Quirinus Mission 10808.25

starring

Mitch Travis as CO Captain Sulek 
Jeffrey G. Brown as XO Commander Kraight
Jane Rowley as OPS Lieutenant Amarok Ki 
Christopher Dickinson as CTO Commander Billy Bob Powers, Jr. 
Ed Selgas as CEO Lieutenant David Telarus 
Karriaunna Scotti as CNS Commander Azhure Powers 

with

Keith LaHue, Ship Manager

MISSION PROLOGUE: The USS Quirinus has been dispatched to one of the most remote sections of known space, to deliver "cargo" of some sort to the planet Alcor. The contents of the cargo is top secret  --  not even the captain knows what it is...

=/\==/\=  BEGIN Quirinus Mission 10808.25: Special Delivery =/\==/\=
=/\==/\=  Episode 1  =/\==/\=

Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: on the bridge, checking internal sensors for any radiation from the cargo hold ::
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Walking quietly through the ship, stretching her legs and just visiting in general::
OPS_Lt_Ki says:
::on the bridge at the operations console::
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Approaching the cargo bay, his rifle slapping happily against his back ::
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
OPS: ETA to the Alkaid system, Mr. Ki?
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Is stopped by a mother of one of her younger people and they quietly discuss how things are going at home.::
OPS_Lt_Ki says:
::happy they are on a regular-type, non-telepathic mission::
OPS_Lt_Ki says:
XO:  About ten minutes Sir.  Did you know we have no internal sensors in the cargo bay?
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: nods ::  OPS: As per our orders.
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: approaches the guard standing watch outside the bay, his silver trimmed uniform neatly pressed, of course ::  SFI: Good day.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Laying a light hand on her she smiles and they both continue on their way.::
OPS_Lt_Ki says:
::doesn't strike him as entirely safe, but refrains from saying so::
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
OPS: Advise the Alkaid that we are about to enter their system, and ask them for permission to approach the planet.
Host SM_Keith says:
<SFI> CTO: Back off, and back off now. Unless you are looking for a court martial ::aims his rifle at Power's head::
OPS_Lt_Ki says:
XO:  Aye.  ::transmits said message to Alcor::

ACTION: No response to the message.

CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: doesn't really get closer, but doesn't really stop ::  SFI: We're all looking for things in life, aren't we?  You sure are jumpy.  I believe our doctor could give you something to cure that bug....
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: entering the nearest lift, orders it to the bridge::
Host SM_Keith says:
<SFI> ::Just looks at him, keeping his rifle pointed at his head::
OPS_Lt_Ki says:
Self:   Hummm....   ::checks to see if there is, in fact, some sort of communication transceiver on Alcor::
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
OPS: Something wrong?
OPS_Lt_Ki says:
XO:  No acknowledgment of our message.  I'm just checking to see if it was picked up at least.
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Leans against the wall ::  SFI: Or maybe the counselor.  Counselor does good work.  Have you spoken to a counselor lately?  Part of your routine six-month checkup?  Or are your counselors like you?
Host SM_Keith says:
<SFI> ::Just looks at him, keeping his rifle pointed at his head::
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: stands, moves to the science station :: OPS: That's odd.   :: taps a few controls ::   Scanning Alcor now...
OPS_Lt_Ki says:
XO:  Umm.... there is some sort of sensor net in our path, right on the border of Alkaidian space.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: As the lift stops she steps off and walks over to the command chair.::
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
OPS: All stop.
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Opens his hands in a wide gesture ::  SFI: I bet you don't get out much.  Ever been aboard a Steamrunner class ship before?
OPS_Lt_Ki says:
XO:  Aye.  ::brings the ship to a stop as he happens to have the helm slaved to his console::
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: looks at Azhure ::   CNS: We can't raise the planet.

ACTION: The SFI Grunt fires a warning shot, on stun right above Power's head.

