
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
COM Harlan:  She has only a few hours head start.  Time is of the essence.
Adm_Harlan says:
@::Slowly:: COM: Quirinus: He did not want to do this anymore... as in war?... as in fighting the Synod?
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
COM Harlan:  Captain Dripp did not elaborate.  Only to say that they did not follow to avoid the appearance of invasion force.
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Looks over towards the CSO, wondering what he's thinking about this ::
Adm_Harlan says:
@ ::Glances at Red as he comes to her side.::
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: We stand at a juncture here. We need to go after them.
Adm_Harlan says:
@ COM: Quirinus: There are two sides to this coin that could go bad either way.  What do you think are your chances of getting through without being seen?
CIV_Capt_Tannis says:
::sitting upright at the helm, as his mind processes all these statements and facts::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
COM: Harlan: I do not know Captain Dripp.  I cannot speak to his personal nature as to what he meant.  With a Galaxy class starship in advance of us, it is unlikely that we will go unnoticed.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kraight: Deep scans into Synod space.  See if you can pick up a trail.  With only a few hours head start, it should still be definable.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Ops: Get Dripp on channel with us.
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CO: The probe has been doing deep scans for several minutes, sir. Nothing. If we are going to find the Annapurna, we are going to have to cross into Synod space.
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::looks up at Kraights words:: Sulek: Time is pressing here captain....
Adm_Harlan says:
@ COM: Quirinus: There is little I can tell you of him. He has been around awhile, but has not made an impression on anything.  Could be anything.  If you can get in, go after him.  I do not want him either joining with them or be the spark to a full scale war with the Federation.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Pangborn: Indeed it is.
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CO: I am attempting to narrow the probe's bandwidth, and increase its effective range.. stand by...
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: taps several controls in rapid succession ::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
COM Harlan: Understood.  We will do our best to avoid detection, but no guarantees.
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
::Begins to investigate methods to keep their emissions down::
CIV_Capt_Tannis says:
CO: I'm in agreement. We need to stop the Annapurna, whatever the cost. We can strategically mask our entry and our presence to a certain extent, though it is likely the Synod will be aware of our having trespassed.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
COM Dripp:  This is the Quirinus. We are not picking up any ion trails on this side of the line.  We have received permission to try and follow.  You are sure of these coordinates.
Adm_Harlan says:
@COM: Quirinus: Take the defensive unless you have no choice.  I have faith you will do what is needed.  Harlan out.
CIV_Capt_Tannis says:
CO: Furthermore, we will not be able to employ any methods of distractive subterfuge - that is precisely what the Synod is expecting, we may gain valuable time by simply entering without indication.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
COM Harlan: Quirinus Out.
Host Captain_Dripp says:
#COM: Quirinus: As sure as we can be, Captain.
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: looks up :: CO: Captain! The probe has picked up a very faint warp signature... yes... confirmed. A Federation warp signature, heading 210 mark 12 from the probe's position.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Tannis: Takes us in.
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Tannis: Lay in the most probably route of the ship, based on what we know, and engage
CIV_Capt_Tannis says:
CO: Aye, sir. I've received the coordinates, route laid in.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
COM: Dripp:  We have faint trace inside zone.  We are following.  We will be running silent.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
COM: Dripp: Quirinus Out.
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
OPS: Monitor communications while we can, but maintain silence
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CO: The apparent course of the Annapurna takes it into the heart of Synod territory. Shall I have the probe follow the trail, sir?
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Tannis: Engage, best speed.  We need to make up time.   Powers:  Go to red alert.  Reflective shield.
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
CO: Aye, sir.  Attempting stealth measures.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Looks up as the ship goes to red alert.  Turns to look at the others and nods.::

ACTION: An hour later, the Quirinus is catching up to their target, who has so far been unresponsive to hails.  The Synod seem to not have noticed the incursion... yet

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kraight: Scans? How is she running...shields?  Armaments on line?
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek: We can consider ourselves lucky we've gotten this far undetected
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
::Slips onto the bridge::
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CO: The Annapurna has her shields up. Her weapons are unpowered.
CIV_Capt_Tannis says:
XO: Have we? 
Host CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
CO: Annapurna one hundred million kilometers and closing, sir.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Pangborn: Especially with a galaxy class ship making no attempt to conceal themselves.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Powers: If she won't respond to hails, can we get her attention by over-riding her command codes from here?
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek/CIV: Not anymore....
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
CO: If they haven't changed them, of course.
CIV_Capt_Tannis says:
CO/XO: I find it especially difficult to believe that we remain undetected. We must be especially vigilant. It is possible that this is intentional.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Makes her way to an empty station, out of the way, and takes a seat, listening.::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Tannis: Agreed.
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CO, XO, CIV: The Synod may be hoping to capture two ships for the price of one.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Powers: Then let's send her a message.
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CSO: Not on my watch they won't
Host CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
::Sighs and tries once again to send a message::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kraight: Still, the Synod do not have cloaking technology that we know of.  They must be visible when they move in.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Powers: If no response.  Take over command codes.
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
CO: No reply, Captain.  :: Attempts to use the command codes to override the ship's controls ::

