<![CDATA[Forums - Episode One: Loose Strings]]>

<![CDATA[Forums - Episode One: Loose Strings]]> http://www.orlandogamers.org/forum/ Sat, 18 Apr 2026 21:44:10 +0000 MyBB <![CDATA[Act Two, Scene Three]]> http://www.orlandogamers.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=197 Tue, 14 Oct 2014 01:06:49 -0700 Akirapryde]]> http://www.orlandogamers.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=197 Stardate: 53834.65
Ruins of Logan City
World: Terra Nova (Eta Cassiopeia III)
Location: Eta Cassiopeia star system, Sector 004, Alpha Quadrant

Maura set in the pilot's chair of the Susquehanna going over the repair reports of the work completed. The sisters started the repairs during the late night hours after they first arrived, the repairs continued throughout the following day and in to that night. Thanks to the added help of the Novians, Seona and her sister were able to complete the vital repairs to their stolen runabout. As she scanned her notes of the past few hours, she would best described that time as organized and effective while repairs on the Susquehanna were carried out. Maura didn't like the idea of sitting still for these repairs but there was no other choice. The damages demanded that the repairs be made. The fact that Maura was able to limp the Susquehanna to Terra Nova was a testament to her skill as a Marine pilot.

Before today, the sisters had relied on a long lists of preset tricks and traps that had been created and laid out by Seona ahead of time. Now those tricks had been either used or could no longer be trusted to still be in place. Maura knew that her skills as a pilot were going to be more in demand than ever before. The entire 4th Fleet was out there searching for the sisters and they still had light years to go. The road ahead did seemed all but impossible, yet Seona had explained how important it was that they complete this journey. That the fate of the Federation and billions of innocent people depended on their success. While Seona kept most of what she knew all others, what did tell the Novians about their critical mission gave them a sense of pride that they were helping the sisters. Because of their generosity and compassion, the Novians bestowed their respect and assistance on the sisters. It was not long till the sisters were called, "suitable Oversiders."

Maura went over the repairs that had been completed. The list was long but Maura was grateful that nearly all of the repairs were completed. Despite their best efforts, some components were too badly damaged and needed to be replaced. Luckily Seona was able to convert parts from a few damaged shuttles to help create suitable replacement parts for the Susquehanna. More importantly they were able to restock the runabout's supply of mirco-torpedoes. This was thanks to Maura's knowledge of the nearby ruins of a Starfleet Marine training base. It was from that base that Maura was able to secure a Tricobalt device to forward Seona's end game plan.

Despite the completed repairs, Seona's offer to help the Novians left the Susquehanna's Deuterium reserves were nearly spent. Despite all of the work done to repair the runabout, without Deuterium the ship was nearly helpless. A situation that Seona wrote off as unimportant and one that Maura hated. The pair argued over the issue twice during repairs. Both times, Seona had this belief that their needs would be met along the way. Seona couldn't explain it, but somehow she knew that their needs would be met. She pointed out that it was by her trust in their path which brought them to Terra Nova and this turned out to be a blessing. Seona begged her sister to understand and not be worried. Maura on the other hand made her concerns well known. Not worrying about something like this was beyond the highly trained Marine.

With parts from the Marine base, they were also able to repair a broken sub-space transceiver for the Novians. Ricard decided to keep the current situation on Terra Nova silent till after the sisters had fled the world. Despite the offer of Ricard to hide the sisters, there were still fears. Any moment a Starfleet ship could enter orbit. In reaction to this fear, they did their best to shield the Susquehanna's energy signature by taking the engines and power sources off line. It was a hard choice for Maura to make because that meant that the engines would be taken to a zero state. This meant that restarting the engines would take valuable time. Time that Maura feared they didn't have. However, the benefit of this action was that the runabout could not be detected from orbit by its energy signature. From orbit, the Susquehanna would be able to blend in with the surrounding city.

Using her Marine training, Maura had a large camouflage net erected over the runabout to protect the ship from visual scans. From inside the runabout, Maura organized both repairs of the ship as well as defensive operations. She worked closely with Lethan, Ricard's oldest son, on matters of defense. Lethan turned out to be a surprise for Maura. The man was not only attractive but a quick learner in terms of space combat. Because Maura was not longer giving Starfleet any assumptions about under estimating them, Maura was desperate to keep the odds in their favor. Lethan came up with a very clever plan that could help the sisters in a pinch.

His idea was to beam their captured anti-mater in a wide dispersal pattern behind the runabout. Once the beaming was completed, the anti-mater would react with the surrounding space and cause micro explosions. Not enough to do severely damage a larger ship but enough to blind that ship and confuse weapon targeting sensors. Maura liked the way Lethan thought and worked with him to hammer out this plan. It was more than enough to catch any captain off guard. Especially one who was in close pursuit of them. This little trick could prove to be the deference between life or death for the sisters. Maura knew that the game had changed and the odds were mounting against them.

Clever tricks alone would not save them in any future encounter with Starfleet. Maura wanted to find a way to straighten the shields. Working closely with Seona and Lethan, the three of them came up with a very Novian way to increase the runabout's shields. They stripped the shield emitters off of two shuttles and added them to the Susquehanna. With all three sets of emitters working at full power, it wouldn't be long before the entire grid was blown out. However during a very short period of time the Susquehanna would be able to take two times more damage than anyone would suspect. Just long enough to make an escape from a future Starfleet trap.

For all of her abilities at the helm, Maura knew that the Susquehanna could never out run a Starfleet ship in straight line chase. Nor could it hope to win in a armed engagement. Any future encounter had to be limited in time. This was because Starfleet ships would be on stand by to quickly react to any sighting of the stolen runabout. No, Maura was not going to underestimate Starfleet's ability to organize and carry out an effective search and capture. She knew that they would focus on neutralizing the runabout and even possibly beaming them off of the craft against their will. Maura thought long and hard of any possible way they could escape an escalated encounter with Starfleet. To her disappointment there were none. For Maura, this meant only one thing. That they had no choice but to avoid the next set of encounters all together. There was simply no other choice.

Luckily for them, the Novians were kind enough to provide the sisters with the latest Federation updates regarding their stolen runabout. Sadly these reports were not the same as the ones that were issued to Starfleet vessels. But they were more than what the sisters had before landing on Terra Nova. The updates were those issued to Federation and civilian boomers in the area. According to these updates, Starfleet placed the location of the Susquehanna over a dozen light years away, and badly crippled. Noting the repairs that were completed and their actual location, the reports were far from actuate. This information helped the sisters plot their next heading along their over all goal. A goal that Seona kept to herself. For now, all Maura knew was that they had to reach the badlands. That was their current objective. Despite working closely with Ricard and Lethan, the sisters never spoke of their plans and none of the Novians asked.

Maura was able to find a hole in Starfleet's search pattern. She knew almost right away that it was a trap. However knowing it was a trap meant that she could use that to her advantage. There was still a sensor drone that had not used yet close enough to be useful. Maura thought that it could be used to trip the trap. No she was not expecting Starfleet to fall for that trick again. In fact she was counting on them not to fall for that again. If Maura's plan worked out, then she and Seona could avoid another encounter with Starfleet altogether. Maura studied the locations of some of Starfleet ships in the area. Her training and close working relationship with many of these captains gave her an advantage. As dark as the situation might seem, there were rays of light peeking through these clouds. And they were not about to allow the darkness to prevent them from seeing these rays of hope.

One such ray of hope was that Ricard had a name of a boomer captain that had often helped the Novians in the past. He was a trusted friend that traveled these parts regularly. The boomer captain was a smuggler that had worked with the Bajoran Resistance then later with the Maquis. The captain knew trade routes and also knew how to move without drawing suspicion. With the help of this name, Maura was able to create a plan to help them escape the current search area and move closer to their next objective. As Seona would put it, it was another ray of hope and that they could be grateful. Maura would be grateful once they had completed their tasks and no longer on the run from Starfleet. She didn't like this situation at all.

Even with this name, it was far from a sure thing though. It still required the sisters to convince this captain to agree to help them. Ricard could only promise that the captain would be willing to listen to the sisters' plan. He would not promise that the captain would agree to help. It wasn't much but Maura wasn't complaining. With all the help they got from the Novians and now this gift, it was all more than enough to give Maura some hope that they might actually reach the end of this road, where ever that might be. For their help, the Novians could easily find themselves in trouble with Starfleet and even possibly the Federation.

Maura found that the Federation's reports regarding their limited supply of micro-torpedoes being expended during their battle with Admiral Tate to be miss leading. However she wanted to ensure that this misinformation played in to their favor. She would focus on realigning the four phaser emitters so to spare her torpedoes. In keeping this a secret could help out in an unavoidable encounter. Then there was the lone Tricobalt device. While Seona had her plans for the device, Maura didn't want to write it off just yet. Though the Susquehanna was not equipped to fire device, Maura could still find it useful. These surprises could help turn the odds within any future encounter with Starfleet towards the favor of Maura and her sister.

By the falling nightfall, the Susquehanna was back up to nearly full power again. Far more than what anyone would suspect after the reports of the damage the runabout suffered at the hands of the Valley Forge. Maura had an idea to play in to this assumption. While she wasn't about to underestimate Starfleet, she hoped that the reports issued to the Boomers would be at least similar to those that were issued to Starfleet ships as well. According to those reports, the Susquehanna was badly damaged and lacked not only full power but shields as well. A fact that was no longer true and one that Maura hoped she could use to their advantage. Drawing on what they knew of the ships in the search group, Maura knew that they couldn't relay solely on speed. But the Susquehanna still had a much higher maneuverability over all the ships in the search grid.

Maura turned in the pilot's chair as she switched to the PADS holding the design specs of their opponents. There were four classes of ships that they had to be concerned with. As Maura studied each class, she knew that each held their own advantage and disadvantage. She knew that each of these captains would be studying the Susquehanna and her abilities. Maura had to ensure that she knew each ship that they could face as well as their crews. While Seona slept in the back of the runabout, Maura spent her night studying what Starfleet was planning to send against them. Luckily for the sisters, Admiral Tate was a proud officer and wouldn't ask for help until he was sure that he was over his head. This meant two important fact would remain true till the bitter end. That the 4th Fleet would be the only unit used to find them. And secondly, that there would not be any ships of the latest technology within the search area. Well that was excluding the USS Thunderchild. But Maura was hoping that the Thunderchild would not play a key role in any of this. She didn't like the idea of going up against the man she still loved.

Maura first looked at five Ambassador-class ships assigned to the search pattern. Namely the USS Zhukov, NCC-26136, who had been spotted by a boomer less than three hours ago near Trill. The Zhukov was captained by a seasoned officer but her crew was mostly cadets and a few training officers. Then there was the aging USS Merrimac NCC-1715, a old Enterprise-class ship pushed back in to service during the hight of the Dominion War. The Merrimac was leading a group of scout ships near Plexion Nebula. The scout ships with their large powerful sensor arrays could prove to expose any movement that the Susquehanna were to make within the nebula. These scouts could move through the nebula and give chase, but their lower warp speed didn't make them much of a threat to the Susquehanna. The largest threat of this group was the Merrimac. Even with her haul being nearly a hundred years old, the Merrimac was more than a match for the runabout. The ship's crew were all veterans and had prove themselves under fire during the Dominion War. It was this group that Maura was counting on the play their part in her plan for them to escape.

Then there is the six Excelsior-class ships of Foxtrot Squadron running search patterns that spanned nearly fifty light years. Each of them could easily over power and over take the Susquehanna in just about any encounter. They posed almost the greatest of threats to the sisters and their over all plans. Scatted along the next three sectors, getting past these six ships would be difficult. 'But not impossible,' Maura thought as she scanned over the specs of the ships. Maura scanned the reports of where these ships were as she took a sip of her tea. The music played softly in the background. Maura had always found Celtic music relaxing. She leaned her head back as she soaked in the music for a moment. She could see the sectors of space in her mind. The ships and their projected movements. Getting past them would not be easy if they were still on station. She needed the Merrimac to expect Seona and her to keep playing their sensor drone tricks.

'They will have to expect the Susquehanna to try to runaway from the search grid,' Maura thought as she closed her eyes. She knew that Foxtrot Squadron was Admiral Tate's way of trying to force them in to running and turn this in to a race of speed. One that the Susquehanna could never hope to win. She listened to the music as her mind played out the different possible outcomes where they crossed paths with one of those Excelsiors. There was no way to limit an encounter with Foxtrot Squadron. The unit had to be moved if they were to reach the Bad Lands. She picked up the last PAD and sighed heavily. The single largest threat to them was the USS Thunderchild. Despite the lack of fanfare for her launch just a few days ago, Boomers across the sectors were all talking about the Federation's first dedicated carrier. Maura knew the captain better than anyone out there. He was brilliant and for them dangerous. She would not expect him to fall for any simple trick of the mind.

Maura had always known that the Thunderchild was going to be a threat to them. And now, Admiral Tate was placing the Thunderchild in play. The positioning of the carrier meant that it could quickly respond to just about any course that the Susquehanna could make. This limited Maura's options and she knew that this was Admiral Tate's over all plan. To force the sisters in to making a desperate flight away from the Thunderchild. And thus pinning the Susquehanna in between the Excelsiors and either one of the other two groups. But knowing the plan meant that Maura could plot her next action around it. Admiral Tate would not move the Thunderchild till he had some kind of confirmation of the runabout's location. Distance was what Maura needed on the carrier.

Sightings of the Thunderchild placed her making high warp for Admiral Tate's stricken group. Knowing where the Thunderchild was, was of vital importance to Maura. While in any other encounter, it would pit the runabout against another single ship. An encounter with the Thunderchild would pit the runabout against a large mother ship and numbers of equally matched smaller craft. Alone the Thunderchild and her wings of fighters could easily entrap the Susquehanna in any foreseeable encounter. The more Maura thought of the number of possible encounters, the odds never seemed to be on the Susquehanna's side. No matter what Maura thought of, the end results would be the same. The Susquehanna would find herself entrapped in a running pursuit with anywhere between five to ten fighters while the Thunderchild organized the capture from a distance. She opened her eyes, "Caught between the anvil" she said thinking of the carrier and its fighter wings, "and a hammer" she said speaking of Foxtrot Squadron.

The only way to keep ahead of Starfleet was to not have an encounter with the Thunderchild. It was just that simple, and Maura knew it. Captain Jackson would not be the kind of man to simply fall victim to some trick. She knew him all too well. She wouldn't be surprised if at this very moment, he was studying her own military record. "Tell me Jack" she whispered, "Do you remember us now?" She said closing her eyes. "Tell me Jack, can you feel me thinking of you in this moment." she continued to whisper to herself. "Do you remember how we would play our games of hide and seek? How I used to always beat you." She smiled as she remembered those found memories. Maura opened her eyes once more and returned her mind to the specs of both types of fighters that the Thunderchild carried. She shook her head, "We have to avoid the Thunderchild. At all cost." she said as she set the PAD down and picked up another data pad. "I wonder if you will remember me now Jack" she said as a smile crossed her lips.

Maura's eyes scanned the specs of an Antares-class freighter as a smile crossed her lips. The ship had been modified to maintain a warp factor of seven for long periods of time. Much faster than the Susquehanna and this could help them make up for some lost time. But most importantly, according to Ricard, his friend had dealings and contacts within the black markets. For Seona's plan to work they need to get their hands on some gold-pressed latinum. Selling most of the anti-mater would help them raise the needed latinum for the final stages of Seona's plan. Maura couldn't deny the fact that for them to reach their goal, they had to get passed nearly a dozen Starfleet ships that were searching for them. The odds were not in their favor and this guy seemed like their only hope. It was no easy task and Maura knew it.

It in that moment that Ricard rushed on to the Susquehanna calling out for the sisters. He turned from the entrance just in time to catch a startled Maura with a mek'leth in hand. Maura had learned to use the Klingon weapon during her assignments with Imperial Klingon Defense Forces. Startled by Ricard's rushed entrance, Maura had jumped up from her chair sending PADs across the deck of the Susqeuhanna. Her stance was a clear indication that she was more than ready for combat. Ricard rose his hands in a non-threatening manner, "Burier your blade Oversider" he said with a hasten breath. Maura nodded as she lowered the blade but didn't put it away. Maura didn't like being surprised. "We have trouble" he said as he tried to catch his breath. "A group of bounty hunters are coming."

Maura's face twisted with anger, "bounty hunters? how?"

"Tet" he said softly as his voice came under control. Tet was an out spoken local who didn't agree with helping the two fugitives. While Tet was out spoken against the sisters, he had never posed a threat to them before. It was clear now, that he had become a threat. Ricard continued, "he has a friend who works for these bounty hunters. I suspect that he sent a message to them telling them that you were here. Warned them about you and that you are trapped here." Ricard still held his hands in a non-threatening manner.

Maura nodded as her mind switched to that of a Marine Officer. "Okay, how many and how much time do we have." She had to weigh her options.

Ricard lowered his hands as he spoke, "Five of them coming this way. All heavily armed. They landed just beyond the city an hour ago. They left two more are guarding their ship. They are moving through the ruins as we speak. My men will hold them off for you to escape."

Maura knew that Seona would not approve of Ricard and his people becoming involved in this. Even if they need the help of the locals. She shook her head, "no, inform your people to keep clear of all of this. You have done more than enough for us. There is no need for any more involvement from you or your people." She knew that it would take an hour to bring the Susquehanna's engines on line. So running was out of the question. She had only one choice, to fight. Still, in that choice she knew she had a wild card. "Tell me, do you know how many are they looking for?"

"One" Ricard said plainly. "They were only told of your sister. You are a shadow to them." Because Tet disliked the situation, he had never came aboard the runabout. Because she was so busy during the repairs, Maura never had a chance to leave the runabout. Because of this, he never saw Maura and thus was not able to warn the bounty hunters of her. This was her wild card, the bounty hunters would not suspect crossing paths with a Starfleet marine. The plan was already forming in her head as she smiled, 'Well Jack, it looks like we shall cross paths again. May you enjoy defeat at my hands once more' Maura thought as she nodded.