OPS_Lt_Ki says:
XO:  Could be the sensor net is blocking communications.  ::scans it carefully::
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
::  Looks silently toward the screen for a few moments::
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
OPS: Any sign that the sensor net is tied to some sort of defensive weaponry?
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Is not entirely amused ::  SFI: I don't know if you were informed or not, but I was given authority to see to the cargo's safe delivery.  I don't feel it's safe around your itchy trigger finger.
OPS_Lt_Ki says:
XO:  Anything is possible, Sir.  There is no way to tell by scanning though.  We could try sending a probe through and see what happens?
Host SM_Keith says:
<SFI>: CTO: You have zero authority here. Leave, and leave now.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
XO:  My understanding was they were expecting us.
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: considers ::   OPS: It's clear that this delivery is an extremely high priority. Shields up. Ahead one-half impulse. 
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CNS: Yes... but why then do they not respond to our hails?
OPS_Lt_Ki says:
XO:  Aye.  ::activates shields and and impulse engines::
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Narrows his eyes ::  SFI: Your authority is inside that cargo bay.  My authority is aboard this ship.  Do what you want in that bay while you're aboard, but this hallway is still on my ship.
OPS_Lt_Ki says:
::resumes course, 1/2 impulse::
Host SM_Keith says:
<SFI> ::says nothing::
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
SFI: That's what I thought.  Enjoy your time aboard the Quirinus.  :: Turns to leave, but walks with exaggeratedly slow steps ::
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
OPS: ETA to Alcor?
OPS_Lt_Ki says:
XO:  Working on it.
OPS_Lt_Ki says:
XO:  We're about three days from the planet at maximum warp.  We'll be hitting the sensor grid in about five minutes.
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
OPS: Understood.
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CNS: Nothing to do now but continue on.

ACTION: As the Quirinus hits the sensor nets, several large phase cannons decloak right in front of them. They are powered down, but aimed at the Quirinus.

OPS_Lt_Ki says:
::puts the image on screen::  XO:  Umm...
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: more to self::  Interesting....
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
OPS: All stop!
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
*CTO*: You might want to join us on the bridge.
OPS_Lt_Ki says:
::stops, yet again::  XO:  Retransmit your message?
OPS_Lt_Ki says:
XO:  Wait.  We're being hailed by the Alkaidians.
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
OPS: About time. On screen.
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
*CNS*: I was thinking about a change of scenery anyway.  I'll be up momentarily.  :: Heads for the nearest turbolift ::
OPS_Lt_Ki says:
::puts the communication on the main view screen::
Host SM_Keith says:
<Alkaidian Guard> COM: This is the Alkaidian Guard. State your purpose here.
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
COM Guard: I am First Officer Kraight of the Federation vessel Quirinus. We are tasked with delivering a confidential cargo to your home world. I was told we would be expected.
OPS_Lt_Ki says:
::wonders about the heavy security.  Suspects these guys have some serious enemies::
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Calls a car and rides to the Bridge, exiting into the rear.  He glances around, taking in the scene, getting his bearings ::
Host SM_Keith says:
<Alkaidian Guard> ::looks through some files on his computer:: COM Quirinus: Yes, I have you here. You may pass, however, be aware that some of the areas you may pass through may not be as friendly as I am.
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
COM Guard: Are you saying that we may be attacked?
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: lifts a brow at that comment.::
Host SM_Keith says:
<Alkaidian Guard> COM Kraight: Lets just say that our borders are not as secure as they once were.
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
COM Guard: Understood, and we thank you for the warning. Quirinus out.
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
OPS: Yellow alert. Set course for Alcor, warp eight.
OPS_Lt_Ki says:
::initiates yellow alert::  XO:  Engaging warp engines.
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CTO: Mr. Powers, we've been warned that we may not be universally welcomed in Alkaid space.
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Snorts ::  XO: I've been universally unwelcomed today so far.  You want to warn the intel buddies downstairs?
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Steps back to join Bill at tactical::  CTO: And you thought you were just going to get to play with the intel guards.

ACTION: The phase cannons recloak as the ship moves away.

OPS_Lt_Ki says:
XO:  On course for Alcor, warp eight.
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CTO: Yes, pass it on to them.
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
OPS: Thank you, Mr. Ki.
OPS_Lt_Ki says:
::runs short range scans dead ahead::
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Clears his throat ::  XO: Actually, sir.  I'm not certain they'd be pleased to hear from me.  Perhaps the Captain himself can pass along the message.  Or you.  Seems "chief of security" doesn't carry the clout it once did.
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CTO: You've made their acquaintance then, eh?
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Smiles a crooked smile ::
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
OPS: Send the record of our conversation with the Alkaid Guard just now to the data terminal in Cargo Bay Two.
OPS_Lt_Ki says:
XO: Is there anybody in the actual cargo bay to receive it?

ACTION: Three rebel fighters of unknown origin are approaching at high warp.

CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
XO: Commander?  Three blips, approaching at high velocity.
OPS_Lt_Ki says:
XO:  Incoming.  Three small... fighters maybe?
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CTO: On screen.  OPS: Hail them.
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Overlays a tactical view across the screen ::
OPS_Lt_Ki says:
::hails what appears to be the lead vessel::

ACTION: No response to hails.

Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CTO: Threat assessment?
OPS_Lt_Ki says:
XO:  No response.
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
XO: Reading heavy armaments, but lesser shielding.  I'd recommend against a fight, but we would likely be victorious.
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
OPS: Evasive pattern Lambda two three.   CTO: Maintain weapons lock. Target their weapons systems and engines. We are not interested in destroying them.

ACTION: The three fighters close in on the Quirinus, strafing them as they pass. 

OPS_Lt_Ki says:
::swears as he initiates evasives::
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
XO: Understood.  Weapons locked and awaiting your order.
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CTO: If they fire on us again, return fire.

ACTION: The fighters change course, flying away from the Quirinus.

OPS_Lt_Ki says:
:;watches them run::  XO:  Resume course, Sir?
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
OPS: Affirmative.
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CTO: Any thoughts on why they broke off?
OPS_Lt_Ki says:
::resumes course::
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
CTO: Testing us?
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
XO: Sensors didn't detect anything obvious... I'll run another check against the readings.
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CTO: That will be appreciated.
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Shakes his head :: XO: Nope, nothing.
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CTO: All right. Maintain a constant scan for any power signatures matching the fighters.
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
XO: It'll take them a while to get out of sensor range, sir.
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: nods ::
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
OPS: Hail the Alkaid Guard.

ACTION: The fighters appear on short range sensors. They are armed.

OPS_Lt_Ki says:
XO:  Aye.  ::transmits the hail::
OPS_Lt_Ki says:
XO:  On screen?
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
OPS: Yes. 
OPS_Lt_Ki says:
::puts the guard on screen::

ACTION: The fighters move closer, in attack formation.

Host SM_Keith says:
<Alkaidian Guard> COM Quirinus: What can I do for you?
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
COM Guard: As predicted, we have been attacked. We suffered no significant damage. It would be most useful to us if you would share any information you may have on these rebel ships, their capabilities, and their known tactics.
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
XO: Commander?  Fighters taking up attack positions again.
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CTO: Are they on an attack run?
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
XO: They're in position, and coming closer to us.  If they intend to attack, I cannot say for certain, but I suspect it to be so.  :: Deadpan ::
Host SM_Keith says:
<Alkaidian Guard> COM Quirinus: We do our best to control them, they are little more than pests. They are from one of the outlying worlds of our space, and little is still known about them.
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CTO: As before, Mr. Powers. Return fire if fired upon.

ACTION: The fighters fly over the Quirinus, firing disrupter style weapons as they pass.

Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
COM Guard: Do you have a tactical database you would be willing to share with us?
OPS_Lt_Ki says:
::initiates evasive maneuvers::
Host SM_Keith says:
<Alkaidian Guard> COM Quirinus: I'm sorry, but that information is restricted. But they shouldn't be of much bother to you.
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: nods ::  COM Guard: Understood. Thank you for your time. Quirinus out.

ACTION: The fighters regroup and buzz the Quirinus again, firing as they go.

CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Grumbles loudly, and lays into those fighters, targeting weapons and engines ::
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
XO: Minor damage, aft.
OPS_Lt_Ki says:
::wonders if this has anything to do with the cargo they are carrying::

ACTION: The fighters come around, and face the Quirinus head on.

OPS_Lt_Ki says:
::veers sharply::
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: To no one in particular ::  Aloud: Yeah, come back around.  Come and get some.
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CTO: I remind you that we have no interest in destroying these ships, Mr. Powers.
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
XO: I understand that.  But until they understand that I have no interest in allowing them to continue firing upon our vessel ... :: targets and fires another salvo ::

ACTION: The CTO's shots hit their mark, and the three fighters limp away.

Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CTO: Well done, Mr. Powers. I believe you were most persuasive.
OPS_Lt_Ki says:
All:  If they are trying to delay our delivery, they're doing a damn fine job.
OPS_Lt_Ki says:
XO:  Resume course?
Host XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
OPS: Indeed.
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
XO: We shall see, Commander.  :: Crosses his arms, watching sensors intently ::  XO: Perhaps we should offer them voice once more before we leave?
OPS_Lt_Ki says:
::resumes course, wondering how they well they will tolerate three days more of t his::
CNS_Cmd_Azhure_ says:
:: Simply quietly observes, working on piecing together the 'picture' that was forming of the their current situation and what they might find or have found them selves in.::

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