Quirinus Mission 10909.21

starring

Mitch Travis as CO Captain Sulek 
Jeffrey G. Brown as XO Commander Kraight
Christopher Dickinson as CTO Commander Billy Bob Powers, Jr. 
Mike Jones as CMO Lt. Mathar Raythan 
Karriaunna Scotti as CNS Commander Azhure Powers 
John Scimone as CEO Ensign Brian Rotan 

with

Keith LaHue, Ship Manager

MISSION PROLOGUE: Last time on the USS Quirinus... The captain issued some cryptic orders, and the crew set their sights on the Klingon empire. The crew is flying into the storm blind. Only the captain knows what they are after.

=/\==/\=  BEGIN Quirinus Mission 10909.21 A Few Notes on the Purity of Light =/\==/\=
=/\==/\=  Episode 2  =/\==/\=

CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: On the bridge at one of the auxiliary stations, digging for information on the Keepers. ::
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: monitoring the phenomenon near H'atoria, still trying to lock on to the microsingularities ::
CEO_Ens_Rotan says:
:: steps out of the turbolift onto the bridge, PADD in hand ::
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Reprograms a few of their tactical patterns based on his knowledge of Klingon tactics ::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
:: On Bridge :: Kraight: I have input some frequency modulations for our tricorders and sensors.  If you would be sure that these are added to both.  They may help us locate what we are looking for.
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: distracted :: CO: Ah... yes, sir...   :: punches several more controls, obviously agitated ::
CEO_Ens_Rotan says:
:: walks to an auxiliary station, looking over the maintenance schedule ::
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Turns around to face the others ::  CO:  I have some general, and I do mean general information on the Keepers.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Azhure: Of course.  Anything you've found could be helpful.
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: turns :: CO: Captain.. the microsingularities have ceased.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kraight: Indeed.  Were you able to trace a source?
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: shakes head :: CO: Negative.
CEO_Ens_Rotan says:
:: looks up from his display at the XO's report about the singularities ::
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: looks over at Kraight and back at Sulek ::  CO:  The problem is, there is not much.  Until recently they have kept to themselves... they are what you would call a secret society.  And they are fairly new... there is no record of them prior to ten years ago.
CEO_Ens_Rotan says:
CO: I've been watching the singularities and there seems to be an order to their appearance and disappearance
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Ops: As we approach the planet, request a high orbit.   Use the older style of Klingon translators for your request.
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CNS: Is anything known of their philosophy or their goals?
CEO_Ens_Rotan says:
CO: I can't quite figure out the pattern...
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
CO:  They are very religious in nature... :: she keeps her thoughts about that to herself for now. ::  They were not known for their scientific endeavors.  They are definitely not of the traditional Klingon culture.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Azhure: Or on their founders?
CMO_Lt_Raythan says:
:: In sickbay, prepping an assortment of away mission antibiotics and preparatory injections that should prevent any poisoning from the unique energy they may encounter ::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Rotan: See if you can get  a specific overlay to the patterns.  Perhaps run a comparison with Klingon star systems or mythology.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
XO:  They have one god.
CEO_Ens_Rotan says:
CO: Aye sir.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
CO:  Their founder was Sarite.  There is little information on him.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Azhure: Not of a ruling Klingon house?
CEO_Ens_Rotan says:
:: Runs a computer analysis of the pattern ::
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
CO:  None... at least none that are willing to acknowledge him.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Rotan: I assume that you have made sure that our engine out put makes us look like a something that Starfleet has surplussed?
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Azhure: Then would it be safe to say that the Klingon code of honor demands that he try to make a name for himself?
CEO_Ens_Rotan says:
CO: Yes, sir.  I tasked Ensign Nalo with that task.
CEO_Ens_Rotan says:
CO: We should probably avoid any subspace communication with Starfleet.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: shakes her head ::  CO:  They are a very peaceful group, worshiping the Light.  What they consider the Light I am unable to determine yet.

ACTION: The planet H'atoria gives the Quirinus a regular scan as they come into their system.

XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CO: We are being scanned, Captain.
CEO_Ens_Rotan says:
:: ensures the shields are working properly ::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Rotan: We are rogue.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: more to herself ::  Unless they have adopted light for its purer form.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kraight: One gypsy merchant ship looking for a load.
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Still wondering how a gypsy band would get their hands on a relatively new Steamrunner class vessel ::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
FCO Flyer: Standard high orbit approach, just don't make it too neat looking.
CEO_Ens_Rotan says:
:: coordinates the release of a short burst of plasma to make it seem as if the ship is in poorer condition than it is ::
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Makes a passive scan of the planet as they approach, noting large settlements ::  All: The planet has two large cities, varied population in terms of race composition.  Many smaller trade centers, very active.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Action>>>>>The ship comes into orbit.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Ops: Notify the planet we will be beaming down.  Ask them where the biggest market is and get coordinates.
Host SM_Keith says:
<OPS White> Sulek: Aye Sir
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
All: Time to get ourselves down to planet so we can seek the keepers.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Azhure: Any symbol that indicates the Keepers' church or establishments?

ACTION: Planetary operations responds with a set of coordinates on the planet, in the southern hemisphere. One of the two large cities is there, with a thriving market.

XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: stands, heads for the turbolift ::
CEO_Ens_Rotan says:
:: walks to the turbolift ::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
:: rises, enters the turbolift behind Rotan and Kraight ::
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: After some more checking, she comes up empty, turning around. ::  CO:  The only other info I can add is they are very devout... no indication of fanaticism.  I did not find anything to indicate symbolism, but given they remain secretive, that is not surprising.
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: As he moves to the turbolift to join the rest of the away team, he taps his commbadge and calls down to Security, having them get some of the non-conventional sidearms from the Armory ::
CMO_Lt_Raythan says:
:: Arrives in the transporter room, wearing garb that pertains ... purportedly ... to their destination. Stands by the doorway, prepping a hypospray ::
CEO_Ens_Rotan says:
:: stops at his quarters to change into civilian clothing and then reports to the transporter room ::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
:: arrives in Transporter Room One ::
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: arrives in the transporter room, having stopped to change into merchant garb ::
CMO_Lt_Raythan says:
CO: Captain, stand still please.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
:: pauses in the door ::
CMO_Lt_Raythan says:
:: Presses the hypospray to the Captain's neck :: CO: Just giving you some pre-mission antibiotics and medical preparatories. You never know in the Beta Quadrant ...
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Meets Gren in the transporter room and looks over their weaponry, nodding in agreement ::  All: Some of you will recognize these... :: looks at Raythan and Rotan before holding out the weapons ::  CEO/CMO: These are Breen weapons, modified.  They're powerful, but their power cells are set to self-destruct after three shots.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Before heading for the transporter room to meet up with the others, she stops at her quarters for the simple outfit she had prepared... taking a moment to add one more item. ::
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
All: You'll recall we had these designed the last time we went undercover.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Raythan: Of course, Doctor.  :: he steps up on to the pad ::
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CTO: Let us hope any violent encounters are brief, then.
CEO_Ens_Rotan says:
:: takes the weapon :: Thanks, Commander.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: As the lift drops her off, she steps out and heads for the transporter room ::
CMO_Lt_Raythan says:
CTO: No thank you, Commander. I trust you to be able to shoot for the rest of us. :: Smile :: XO: Commander, if you would? :: Gestures with hypospray ::
CEO_Ens_Rotan says:
:: steps up to the pad ::
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Entering she steps around Raythan and over to the captain ::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
:: takes his weapon ::  Powers: I trust these are the ones that shoot.
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: accepts a weapon and steps up over to Raythan ::  CMO: Certainly.
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
CO: Three shots, Captain.  Just in case you happen to lose yours.
CMO_Lt_Raythan says:
:: Applies hypospray with specific medications for Kraight's physiology :: XO: Thank you. :: Steps over :: CEO: Chief, one second ... :: Gestures with hypospray ::
CEO_Ens_Rotan says:
:: steps back down :: CMO: Of course.
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: takes his place on the transporter platform ::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Powers:  I shall endeavor not to lose or trade this one, Commander.  Hopefully there will not be four assailants.
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Eschews the Breen disruptors for a Klingon hand weapon and tucks a knife into a holster in his left sleeve ::
CEO_Ens_Rotan says:
:: gets back on the transporter pad ::
CMO_Lt_Raythan says:
:: Applies the hypospray, nods thanks. Takes out the empty cartridge, and inserts a new one, moving to the CTO, giving the injection, then moving to the Counselor before taking his place on the pad ::
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Holds the robe ::  CO:  They are like... :: considers a word ::  monks.  Here is a possible outfit they might wear... but keep in mind, you are not likely to find them in public.

ACTION: The crew is beamed down into a large central plaza of the city of H'atrainia. Traders bustle and haggle, and all sorts of aliens can be observed in the large market area.

