U.S.S. Quirinus Mission 10709.17

starring 

Mitch Travis as Captain Sulek 
Keith LaHue as XO Ben Pangborn 
Christopher Dickinson as CTO Billy Bob Powers 
Jeffrey G. Brown as CSO Kraight 
James Homuth as CMO Michael Jervase 
Karriaunna Scotti as Counselor Azhure 
Joshua Colley as FCO Erik Rolf Thursson

and
Chris Dickinson, Ship Manager  

MISSION PROLOGUE: The USS Quirinus has arrived at Bryma, a star system inside the former Cardassian demilitarized zone, the location that the ship was led to by Kraight's mysterious visions.  The dim orange star has a few unremarkable chunks of rock orbiting it, nothing M-class.  The trail has led here, but no further...  What answers await the Quirinus or Doctor Buuren here?

=/\==/\= BEGIN U.S.S. Quirinus Mission 10709.17 =/\==/\=
=/\==/\= Gifts of Fortune and Danger – Episode 5 =/\==/\= 

 XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::In his quarters, readying for his duty shift::
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::on bridge:: Flyer: Standard orbit.
AFCO_Ens_Flyer says:
:: sitting at the helm keeping the Quirinus in standard orbit ::
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Sci: Scans?
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Sitting at the station next to Kraight, looking at the incoming telemetry::
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Ops: Notify Dr. Buuren we have arrived.
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::puts on a clean uniform and shaves::
AFCO_Ens_Flyer says:
CO: Standard orbit.
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Flyer: Acknowledged.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
CSO: Does not seem like much.
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::waits for Kraight to final scans::
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CO: Three planets; from the primary outward, they are class B, P, and D. Asteroid belts between the first and second planets, and the second and third.
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::washes off his face, noticing a few grey hairs creeping in, a few more lines in his face::
Host FM_ChrisD says:
<OPS_Griska> CO: Yes, Captain.  :: Opens a communications channel down to the VIP quarters to let Buuren know they have arrived in the system ::
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::turning in his chair as Kraight speaks::  Kraight: Your vision lead us here, any suggestion as to where we begin?  Do the two artifacts in our possession have traceable common signatures?
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::dismisses the thoughts and leaves for the bridge::
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CO: The stones give off extremely low-level energy signatures. We wouldn't be able to detect them from orbit.
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CO: I'd suggest running a wide-spectrum scan on each of the planets, and see if anything unusual turns up. This may take some time.
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kraight: Do so. We may also wish to look for any signs of archaeological significance.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
CSO: What about taking out a couple of shuttles to each planetoid?
Host FM_ChrisD says:
<CTO_Cmdr_Powers> CO: Maybe Buuren knows how the artifacts got here....
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::arrives on the bridge::
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::Nods:: CO: Captain.
Host FM_ChrisD says:
<OPS_Griska> :: turns around ::  CO: Speaking of that, Doctor Buuren is not responding to internal communications....
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Pangborn: Commander ::nods::
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::Takes a seat next to the captain::
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Smiles at the XO::
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Computer: State the location of Dr. Buuren.
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CO: Aye, sir.    CNS: The shuttle's sensors would have a hard time picking up the stone's EM signature even at low altitude. And we don't even know that we are looking for a third stone.
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::smiles back at the counselor::
Host FM_ChrisD says:
<Computer> CO: Doctor Buuren was last reported in his quarters.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
CSO: I think we are.  :: teasingly::  We have to put back together your royal belt.
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CNS: Far better to see if we can narrow the search a bit before we go pursuing an undomesticated avian.
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: pained expression ::  CNS:  Please, Counselor... I hardly think I am royalty in any sense.
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: turns to his console and begins setting up the scan of the outermost planet ::
AFCO_Ens_Flyer says:
:: continues tapping buttons on his console to keep the ship steady as they go ::
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::rising:: Pangborn: I think I will check on Buuren.  You have the con
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CO: Aye
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Stands and lightly touches his shoulder as she moves over toward tactical.::
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::moves to TL:: Guest quarters deck.
Host FM_ChrisD says:
<CTO_Cmdr_Powers> :: Glances as Azhure moves around ::
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::arrives at deck and heads toward the VIP quarters::
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Pauses::  CSO: Perchance, did you and the doctor touch the stones together?
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CNS:  No, Counselor, we did not... and given their unusual properties, I am not certain it would be wise to try the experiment.
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::He stands in front of the door and presses the visitor's notification bell::
Host FM_ChrisD says:
ACTION: The Captain's call goes unanswered.