"Good. Thank you Ricard" she said coming up with a plan, "Go and help them. Tell them that you and your people were forced you to give Seona aid. Give me about thirty minutes to get ready for them. If you can avoid it, do not tell them about me." She said moving back to the control panel and started the sequence that would bring the engines up to full power. "If you have to, tell them everything. Do not place your people in any further danger." Maura explained as she noted the count down clock which told her that she had wait one hour till the engines were ready.

Ricard nodded, "Oversider" he said to Maura's back, "You Earthers might call it luck. I say the Great Rocks brought you two here. I hope you and your sister to stop this war before more suffer. You both can count on us" he said with a smile and a nod

Maura nodded as she turned to face him. She stepped forward as she switched her mek'leth to her off hand and held out her right hand for him, "I want you to know Undersider, that I was wrong when I said that we shouldn't help you and your people. You Undersiders, are good and honest people. I am honored that we dug together here." The two shook hands and exchanged a moment of respect before Ricard turned to rush from the runabout.

Maura turned to the Co-pilot chair and smiled as she saw the compression phaser rifle resting in the chair. "Well it looks like I still wont have a chance to use you yet" she said while holding her mek'leth. This coming battle would all be close quarters where her lower numbers would give her the advantage. Getting the rifle was something that Seona didn't agree with, but Maura convinced Seona of it. Maura had asked Ricard, who was more than happy to, to recover the weapon from the marine base for Maura. Maura activated the perimeter sensors of the runabout and sealed the two doors. At the same time, she killed all the lighting within the ship. This was going to be a dirty, nasty battle and those bounty hunters wouldn't know what hit them.

On that note Maura picked up the rifle and turned to walk towards the aft section of the runabout. In her mind, Maura was working on her plan to fight back the bounty hunters. However a scream from Seona brought Maura back to a heighten sense of alert. She rushed off the flight deck and towards the aft section of the runabout. Maura's heart raced as she ran the short distance to the only crew quarters on the runabout. She saw Seona on the bed thrashing about as Seona screamed out in pain. Maura ran over to the bed and slid on her knees to the edge of the bed. There was clearly concern in Maura's eyes over the condition of her sister.

Maura tried to comfort Seona and bring the trashing arms under control. However, Seona was in a state of panic as she tossed and turned nearly violently. Seona's eyes shifted across the room as she continued to fight off some unseen attacker. With each new scream, Maura face filled with dread. Maura tried to hold her sister but Seona thrashed out more, preventing Maura from holding her down. Changing her plan, Maura leaned back on her heels grabbing Seona's bag by the strap. She pulled it over to the floor where Maura was kneeling. Maura drove her hand in to the back searching it for some unseen item.

As frustration filled Maura, she took the bag and dumped it out. Her hand's shaking as she searched the contents till she found the hypospray with red liquid in the bottle. "Shhhhhh" Maura said as she pulled Seona close and held her tight. It took a few moments for Maura to get Seona under control enough to use the hypo. Seona continued to fight through this unseen nightmare as Maura fought to control Seona's arms. Seona seemed to be lost between some nightmare world and that of the real world. Maura pressed the hypospray up to Seona's neck and activated the medical device. Maura held the spray to Seona's neck long enough for the dose to be injected in to Seona's body.

Within seconds Seona calmed down as Maura continued to hold her tight. Seona seemed to slip back in to a state of sleep as Maura pulled her sister close. Maura held her sister tightly but a surprise came over her face. Maura's eyes widened as she pulled her hand back from Seona's back. Her hand was covered in blood. Maura couldn't explain the blood as she looked completely confused. Seona's back was completely covered in her own blood and fresh wounds as if she had been whipped and beaten for hours. Maura's eyes filled with anger and pain as she looked closer at the fresh wounds.

"Oh Blessed Goddess, what have they done to you?" Maura said softly as she pulled the bruised and bloody Seona close. She looked down at Seona's back to see several clear lines of blood showing through Seona's shirt. There was no way Seona would be helpful in repelling the bounty hunters. Maura reached over and grabbed a Dermal regenerator. She activated the device as it projected a bluish glow. Carefully, Maura hovered the device over the multiple cuts and bruises, "Baby, I am so sorry I can't protect you from this" Maura said as she rocked Seona. Within seconds the wounds started to heal but Maura knew that Seona would need more long term medical treatment as many of these wounds were too deep for the Dermal regenerator to heal.

Seona gave off a deep sigh as she drifted back in to the realm of sleep. Maura rested her head on Seona's head as a tear fell from Maura's closed eye and landed on Seona's cheek. "Oh baby, what did they do to you in that nightmare place." Maura said as she continued to rock her sister.

Time seemed to slip away as Maura held her sister close and comforting her. Just over that of a whisper, Maura hummed a child's melody for her sleeping sister. Maura hated what those people at Starfleet Medical had done to her sister. It wasn't till after Seona had stolen the runabout that Maura had joined her sister on this mission. Before that, Maura was serving with the Marines as they fought back forces of the Dominion. By the time Maura had joined her sister, Seona had already escaped that so called Medical Facility and was on the run from those who were trying to kill her. Seona never talked about what happened during her stay at the medical facility or why they were separated, but Maura had her own assumptions. To think that Maura was risking her life to save the Federation against the Dominion. It made Maura angry, but Seona begged Maura to help her.

Maura almost forgot about the loaming danger of the bounty hunters till the computer alerted Maura of hostiles approaching the runabout. Maura turned her head and nodded, "Sit this one out baby sister." Maura said as she carefully placed Seona back in to the bed. "I will take care of those who would do you harm" Maura said as she pulled the blanket over Seona. Once more, Maura would go in to the breach. But this time it would be in defense of her own family instead of for loyalty of the Federation. She knew in her heart that the Three Goddess would see her through this day. She picked up her mek'leth and turned to walk out of the room. It was time to stand and fight. This day, Maura was going to win.

Stardate: 53835.2
Within the system: UIH-0351
Asteroid Field, Search Sector Gama Three
Jolly Roger Squadron
Commander Bonham, Commanding

The VF-84 Squadron AKA the Jolly Rogers, was formed under Starfleet Command's order to create Starfleet's first dedicated carrier based fighter squadron. The order called for three wings of Starfleet's brand new Valkryie fighters, with the first wing being deployed to the USS Thunderchild for Admiral Ross' promotion ceremony. It was Commander Bonham's suggestion to name the Squadron after elite naval squadron from Earth's history. Because of this suggestion, the tail section of each fighter bares a black field with a white symbol of the skull and cross bones. A handful of elite pilots within Starfleet were hand picked to become members of Starfleet's first elite fighter squadron. Even before leaving dry dock, VF-84 were making news as they mastered their skills across the Sol system. This was as much for publicity as it was for actually training.

"So does anyone have any idea how long we are going to be chasing these ghosts out here?" the voice of Lieutenant, Junior Grade Paula Pender spoke over the comlink. The tension in her voice was clear to hear even for those in the flight operation center aboard the Thunderchild. Since the accident that nearly claimed five of their comrades, the tension of the pilots were reasonably high. Lieutenant Pender was a veteran of the last months of the Dominion War and one of the first few pilots to be selected for this elite unit. During the war, her assignment was piloting a Peregrine-class fighter. The same kind of fighters that makes up the Thunderchild's VA-164 Squadron. Her experience, skill and cool headed approach to piloting made her a easy selection for VF-84.

For nearly eight hours, the six pilots and fighters of VF-84 had been flying long patrols throughout this asteroid field. Without the key use of their Cat Eye scout shuttle, this made their search much more taxing on the pilots. Before this patrol, both Alpha and Beta wings of VA-164 Squadron AKA the Ghost Riders, each ran their own eight hour patrols. The flight crews of the Thunderchild were becoming a bit trigger happy and jumpy as they continued to chase sensor ghosts across this system. While the patrols were not overly long, it was piloting in and out of these asteroid fields that was racking havoc on their nerves. Operations in deep space were not overly difficult. However in an asteroid field where sensors were not fully operational, things became a million times more complicated. Not only did the pilot have to track their own flight path, but monitor two dozen other objects moving in completely different directions. It was taking its toll on the pilots of the Thunderchild's air group.

Cadet Treasach laughed, "When the Admiral has enough scans of each Asteroid. I think he means to find one without a name." The Benzite cadet was only a months prior to his graduation of Starfleet Academy's first class of fighter pilots. Despite his age and lack of field experience it was his skill on the 'stick' earned him a place in the prestigious VF-84 Squadron. Commander Bonham saw him during training and requested to have the Cadet do his Cadet Cruise aboard the USS Thunderchild. "Maybe the Admiral might want us to name an asteroid after him."

The laughter filled the com-channel as the other pilots took to the joke. That was, all but one. "Alright, focus on our mission everyone," snapped Commander Bonham. His voice was not characteristic and held more than a hint of frustration. "We started this mission with six fighters, I am not about to loose one because someone is too busy cracking jokes." The stern voice of Commander Bonham brought the laughter to a stop. He had decided to personally lead this flight. It was the Admiral's suggestion that he take command of the search for a nearby runabout or from flight operations. Anything but directly in command of these missions. However Commander Bonham was a hands on leader. He had led the first flight took a four hour break after speaking with Noonia and now was back leading this search group.

Without a Commander of Air Group assigned to the Thunderchild, Commander Bonham was asked to fill in during this crisis. He wasn't sure if Admiral Tate would allow him to remain in that role or not. But for the moment, Commander Bonham was responsible for these pilots. He would not send them in to harms way without his leadership paving the way. Because of his role as Commander of Air Group, Commander Bonham had taken a few liberties that were already getting under Admiral Tate's skin. Namely leading this missions personally. But Captain Campbell had gone to bat for him and Bonham recorded in his personal log his respect for the Campbell and gratitude for the honor of being named CAG of the Thunderchild, regardless of how long it lasted. Still there was a mission to be carried out. No one in VF-84 thought the Susquehanna was still in system. But if it was, Bonham would find it. If for nothing else, than for his captain.

"Sir!" Lieutenant Junior Grade Etxebarria spoke with a high pitched 'r' sound in her voice. The Caitian is the only member of Skull Squadron who had trained with the fighters during their development. "I am tracking a target that matches the energy signature of our runabout" she explained. Each of her 'r' seem to roll with her statement. "Target at 128 by 31 by 079. Speed is....74,770 km/s" Lieutenant Etxebarria was another Dominion War veteran pilot. Like Lieutenant Pender, she was also a experienced Peregrine fighter pilot with a number of kills under her belt. Originally she had planned on leaving Starfleet but it was Commander Bonham who had convinced her to renew her commission and join the Jolly Rogers.

"Commander, I have the target as well" the voice of Lieutenant Josef Ferrer cut in. Lieutenant Ferrer was the ranking officer of the Jolly Rogers. During the war, he was known for being reckless and too brash. However it was an intervention by Commander Bonham who saved his career. Now, the seasoned pilot has become a bit tempered by his experiences. "I think if we fall back, we could maintain our sensor lock while the Ready One squadron deploys to support us" Lieutenant Farrer explained. It was the standard plan that had been ordered by the CIC. Which was right from the books as to how to handle situations like this. The orders were clear, everything was to be done by the books. No unnecessary risks were to be taken. This order came right down from the Admiral himself. But Bonham knew that none of this would be by the books. After all, those books were written by Admirals who were using tactics that were nearly fifty years old.

Sure the orders were sound and ensured that each patrol had enough back up should they stumble across the stolen runabout. It was the safest of plans and ensured that no pilot would find themselves out matched with the stolen runabout. However it forced the pilots to give up valuable time in exchange for waiting for the ready one squadron to arrive on location. In the past twelve hours, they had two sensor contacts with what they believed was the stolen runabout during the second set of patrols. But by the time the ready one squadron arrived on station, the contact vanished deeper in to the asteroid field before visual contact could be made. It became clear to the pilots that this was going to be a cat and mouse game. And it was only adding to the frustration of the pilots.

There was a pause over the com-channel as the pilots knew what falling back meant. Another chance for the contact to vanish before visual contact can be made. "Negative" Commander Bonham finally said. Each of the other two times the contact showed up Commander Bonham had wished he was there to make the call, but he wasn't. However right now, he was here to make this call. "We are going to get a visual on this contact" the Commander added. After a few seconds he added, "Farrer, I want you to take the rest of the Squadron ahead on a wide L pattern. Run your sensors as wide as you can. Make sure you are easily tracked."

He paused a moment before adding, "I will take Ensign Noguerra with me" he said speaking of Ensign Ã‰taÃn Noguerra. A brand new graduate of Starfleet Academy as a shuttle pilot and one of the newer members to the squadron. The reason behind her addition to the squadron was a mystery even to her. "We will dip low and circle that big asteroid at the far side. Once on the other side of that asteroid, we should have a clean line of sight on our contact. This way we can at least we can see what we are chasing out here.

Over the com-channel a voice broke in from the USS Thunderchild's Combat Information Control or CIC. "Be advised Jolly Rogers, you are to fall back. We are deploying the Ready One Squadron at this time. Do not risk an encounter without backup. Is this clear?" The voice was stern and easily understood. The order was completely by the book and Commander Bonham knew that this would allow the contact to vanish once more.

Commander Bonham shook his head. Once more he spoke up, "Negative. CAG's Discretion. We are going to make visual contact with this sensor contact. Then we will fall back and wait for the Ready One Squadron." While on the surface, it did appear that Commander Bonham was ignoring his orders. Honoring a CAG's Discretion to command his Air Group while they were aloft was a time honored tradition going back to the days when sea going carriers sent warplanes in to harms way back in the 20th Century. A tradition that had not been part of Starfleet before and one that may not be part of Starfleet now. It was something that Commander Bonham didn't really care about. The only thing Commander Bonham was concerned about was how Admiral Tate would handle having his orders ignored. 'That will have to be up to the captain to handle. For now we are going to find out if we are wasting our time or not.' Commander Bonham thought. As he didn't wait for the CIC to confirm his plan his switched his attention to the task at hand, "Farrer, you have your orders. Ensign Noguerra, you are on my six. Let's go find this runabout." He turned his fighter over on its wings and banked hard away from the rest of the group.

Lieutenant Farrer acknowledged the orders as he took command of the rest of the squadron while Ensign Noguerra broke in over the com-channel, "Aye Sir!" Her fighter broke hard over as she took up her position behind Commander Bonham's own fighter. The squadron split up in to two groups as they increased speed towards the ghostly image on their sensors. Within seconds Bonham and Noguerra's fighters both vanished from all sensors. At the same time, the rest of VF-84 lit up the area with their own sensors. It was nearly impossible for anyone to miss the fighter group as they circled wide around the asteroid.

Back aboard the USS Thunderchild Admiral Tate looked up at Captain Campbell as the five officers who are assigned to the CIC fell silent. All eyes fell upon Admiral Tate who didn't seem to like his orders being ignored. Bonham was taking a major risk by disobeying the orders, and Captain Campbell knew it. But Campbell had his CAG's back. With a nod to the Admiral, Campbell ensured that the Admiral would remain silent. Admiral Tate had faith in his officers, including Commander Bonham. Still, it was clear that this issue was not over. But for now, the plan would continue.

Carrier operations were still very new to Starfleet and Admiral Tate had a lot riding on this operation. There were still a lot of learning on all levels to be had. The Admiral took in a deep breath as his eyes shifted back to the view screens as everyone returned to their duties. He slowly let out his anger and watched helpless as the operation played out before them. "Your man better be right Captain, or I will have his career." Admiral Tate whispered at a level that only Captain Campbell could hear.

Meanwhile back in the cockpit, Commander Bonham pushed the throttle forward as he started to take the fighter to its maximum speed. He knew that he had to clear this large asteroid field before the rest of the squadron reached the outer edge of sensor shadow. If he didn't the sensor contact would flee the area and his plan would fail to gain a visual contact. It was critical for him and Ensign Noguerra to be in position to spot the contact while the rest of the squadron caused it to flee deeper in to the field. "Hang with me Noguerra" he said noting that she was falling back a bit. "You are doing fine" he encouraged. He also wanted to put this young pilot to her tests, just as he will with all the other members of this elite squadron.

The situation was understandably frightful as the two fighters were becoming dangerously close to the asteroid that they sped through their orbit. Their speed were being increased as the gravity field of the asteroid was starting to sling them around. It was just as Commander Bonham's planned. On the far side of the Asteroid and beyond the shadow of it, the rest of the Squadron were making a wide sweep. Beyond the Asteroid, the sensor contact started to react to the rest of the squadron moving to remain out of visual contact. In doing so, moving in to position for Commander Bonham and his wingman to catch sight of it. Time was ticking down as the three sensor groups switched to a much more dangerous game of cat and mouse.

"Sir, aren't we pushing it a bit too fast" the nervous voice of Ensign Noguerra spoke up. Her Irish accent was thick as well as her fears. While the Flight Operations couldn't track the pair of fighters, they could hear everything that was said between them. They also knew how the fighters were reacting to the speed and untested maneuver.

Commander Bonham checked his own sensors. She was right, they were pushing the very limits of the fighters, but he knew the fighters could take it. "Its okay Ensign. We are going to conduct a simple roll. Lets put the asteroid under us" he ordered. He knew that piloting was one part skill, one part luck and one part perception. In their current angle, their large cockpit window was filled with a giant rock. While they didn't need to the window, it could be unnerving for the rookie pilot. By inverting their fighters, the asteroid would be out of sight and thus a bit more out of mind. He carefully executed the roll and watched as his wingman followed suit. "There you go" he said softly, "feeling better, Ensign?"

Her voice seem to be a bit more steady now, "Aye Sir." It was still clear that her nerves were still pushed to their limits. Still he knew that she was a good officer and would follow her commander.