CMO_Lt_Raythan says:
:: Looks around with interest at the crowd ::
Host SM_Keith says:
SCENE: The floor of the central plaza is modern concrete, and adorned with a multi-pointed star, which branches out in all directions.
CEO_Ens_Rotan says:
:: materializes next to the CTO and looks around at the crowds ::
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Instinctively sniffs the air ::
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: quietly performs a 360 degree tricorder scan ::
Host SM_Keith says:
SCENE: The air smells sweet, and the liveliness of the crowded bazaar is inviting
CMO_Lt_Raythan says:
:: Steps up beside the CNS and CO :: Both: Always an interesting day with this crew, no?
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CO: The new sensor protocols register nothing, sir.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
All:  Keep your ears open.  Remember, we are looking for cargo...as gypsy merchants we must all agree to carrying the cargo.  That should delay having to make any actual deals.
CEO_Ens_Rotan says:
:: walks towards some vendors to inspect their wares ::

ACTION: Two Klingons pass by, dressed normally, but giving off an aura of suspicion that might be detected by one of the El Aurians.

Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Kraight: Keep scans on the quiet.
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: Shares a look with Gren, regarding how they will watch over the crew ::
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CO: Of course, Captain.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Azhure: The Keepers are likely new to the area.  Merchants won't trust those who seem to fill no function for them.
CMO_Lt_Raythan says:
:: Feels a "twinge," and regards the two that pass by ::
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
CO:  That is a possibility.  :: simply glances at the Klingons passing by. ::
CEO_Ens_Rotan says:
:: heads back to the group ::
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CO: Interesting. The pattern on the plaza here seems to be more than mere decoration. Notice how each becomes a pathway into other parts of the city.
CMO_Lt_Raythan says:
:: Voice lowered :: CO: Captain ...
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
ALL: Spread out.  Keep the conversations informal.  Maybe ask about houses of worship in the area.  Nothing specific though, just in need of a spiritual boost.  Although as a Vulcan, such a tact will not work for me.  I will likely stay in the background.
CEO_Ens_Rotan says:
All: Those guys over there are selling some fantastic knives!
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Raythan: Might I suggest something less formal in address, given the circumstances.
CMO_Lt_Raythan says:
CO: Of course ... bud. :: Gestures gently toward the Klingons rapidly departing :: CO: I'm going to go have a chat.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Raythan: Take Gren with you.
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CEO: Let's see what the knife merchant has to say, Ens... Mr. Rotan.
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Azhure:  I think perhaps given your unique senses that you should do the talking for us.
CMO_Lt_Raythan says:
:: Nods to the security officer to accompany him as he sets out to follow the two Klingons ::
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
:: tries not to sigh... the staff will learn one day, when they are dead from slipping ::

ACTION: Raythan and the security officer are about to lose the Klingons in the crowd.

CEO_Ens_Rotan says:
XO: I'll go see what they're willing to divulge
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
:: accompanies Rotan ::
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Lifts a brow with a hint of a smile ::  CO:  Hmmm... one forgets, we are listeners.  I would suggest someone who is good at haggling.
CEO_Ens_Rotan says:
:: walks with the XO to the knife vendor ::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
:: he looks at Powers :: Powers: Try not to shoot them if they won't meet the price.  You're it.  Klingons will no doubt respect a stronger ummm hand.
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: chuckles ::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
:: he falls back behind Powers and Azhure ::  Azhure/Powers: Today I am the body guard.
CEO_Ens_Rotan says:
XO: See? :: picks up a knife :: XO: Great quality cutlery.
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
CO: I doubt anyone would take you seriously.  :: Glances around ::
XO_Cmdr_Kraight says:
CEO: Indeed.
CMO_Lt_Raythan says:
:: Hands in pockets, maneuvering to get closer to the Klingons with his accompanying guard ::
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Powers: I am Vulcan.  Strength wise, even Klingons will take that seriously.
CTO_Cmdr_Powers says:
CO: Known pacifists.  :: Starts to eye the vendors... everything is fairly banal ::
CNS_Cmd_Azhure says:
:: Points to a small cart sort of isolated ::  CTO:  Alright... I am one hundred percent female in my like of jewelry... and it rarely deflates.  Please?
Host CO_Capt_Sulek says:
Powers: Not all.  You really should read up on Vulcan beliefs.  If I were solely a pacifist, I would hardly be where I am now.

ACTION: The Klingons, having disappeared behind a building, suddenly appear, and quickly restrain both Raythan and the Guard. They are holding them at knifepoint, one of the growls at Raythan: “And just what do you want? And why shouldn't I kill you?”

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