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CSO/CNS: What are the chances of setting a shuttle down on one of these planets? Should we detect anything. CSO: We might want to send a few probes out for reconnaissance.
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Computer: Override VIP cabin doors, authorization Sulek Beta two.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
CSO: I was just wondering if combined, we would learn something more.
Host FM_ChrisD says:
ACTION: The doors to Buuren's quarters click unlocked and slide open at the Captain's command.
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::he steps in:: Computer: Lights daylight human normal. Buuren: Dr Buuren? ::calling out::
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Continues toward tactical and just hangs there, thinking through again the situation.::
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
XO: The outer two planets should present no problems for a shuttle landing. Bryma I may be difficult, depending upon the conditions on its surface. I will have Engineering prep three Class III probes.
Host FM_ChrisD says:
ACTION: As the lights in the quarters come up to mid-level, a figure is revealed to be slumped over on the couch.  The first artifact sits on the table in front of the archaeologist.
AFCO_Ens_Flyer says:
:: continues with what he is doing ::
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CNS: I agree that it could be enlightening, Counselor... but consider that the stones exhibit entirely unexpected properties. Caution is indicated.
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CSO: Very well. We aren't even certain what we're looking for, other that a low level EM signature that the next object may/may not emanate.
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::he moves to Buuren and checks for vital signs:: *Sickbay* Medical alert, VIP quarters.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
CSO: We could test it away from the ship.
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: nods ::  CNS: Perhaps. Under tightly controlled conditions.
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
XO: High-resolution scan of Bryma III is 40% complete. Nothing unusual to report.
AFCO_Ens_Flyer says:
<MO_McCarthy> *CO*: Yes sir. what is the emergency?  Sending a team with myself now.
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
*Azhure* Sulek here.  Dr. Buuren appears to be...report VIP quarters.  *Powers* send a security team to VIP quarters.
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::stands:: CSO: So I take it there wasn't anything extraordinarily unique about the stones EM?
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Looks at Bill.::  *CO*: I am on my way.
Host FM_ChrisD says:
<CTO_Cmdr_Powers> *CO*: I'll be down as well.
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
XO: No, sir, other than that the energy signature was in no way great enough to account for the effects it had on Dr. Buuren and myself.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Pushing away from the station, heads for the lift, pausing to wait for her husband.::
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::Muses::
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::cautiously, he examines the room, not disturbing anything::
AFCO_Ens_Flyer says:
:: the medical team moves out of sickbay heading for the VIP section and the specific quarters ::
Host FM_ChrisD says:
<CTO_Cmdr_Powers> :: Steps in, glancing at Azhure ::  CNS: Trouble.
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
XO: Launching first probe.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Orders the lift down toward the VIP section::  CTO: If it has to do with the artifact, that does not bode well.
AFCO_Ens_Flyer says:
:: arrives at the quarters and enters surveying the environment then moves over to the body ::
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::he moves to the corridor as a medical team arrives:: MedTech: Confirm only identity and that he is indeed dead.  Touch nothing.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Steps off as the lift stops and moves down the hall toward the captain.::
AFCO_Ens_Flyer says:
<MO McCarthy> Yes it is who it appears and this man is in fact dead. I can try to revive but I doubt it would be of much use.
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::holds up his hand to stay off Azhure's question:: Azhure: It's Buuren, I believe. He is dead. Medical is confirming Id and death.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
CO: The artifact?
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::he looks at the MO and shakes his head no:: McCarthy: Confirm that it is Dr. Buuren.
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Azhure: On the table in front of the body.
Host FM_ChrisD says:
<CTO_Cmdr_Powers> :: Kneels in front of the table, and eyes the innocuous looking thing ::
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Nods and enters the apartment, heading toward the body and artifact.::
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
XO: Second probe launched. On course for Bryma II.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Looking at the artifact, she holds her hand over it, not touching it.::  MO: Can you tell the cause of death?
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Powers: Doors were sealed on arrival.  I used command override to enter.  Lights were off.  You will of course want to do full imaging scans before we move the body for autopsy.
AFCO_Ens_Flyer says:
<MO McCarthy> CO: I can confirm that it is Dr. Buuren.
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CSO: How soon till we start retrieving telemetry?
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
XO: Less than ten minutes, sir.
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
MO: Thank you, we will notify you as soon as we can to transport the body.
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::sits back down:: CSO: I'm not the most patient man, as you well know by now. ::warm smile::
AFCO_Ens_Flyer says:
<MO McCarthy>: CO: Yes sir. I will be waiting outside.
Host FM_ChrisD says:
<CTO_Cmdr_Powers> :: Reaches out and picks up the red stone ::
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