Commander Bonham checked the data being streamed in from the rest of the squadron. Their current position kept them out of sensor contact with the target or the rest of the squadron. This also meant that the contact didn't have sensor contact with the two fighters either. "Two minutes, thirty five seconds, Ensign." Commander Bonham said. He saw the medical data on his wingman and knew that her heart rate was still dangerously high. "Tell me Ensign. Back at the Academy, did you take Commander Lindquist's Combat Maneuvering Course" Commander Bonham asked. He knew the answer to his question but wanted to get her mind off of the risks of their dangerous operation.

Her voice was still filled with fear, "Aye Sir."

"Commander Lindquist and I are good friends" he said speaking of his former shipmate. While their parting wasn't in the best of conditions due to the Thunderchild's final battle. The two men had actually mended their friendship shortly before the Thunderchild had left Utopia Yards. Commander Lindquist had been the unofficial CAG aboard the Thunderchild during the Dominion War. He had personally trained Commander Bonham on space fighter combat. In all practical terms, Commander Lindquist was writing Starfleet's books on Carrier operations and Deep Space Fighter Operations. The two had created a wide range of tactics during the Dominion War that were now being taught at the Academy. It was by Commander Lindquist's recommendation that Ensign Noguerra was assigned to Starfleet's very first active carrier combat fighter group.

"Sir" she said questioning the direction of the conversation. Her voice was starting to ease a bit but that fear was still there.

"That's right Ensign" Commander said softly as he checked his sensors. They were less then twenty meters off the asteroid's surface at speeds that would seem insane. He made a short adjustment to follow a long canyon on the surface and make sure that she was following close to his tail. "He came to me with your training records. Would you like to know what he had to say about you?" Commander Bonham watched her medical scans which indicated that she was still suffering from increased heart rate, higher blood pressure and increased breathing. The pair of fighters zip in and out of the canyon. At times with only a few meters to spare on either wingtip. He noted how her skill was right where he had expected it to be. She hung to his six with the skill of a veteran pilot, just as he knew she could. The thought of how Captain Campbell would react in such maneuvers almost brought a smile to Commander Bonham's face. He made a mental note to take the Captain on a 'familiarization' flight in the near future.

Her voice was still filled with fear, but she never backed off on her wingman. She knew her place in the formation and refused to give up any space between them. Her hands worked over the controls as she followed him through the canyon. Their speeds were now nearly twenty percent faster than the very limits that the fighters were designed to handle. This caused a new wave of fear to raise in her heart. She refocused her attention on her wingman. Her eyes fixed on watching what her commander was doing. "Aye Sir" she said than added, "I never thought he liked me. Because he was always so hard on me."

Commander Bonham checked his sensors and noted only two minutes, five seconds remained in their maneuver, "He told me Ensign, that if the Federation's first fighter unit were to survive the test of time, that it would need natural pilots like you and Cadet Treasach," Bonham said than added, "He also said, that I would be a fool not to assign both of you to this unit. He spoke of you personally though. He told me that you took to flying like most of us take to walking. Something about it being in your blood" he commented then added, "care to explain?"

"Aye Sir" She replied with "one of my ancestors was Lieutenant Commander Eugene Esmonde. A decorated officer with the British Naval Air Arm. He lead the No. 825 Naval Air Squadron's Fairey Swordfish torpedo bombers in an attack against the German battleship Bismarck. Through out my families heritage, there are aviators. Even the helm officer of the NX-2 was related to me. Ever since Commander Lindquist found out about it. He always said that flying was in my blood." She paused for a moment to remember her experiences back at the Academy. "But I had always thought he didn't like me. He said that I was wasting my ability and skills on helm operations and shuttle training. There were times he challenged me to quit. And I am not proud to admit it, but I almost took him up on his offer a couple of times."

"No Ensign, you are mistaken," Bonham said softly as he watched her heart rate steady a bit. "He actually thought very highly of you. He called me a fool for ignoring your skills. Truthfully I wasn't going to assign you to this unit cause you were only trained as a shuttle pilot and helmsman. The two of us argued over you for almost an hour. He finally convinced me to give you a chance. And I am not disappointed in that decision at all. It IS in your blood." Commander Bonham said as he checked his sensors one last time. 'Thirty seconds' he thought, "Okay. Listen up Ensign. We are going to invert once more and push our engines just a bit more. At the end of this canyon we are going to dive away from the asteroid. Before we can do this, we will have to build up the last bit of speed. All I want you to do is watch my tail wings and follow me. Don't focus on any thing else."

"Aye Sir" she said as she started to roll her fighter over. Once more the large asteroid filled her cockpit window. Her heart rate jumped up a bit as the actual distance between her fighter and the large rock was revealed. She looked right in to the tail of her commander's fighter and cleared her mind. She didn't want to admit it, but she was filled with a sense of pride that the man who she had at one point referred to as her mortal enemy had spoken so highly of her.

The twin fighters had rolled over on their wing tips once more as the bluish glow from the engines grew brighter. The force of the increase in their speed pushed them both back against their seats as the inertial dampeners attempted to compensate for the increase in gravitational force on the two pilots. Back at Flight Operations, the computer was signaling the assured destruction of both craft since the beginning of the maneuver. But to the relief of everyone, the two fighters were still intact. The stresses sensors on the fighters were all in red as their speed reached 97,026 kilometers per second. There were more than enough comments of the insanity of the maneuver. To his credit, Admiral Tate kept his silence as he shot a glare at Captain Campbell. It was almost assumed that within any moment the fighters would break apart under the stress.

Back in the cockpits, with the end of the canyon in sight both fighters were pushing beyond the very limits of the craft's design. But like a pair of cool headed skill surgeons, the fighters snaked their way towards the end. Just beyond the asteroid, the sensor contact was already well on its way fleeing for the safety that the deeper asteroid field offered. There was no way the rest of the wing would be able to catch the contact or gain a visual sight on it. The rest of the wing did their part in chasing the target right to where Commander Bonham wanted the target to be at just the right moment.

Within seconds, the pair of fighters rocketed out from behind the asteroid so fast that the contact was not able to react to the appearance of the two fighters. The maneuverer placed the two fighters in clear view of the sensor contact. It also placed them completely cut off from any support from the Ready One Squadron or the rest of their squadron. The dangerous maneuver left the pair of fighters in a position to where they could easily be out gunned by a much larger runabout. But the dangerous maneuver cut off the escape of the target. Meaning that the rest of the wing could be in a position to support them in a matter of moments. That is, if the two fighters could survive long enough for help to arrive. Luckily for the two pilots, survival would not be an issue today.

"DAMNIT!" Commander Bonham cursed as he locked his targeting sensors on the contact. "I have a lock on our runabout" he added in frustration. "CIC, I hope you are seeing this" he said as he scanned the targeting drone. The screens within Flight Operations lit up with what the Commander was seeing. He switched the safeties off on his pulse phasers and targeted it. "I am done playing!" He said as he watched the highly maneuverable drone attempt to flee the two fighters. Anger filled his eyes as he pulled the trigger on his stick. The twin pulse phaser fire destroyed the drone in a bright light that lit up his cockpit. "CIC, be advised that we have located and destroyed one targeting drone. Give my squadron one hour and I bet we will find the other sensor contacts to be drones as well."

Admiral Tate didn't bother to speak as he just waved his hand. He turned to walk out of the CIC with a look of anger over his face. It was clear that once more, he had been made a fool of again. This was becoming personal for him. "Captain Campbell, deploy the rest of the fighters and all other assets. Lets follow the Commander's lead. Inform all Commands within the search group that the Susquehanna had escaped the system." Originally he had wanted to play it more safe to avoid being led in to further traps. However with the brash and bold actions of Commander Bonham, it was clear that the runabout was not here. It was only a matter of proving the findings. "Find the rest of those drones, damnit" he ordered. Even his long time friend, Captain Campbell knew better than to comment. "In the time being, Captain, you have the command of the fleet. I have to place a report to Starfleet Command" he added.

Within the hour, with the full scope of the Thunderchild deployed, two other Targeting Drones would be discovered and destroyed. The hunt was done with little care for any possible traps that might have been laid. With the search over and no further sightings of the runabout and no other traps found, it was clear that the Susquahanna was no longer in the system. The only questions that remained were where she disappeared to and how long ago did she manage to flee. Unofficially, the hopes of locating the lost runabout would fall to an idea by Commander V'rol.]]> Stardate: 53834.65
Ruins of Logan City
World: Terra Nova (Eta Cassiopeia III)
Location: Eta Cassiopeia star system, Sector 004, Alpha Quadrant

Maura set in the pilot's chair of the Susquehanna going over the repair reports of the work completed. The sisters started the repairs during the late night hours after they first arrived, the repairs continued throughout the following day and in to that night. Thanks to the added help of the Novians, Seona and her sister were able to complete the vital repairs to their stolen runabout. As she scanned her notes of the past few hours, she would best described that time as organized and effective while repairs on the Susquehanna were carried out. Maura didn't like the idea of sitting still for these repairs but there was no other choice. The damages demanded that the repairs be made. The fact that Maura was able to limp the Susquehanna to Terra Nova was a testament to her skill as a Marine pilot.

Before today, the sisters had relied on a long lists of preset tricks and traps that had been created and laid out by Seona ahead of time. Now those tricks had been either used or could no longer be trusted to still be in place. Maura knew that her skills as a pilot were going to be more in demand than ever before. The entire 4th Fleet was out there searching for the sisters and they still had light years to go. The road ahead did seemed all but impossible, yet Seona had explained how important it was that they complete this journey. That the fate of the Federation and billions of innocent people depended on their success. While Seona kept most of what she knew all others, what did tell the Novians about their critical mission gave them a sense of pride that they were helping the sisters. Because of their generosity and compassion, the Novians bestowed their respect and assistance on the sisters. It was not long till the sisters were called, "suitable Oversiders."

Maura went over the repairs that had been completed. The list was long but Maura was grateful that nearly all of the repairs were completed. Despite their best efforts, some components were too badly damaged and needed to be replaced. Luckily Seona was able to convert parts from a few damaged shuttles to help create suitable replacement parts for the Susquehanna. More importantly they were able to restock the runabout's supply of mirco-torpedoes. This was thanks to Maura's knowledge of the nearby ruins of a Starfleet Marine training base. It was from that base that Maura was able to secure a Tricobalt device to forward Seona's end game plan.

Despite the completed repairs, Seona's offer to help the Novians left the Susquehanna's Deuterium reserves were nearly spent. Despite all of the work done to repair the runabout, without Deuterium the ship was nearly helpless. A situation that Seona wrote off as unimportant and one that Maura hated. The pair argued over the issue twice during repairs. Both times, Seona had this belief that their needs would be met along the way. Seona couldn't explain it, but somehow she knew that their needs would be met. She pointed out that it was by her trust in their path which brought them to Terra Nova and this turned out to be a blessing. Seona begged her sister to understand and not be worried. Maura on the other hand made her concerns well known. Not worrying about something like this was beyond the highly trained Marine.

With parts from the Marine base, they were also able to repair a broken sub-space transceiver for the Novians. Ricard decided to keep the current situation on Terra Nova silent till after the sisters had fled the world. Despite the offer of Ricard to hide the sisters, there were still fears. Any moment a Starfleet ship could enter orbit. In reaction to this fear, they did their best to shield the Susquehanna's energy signature by taking the engines and power sources off line. It was a hard choice for Maura to make because that meant that the engines would be taken to a zero state. This meant that restarting the engines would take valuable time. Time that Maura feared they didn't have. However, the benefit of this action was that the runabout could not be detected from orbit by its energy signature. From orbit, the Susquehanna would be able to blend in with the surrounding city.

Using her Marine training, Maura had a large camouflage net erected over the runabout to protect the ship from visual scans. From inside the runabout, Maura organized both repairs of the ship as well as defensive operations. She worked closely with Lethan, Ricard's oldest son, on matters of defense. Lethan turned out to be a surprise for Maura. The man was not only attractive but a quick learner in terms of space combat. Because Maura was not longer giving Starfleet any assumptions about under estimating them, Maura was desperate to keep the odds in their favor. Lethan came up with a very clever plan that could help the sisters in a pinch.

His idea was to beam their captured anti-mater in a wide dispersal pattern behind the runabout. Once the beaming was completed, the anti-mater would react with the surrounding space and cause micro explosions. Not enough to do severely damage a larger ship but enough to blind that ship and confuse weapon targeting sensors. Maura liked the way Lethan thought and worked with him to hammer out this plan. It was more than enough to catch any captain off guard. Especially one who was in close pursuit of them. This little trick could prove to be the deference between life or death for the sisters. Maura knew that the game had changed and the odds were mounting against them.

Clever tricks alone would not save them in any future encounter with Starfleet. Maura wanted to find a way to straighten the shields. Working closely with Seona and Lethan, the three of them came up with a very Novian way to increase the runabout's shields. They stripped the shield emitters off of two shuttles and added them to the Susquehanna. With all three sets of emitters working at full power, it wouldn't be long before the entire grid was blown out. However during a very short period of time the Susquehanna would be able to take two times more damage than anyone would suspect. Just long enough to make an escape from a future Starfleet trap.

For all of her abilities at the helm, Maura knew that the Susquehanna could never out run a Starfleet ship in straight line chase. Nor could it hope to win in a armed engagement. Any future encounter had to be limited in time. This was because Starfleet ships would be on stand by to quickly react to any sighting of the stolen runabout. No, Maura was not going to underestimate Starfleet's ability to organize and carry out an effective search and capture. She knew that they would focus on neutralizing the runabout and even possibly beaming them off of the craft against their will. Maura thought long and hard of any possible way they could escape an escalated encounter with Starfleet. To her disappointment there were none. For Maura, this meant only one thing. That they had no choice but to avoid the next set of encounters all together. There was simply no other choice.

Luckily for them, the Novians were kind enough to provide the sisters with the latest Federation updates regarding their stolen runabout. Sadly these reports were not the same as the ones that were issued to Starfleet vessels. But they were more than what the sisters had before landing on Terra Nova. The updates were those issued to Federation and civilian boomers in the area. According to these updates, Starfleet placed the location of the Susquehanna over a dozen light years away, and badly crippled. Noting the repairs that were completed and their actual location, the reports were far from actuate. This information helped the sisters plot their next heading along their over all goal. A goal that Seona kept to herself. For now, all Maura knew was that they had to reach the badlands. That was their current objective. Despite working closely with Ricard and Lethan, the sisters never spoke of their plans and none of the Novians asked.

Maura was able to find a hole in Starfleet's search pattern. She knew almost right away that it was a trap. However knowing it was a trap meant that she could use that to her advantage. There was still a sensor drone that had not used yet close enough to be useful. Maura thought that it could be used to trip the trap. No she was not expecting Starfleet to fall for that trick again. In fact she was counting on them not to fall for that again. If Maura's plan worked out, then she and Seona could avoid another encounter with Starfleet altogether. Maura studied the locations of some of Starfleet ships in the area. Her training and close working relationship with many of these captains gave her an advantage. As dark as the situation might seem, there were rays of light peeking through these clouds. And they were not about to allow the darkness to prevent them from seeing these rays of hope.

One such ray of hope was that Ricard had a name of a boomer captain that had often helped the Novians in the past. He was a trusted friend that traveled these parts regularly. The boomer captain was a smuggler that had worked with the Bajoran Resistance then later with the Maquis. The captain knew trade routes and also knew how to move without drawing suspicion. With the help of this name, Maura was able to create a plan to help them escape the current search area and move closer to their next objective. As Seona would put it, it was another ray of hope and that they could be grateful. Maura would be grateful once they had completed their tasks and no longer on the run from Starfleet. She didn't like this situation at all.

Even with this name, it was far from a sure thing though. It still required the sisters to convince this captain to agree to help them. Ricard could only promise that the captain would be willing to listen to the sisters' plan. He would not promise that the captain would agree to help. It wasn't much but Maura wasn't complaining. With all the help they got from the Novians and now this gift, it was all more than enough to give Maura some hope that they might actually reach the end of this road, where ever that might be. For their help, the Novians could easily find themselves in trouble with Starfleet and even possibly the Federation.

Maura found that the Federation's reports regarding their limited supply of micro-torpedoes being expended during their battle with Admiral Tate to be miss leading. However she wanted to ensure that this misinformation played in to their favor. She would focus on realigning the four phaser emitters so to spare her torpedoes. In keeping this a secret could help out in an unavoidable encounter. Then there was the lone Tricobalt device. While Seona had her plans for the device, Maura didn't want to write it off just yet. Though the Susquehanna was not equipped to fire device, Maura could still find it useful. These surprises could help turn the odds within any future encounter with Starfleet towards the favor of Maura and her sister.

By the falling nightfall, the Susquehanna was back up to nearly full power again. Far more than what anyone would suspect after the reports of the damage the runabout suffered at the hands of the Valley Forge. Maura had an idea to play in to this assumption. While she wasn't about to underestimate Starfleet, she hoped that the reports issued to the Boomers would be at least similar to those that were issued to Starfleet ships as well. According to those reports, the Susquehanna was badly damaged and lacked not only full power but shields as well. A fact that was no longer true and one that Maura hoped she could use to their advantage. Drawing on what they knew of the ships in the search group, Maura knew that they couldn't relay solely on speed. But the Susquehanna still had a much higher maneuverability over all the ships in the search grid.

Maura turned in the pilot's chair as she switched to the PADS holding the design specs of their opponents. There were four classes of ships that they had to be concerned with. As Maura studied each class, she knew that each held their own advantage and disadvantage. She knew that each of these captains would be studying the Susquehanna and her abilities. Maura had to ensure that she knew each ship that they could face as well as their crews. While Seona slept in the back of the runabout, Maura spent her night studying what Starfleet was planning to send against them. Luckily for the sisters, Admiral Tate was a proud officer and wouldn't ask for help until he was sure that he was over his head. This meant two important fact would remain true till the bitter end. That the 4th Fleet would be the only unit used to find them. And secondly, that there would not be any ships of the latest technology within the search area. Well that was excluding the USS Thunderchild. But Maura was hoping that the Thunderchild would not play a key role in any of this. She didn't like the idea of going up against the man she still loved.