ACTION: The command codes seem to have no effect.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Ops: Open a channel.
CIV_Capt_Tannis says:
CO: They need no cloaking technology, nor other ships. They have a vessel right in front of us.
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
CIV: You think the Annapurna is compromised, Captain?  That's quite a jump to make, especially if none of the other ships detected a Synod vessel approaching.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
COM: Annapurna: This is the Quirinus. If you do not respond, we will be forced to take more drastic measures.
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: begins checking the fine details of the Annapurna's shield modulation ::
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
Sulek/CSO/CIV/CTO: I'm loathe to fire on one of our own
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kraight: Can you get a transporter lock on the bridge.
CIV_Capt_Tannis says:
CTO: The instant the Annapurna entered Synod space, I have considered it a compromised vessel, whether that compromise occurred by way of physical take-over, or of her captain changing allegiances. Regardless of the case, it must be regarded as such
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CO: Attempting to establish one now, sir...
CIV_Capt_Tannis says:
XO: The Annapurna must be kept out of enemy hands at all costs.
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CIV: What if they just got sick of the Synod penetrating out space and killing our guys?
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Pangborn: As am I, but I must concur with Tannis.  If she will not respond, the worst is all we have.
Host CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
CTO: Are there further orders, Captain?  They're still not responding.
CIV_Capt_Tannis says:
XO: Then, if her captain chose to take on the entirety of the Synod, at best the ship will be destroyed. At worst, the ship and her crew will be captured and interrogated
CIV_Capt_Tannis says:
XO: The latter option is not an option.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::takes a deep breath:: Powers: Put a shot across her bow.
Host CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Shares the Captain's taking of a breath :: CO: Yes, sir.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Tannis: Tactical Flight pattern.
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CIV: I wasn't defending his position. It would be pretty damned dumb if you ask me.

ACTION: The Quirinus's dorsal phaser array powers up, and a yellow lance of power grazes the Annapurna's ventral shields.

CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Leans forward, watching::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
COM: Annapurna: Respond.
CIV_Capt_Tannis says:
XO: If it is true, then the captain is a fool for allowing his emotions to guide his actions like a woman. For risking the safety of the Federation, he should be killed.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Looks over at Tannis, lifting a brow::  CIV: Excuse you....
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: raises a non-existent eyebrow ::
APNA_Capt_Cassius says:
@ ::in the red-darkened battle bridge of the Annapurna:: COM: Quirinus: Do you know what you've done?
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CIV: You're preaching to the choir. I don't think I'd kill him though.
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Bringing tactical systems online one by one, ready to follow the first blast, but not looking forward to engaging a Galaxy class vessel ::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
COM Annapurna:  Finally had you respond.  You are to return from Synod space immediately  Stand down.

APNA_Capt_Cassius says:
@ ::face painted every five seconds by flashing red alert lights:: COM: Sulek: Captain, you've made a serious tactical error if you think I'm going to take orders in a man driving a toy one 8th my ship's size.
CIV_Capt_Tannis says:
XO: If he fails to respond, he will have sealed his own fate.
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CIV: We're about to find out
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::quietly:: CTO: Prepare to pull out all the stops on this one.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
COM: Annapurna: Orders are from Admiral Harlan.  We cannot permit you to continue.  The size of your ship is of little consequence as are threats.  I will complete my objective.
APNA_Capt_Cassius says:
::hard eyes staring unflinching from the screen:: COM Quirinus: As will I, Captain
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
COM: Annapurna: Exactly what IS your objective?
APNA_Capt_Cassius says:
@ COM: Quirinus: Enough blood has been spilled, Quirinus. Go back home. Don't force me to act. Annapurna out.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
COM: Cassius: You do not have orders to enter this space.  If you believe that you can stop this war by direct attack on Synod homeworld, you are being foolish and putting the lives of your crew as well as Starfleet security at risk.  Do not be foolish.

ACTION: Somewhere in Synod space, tactical sensors have picked up weapons fire.  The signatures of Starfleet vessels wasn't enough to trigger the Synod to notice, but a single phaser blast did.  Six Synod ships are ordered to intercept... and destroy the intruders.

ACTION: At the same time, the USS Annapurna begins to jam local communications - the Quirinus is cut off and alone.

=/\==/\=END Mission=/\==/\=