CTO: Alright... I am not 'sensing' anything about this.  But... :: watches as Bill takes the stone.::
Host FM_ChrisD says:
<CTO_Cmdr_Powers> :: Holds it in his hand, and stands up.  His eyes look at it, then back to Azhure, then back to it ::  CNS...... what?
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
XO: Third probe launched and on course for Bryma I.
AFCO_Ens_Flyer says:
<MO McCarthy> :: Moves outside and waits to be able to transport the body ::
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
*Kraight*: Run full imaging scans of the VIP quarters, surrounding quarters and deck area. Pull all movement records for this deck in the last 24 hours.
AFCO_Ens_Flyer says:
<MO McCarthy>: CNS: I can't confirm the cause of death until I do the full autopsy. Only then will I be able to.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: slowly:: CTO: But it is not meant for me...  You think one of these days fate will be tired of playing with us?  Kraight should check that.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
MO: Understood.  As soon as your done...
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
*CO*: Acknowledged.   :: moves to another console to carry out the Captain's orders ::
Host FM_ChrisD says:
<CTO_Cmdr_Powers> :: Not particularly interested in the rock ::  CNS: It's... a rock.  I don't see what's so special about this thing.
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
*Kraight*: How long before imaging complete?
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
*CO*: Scanning now, sir. Completion in four minutes. May I inquire... what has happened?
Host FM_ChrisD says:
ACTION: The probes circle the planets at low orbits, looking for any tell-tale signs.  So far, they have turned up nothing of significance on their own.
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
*Kraight*: Dr. Buuren is dead.  Cause unknown at this time.  Standard investigation protocols are now in effect.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Shakes head:: CTO: Rocks tell a story.  And this one has one to tell.  Not to mention, it is lovely.  May I?  :: Holds out her hand.::
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
*CO*: I see.  :: pauses... then the full import of this dawns on him, and his voice drops half an octave ::  Oh. I see.
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
::shocked:: CSO: Dr. Buuren is dead?
AFCO_Ens_Flyer says:
:: working on the flight controls ::
Host FM_ChrisD says:
<CTO_Cmdr_Powers> :: Begins to hold out his hand, but stops mid-way.  His hand remains partially outstretched, and a curious look comes across Bill's face ::  CNS: That's... odd.
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
XO: That is what the Captain said. And... he held the first stone.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
CTO: Odd is not always good with you... What?
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CSO: Did you also hold the stone?
Host FM_ChrisD says:
<CTO_Cmdr_Powers> CO/CNS: It's like a subconscious part of my mind doesn't want me to give you this.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Looks at the captain:: CO: I am not surprised.
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: somber :: XO: I have held both stones.
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CSO: Get a full medical work up as soon as possible. Thats an order.
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
*Ops*: Send following to Starfleet command:  Dr. Buuren has been found dead in quarters.  Cause of death unknown at this time. Investigation proceeding. Awaiting further instructions.
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Azhure: Indeed? Why?
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
CO: I do not think the stone was meant for Buuren.  We have walked into something.
Host FM_ChrisD says:
<OPS_Griska> *CO*: Buuren is dead?  :: shakes his head, pushing down his investigative nature ::  I mean, yes, sir, I will pass along the message.
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
XO: Aye, sir. Permission to leave the bridge?
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CSO: Granted.
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Azhure: It may be something we will never know, unless Starfleet desires us to continue Dr. Buuren's work.
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
XO: Thank you.   :: walks to the turbolift ::   Commander, it is imperative that no one else touch either stone. They must be considered dangerous. Any similar artifacts found in this star system must also not be touched by anyone.
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
CSO: I'll keep that in mind. Get that medical work up
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
CO: I am not sure we will have a choice.  :: half serious::  I am beginning to think you are some sort of Fate lodestone.
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Powers: Put the stone back on the table.  I think it wise that we do not touch the artifacts further.
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: nods :: XO: Yes, sir.  :: enters the turbolift, and the doors whoosh shut behind him ::
Host FM_ChrisD says:
<CTO_Cmdr_Powers> :: Looks at the Captain, then at the strange rock ::  CO: Ummm......
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
CO: Actually, if possible, he should take it to Kraight's office.
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Azhure: Yes.  Kraight has handled both stones.  Powers: Take it there.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Watches Bill::
Host FM_ChrisD says:
<CTO_Cmdr_Powers> CO: I... do not wish to disobey you, Captain.  But I... don't want to let this rock leave me too far.
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Computer: Have scans of area completed?
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Powers: I understand.  Kraight will help you with this.
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
<Computer> Scans complete.
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
MO: You may take the body.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
*CSO*: Where is 'your' stone?