Maura first looked at five Ambassador-class ships assigned to the search pattern. Namely the USS Zhukov, NCC-26136, who had been spotted by a boomer less than three hours ago near Trill. The Zhukov was captained by a seasoned officer but her crew was mostly cadets and a few training officers. Then there was the aging USS Merrimac NCC-1715, a old Enterprise-class ship pushed back in to service during the hight of the Dominion War. The Merrimac was leading a group of scout ships near Plexion Nebula. The scout ships with their large powerful sensor arrays could prove to expose any movement that the Susquehanna were to make within the nebula. These scouts could move through the nebula and give chase, but their lower warp speed didn't make them much of a threat to the Susquehanna. The largest threat of this group was the Merrimac. Even with her haul being nearly a hundred years old, the Merrimac was more than a match for the runabout. The ship's crew were all veterans and had prove themselves under fire during the Dominion War. It was this group that Maura was counting on the play their part in her plan for them to escape.

Then there is the six Excelsior-class ships of Foxtrot Squadron running search patterns that spanned nearly fifty light years. Each of them could easily over power and over take the Susquehanna in just about any encounter. They posed almost the greatest of threats to the sisters and their over all plans. Scatted along the next three sectors, getting past these six ships would be difficult. 'But not impossible,' Maura thought as she scanned over the specs of the ships. Maura scanned the reports of where these ships were as she took a sip of her tea. The music played softly in the background. Maura had always found Celtic music relaxing. She leaned her head back as she soaked in the music for a moment. She could see the sectors of space in her mind. The ships and their projected movements. Getting past them would not be easy if they were still on station. She needed the Merrimac to expect Seona and her to keep playing their sensor drone tricks.

'They will have to expect the Susquehanna to try to runaway from the search grid,' Maura thought as she closed her eyes. She knew that Foxtrot Squadron was Admiral Tate's way of trying to force them in to running and turn this in to a race of speed. One that the Susquehanna could never hope to win. She listened to the music as her mind played out the different possible outcomes where they crossed paths with one of those Excelsiors. There was no way to limit an encounter with Foxtrot Squadron. The unit had to be moved if they were to reach the Bad Lands. She picked up the last PAD and sighed heavily. The single largest threat to them was the USS Thunderchild. Despite the lack of fanfare for her launch just a few days ago, Boomers across the sectors were all talking about the Federation's first dedicated carrier. Maura knew the captain better than anyone out there. He was brilliant and for them dangerous. She would not expect him to fall for any simple trick of the mind.

Maura had always known that the Thunderchild was going to be a threat to them. And now, Admiral Tate was placing the Thunderchild in play. The positioning of the carrier meant that it could quickly respond to just about any course that the Susquehanna could make. This limited Maura's options and she knew that this was Admiral Tate's over all plan. To force the sisters in to making a desperate flight away from the Thunderchild. And thus pinning the Susquehanna in between the Excelsiors and either one of the other two groups. But knowing the plan meant that Maura could plot her next action around it. Admiral Tate would not move the Thunderchild till he had some kind of confirmation of the runabout's location. Distance was what Maura needed on the carrier.

Sightings of the Thunderchild placed her making high warp for Admiral Tate's stricken group. Knowing where the Thunderchild was, was of vital importance to Maura. While in any other encounter, it would pit the runabout against another single ship. An encounter with the Thunderchild would pit the runabout against a large mother ship and numbers of equally matched smaller craft. Alone the Thunderchild and her wings of fighters could easily entrap the Susquehanna in any foreseeable encounter. The more Maura thought of the number of possible encounters, the odds never seemed to be on the Susquehanna's side. No matter what Maura thought of, the end results would be the same. The Susquehanna would find herself entrapped in a running pursuit with anywhere between five to ten fighters while the Thunderchild organized the capture from a distance. She opened her eyes, "Caught between the anvil" she said thinking of the carrier and its fighter wings, "and a hammer" she said speaking of Foxtrot Squadron.

The only way to keep ahead of Starfleet was to not have an encounter with the Thunderchild. It was just that simple, and Maura knew it. Captain Jackson would not be the kind of man to simply fall victim to some trick. She knew him all too well. She wouldn't be surprised if at this very moment, he was studying her own military record. "Tell me Jack" she whispered, "Do you remember us now?" She said closing her eyes. "Tell me Jack, can you feel me thinking of you in this moment." she continued to whisper to herself. "Do you remember how we would play our games of hide and seek? How I used to always beat you." She smiled as she remembered those found memories. Maura opened her eyes once more and returned her mind to the specs of both types of fighters that the Thunderchild carried. She shook her head, "We have to avoid the Thunderchild. At all cost." she said as she set the PAD down and picked up another data pad. "I wonder if you will remember me now Jack" she said as a smile crossed her lips.

Maura's eyes scanned the specs of an Antares-class freighter as a smile crossed her lips. The ship had been modified to maintain a warp factor of seven for long periods of time. Much faster than the Susquehanna and this could help them make up for some lost time. But most importantly, according to Ricard, his friend had dealings and contacts within the black markets. For Seona's plan to work they need to get their hands on some gold-pressed latinum. Selling most of the anti-mater would help them raise the needed latinum for the final stages of Seona's plan. Maura couldn't deny the fact that for them to reach their goal, they had to get passed nearly a dozen Starfleet ships that were searching for them. The odds were not in their favor and this guy seemed like their only hope. It was no easy task and Maura knew it.

It in that moment that Ricard rushed on to the Susquehanna calling out for the sisters. He turned from the entrance just in time to catch a startled Maura with a mek'leth in hand. Maura had learned to use the Klingon weapon during her assignments with Imperial Klingon Defense Forces. Startled by Ricard's rushed entrance, Maura had jumped up from her chair sending PADs across the deck of the Susqeuhanna. Her stance was a clear indication that she was more than ready for combat. Ricard rose his hands in a non-threatening manner, "Burier your blade Oversider" he said with a hasten breath. Maura nodded as she lowered the blade but didn't put it away. Maura didn't like being surprised. "We have trouble" he said as he tried to catch his breath. "A group of bounty hunters are coming."

Maura's face twisted with anger, "bounty hunters? how?"

"Tet" he said softly as his voice came under control. Tet was an out spoken local who didn't agree with helping the two fugitives. While Tet was out spoken against the sisters, he had never posed a threat to them before. It was clear now, that he had become a threat. Ricard continued, "he has a friend who works for these bounty hunters. I suspect that he sent a message to them telling them that you were here. Warned them about you and that you are trapped here." Ricard still held his hands in a non-threatening manner.

Maura nodded as her mind switched to that of a Marine Officer. "Okay, how many and how much time do we have." She had to weigh her options.

Ricard lowered his hands as he spoke, "Five of them coming this way. All heavily armed. They landed just beyond the city an hour ago. They left two more are guarding their ship. They are moving through the ruins as we speak. My men will hold them off for you to escape."

Maura knew that Seona would not approve of Ricard and his people becoming involved in this. Even if they need the help of the locals. She shook her head, "no, inform your people to keep clear of all of this. You have done more than enough for us. There is no need for any more involvement from you or your people." She knew that it would take an hour to bring the Susquehanna's engines on line. So running was out of the question. She had only one choice, to fight. Still, in that choice she knew she had a wild card. "Tell me, do you know how many are they looking for?"

"One" Ricard said plainly. "They were only told of your sister. You are a shadow to them." Because Tet disliked the situation, he had never came aboard the runabout. Because she was so busy during the repairs, Maura never had a chance to leave the runabout. Because of this, he never saw Maura and thus was not able to warn the bounty hunters of her. This was her wild card, the bounty hunters would not suspect crossing paths with a Starfleet marine. The plan was already forming in her head as she smiled, 'Well Jack, it looks like we shall cross paths again. May you enjoy defeat at my hands once more' Maura thought as she nodded.

"Good. Thank you Ricard" she said coming up with a plan, "Go and help them. Tell them that you and your people were forced you to give Seona aid. Give me about thirty minutes to get ready for them. If you can avoid it, do not tell them about me." She said moving back to the control panel and started the sequence that would bring the engines up to full power. "If you have to, tell them everything. Do not place your people in any further danger." Maura explained as she noted the count down clock which told her that she had wait one hour till the engines were ready.

Ricard nodded, "Oversider" he said to Maura's back, "You Earthers might call it luck. I say the Great Rocks brought you two here. I hope you and your sister to stop this war before more suffer. You both can count on us" he said with a smile and a nod

Maura nodded as she turned to face him. She stepped forward as she switched her mek'leth to her off hand and held out her right hand for him, "I want you to know Undersider, that I was wrong when I said that we shouldn't help you and your people. You Undersiders, are good and honest people. I am honored that we dug together here." The two shook hands and exchanged a moment of respect before Ricard turned to rush from the runabout.

Maura turned to the Co-pilot chair and smiled as she saw the compression phaser rifle resting in the chair. "Well it looks like I still wont have a chance to use you yet" she said while holding her mek'leth. This coming battle would all be close quarters where her lower numbers would give her the advantage. Getting the rifle was something that Seona didn't agree with, but Maura convinced Seona of it. Maura had asked Ricard, who was more than happy to, to recover the weapon from the marine base for Maura. Maura activated the perimeter sensors of the runabout and sealed the two doors. At the same time, she killed all the lighting within the ship. This was going to be a dirty, nasty battle and those bounty hunters wouldn't know what hit them.

On that note Maura picked up the rifle and turned to walk towards the aft section of the runabout. In her mind, Maura was working on her plan to fight back the bounty hunters. However a scream from Seona brought Maura back to a heighten sense of alert. She rushed off the flight deck and towards the aft section of the runabout. Maura's heart raced as she ran the short distance to the only crew quarters on the runabout. She saw Seona on the bed thrashing about as Seona screamed out in pain. Maura ran over to the bed and slid on her knees to the edge of the bed. There was clearly concern in Maura's eyes over the condition of her sister.

Maura tried to comfort Seona and bring the trashing arms under control. However, Seona was in a state of panic as she tossed and turned nearly violently. Seona's eyes shifted across the room as she continued to fight off some unseen attacker. With each new scream, Maura face filled with dread. Maura tried to hold her sister but Seona thrashed out more, preventing Maura from holding her down. Changing her plan, Maura leaned back on her heels grabbing Seona's bag by the strap. She pulled it over to the floor where Maura was kneeling. Maura drove her hand in to the back searching it for some unseen item.

As frustration filled Maura, she took the bag and dumped it out. Her hand's shaking as she searched the contents till she found the hypospray with red liquid in the bottle. "Shhhhhh" Maura said as she pulled Seona close and held her tight. It took a few moments for Maura to get Seona under control enough to use the hypo. Seona continued to fight through this unseen nightmare as Maura fought to control Seona's arms. Seona seemed to be lost between some nightmare world and that of the real world. Maura pressed the hypospray up to Seona's neck and activated the medical device. Maura held the spray to Seona's neck long enough for the dose to be injected in to Seona's body.

Within seconds Seona calmed down as Maura continued to hold her tight. Seona seemed to slip back in to a state of sleep as Maura pulled her sister close. Maura held her sister tightly but a surprise came over her face. Maura's eyes widened as she pulled her hand back from Seona's back. Her hand was covered in blood. Maura couldn't explain the blood as she looked completely confused. Seona's back was completely covered in her own blood and fresh wounds as if she had been whipped and beaten for hours. Maura's eyes filled with anger and pain as she looked closer at the fresh wounds.

"Oh Blessed Goddess, what have they done to you?" Maura said softly as she pulled the bruised and bloody Seona close. She looked down at Seona's back to see several clear lines of blood showing through Seona's shirt. There was no way Seona would be helpful in repelling the bounty hunters. Maura reached over and grabbed a Dermal regenerator. She activated the device as it projected a bluish glow. Carefully, Maura hovered the device over the multiple cuts and bruises, "Baby, I am so sorry I can't protect you from this" Maura said as she rocked Seona. Within seconds the wounds started to heal but Maura knew that Seona would need more long term medical treatment as many of these wounds were too deep for the Dermal regenerator to heal.

Seona gave off a deep sigh as she drifted back in to the realm of sleep. Maura rested her head on Seona's head as a tear fell from Maura's closed eye and landed on Seona's cheek. "Oh baby, what did they do to you in that nightmare place." Maura said as she continued to rock her sister.

Time seemed to slip away as Maura held her sister close and comforting her. Just over that of a whisper, Maura hummed a child's melody for her sleeping sister. Maura hated what those people at Starfleet Medical had done to her sister. It wasn't till after Seona had stolen the runabout that Maura had joined her sister on this mission. Before that, Maura was serving with the Marines as they fought back forces of the Dominion. By the time Maura had joined her sister, Seona had already escaped that so called Medical Facility and was on the run from those who were trying to kill her. Seona never talked about what happened during her stay at the medical facility or why they were separated, but Maura had her own assumptions. To think that Maura was risking her life to save the Federation against the Dominion. It made Maura angry, but Seona begged Maura to help her.

Maura almost forgot about the loaming danger of the bounty hunters till the computer alerted Maura of hostiles approaching the runabout. Maura turned her head and nodded, "Sit this one out baby sister." Maura said as she carefully placed Seona back in to the bed. "I will take care of those who would do you harm" Maura said as she pulled the blanket over Seona. Once more, Maura would go in to the breach. But this time it would be in defense of her own family instead of for loyalty of the Federation. She knew in her heart that the Three Goddess would see her through this day. She picked up her mek'leth and turned to walk out of the room. It was time to stand and fight. This day, Maura was going to win.

Stardate: 53835.2
Within the system: UIH-0351
Asteroid Field, Search Sector Gama Three
Jolly Roger Squadron
Commander Bonham, Commanding

The VF-84 Squadron AKA the Jolly Rogers, was formed under Starfleet Command's order to create Starfleet's first dedicated carrier based fighter squadron. The order called for three wings of Starfleet's brand new Valkryie fighters, with the first wing being deployed to the USS Thunderchild for Admiral Ross' promotion ceremony. It was Commander Bonham's suggestion to name the Squadron after elite naval squadron from Earth's history. Because of this suggestion, the tail section of each fighter bares a black field with a white symbol of the skull and cross bones. A handful of elite pilots within Starfleet were hand picked to become members of Starfleet's first elite fighter squadron. Even before leaving dry dock, VF-84 were making news as they mastered their skills across the Sol system. This was as much for publicity as it was for actually training.

"So does anyone have any idea how long we are going to be chasing these ghosts out here?" the voice of Lieutenant, Junior Grade Paula Pender spoke over the comlink. The tension in her voice was clear to hear even for those in the flight operation center aboard the Thunderchild. Since the accident that nearly claimed five of their comrades, the tension of the pilots were reasonably high. Lieutenant Pender was a veteran of the last months of the Dominion War and one of the first few pilots to be selected for this elite unit. During the war, her assignment was piloting a Peregrine-class fighter. The same kind of fighters that makes up the Thunderchild's VA-164 Squadron. Her experience, skill and cool headed approach to piloting made her a easy selection for VF-84.

For nearly eight hours, the six pilots and fighters of VF-84 had been flying long patrols throughout this asteroid field. Without the key use of their Cat Eye scout shuttle, this made their search much more taxing on the pilots. Before this patrol, both Alpha and Beta wings of VA-164 Squadron AKA the Ghost Riders, each ran their own eight hour patrols. The flight crews of the Thunderchild were becoming a bit trigger happy and jumpy as they continued to chase sensor ghosts across this system. While the patrols were not overly long, it was piloting in and out of these asteroid fields that was racking havoc on their nerves. Operations in deep space were not overly difficult. However in an asteroid field where sensors were not fully operational, things became a million times more complicated. Not only did the pilot have to track their own flight path, but monitor two dozen other objects moving in completely different directions. It was taking its toll on the pilots of the Thunderchild's air group.

Cadet Treasach laughed, "When the Admiral has enough scans of each Asteroid. I think he means to find one without a name." The Benzite cadet was only a months prior to his graduation of Starfleet Academy's first class of fighter pilots. Despite his age and lack of field experience it was his skill on the 'stick' earned him a place in the prestigious VF-84 Squadron. Commander Bonham saw him during training and requested to have the Cadet do his Cadet Cruise aboard the USS Thunderchild. "Maybe the Admiral might want us to name an asteroid after him."

The laughter filled the com-channel as the other pilots took to the joke. That was, all but one. "Alright, focus on our mission everyone," snapped Commander Bonham. His voice was not characteristic and held more than a hint of frustration. "We started this mission with six fighters, I am not about to loose one because someone is too busy cracking jokes." The stern voice of Commander Bonham brought the laughter to a stop. He had decided to personally lead this flight. It was the Admiral's suggestion that he take command of the search for a nearby runabout or from flight operations. Anything but directly in command of these missions. However Commander Bonham was a hands on leader. He had led the first flight took a four hour break after speaking with Noonia and now was back leading this search group.

Without a Commander of Air Group assigned to the Thunderchild, Commander Bonham was asked to fill in during this crisis. He wasn't sure if Admiral Tate would allow him to remain in that role or not. But for the moment, Commander Bonham was responsible for these pilots. He would not send them in to harms way without his leadership paving the way. Because of his role as Commander of Air Group, Commander Bonham had taken a few liberties that were already getting under Admiral Tate's skin. Namely leading this missions personally. But Captain Campbell had gone to bat for him and Bonham recorded in his personal log his respect for the Campbell and gratitude for the honor of being named CAG of the Thunderchild, regardless of how long it lasted. Still there was a mission to be carried out. No one in VF-84 thought the Susquehanna was still in system. But if it was, Bonham would find it. If for nothing else, than for his captain.

"Sir!" Lieutenant Junior Grade Etxebarria spoke with a high pitched 'r' sound in her voice. The Caitian is the only member of Skull Squadron who had trained with the fighters during their development. "I am tracking a target that matches the energy signature of our runabout" she explained. Each of her 'r' seem to roll with her statement. "Target at 128 by 31 by 079. Speed is....74,770 km/s" Lieutenant Etxebarria was another Dominion War veteran pilot. Like Lieutenant Pender, she was also a experienced Peregrine fighter pilot with a number of kills under her belt. Originally she had planned on leaving Starfleet but it was Commander Bonham who had convinced her to renew her commission and join the Jolly Rogers.

"Commander, I have the target as well" the voice of Lieutenant Josef Ferrer cut in. Lieutenant Ferrer was the ranking officer of the Jolly Rogers. During the war, he was known for being reckless and too brash. However it was an intervention by Commander Bonham who saved his career. Now, the seasoned pilot has become a bit tempered by his experiences. "I think if we fall back, we could maintain our sensor lock while the Ready One squadron deploys to support us" Lieutenant Farrer explained. It was the standard plan that had been ordered by the CIC. Which was right from the books as to how to handle situations like this. The orders were clear, everything was to be done by the books. No unnecessary risks were to be taken. This order came right down from the Admiral himself. But Bonham knew that none of this would be by the books. After all, those books were written by Admirals who were using tactics that were nearly fifty years old.

Sure the orders were sound and ensured that each patrol had enough back up should they stumble across the stolen runabout. It was the safest of plans and ensured that no pilot would find themselves out matched with the stolen runabout. However it forced the pilots to give up valuable time in exchange for waiting for the ready one squadron to arrive on location. In the past twelve hours, they had two sensor contacts with what they believed was the stolen runabout during the second set of patrols. But by the time the ready one squadron arrived on station, the contact vanished deeper in to the asteroid field before visual contact could be made. It became clear to the pilots that this was going to be a cat and mouse game. And it was only adding to the frustration of the pilots.

There was a pause over the com-channel as the pilots knew what falling back meant. Another chance for the contact to vanish before visual contact can be made. "Negative" Commander Bonham finally said. Each of the other two times the contact showed up Commander Bonham had wished he was there to make the call, but he wasn't. However right now, he was here to make this call. "We are going to get a visual on this contact" the Commander added. After a few seconds he added, "Farrer, I want you to take the rest of the Squadron ahead on a wide L pattern. Run your sensors as wide as you can. Make sure you are easily tracked."

He paused a moment before adding, "I will take Ensign Noguerra with me" he said speaking of Ensign Ã‰taÃn Noguerra. A brand new graduate of Starfleet Academy as a shuttle pilot and one of the newer members to the squadron. The reason behind her addition to the squadron was a mystery even to her. "We will dip low and circle that big asteroid at the far side. Once on the other side of that asteroid, we should have a clean line of sight on our contact. This way we can at least we can see what we are chasing out here.

Over the com-channel a voice broke in from the USS Thunderchild's Combat Information Control or CIC. "Be advised Jolly Rogers, you are to fall back. We are deploying the Ready One Squadron at this time. Do not risk an encounter without backup. Is this clear?" The voice was stern and easily understood. The order was completely by the book and Commander Bonham knew that this would allow the contact to vanish once more.

Commander Bonham shook his head. Once more he spoke up, "Negative. CAG's Discretion. We are going to make visual contact with this sensor contact. Then we will fall back and wait for the Ready One Squadron." While on the surface, it did appear that Commander Bonham was ignoring his orders. Honoring a CAG's Discretion to command his Air Group while they were aloft was a time honored tradition going back to the days when sea going carriers sent warplanes in to harms way back in the 20th Century. A tradition that had not been part of Starfleet before and one that may not be part of Starfleet now. It was something that Commander Bonham didn't really care about. The only thing Commander Bonham was concerned about was how Admiral Tate would handle having his orders ignored. 'That will have to be up to the captain to handle. For now we are going to find out if we are wasting our time or not.' Commander Bonham thought. As he didn't wait for the CIC to confirm his plan his switched his attention to the task at hand, "Farrer, you have your orders. Ensign Noguerra, you are on my six. Let's go find this runabout." He turned his fighter over on its wings and banked hard away from the rest of the group.

Lieutenant Farrer acknowledged the orders as he took command of the rest of the squadron while Ensign Noguerra broke in over the com-channel, "Aye Sir!" Her fighter broke hard over as she took up her position behind Commander Bonham's own fighter. The squadron split up in to two groups as they increased speed towards the ghostly image on their sensors. Within seconds Bonham and Noguerra's fighters both vanished from all sensors. At the same time, the rest of VF-84 lit up the area with their own sensors. It was nearly impossible for anyone to miss the fighter group as they circled wide around the asteroid.

Back aboard the USS Thunderchild Admiral Tate looked up at Captain Campbell as the five officers who are assigned to the CIC fell silent. All eyes fell upon Admiral Tate who didn't seem to like his orders being ignored. Bonham was taking a major risk by disobeying the orders, and Captain Campbell knew it. But Campbell had his CAG's back. With a nod to the Admiral, Campbell ensured that the Admiral would remain silent. Admiral Tate had faith in his officers, including Commander Bonham. Still, it was clear that this issue was not over. But for now, the plan would continue.

Carrier operations were still very new to Starfleet and Admiral Tate had a lot riding on this operation. There were still a lot of learning on all levels to be had. The Admiral took in a deep breath as his eyes shifted back to the view screens as everyone returned to their duties. He slowly let out his anger and watched helpless as the operation played out before them. "Your man better be right Captain, or I will have his career." Admiral Tate whispered at a level that only Captain Campbell could hear.

Meanwhile back in the cockpit, Commander Bonham pushed the throttle forward as he started to take the fighter to its maximum speed. He knew that he had to clear this large asteroid field before the rest of the squadron reached the outer edge of sensor shadow. If he didn't the sensor contact would flee the area and his plan would fail to gain a visual contact. It was critical for him and Ensign Noguerra to be in position to spot the contact while the rest of the squadron caused it to flee deeper in to the field. "Hang with me Noguerra" he said noting that she was falling back a bit. "You are doing fine" he encouraged. He also wanted to put this young pilot to her tests, just as he will with all the other members of this elite squadron.

The situation was understandably frightful as the two fighters were becoming dangerously close to the asteroid that they sped through their orbit. Their speed were being increased as the gravity field of the asteroid was starting to sling them around. It was just as Commander Bonham's planned. On the far side of the Asteroid and beyond the shadow of it, the rest of the Squadron were making a wide sweep. Beyond the Asteroid, the sensor contact started to react to the rest of the squadron moving to remain out of visual contact. In doing so, moving in to position for Commander Bonham and his wingman to catch sight of it. Time was ticking down as the three sensor groups switched to a much more dangerous game of cat and mouse.

"Sir, aren't we pushing it a bit too fast" the nervous voice of Ensign Noguerra spoke up. Her Irish accent was thick as well as her fears. While the Flight Operations couldn't track the pair of fighters, they could hear everything that was said between them. They also knew how the fighters were reacting to the speed and untested maneuver.

Commander Bonham checked his own sensors. She was right, they were pushing the very limits of the fighters, but he knew the fighters could take it. "Its okay Ensign. We are going to conduct a simple roll. Lets put the asteroid under us" he ordered. He knew that piloting was one part skill, one part luck and one part perception. In their current angle, their large cockpit window was filled with a giant rock. While they didn't need to the window, it could be unnerving for the rookie pilot. By inverting their fighters, the asteroid would be out of sight and thus a bit more out of mind. He carefully executed the roll and watched as his wingman followed suit. "There you go" he said softly, "feeling better, Ensign?"

Her voice seem to be a bit more steady now, "Aye Sir." It was still clear that her nerves were still pushed to their limits. Still he knew that she was a good officer and would follow her commander.

Commander Bonham checked the data being streamed in from the rest of the squadron. Their current position kept them out of sensor contact with the target or the rest of the squadron. This also meant that the contact didn't have sensor contact with the two fighters either. "Two minutes, thirty five seconds, Ensign." Commander Bonham said. He saw the medical data on his wingman and knew that her heart rate was still dangerously high. "Tell me Ensign. Back at the Academy, did you take Commander Lindquist's Combat Maneuvering Course" Commander Bonham asked. He knew the answer to his question but wanted to get her mind off of the risks of their dangerous operation.

Her voice was still filled with fear, "Aye Sir."

"Commander Lindquist and I are good friends" he said speaking of his former shipmate. While their parting wasn't in the best of conditions due to the Thunderchild's final battle. The two men had actually mended their friendship shortly before the Thunderchild had left Utopia Yards. Commander Lindquist had been the unofficial CAG aboard the Thunderchild during the Dominion War. He had personally trained Commander Bonham on space fighter combat. In all practical terms, Commander Lindquist was writing Starfleet's books on Carrier operations and Deep Space Fighter Operations. The two had created a wide range of tactics during the Dominion War that were now being taught at the Academy. It was by Commander Lindquist's recommendation that Ensign Noguerra was assigned to Starfleet's very first active carrier combat fighter group.

"Sir" she said questioning the direction of the conversation. Her voice was starting to ease a bit but that fear was still there.

"That's right Ensign" Commander said softly as he checked his sensors. They were less then twenty meters off the asteroid's surface at speeds that would seem insane. He made a short adjustment to follow a long canyon on the surface and make sure that she was following close to his tail. "He came to me with your training records. Would you like to know what he had to say about you?" Commander Bonham watched her medical scans which indicated that she was still suffering from increased heart rate, higher blood pressure and increased breathing. The pair of fighters zip in and out of the canyon. At times with only a few meters to spare on either wingtip. He noted how her skill was right where he had expected it to be. She hung to his six with the skill of a veteran pilot, just as he knew she could. The thought of how Captain Campbell would react in such maneuvers almost brought a smile to Commander Bonham's face. He made a mental note to take the Captain on a 'familiarization' flight in the near future.

Her voice was still filled with fear, but she never backed off on her wingman. She knew her place in the formation and refused to give up any space between them. Her hands worked over the controls as she followed him through the canyon. Their speeds were now nearly twenty percent faster than the very limits that the fighters were designed to handle. This caused a new wave of fear to raise in her heart. She refocused her attention on her wingman. Her eyes fixed on watching what her commander was doing. "Aye Sir" she said than added, "I never thought he liked me. Because he was always so hard on me."

Commander Bonham checked his sensors and noted only two minutes, five seconds remained in their maneuver, "He told me Ensign, that if the Federation's first fighter unit were to survive the test of time, that it would need natural pilots like you and Cadet Treasach," Bonham said than added, "He also said, that I would be a fool not to assign both of you to this unit. He spoke of you personally though. He told me that you took to flying like most of us take to walking. Something about it being in your blood" he commented then added, "care to explain?"

"Aye Sir" She replied with "one of my ancestors was Lieutenant Commander Eugene Esmonde. A decorated officer with the British Naval Air Arm. He lead the No. 825 Naval Air Squadron's Fairey Swordfish torpedo bombers in an attack against the German battleship Bismarck. Through out my families heritage, there are aviators. Even the helm officer of the NX-2 was related to me. Ever since Commander Lindquist found out about it. He always said that flying was in my blood." She paused for a moment to remember her experiences back at the Academy. "But I had always thought he didn't like me. He said that I was wasting my ability and skills on helm operations and shuttle training. There were times he challenged me to quit. And I am not proud to admit it, but I almost took him up on his offer a couple of times."

"No Ensign, you are mistaken," Bonham said softly as he watched her heart rate steady a bit. "He actually thought very highly of you. He called me a fool for ignoring your skills. Truthfully I wasn't going to assign you to this unit cause you were only trained as a shuttle pilot and helmsman. The two of us argued over you for almost an hour. He finally convinced me to give you a chance. And I am not disappointed in that decision at all. It IS in your blood." Commander Bonham said as he checked his sensors one last time. 'Thirty seconds' he thought, "Okay. Listen up Ensign. We are going to invert once more and push our engines just a bit more. At the end of this canyon we are going to dive away from the asteroid. Before we can do this, we will have to build up the last bit of speed. All I want you to do is watch my tail wings and follow me. Don't focus on any thing else."

"Aye Sir" she said as she started to roll her fighter over. Once more the large asteroid filled her cockpit window. Her heart rate jumped up a bit as the actual distance between her fighter and the large rock was revealed. She looked right in to the tail of her commander's fighter and cleared her mind. She didn't want to admit it, but she was filled with a sense of pride that the man who she had at one point referred to as her mortal enemy had spoken so highly of her.

The twin fighters had rolled over on their wing tips once more as the bluish glow from the engines grew brighter. The force of the increase in their speed pushed them both back against their seats as the inertial dampeners attempted to compensate for the increase in gravitational force on the two pilots. Back at Flight Operations, the computer was signaling the assured destruction of both craft since the beginning of the maneuver. But to the relief of everyone, the two fighters were still intact. The stresses sensors on the fighters were all in red as their speed reached 97,026 kilometers per second. There were more than enough comments of the insanity of the maneuver. To his credit, Admiral Tate kept his silence as he shot a glare at Captain Campbell. It was almost assumed that within any moment the fighters would break apart under the stress.

Back in the cockpits, with the end of the canyon in sight both fighters were pushing beyond the very limits of the craft's design. But like a pair of cool headed skill surgeons, the fighters snaked their way towards the end. Just beyond the asteroid, the sensor contact was already well on its way fleeing for the safety that the deeper asteroid field offered. There was no way the rest of the wing would be able to catch the contact or gain a visual sight on it. The rest of the wing did their part in chasing the target right to where Commander Bonham wanted the target to be at just the right moment.

Within seconds, the pair of fighters rocketed out from behind the asteroid so fast that the contact was not able to react to the appearance of the two fighters. The maneuverer placed the two fighters in clear view of the sensor contact. It also placed them completely cut off from any support from the Ready One Squadron or the rest of their squadron. The dangerous maneuver left the pair of fighters in a position to where they could easily be out gunned by a much larger runabout. But the dangerous maneuver cut off the escape of the target. Meaning that the rest of the wing could be in a position to support them in a matter of moments. That is, if the two fighters could survive long enough for help to arrive. Luckily for the two pilots, survival would not be an issue today.

"DAMNIT!" Commander Bonham cursed as he locked his targeting sensors on the contact. "I have a lock on our runabout" he added in frustration. "CIC, I hope you are seeing this" he said as he scanned the targeting drone. The screens within Flight Operations lit up with what the Commander was seeing. He switched the safeties off on his pulse phasers and targeted it. "I am done playing!" He said as he watched the highly maneuverable drone attempt to flee the two fighters. Anger filled his eyes as he pulled the trigger on his stick. The twin pulse phaser fire destroyed the drone in a bright light that lit up his cockpit. "CIC, be advised that we have located and destroyed one targeting drone. Give my squadron one hour and I bet we will find the other sensor contacts to be drones as well."

Admiral Tate didn't bother to speak as he just waved his hand. He turned to walk out of the CIC with a look of anger over his face. It was clear that once more, he had been made a fool of again. This was becoming personal for him. "Captain Campbell, deploy the rest of the fighters and all other assets. Lets follow the Commander's lead. Inform all Commands within the search group that the Susquehanna had escaped the system." Originally he had wanted to play it more safe to avoid being led in to further traps. However with the brash and bold actions of Commander Bonham, it was clear that the runabout was not here. It was only a matter of proving the findings. "Find the rest of those drones, damnit" he ordered. Even his long time friend, Captain Campbell knew better than to comment. "In the time being, Captain, you have the command of the fleet. I have to place a report to Starfleet Command" he added.

Within the hour, with the full scope of the Thunderchild deployed, two other Targeting Drones would be discovered and destroyed. The hunt was done with little care for any possible traps that might have been laid. With the search over and no further sightings of the runabout and no other traps found, it was clear that the Susquahanna was no longer in the system. The only questions that remained were where she disappeared to and how long ago did she manage to flee. Unofficially, the hopes of locating the lost runabout would fall to an idea by Commander V'rol.]]> <![CDATA[Act Two, Scene Two]]> http://www.orlandogamers.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=185 Tue, 26 Aug 2014 03:09:29 -0700 Akirapryde]]> http://www.orlandogamers.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=185 Stardate: 53832.8
Ruins of Logan City
World: Terra Nova (Eta Cassiopeia III)
Location: Eta Cassiopeia star system, Sector 004, Alpha Quadrant

Located less than 20 light years from the Sol system, Terra Nova was an inhabited M class planet with at least two moons. As their first extrasolar colony, Terra Nova was colonized by Humans in 2078, who would later refer to themselves as Novans. There were several native animal species on the planet, including a type of burrowing animal, referred to by the Novans as a digger, as well as flying animals.

By 2069, Humans had already established themselves within their own solar system, having founded New Berlin on the Moon, Utopia Planitia on Mars, and a few asteroid bases. Deep space became the next frontier for the species, and the question began to be asked: "Could Humans colonize deep space?"

Terra Nova was discovered in the mid-21st century by astronomers working for the Space Agency. Due to its proximity to Earth, the decision was made to establish a colony on the planet. The success of such a colony was considered uncertain from the start, and the expedition became known as "the Great Experiment."

Captain Mitchell was selected to lead the expedition. Nearly two hundred colonists, made up of specialists and families, would be selected to join him on this mission. The journey to Terra Nova from Earth would take nine years at the warp speeds attainable in that period. The SS Conestoga was commissioned for the task, and was specially constructed so that it could be dismantled on arrival to serve as homes and service buildings for the colony.

The Conestoga arrived at her destination on June 23, 2078. Captain Mitchell oversaw the groundbreaking for the colony shortly thereafter. The very first transmissions from the colony were broadcast worldwide on Earth, and the population watched entranced as Humanity made its first claim on the cosmos.