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
*Kraight* Commander Powers has one of the stones.  He is having trouble releasing it.
AFCO_Ens_Flyer says:
<MO McCarthy>: CO: Yes sir. :: lifts the body onto a gurney and starts the transport to sickbay ::
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
*CNS*: I have it with me.   *CO*: I also have a strange compulsion to keep the stone with me at all times. I strongly suggest that Commander Powers report to Sickbay, sir. I am headed there now.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
CO: Again, I am not surprised.
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Azhure: Please take Powers to Sickbay to meet with Kraight.  Powers: Please accompany the CNS.  You may keep the stone for now.
Host FM_ChrisD says:
<CTO_Cmdr_Powers> :: Nods ::  CO: Alright, sir.
AFCO_Ens_Flyer says:
<MO McCarthy> :: arrives at sickbay with the body and promptly puts it in stasis and prepares for the autopsy ::
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: With a nod, heads out with her husband::  CO: Do you sense anything beyond not wanting to be separated?
Host FM_ChrisD says:
<CTO_Cmdr_Powers> CNS: I'm not in love or attracted to the object, if that's what you're asking.
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::Quietly:: Azhure: We will need to get the artifacts from both Kraight and Powers and have the stones separately isolated.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
CTO: No... but no sense of purpose or like Kraight's visions?
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Looks back at Sulek and nods her head in understanding.::
Host FM_ChrisD says:
<CTO_Cmdr_Powers> CNS: Nothing like that, no.
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: enters Sickbay ::  MO: Doctor... Commander Pangborn has ordered a full medical workup for me.
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::he looks around the VIP Quarters and moves back into the hall:: Computer: Lights down in VIP. Seal quarters to all but command and security.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Steps into the lift and orders it to sickbay:: Hmmm...
AFCO_Ens_Flyer says:
<MO McCarthy> CSO: Understood. take a seat on the biobed.
Host FM_ChrisD says:
<CTO_Cmdr_Powers> CNS: There must be something to these things.  I'm not usually a superstitious person or anything, but...
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: sits where indicated ::
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: As the lift doors open, she steps off and heads for the double doors:: CTO: With you, it is something serious to consider.
AFCO_Ens_Flyer says:
<MO McCarthy> :: runs  scan of the CSO ::
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
*Pangborn* I am going to sickbay, if I am needed.  ::moves down the hall to the TL:: Sickbay.
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
*CO*: I'll hold down the fort.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: As they step through the door, she heads toward the doctor and Kraight.::
Host FM_ChrisD says:
<CTO_Cmdr_Powers> :: Follows along side the Counselor, nodding to Kraight and the doctor as they near ::
AFCO_Ens_Flyer says:
<MO McCarthy> Self :: hmmm EM variance. This is interesting..
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: nods to Azhure and Powers ::  CTO: How do you feel, Commander?
AFCO_Ens_Flyer says:
<MO McCarthy> :: Nods to the new arrivals :: ALL: Just be a moment.
Host FM_ChrisD says:
ACTION: The artifact in Bill's hand begins to glow slightly.
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
*Pangborn*: Have security start working their way through movement logs and the scans that Kraight took.  Let's be sure that this was an accident...
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Catches the glow and turns.::  Interesting...
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
*CO*: Aye Sir
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: sees the glow as well :: Self: Oh dear.   :: looks at his own stone ::
AFCO_Ens_Flyer says:
<MO McCarthy> ALL: Okay hold on a second here the readings just got a LOT stronger :: spins and turns seeing the glowing rock and scans it ::
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
CTO: Bill, step back a bit.
Host FM_ChrisD says:
ACTION: Kraight's gem also displays an unholy glow.
XO_Cmdr_Pangborn says:
*Security*: Begin reviewing security personnel movement logs, and all of the activity from the science console as well.
AFCO_Ens_Flyer says:
<MO McCarthy> ALL: I don't like the look of this.....
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::arrives a deck and moves down the hall and into Sickbay::
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
All: I do not think this can be good...
Host FM_ChrisD says:
<CTO_Cmdr_Powers> :: Looks curiously, and takes a few steps, then a few more back to the door.  As he stands halfway into the hallway, the glow fades to almost nothing.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
CSO: I take it, it did not do that before.
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CNS: No. It did not.
AFCO_Ens_Flyer says:
<MO McCarthy> Self; Interesting. Those two rocks must be linked somehow..
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
::as he enters he first notices everyone staring at Powers and then notes the glowing rock::
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
All: Well, that answers that.
Host FM_ChrisD says:
<CTO_Cmdr_Powers> :: Holds it up ::  CO: We could turn out the overhead lights and have a party with these.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
CSO: Are we ready yet to test what happens off ship?
CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Computer: open two full field isolation chambers.  Lock on to the artifacts held by Commanders Kraight and Powers and beam the objects in to the isolation units.
CSO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: eyes wide ::  CNS: I think the sooner we get these artifacts off the ship, the better.
Host FM_ChrisD says:
ACTION: Commanders Kraight and Powers feel a sense of loss as their precious are beamed away.

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