The colony proved to be amazingly successful, a fully-functioning community on a world in deep space. Earth grew interested in repeating the experience. Working from the position that "nothing succeeds like success," the heads of the Space Agency announced their intentions to launch a second ship full of colonists to Terra Nova.

The colonists already living on Terra Nova were not amenable to the idea of now having to share the home they'd struggled to build. An organized opposition arose, led by a man named Mark Logan. By 2083, relations with Earth became severely strained, culminating with Logan's transmitting threats of violence upon any ships that entered the planet's orbit.

Tragically, that was the last message received from Terra Nova. Earth lost contact with the colony shortly thereafter. The Space Agency decided that it didn't have the resources to launch an investigation, and it was decided that the fate of the Terra Nova colony would have to remain a mystery. However the colony was rediscovered In 2151, by a landing party from the NX-01 Enterprise discovered the irradiated remains of the colony, and it was determined that the colony had been destroyed by a meteor strike, scattering toxic debris over the region. After a tense situation, Terra Nova allowed United Earth to help rebuild the remains of the colony.

The colony would once more thrive with the help of United Earth. Years following 2151, Military Assault Command Operations (MACO) established a forward training and sentry base on Terra Nova. As the surrounding space joined the Federation so did Terra Nova. Efforts were set out to clean up the world. As United Earth slowly gave up its own independent military to the Federation, it finally turned over its MACO base on Terra Nova to the Federation. The base was abandoned but later reactivated as a state of the art training center for the Starfleet Marines. Throughout the twenty third century, Terra Nova remained Starfleet's primary Marine training center. During the early parts of the twenty forth century, Starfleet Marines moved their basic and advanced training to Earth. Terra Nova's training center was converted to solely support Special Operation Training.

During the Dominion War, Terra Nova had been hit by Breen and Dominion forces. The attack destroyed the Special Operation Training Center and decimated the world's population. After the war, Starfleet and the Federation pushed hard to get much needed supplies to the survivors of Terra Nova. However with so much suffering going around, the Federation resources have been pushed to their very limits. A large number of worlds like Terra Nova were left with only enough to survive as the populations were forced to stand alone while they rebuilt their shattered homes. With only suffering in abundance, Terra Nova struggled on.

Through the thick overcast clouds and down in to the rain swung a Starfleet runabout. Slowly the USS Susquehanna hovered over the remains of the capital of Terra Nova, Logan City. Its large search lights illuminate the destroyed city. The thick rain and light from the runabout cast dancing shadows over what was once a proud city. Slowly the ship continued its low pass over the city till it turned and started to make its descent in the city's central park. The Susquehanna hovered over the grass fields as it seemed to search for the best place to set down. Its landing struts slowly started to show as the runabout lowered its self to the ground. Finally the struts sank in to the mud as the little runabout finished its landing. The rain water washed over the runabout as the engines hummed to a idle state and side lights lit up the hatch.

The side hatch opened up and within moments, out stepped Seona with a sense of wonder and joy on her face. She was dressed in a deep blue shirt that almost looked black in the rain and darkness. She wore a pair of tight form fitting pants that matched her shirt. Around her waist she wore a light blue flowing short skirt. She twirled in the rain with her arms stretched outward and laughed up in to the rain. The air was cool and the rain felt almost cold as it washed over her clothes. "Oh Maura its almost like home."

"Really Seona?" Maura said as she walked up to the side hatch but remained well inside the doorway. Being pure Starfleet Marine to heart, Maura was dressed in her Starfleet Marine combat uniform. "What am I going to do with you. You are going to get sick!"

"You worry too much" Seona said almost laughing while she twirled as if she was on performance. "Oh the rain feels so good. I can't believe how long it has been since I felt rain."

Maura rolled her eyes as she looked disappointed in their location. "Why did you bring us here anyway?"

Seona laughed as she continued to twirl in the rain. She took a moment to paused and smiled back to her sister, "Anyway? We need what is here, Maura."

Maura's sight changed rapidly as she scanned the surrounding area. "Seona we are being watched" she said with warning in her voice. Maura was going to say something more but her sister cut her off.

Seona nodded, "yeah I know." Seona turned and reached her arms out as she allowed her head to raise upward towards the falling rain. "God I love the rain" she said softly as she spun around a bit more. Then she suddenly stopped facing the runabout and Maura, "they're scared of us."

Maura looked confused, "how can you know that?"

Seona shrugged her shoulders, "I don't know. I just know. I can feel their fear. It covers the city like a thick blanket. Hundreds of them in hiding, suffering. Oh goddess, the suffering Maura." There were real tears dripping from her eyes as the rain washed those tears away. Even though the rain was washing away the tears, Maura knew the pain that Seona was feeling.

Maura looked concerned but didn't move from the ship, "are we in danger?"

Maura didn't like the idea of having no personal weapons. In fact they were near defenseless as it stood even with the runabout. The runabout was taken from its scheduled maintenance and because of that, there were no supplies that would have been normally stored aboard the ship. Their supply of mirco-torpedoes had been nearly depleted during their clash Admiral Tate's small battle group. For the most part, the Admiral and his crews saw the battle as largely one sided because the Susquehanna didn't have the fire power to defend its self against the three larger starships. It was because of this perception the crews allowed themselves to think the battle was over long before it ever began. Already the best minds were going over the three ships and would have discovered the virus that had been uploaded to the Repulse four weeks ago. From the Repulse, the virus infected nearly half of the ships of the 4th Fleet. As the review of the battle continued, there was no doubt that this battle was all part of Seona's over all plan.

Seona's plan was to spread out the ships of Admiral Tate's battle group to a point that they could not support each other. She had wanted to engage only Admiral Tate's flagship, but it didn't unfold like that. Still the virus was her ace in the hole. The virus played its part perfectly, but they can't depend on it any more. Even as the Susquehanna was making its approach to to Terra Nova, the virus was being cleaned from the infected ships. It didn't matter though, the damage had been done. Seona's name was on the lips of Admirals and Captains across five sectors. Seona had transformed herself in to a lighting rod and everyone was talking about what secret could have happened on Velos. The genie was out of the bottle. Seona knew in her heart that the next step by those out to silence her would have to be, to kill her.

Seona turned and glanced at the Susquehanna resting in the mud. Rain water ran down her hair as her eyes drifted over to her sister Maura. Maura was standing there just beyond the doorway doing what she could to remain dry. It was a strange feeling knowing that her life was on a fast track to being over. Seona wasn't scared of what was to come anymore. She knew back on Mars that this had to be the logical final act of her play which she had crafted. But at the same time, she worried about Maura. Seona knew that her older sister simply wouldn't be able to understand why the play had to end this way and why Seona didn't tell her everything. Seona didn't say anything as she scanned the area once more with a soft smile. She was comfortable with the fact that her death would be coming soon. With that death would also come the end of the pain. She didn't want to hurt anymore.

But for now, the play had to continue through its next act. Seona looked up once more at the mighty Susquehanna. In silence she walked over to the ship as her clothes continued to get soaked and her leather boots became logged with water and mud. She ran her hand over the ship and sighed heavily. The battle had played out just as Seona wanted it to go. That was except for that last lucky shot from the Valley Forge. A torpedo had nearly crippled the Susquehanna and almost destroyed Seona's plan. Had Maura not thought quickly and fired a last minute mirco-torpedo at the incoming torpedo, the Susquehanna could have been destroyed.

Instead the explosion occurred so closely that the shock wave impacted on Susquehanna's shields. The blast was so close that it nearly knocked out their shields and caused critical damage across Susquehanna's systems. Using all of her skill, Maura was able to out pilot the pursuing shuttles through a near by asteroid field and escape. Luckily, a series of well placed target decoys, programmed to simulate the Susquehanna, left the impression that the runabout was still hiding in the asteroid field. Escaping the system was a stroke of brilliance on Maura's part. She turned the runabout for far side of the system and maxed out the warp engines. The inversion field masked their escape through the system. Using the gravity field of the star, Maura was able to pick up much more speed that what the Susquehanna was capable of at the time. As they approached the edge of the system, Maura killed the warp engines but maintained a stable warp field.

With their engine effectively off line, the Susquehanna was able to coast her way out of the system and well past where Starfleet would be scanning for a warp field. This left Admiral Tate and his group chasing target drones in a sensor weak system. Maura hoped that this would buy them enough time to find a place to set down and conduct repairs. Maura was able to pilot the crippled Susquehanna to the nearby Terra Nova system. It was here that they were hoping to put down for repairs. Still it was only a matter of time before Starfleet would expand its search to include this system. For the first time since they began this play, time was no longer on their side. It was the closest that Starfleet was from capturing them and they knew it. Seona knew that she had to work quickly to get ahead of Starfleet once more. Everything depended on it.

Seona turned back towards the ruins of the city and took in a deep breath. Her body shivered a bit in the cold rain. "Maura, they mean us no harm" Seona said as she looked around. She couldn't see them, but she felt them out there watching them. She wasn't sure how but she knew they were there. "Actually they fear that we mean to hurt them." Seona then turned her eyes back to Maura as she smiled. She almost skipped back to the door of the runabout through the rain. She kicked up her right foot slashing water towards Maura. Seona boarded the ship once more as she pushed her way past Maura, "I have an idea."

Maura remained at the door and watched the surrounding area. She couldn't see them either, but her instincts told her that they were out there. Her tricorder hidden behind the wall of the ship confirmed that the Susquehanna was nearly surrounded by fifty to sixty humanoid lifeforms. She continued to scan the area with her hidden tricorder as she acted as if nothing was wrong. "We need weapons Seona. I told you we should have kept those phasers" Maure said. There was no hiding the fact that Maura was concerned about their safety. She didn't like the idea that they traded their only stash of phasers to an Orion trader for components to build Seona's dampening device.

"Maura, how many times do I have to tell you. We don't need weapons" Seona laughed from somewhere deep in the runabout. Her voice carried through the small ship as she continued. "We got this far without them and we will finish this without the need for them." There was a pause as it sounded as if Seona was looking for something. "Anyway we did pick up those Klingon bladed weapons a few days ago." Seona added as things were being bumped around.

"Oh great, a bat'leth and a pair of mek'leth. When they shot us at range, that will serve us well" Maura said coldly. She didn't like being unarmed like this. She took in a deep breath as she watched the rain wash down the area. There was a sound of victory from Seona causing Maura to add, "what do you have up your sleeve sis"

Seona laughed, "you will see." Seona returned with violin in hand. Seona smiled to her as she pushed passed her older sister and in to the rain once more.

Maura rolled her eyes as she pointed to Seona's bare feet, "Where are your shoes!?"

Seona laughed as she turned to face Maura and kicked up water back towards the runabout. "I love the feel of the mud. Oh there is grass under the water and mud. I can feel it." She let out a joyful laugh as she spun again. "Tell me sis, can you name one invader that invaded with no shoes?" She half danced half twirled as she readied her violin.

Maura continued to look unamused as she shook her head, "I can name a few!" she yelled then lowered her voice to a mumble again "This wont work."

Seona whispered just over the rain "yes it will. Trust me." she closed her eyes as she pictured the music in her mind. She could feel the violin and bow in her fingers as the rain washed down over them. Carefully she plucked at the strings causing the violin to make its music heard. Seona lifted her head to the clouds above as she felt the rhythm building in her mind and heart. She brought the bow across the strings of the violin slowly causing it to let out a soft cry that echoed across the park. The runabout's exterior communication systems amplified the music while adding back up sounds to her music. She didn't rush the tempo of the song as she allowed the wind and rain to carry her music. Slowly as the music built, her body started to sway and move with each new sound that the violin made.

Her body might have been here on Terra Nova, but her mind was lost in memory. Beyond her mind she could see the snowcapped mountains of her childhood home. The sounds of the rain melded with those of a nearby river as her mind created the illusion of home. In her mind, she became lost in that illusion of the past. In her heart and in the present she played to the fullest of her very soul allowed. The violin's music was nearly intoxicating as its notes soared over the sounds of the rainfall. Seona moved around in her dance while she played, kicking up the water on the ground. The water from the rain flung from her body as she spun around. She moved with all the grace of a professional dancer as her song was on par with a major performance.

On the wind the sound of the violin called out for hope as the Susquehanna played its part in the song. Maura watched her tricorder as the numbers around them slowly rose. Across the air, everyone heard the promise of a new day within Seona's song. Seona' just kept her eyes closed as she continued to play while moving further and further away from the safety of the runabout. There was no fear in her heart as she approached to less then a few meters from the onlookers. Her song reached behind their walls and invaded the shadows that they were hiding in. The music reached out to them and touched their hearts. Before them, Seona played without care for her own safety or what harm they might intend her. Before them, they could easily see that this lone woman was no invader.

It didn't take long for a few locals to come out of hiding to see with their own eyes the source of such lovely music. In groups of two and three more locals started to show themselves as Seona continued to play. Children with their parents close behind lead the wave of locals coming from their hiding place. Seona continued to dance almost like a ballerina with her violin on her shoulder and her bow easing each note from it. She danced as the rain washed down on her never letting the joy in her heart slip. That passion could be felt in her music as she drifted from one point to another like a swan gliding over a lake. She moved with no care, no fear. For Seona, there was only hope and promise. Soaked and feet covered in mud, Seona didn't stop playing till her song was over.

Maura blinked her eyes in disbelief, "Son of a bitch, it worked."

As Seona brought the last movement of her bow to a close, one of the locals moved up slowly to her. Seona slowly lowered the violin as she watched the man. She made no movements to startle him or the others. He stopped about two meters from her and she made no attempt to close the distance. For a moment the pair remained silent as she allowed him to scan her soaked body with his eyes.

"You are no Starfleet" he finally ask.

She shook her head as she replied, "No, sir. We are not."

He nodded, "Starbase 74 sent out a warning about you and your stolen runabout. They said you are very dangerous."

She nodded her head as the rain continued to rain down on them, "Its true" she said truthfully. "I stoled that runabout and they do see us as a very dangerous threat" she explained and allowed her voice echo the truth of her heart. "But we mean you and your people no harm. We need to make repairs and gather some things before moving on." Seona looked around, she could feel their suffering. "What can we do to help you?"

The question clearly surprised the man and nearly knocked him off guard. However he recovered and narrowed his eyes, "you mean, what can you do to buy our silence."

Seona shook her head, "No, that's not what I mean" she said truthfully. "Put a call to Starfleet and let them know that we are here. Within hours starships will be in orbit and we will most likely be captured or killed. Then they will leave your people in peace." Seona said calmly. She took a moment before continuing. Her eyes shifted over each face around her. "Call them, if you must or if you already have. This doesn't matter to me. You will do what is best for your people and I wont fault you for that. But your people are in need. So I ask again, what can we do to help?"

Maura, listening to the conversation shook her head, 'great' she thought. 'just go ahead Seona and temp them to rat us out.' Maura said nothing as she stood there watching the conversation. Her hand slipped to the handle of the her knife in the small of her back. Just cause they were near defenseless didn't mean they couldn't go down fighting.

He looked at her with the strangest of looks. He has dealt with fugitives seeking refuge before. For some reason, Terra Nova seemed to attract all kinds of fugitives from the law. Terra Nova had always had a loose style of government making it a place where many thought they could hide. But this pair was different. For some reason, he didn't have the same sense of warning as with others. He nodded as he didn't detect any lies from her. So he choose to be truthful with her. "Even if we wanted to, we can't. Yesterday, we got raided by pirates. They hit us so fast we couldn't even call for help. They took all of our supplies as well as our subspace communication uplink. We are not expecting our next relief ship for weeks. We simply don't have the supplies to make it that long. We are hoping a ship will come by before then."

Seona nodded. "Do you mind if we help" she asked softly as she shifted her feet in the mud. As much as she loved travel, she hated space travel. This had been the first time in months that she could actually feel mother earth beneath her feet.

He looked in her eyes. Seona could see the doubt in his eyes, "what do you want from us in return?"

She smiled softly as she shook her head, "Nothing really. Regardless of what you say, we will do what we can for you and your people. That is, if you don't mind. We would like to stay for a day to make some repairs. With your permission. If you don't mind, we could us some help. When Starfleet arrives, tell them we were here and held you hostage or whatever you wish. However if you desire us to leave, we will. But we would still like to help. Just tell us what you need."

"You know, I could have my people rush you and your friend over there" he pointed out. "Then I could use your own ship to call for help. And collect what ever reward there is on your head."

She knew he couldn't do that. She had already encoded the command controls of the runabout. It was what had protected them from Admiral Tate's attempt to take over their computer. But there was something else to his voice. She knew that he wouldn't do that. Once more, she couldn't explain it, but she could feel that he was a good man at his heart. "You could order such an attack on us, Sir. While I am unarmed, you will find that my sister would put up a struggle. You could possibly capture us. But I don't think you are that kind of man. You know the difference between justice and what's right. We have not wronged you or your people. Nor do we intend to."

He nodded, "One day" he asked softly.

She nodded, "And if you can spare it, some help. It will help us get out of here faster."

He nodded as he stepped forward and reached out with his hand, "Fine, one day. No more."

"Deal," she said as she smiled and took his hand and shook it. On worlds like this, a hand shake was more than enough to seal a deal. Seona smiled as the two locked their eyes. He reminded her of a man that was like a father to her when she was younger. She motioned for him to follow, "My name is Seona and over there is my older sister Maura." Seona said as she motioned over to Maura who still remained in the shuttle.

He looked at Maura, "My name is Ricard Belluomi. After the Dominion attacked our world, I was the one that everyone looked to, to rebuild. So I guess I speak for the people of this world. And this is the first time I have ever seen Starfleet Marine without a weapon." He commented as he pointed out Maura's lack of a weapon.

Maura gave a half smile with a nod. "Never allow what you see to confuse the situation" Maura said as she let go of the knife's handle. She moved to allow her whole body to be seen.

Ricard laughed, "aye, I'm sure." He turned as he motioned that it was all clear. Soon the park was filled with people. "We have a few thousand here and another hundred thousand scattered beyond what remains of the city. We plan to rebuild."

Seona nodded as she looked around. "Maura, can you take a few of them to the replicator and replicate as much medicine and food rations as we can. Bleed our deuterium dry if you have to."

Maura didn't like the idea of using up their reserves but she trusted her sister. With a motion a few locals started to move forward towards the runabout. Ricard also motioned for a few to come forward towards them. "We have a couple of technicians that can help with your repairs. Their not like Starfleet but their still pretty good."

Seona nodded, "thank you for your kindness" she said as she lowered her head in respect. Then turning back to Maura, Seona could see the disapproval on Maura's face. She knew that Maura hated to be put in a tactically disadvantaged situation. Bleeding the runabout's Deuterium reserves dry like this was dangerous. With their Deuterium low like that, if they ran in to even a Starfleet shuttle they could easily be over powered and captured. Speed was their only advantage and now Seona knew that she was putting that at risk. "Maura, please trust me."

Maura rolled her eyes as she motioned for the colonist to follow her in to the runabout. "You know sis, Robin Hood was a ENGLISH Story!" she said with her thick Scottish accent. With that, she vanished in to the runabout as the few colonist followed her in to the runabout.

Seona laughed as she turned to Ricard, "Don't mind my sister. So much of this has been hard on her." she shifted her eyes back to the runabout, "I would have never made it this far without her." Seona said softly with almost a tear in her eye. She knew that there was far more truth to that statement than anyone would ever dream. But she could never admit any of it. Nor could she ever tell Maura the truth of her plan.

Stardate: 53832.8
Just outside of the system: UIH-0351
USS Thunderchild, NCC-63549
Captain Jackson Campbell, Commanding

Hours before arrival, great relief came to Captain Campbell when he contacted Starfleet Command. Starfleet Command notified him that they had already been made aware of the leak of a vital command communication protocol by Admiral Tate. Because of this news, the protocol was quickly and silently removed from circulation days before it was due to go active. The leak revealed an extremely serious threat to Starfleet communication security. They had already begun a separate investigation as to where the leak might have originated from. For Captain Campbell, the report of the leak was more important than the actually discovery of itself.

Upon arrival to UIH-0351, the USS Thunderchild found the Repulse barely under her own power. While the ship didn't appear to have suffered much damage during her short but intense battle with the fugitive runabout, the damage to its computer systems were extensive. The other two ships of the Admiral's group had taken up positions on the far sides of the system. This was done to ensure that they cut off any chances of escape for the Susquehanna. Long range scans in to the system were nearly all but useless, as they could not penetrate the natural inversion field of the system. On the outskirts of the system, Admiral Tate had formed up his shuttles to create a network of sensor stations to lock down the parameter of the system. There were a handful of reports that spotted warp signatures of the Susquehanna within the system. However when his shuttles responded the runabout was long gone.

The transporter room of the Thunderchild was filled with its senior staff. It was not every day that a Vice Admiral was coming aboard. Even more rare was coming to the aid of an Admiral who's ship had just been crippled. Because of the situation, it would normally be all hands on deck in their dress uniforms. Captain Campbell knew his friend better than that. Instead of summoning his crew to their parade posts, he summoned his command staff and a select few officers to the transporter room. He made sure that everyone was in their dress uniform though. Admiral Tate was still a man of traditions and believed heavily in military respects and honors.

Crewman Travert turned his head to Captain Campbell. "Sir, the Repulse is signaling that they are ready to beam the Admiral and his staff over." With a nod from the captain, Crewman Travert activated the transporters and beamed the Admiral and his staff aboard.

Without moving Admiral Tate smiled to his old friend, "Permission to come aboard" he said looking to Captain Campbell.

Captain Campbell nodded, "Permission granted, Admiral."

With that Admiral Tate stepped off of the pad and motioned to his five companions. "Allow me to introduce," he said motioning to a tall human male that Captain Campbell knew well, "Captain Phillips, my Adjutant." Captain Phillips, Captain Campbell and Admiral Tate went back years and were often referred to as the three musketeers. Captain Phillips stepped off the pad as he nodded. He took a few short steps and stood by the wall.

Shifting his hand over, Admiral Tate directed the attention to a Vulcan Captain, "this is Captain Vakath, commander of the Repulse." Like Captain Phillips, Captain Vakath stepped from the pad and took his place next to Captain Phillips. "Those pair" Admiral Tate said directing his hand at a male and female pair of Andorians, "are Commanders Thorta th'Regda and Gevan sh'Faila." The Admiral said with pride, "They are my strategic advisors, fresh from Starfleet's War Collage." As they walked off the platform, Admiral Tate turned to Captain Campbell and joked in a whisper, "If I had listened to them, I don't think I would have needed your help today. This old dog had been taught a bitter lesson yesterday. One I will not soon forget."

He motioned to the last person standing on the transporter platform. A tall male Klingon stood there waiting for his time. "Lastly, we have the honorable Brigadier Kaho. Our Klingon liaison officer from Deep Space Nine." Admiral said as the Klingon stepped off the platform. Admiral Tate added to Captain Campbell, "Thanks to Kaho, we will have three Birds of Prey here by morning to help corner the Susquehanna. But for now, your ship, Captain," Admiral Tate said as he rested his hand on Captain Campbell's shoulder, "is the single most important ship in Starfleet."

With that Admiral Tate turned and smiled, "Computer, Let the record to show, I am transferring my flag to the USS Thunderchild, NCC-63549." With that the Computer acknowledged that the Admiral was now commanding the 4th Fleet from the USS Thunderchild.]]> Stardate: 53832.8
Ruins of Logan City
World: Terra Nova (Eta Cassiopeia III)
Location: Eta Cassiopeia star system, Sector 004, Alpha Quadrant

Located less than 20 light years from the Sol system, Terra Nova was an inhabited M class planet with at least two moons. As their first extrasolar colony, Terra Nova was colonized by Humans in 2078, who would later refer to themselves as Novans. There were several native animal species on the planet, including a type of burrowing animal, referred to by the Novans as a digger, as well as flying animals.

By 2069, Humans had already established themselves within their own solar system, having founded New Berlin on the Moon, Utopia Planitia on Mars, and a few asteroid bases. Deep space became the next frontier for the species, and the question began to be asked: "Could Humans colonize deep space?"

Terra Nova was discovered in the mid-21st century by astronomers working for the Space Agency. Due to its proximity to Earth, the decision was made to establish a colony on the planet. The success of such a colony was considered uncertain from the start, and the expedition became known as "the Great Experiment."

Captain Mitchell was selected to lead the expedition. Nearly two hundred colonists, made up of specialists and families, would be selected to join him on this mission. The journey to Terra Nova from Earth would take nine years at the warp speeds attainable in that period. The SS Conestoga was commissioned for the task, and was specially constructed so that it could be dismantled on arrival to serve as homes and service buildings for the colony.

The Conestoga arrived at her destination on June 23, 2078. Captain Mitchell oversaw the groundbreaking for the colony shortly thereafter. The very first transmissions from the colony were broadcast worldwide on Earth, and the population watched entranced as Humanity made its first claim on the cosmos.

The colony proved to be amazingly successful, a fully-functioning community on a world in deep space. Earth grew interested in repeating the experience. Working from the position that "nothing succeeds like success," the heads of the Space Agency announced their intentions to launch a second ship full of colonists to Terra Nova.

The colonists already living on Terra Nova were not amenable to the idea of now having to share the home they'd struggled to build. An organized opposition arose, led by a man named Mark Logan. By 2083, relations with Earth became severely strained, culminating with Logan's transmitting threats of violence upon any ships that entered the planet's orbit.

Tragically, that was the last message received from Terra Nova. Earth lost contact with the colony shortly thereafter. The Space Agency decided that it didn't have the resources to launch an investigation, and it was decided that the fate of the Terra Nova colony would have to remain a mystery. However the colony was rediscovered In 2151, by a landing party from the NX-01 Enterprise discovered the irradiated remains of the colony, and it was determined that the colony had been destroyed by a meteor strike, scattering toxic debris over the region. After a tense situation, Terra Nova allowed United Earth to help rebuild the remains of the colony.

The colony would once more thrive with the help of United Earth. Years following 2151, Military Assault Command Operations (MACO) established a forward training and sentry base on Terra Nova. As the surrounding space joined the Federation so did Terra Nova. Efforts were set out to clean up the world. As United Earth slowly gave up its own independent military to the Federation, it finally turned over its MACO base on Terra Nova to the Federation. The base was abandoned but later reactivated as a state of the art training center for the Starfleet Marines. Throughout the twenty third century, Terra Nova remained Starfleet's primary Marine training center. During the early parts of the twenty forth century, Starfleet Marines moved their basic and advanced training to Earth. Terra Nova's training center was converted to solely support Special Operation Training.

During the Dominion War, Terra Nova had been hit by Breen and Dominion forces. The attack destroyed the Special Operation Training Center and decimated the world's population. After the war, Starfleet and the Federation pushed hard to get much needed supplies to the survivors of Terra Nova. However with so much suffering going around, the Federation resources have been pushed to their very limits. A large number of worlds like Terra Nova were left with only enough to survive as the populations were forced to stand alone while they rebuilt their shattered homes. With only suffering in abundance, Terra Nova struggled on.

Through the thick overcast clouds and down in to the rain swung a Starfleet runabout. Slowly the USS Susquehanna hovered over the remains of the capital of Terra Nova, Logan City. Its large search lights illuminate the destroyed city. The thick rain and light from the runabout cast dancing shadows over what was once a proud city. Slowly the ship continued its low pass over the city till it turned and started to make its descent in the city's central park. The Susquehanna hovered over the grass fields as it seemed to search for the best place to set down. Its landing struts slowly started to show as the runabout lowered its self to the ground. Finally the struts sank in to the mud as the little runabout finished its landing. The rain water washed over the runabout as the engines hummed to a idle state and side lights lit up the hatch.

The side hatch opened up and within moments, out stepped Seona with a sense of wonder and joy on her face. She was dressed in a deep blue shirt that almost looked black in the rain and darkness. She wore a pair of tight form fitting pants that matched her shirt. Around her waist she wore a light blue flowing short skirt. She twirled in the rain with her arms stretched outward and laughed up in to the rain. The air was cool and the rain felt almost cold as it washed over her clothes. "Oh Maura its almost like home."

"Really Seona?" Maura said as she walked up to the side hatch but remained well inside the doorway. Being pure Starfleet Marine to heart, Maura was dressed in her Starfleet Marine combat uniform. "What am I going to do with you. You are going to get sick!"

"You worry too much" Seona said almost laughing while she twirled as if she was on performance. "Oh the rain feels so good. I can't believe how long it has been since I felt rain."

Maura rolled her eyes as she looked disappointed in their location. "Why did you bring us here anyway?"

Seona laughed as she continued to twirl in the rain. She took a moment to paused and smiled back to her sister, "Anyway? We need what is here, Maura."

Maura's sight changed rapidly as she scanned the surrounding area. "Seona we are being watched" she said with warning in her voice. Maura was going to say something more but her sister cut her off.

Seona nodded, "yeah I know." Seona turned and reached her arms out as she allowed her head to raise upward towards the falling rain. "God I love the rain" she said softly as she spun around a bit more. Then she suddenly stopped facing the runabout and Maura, "they're scared of us."

Maura looked confused, "how can you know that?"

Seona shrugged her shoulders, "I don't know. I just know. I can feel their fear. It covers the city like a thick blanket. Hundreds of them in hiding, suffering. Oh goddess, the suffering Maura." There were real tears dripping from her eyes as the rain washed those tears away. Even though the rain was washing away the tears, Maura knew the pain that Seona was feeling.

Maura looked concerned but didn't move from the ship, "are we in danger?"

Maura didn't like the idea of having no personal weapons. In fact they were near defenseless as it stood even with the runabout. The runabout was taken from its scheduled maintenance and because of that, there were no supplies that would have been normally stored aboard the ship. Their supply of mirco-torpedoes had been nearly depleted during their clash Admiral Tate's small battle group. For the most part, the Admiral and his crews saw the battle as largely one sided because the Susquehanna didn't have the fire power to defend its self against the three larger starships. It was because of this perception the crews allowed themselves to think the battle was over long before it ever began. Already the best minds were going over the three ships and would have discovered the virus that had been uploaded to the Repulse four weeks ago. From the Repulse, the virus infected nearly half of the ships of the 4th Fleet. As the review of the battle continued, there was no doubt that this battle was all part of Seona's over all plan.

Seona's plan was to spread out the ships of Admiral Tate's battle group to a point that they could not support each other. She had wanted to engage only Admiral Tate's flagship, but it didn't unfold like that. Still the virus was her ace in the hole. The virus played its part perfectly, but they can't depend on it any more. Even as the Susquehanna was making its approach to to Terra Nova, the virus was being cleaned from the infected ships. It didn't matter though, the damage had been done. Seona's name was on the lips of Admirals and Captains across five sectors. Seona had transformed herself in to a lighting rod and everyone was talking about what secret could have happened on Velos. The genie was out of the bottle. Seona knew in her heart that the next step by those out to silence her would have to be, to kill her.

Seona turned and glanced at the Susquehanna resting in the mud. Rain water ran down her hair as her eyes drifted over to her sister Maura. Maura was standing there just beyond the doorway doing what she could to remain dry. It was a strange feeling knowing that her life was on a fast track to being over. Seona wasn't scared of what was to come anymore. She knew back on Mars that this had to be the logical final act of her play which she had crafted. But at the same time, she worried about Maura. Seona knew that her older sister simply wouldn't be able to understand why the play had to end this way and why Seona didn't tell her everything. Seona didn't say anything as she scanned the area once more with a soft smile. She was comfortable with the fact that her death would be coming soon. With that death would also come the end of the pain. She didn't want to hurt anymore.

But for now, the play had to continue through its next act. Seona looked up once more at the mighty Susquehanna. In silence she walked over to the ship as her clothes continued to get soaked and her leather boots became logged with water and mud. She ran her hand over the ship and sighed heavily. The battle had played out just as Seona wanted it to go. That was except for that last lucky shot from the Valley Forge. A torpedo had nearly crippled the Susquehanna and almost destroyed Seona's plan. Had Maura not thought quickly and fired a last minute mirco-torpedo at the incoming torpedo, the Susquehanna could have been destroyed.

Instead the explosion occurred so closely that the shock wave impacted on Susquehanna's shields. The blast was so close that it nearly knocked out their shields and caused critical damage across Susquehanna's systems. Using all of her skill, Maura was able to out pilot the pursuing shuttles through a near by asteroid field and escape. Luckily, a series of well placed target decoys, programmed to simulate the Susquehanna, left the impression that the runabout was still hiding in the asteroid field. Escaping the system was a stroke of brilliance on Maura's part. She turned the runabout for far side of the system and maxed out the warp engines. The inversion field masked their escape through the system. Using the gravity field of the star, Maura was able to pick up much more speed that what the Susquehanna was capable of at the time. As they approached the edge of the system, Maura killed the warp engines but maintained a stable warp field.

With their engine effectively off line, the Susquehanna was able to coast her way out of the system and well past where Starfleet would be scanning for a warp field. This left Admiral Tate and his group chasing target drones in a sensor weak system. Maura hoped that this would buy them enough time to find a place to set down and conduct repairs. Maura was able to pilot the crippled Susquehanna to the nearby Terra Nova system. It was here that they were hoping to put down for repairs. Still it was only a matter of time before Starfleet would expand its search to include this system. For the first time since they began this play, time was no longer on their side. It was the closest that Starfleet was from capturing them and they knew it. Seona knew that she had to work quickly to get ahead of Starfleet once more. Everything depended on it.

Seona turned back towards the ruins of the city and took in a deep breath. Her body shivered a bit in the cold rain. "Maura, they mean us no harm" Seona said as she looked around. She couldn't see them, but she felt them out there watching them. She wasn't sure how but she knew they were there. "Actually they fear that we mean to hurt them." Seona then turned her eyes back to Maura as she smiled. She almost skipped back to the door of the runabout through the rain. She kicked up her right foot slashing water towards Maura. Seona boarded the ship once more as she pushed her way past Maura, "I have an idea."

Maura remained at the door and watched the surrounding area. She couldn't see them either, but her instincts told her that they were out there. Her tricorder hidden behind the wall of the ship confirmed that the Susquehanna was nearly surrounded by fifty to sixty humanoid lifeforms. She continued to scan the area with her hidden tricorder as she acted as if nothing was wrong. "We need weapons Seona. I told you we should have kept those phasers" Maure said. There was no hiding the fact that Maura was concerned about their safety. She didn't like the idea that they traded their only stash of phasers to an Orion trader for components to build Seona's dampening device.

"Maura, how many times do I have to tell you. We don't need weapons" Seona laughed from somewhere deep in the runabout. Her voice carried through the small ship as she continued. "We got this far without them and we will finish this without the need for them." There was a pause as it sounded as if Seona was looking for something. "Anyway we did pick up those Klingon bladed weapons a few days ago." Seona added as things were being bumped around.

"Oh great, a bat'leth and a pair of mek'leth. When they shot us at range, that will serve us well" Maura said coldly. She didn't like being unarmed like this. She took in a deep breath as she watched the rain wash down the area. There was a sound of victory from Seona causing Maura to add, "what do you have up your sleeve sis"

Seona laughed, "you will see." Seona returned with violin in hand. Seona smiled to her as she pushed passed her older sister and in to the rain once more.

Maura rolled her eyes as she pointed to Seona's bare feet, "Where are your shoes!?"

Seona laughed as she turned to face Maura and kicked up water back towards the runabout. "I love the feel of the mud. Oh there is grass under the water and mud. I can feel it." She let out a joyful laugh as she spun again. "Tell me sis, can you name one invader that invaded with no shoes?" She half danced half twirled as she readied her violin.

Maura continued to look unamused as she shook her head, "I can name a few!" she yelled then lowered her voice to a mumble again "This wont work."

Seona whispered just over the rain "yes it will. Trust me." she closed her eyes as she pictured the music in her mind. She could feel the violin and bow in her fingers as the rain washed down over them. Carefully she plucked at the strings causing the violin to make its music heard. Seona lifted her head to the clouds above as she felt the rhythm building in her mind and heart. She brought the bow across the strings of the violin slowly causing it to let out a soft cry that echoed across the park. The runabout's exterior communication systems amplified the music while adding back up sounds to her music. She didn't rush the tempo of the song as she allowed the wind and rain to carry her music. Slowly as the music built, her body started to sway and move with each new sound that the violin made.

Her body might have been here on Terra Nova, but her mind was lost in memory. Beyond her mind she could see the snowcapped mountains of her childhood home. The sounds of the rain melded with those of a nearby river as her mind created the illusion of home. In her mind, she became lost in that illusion of the past. In her heart and in the present she played to the fullest of her very soul allowed. The violin's music was nearly intoxicating as its notes soared over the sounds of the rainfall. Seona moved around in her dance while she played, kicking up the water on the ground. The water from the rain flung from her body as she spun around. She moved with all the grace of a professional dancer as her song was on par with a major performance.

On the wind the sound of the violin called out for hope as the Susquehanna played its part in the song. Maura watched her tricorder as the numbers around them slowly rose. Across the air, everyone heard the promise of a new day within Seona's song. Seona' just kept her eyes closed as she continued to play while moving further and further away from the safety of the runabout. There was no fear in her heart as she approached to less then a few meters from the onlookers. Her song reached behind their walls and invaded the shadows that they were hiding in. The music reached out to them and touched their hearts. Before them, Seona played without care for her own safety or what harm they might intend her. Before them, they could easily see that this lone woman was no invader.

It didn't take long for a few locals to come out of hiding to see with their own eyes the source of such lovely music. In groups of two and three more locals started to show themselves as Seona continued to play. Children with their parents close behind lead the wave of locals coming from their hiding place. Seona continued to dance almost like a ballerina with her violin on her shoulder and her bow easing each note from it. She danced as the rain washed down on her never letting the joy in her heart slip. That passion could be felt in her music as she drifted from one point to another like a swan gliding over a lake. She moved with no care, no fear. For Seona, there was only hope and promise. Soaked and feet covered in mud, Seona didn't stop playing till her song was over.

Maura blinked her eyes in disbelief, "Son of a bitch, it worked."

As Seona brought the last movement of her bow to a close, one of the locals moved up slowly to her. Seona slowly lowered the violin as she watched the man. She made no movements to startle him or the others. He stopped about two meters from her and she made no attempt to close the distance. For a moment the pair remained silent as she allowed him to scan her soaked body with his eyes.

"You are no Starfleet" he finally ask.

She shook her head as she replied, "No, sir. We are not."

He nodded, "Starbase 74 sent out a warning about you and your stolen runabout. They said you are very dangerous."

She nodded her head as the rain continued to rain down on them, "Its true" she said truthfully. "I stoled that runabout and they do see us as a very dangerous threat" she explained and allowed her voice echo the truth of her heart. "But we mean you and your people no harm. We need to make repairs and gather some things before moving on." Seona looked around, she could feel their suffering. "What can we do to help you?"

The question clearly surprised the man and nearly knocked him off guard. However he recovered and narrowed his eyes, "you mean, what can you do to buy our silence."

Seona shook her head, "No, that's not what I mean" she said truthfully. "Put a call to Starfleet and let them know that we are here. Within hours starships will be in orbit and we will most likely be captured or killed. Then they will leave your people in peace." Seona said calmly. She took a moment before continuing. Her eyes shifted over each face around her. "Call them, if you must or if you already have. This doesn't matter to me. You will do what is best for your people and I wont fault you for that. But your people are in need. So I ask again, what can we do to help?"

Maura, listening to the conversation shook her head, 'great' she thought. 'just go ahead Seona and temp them to rat us out.' Maura said nothing as she stood there watching the conversation. Her hand slipped to the handle of the her knife in the small of her back. Just cause they were near defenseless didn't mean they couldn't go down fighting.

He looked at her with the strangest of looks. He has dealt with fugitives seeking refuge before. For some reason, Terra Nova seemed to attract all kinds of fugitives from the law. Terra Nova had always had a loose style of government making it a place where many thought they could hide. But this pair was different. For some reason, he didn't have the same sense of warning as with others. He nodded as he didn't detect any lies from her. So he choose to be truthful with her. "Even if we wanted to, we can't. Yesterday, we got raided by pirates. They hit us so fast we couldn't even call for help. They took all of our supplies as well as our subspace communication uplink. We are not expecting our next relief ship for weeks. We simply don't have the supplies to make it that long. We are hoping a ship will come by before then."

Seona nodded. "Do you mind if we help" she asked softly as she shifted her feet in the mud. As much as she loved travel, she hated space travel. This had been the first time in months that she could actually feel mother earth beneath her feet.

He looked in her eyes. Seona could see the doubt in his eyes, "what do you want from us in return?"

She smiled softly as she shook her head, "Nothing really. Regardless of what you say, we will do what we can for you and your people. That is, if you don't mind. We would like to stay for a day to make some repairs. With your permission. If you don't mind, we could us some help. When Starfleet arrives, tell them we were here and held you hostage or whatever you wish. However if you desire us to leave, we will. But we would still like to help. Just tell us what you need."

"You know, I could have my people rush you and your friend over there" he pointed out. "Then I could use your own ship to call for help. And collect what ever reward there is on your head."

She knew he couldn't do that. She had already encoded the command controls of the runabout. It was what had protected them from Admiral Tate's attempt to take over their computer. But there was something else to his voice. She knew that he wouldn't do that. Once more, she couldn't explain it, but she could feel that he was a good man at his heart. "You could order such an attack on us, Sir. While I am unarmed, you will find that my sister would put up a struggle. You could possibly capture us. But I don't think you are that kind of man. You know the difference between justice and what's right. We have not wronged you or your people. Nor do we intend to."

He nodded, "One day" he asked softly.

She nodded, "And if you can spare it, some help. It will help us get out of here faster."

He nodded as he stepped forward and reached out with his hand, "Fine, one day. No more."

"Deal," she said as she smiled and took his hand and shook it. On worlds like this, a hand shake was more than enough to seal a deal. Seona smiled as the two locked their eyes. He reminded her of a man that was like a father to her when she was younger. She motioned for him to follow, "My name is Seona and over there is my older sister Maura." Seona said as she motioned over to Maura who still remained in the shuttle.

He looked at Maura, "My name is Ricard Belluomi. After the Dominion attacked our world, I was the one that everyone looked to, to rebuild. So I guess I speak for the people of this world. And this is the first time I have ever seen Starfleet Marine without a weapon." He commented as he pointed out Maura's lack of a weapon.

Maura gave a half smile with a nod. "Never allow what you see to confuse the situation" Maura said as she let go of the knife's handle. She moved to allow her whole body to be seen.

Ricard laughed, "aye, I'm sure." He turned as he motioned that it was all clear. Soon the park was filled with people. "We have a few thousand here and another hundred thousand scattered beyond what remains of the city. We plan to rebuild."

Seona nodded as she looked around. "Maura, can you take a few of them to the replicator and replicate as much medicine and food rations as we can. Bleed our deuterium dry if you have to."

Maura didn't like the idea of using up their reserves but she trusted her sister. With a motion a few locals started to move forward towards the runabout. Ricard also motioned for a few to come forward towards them. "We have a couple of technicians that can help with your repairs. Their not like Starfleet but their still pretty good."

Seona nodded, "thank you for your kindness" she said as she lowered her head in respect. Then turning back to Maura, Seona could see the disapproval on Maura's face. She knew that Maura hated to be put in a tactically disadvantaged situation. Bleeding the runabout's Deuterium reserves dry like this was dangerous. With their Deuterium low like that, if they ran in to even a Starfleet shuttle they could easily be over powered and captured. Speed was their only advantage and now Seona knew that she was putting that at risk. "Maura, please trust me."

Maura rolled her eyes as she motioned for the colonist to follow her in to the runabout. "You know sis, Robin Hood was a ENGLISH Story!" she said with her thick Scottish accent. With that, she vanished in to the runabout as the few colonist followed her in to the runabout.

Seona laughed as she turned to Ricard, "Don't mind my sister. So much of this has been hard on her." she shifted her eyes back to the runabout, "I would have never made it this far without her." Seona said softly with almost a tear in her eye. She knew that there was far more truth to that statement than anyone would ever dream. But she could never admit any of it. Nor could she ever tell Maura the truth of her plan.

Stardate: 53832.8
Just outside of the system: UIH-0351
USS Thunderchild, NCC-63549
Captain Jackson Campbell, Commanding

Hours before arrival, great relief came to Captain Campbell when he contacted Starfleet Command. Starfleet Command notified him that they had already been made aware of the leak of a vital command communication protocol by Admiral Tate. Because of this news, the protocol was quickly and silently removed from circulation days before it was due to go active. The leak revealed an extremely serious threat to Starfleet communication security. They had already begun a separate investigation as to where the leak might have originated from. For Captain Campbell, the report of the leak was more important than the actually discovery of itself.

Upon arrival to UIH-0351, the USS Thunderchild found the Repulse barely under her own power. While the ship didn't appear to have suffered much damage during her short but intense battle with the fugitive runabout, the damage to its computer systems were extensive. The other two ships of the Admiral's group had taken up positions on the far sides of the system. This was done to ensure that they cut off any chances of escape for the Susquehanna. Long range scans in to the system were nearly all but useless, as they could not penetrate the natural inversion field of the system. On the outskirts of the system, Admiral Tate had formed up his shuttles to create a network of sensor stations to lock down the parameter of the system. There were a handful of reports that spotted warp signatures of the Susquehanna within the system. However when his shuttles responded the runabout was long gone.

The transporter room of the Thunderchild was filled with its senior staff. It was not every day that a Vice Admiral was coming aboard. Even more rare was coming to the aid of an Admiral who's ship had just been crippled. Because of the situation, it would normally be all hands on deck in their dress uniforms. Captain Campbell knew his friend better than that. Instead of summoning his crew to their parade posts, he summoned his command staff and a select few officers to the transporter room. He made sure that everyone was in their dress uniform though. Admiral Tate was still a man of traditions and believed heavily in military respects and honors.

Crewman Travert turned his head to Captain Campbell. "Sir, the Repulse is signaling that they are ready to beam the Admiral and his staff over." With a nod from the captain, Crewman Travert activated the transporters and beamed the Admiral and his staff aboard.

Without moving Admiral Tate smiled to his old friend, "Permission to come aboard" he said looking to Captain Campbell.

Captain Campbell nodded, "Permission granted, Admiral."

With that Admiral Tate stepped off of the pad and motioned to his five companions. "Allow me to introduce," he said motioning to a tall human male that Captain Campbell knew well, "Captain Phillips, my Adjutant." Captain Phillips, Captain Campbell and Admiral Tate went back years and were often referred to as the three musketeers. Captain Phillips stepped off the pad as he nodded. He took a few short steps and stood by the wall.

Shifting his hand over, Admiral Tate directed the attention to a Vulcan Captain, "this is Captain Vakath, commander of the Repulse." Like Captain Phillips, Captain Vakath stepped from the pad and took his place next to Captain Phillips. "Those pair" Admiral Tate said directing his hand at a male and female pair of Andorians, "are Commanders Thorta th'Regda and Gevan sh'Faila." The Admiral said with pride, "They are my strategic advisors, fresh from Starfleet's War Collage." As they walked off the platform, Admiral Tate turned to Captain Campbell and joked in a whisper, "If I had listened to them, I don't think I would have needed your help today. This old dog had been taught a bitter lesson yesterday. One I will not soon forget."

He motioned to the last person standing on the transporter platform. A tall male Klingon stood there waiting for his time. "Lastly, we have the honorable Brigadier Kaho. Our Klingon liaison officer from Deep Space Nine." Admiral said as the Klingon stepped off the platform. Admiral Tate added to Captain Campbell, "Thanks to Kaho, we will have three Birds of Prey here by morning to help corner the Susquehanna. But for now, your ship, Captain," Admiral Tate said as he rested his hand on Captain Campbell's shoulder, "is the single most important ship in Starfleet."

With that Admiral Tate turned and smiled, "Computer, Let the record to show, I am transferring my flag to the USS Thunderchild, NCC-63549." With that the Computer acknowledged that the Admiral was now commanding the 4th Fleet from the USS Thunderchild.]]> <![CDATA[Act Two, Scene One]]> http://www.orlandogamers.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=181 Tue, 05 Aug 2014 12:49:23 -0700 Akirapryde]]> http://www.orlandogamers.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=181 OOC Narrator Note: This Post is to be read along with the supporting Subspace communications at the same time. Please make sure you that you follow the links for the communications while reading.

Sector 004, Northern Corridor
Stardate: 53832.05
Just outside of the system: UIH- 0351
USS Repulse NCC-2544
Vice Admiral David Tate, Commanding

During this time the USS Thunderchild is on the other side of Sector 004 at Starbase 74. With all of her fighters and axillary craft loaded and stored, she is picking up the last of her crew and preparing to get underway once more. It has been an unsettling thirty hours as the USS Susquehanna had some how slipped under the radar and vanished from the sector. The remaining ships of the 4th Fleet had been called up to assist in the search for the stolen runabout. At the current moment all ships and captains have been following the suggestions from Starfleet Medical in regards to the fugitive, Petty Officer Dolores Traver. Sector 004 has been placed on full alert as Starfleet continues to search for their stolen runabout and the fugitive.

All Federation and Starfleet ships in the Sector have been ordered to keep their sensors active for the stolen runabout. Still the runabout has managed to remain hidden from the search ships. A few reports have surfaced but they ended up being wild goose chases as no runabout was confirmed in the area. Reports of the attack on the USS Thunderchild has already been issued. The identity of the person responsible has been suspected as Petty Officer Dolores Traver. The report has also included her file from Starfleet Medical and the nature of her escape from their care. Petty Officer Traver has been described as suffering from delusions and should be considered dangerous. The reports instruct that Starfleet Medical should be contacted once the Susquehanna has been spotted. The chase was on, and Starfleet was not about to allow Petty Officer Traver's flight for freedom to continue much longer.

Within hours of the alert being issued The USS Repulse, under Flag command of Vice Admiral David Tate, has filed a report stating that they have the runabout on their sensors. The Susquehanna had been spotted by the USS Repulse heading at warp for the system, UIH-0351. The system is an uninhabited binary star system that holds a pulsar within it. Due to the nature of the twin stars and their interaction, much of the system is covered in a inversion field. Because of this field, subspace communications and short-range sensors are disrupted. This made traveling at warp within the system dangerous and tracking ships nearly impossible. Once the Susquehanna was spotted it increased its speed to its maximum warp velocity for the system. Even when the Susquehanna pushed maximum warp speeds, the USS Repulse along with her two sister ships could easily be able to catch the runabout before it reached the system.

When the alert hit the Subspace channels, Admiral Tate couldn't help but call off his war games and order his ships in a tight search pattern. During the Dominion War, much of his time was spent as a staff officer to then Vice Admiral Ross. In fact, this was the first time he had commanded a starship since he himself commanded the USS Thunderchild nearly ten years ago. The USS Repulse would normally be commanded by her captain, Captain Vakath. When Admiral Tate struck his flag aboard for the war games, he assumed command of the ship. He has yet to give up that command when the alert was issued.

For Admiral Tate, this was personal. When word came out that an intruder attacked Admiral Ross' previous flagship, Admiral Tate made it his personal mission to get to the bottom of it. Based on what little information Captain Campbell's people were issuing to Star Fleet, they didn't know much about the intruder or her goals. All that the Admiral knew was that this woman attacked one of his ships and was now attempting to escape justice. Capturing the Susquehanna is a priority for the Admiral, who has pushed his ships and their crew to their breaking points running search pattern after search pattern. Captain Vakath's logical mind had made it clear that he thought that Admiral Tate was taking this situation too seriously. After explaining how the Admiral still had friends aboard the Thunderchild, the pair couldn't avoid a professional disagreement over the issue. Finally Admiral Tate issued his orders and Captain Vakath followed them.

The three mighty Excelsior class starships move in formation at high warp. In lead, the USS Repulse, Admiral Tate's flagship. Along her left and right flanks flew the USS Potemkin and the USS Valley Forge. All three ships were traveling at warp speed with their crews at battle stations. The Admiral wanted to ensure that nothing was left to chances. This area of space was heavily traveled by Orion Pirates and the last thing he wanted to do was get jumped while attempting to apprehend the stolen runabout. As the three larger ships closed on the runabout, the Potemkin and Valley Forge started to spread out and gain speed on the Repulse. The Admiral's plan was simple. Kill the runabout's power and control systems, while the other two ships of his small wing cut off any chance of escape.

It was all about mathematics. The solar system was ten minutes away and the three larger ships were five minutes behind. Everyone aboard all four ships knew that this chase was over. In five minutes, the Starfleet ships would be in range to engage the Susquehanna. When that happened there would be no place to hide, no place to run. Everyone aboard the three larger ships knew that there was simply no way the runabout could match even one Excelsior, let alone three. Based on its actions, the little Susquehanna didn't seem to think it was completely helpless as it transferred all available power to its engines. From the sensors of the Repulse, the engines of the runabout were glowing a bright orange. The little ship was trying everything it could to escape the three larger ships. But again, the numbers simply didn't support the effort. In five minutes, this chase was going to be over. And Admiral Tate knew it. As he leaned back in his chair and smiled while watching the view screen of the little runabout making its futile flight for freedom.

On the bridge of the Repulse, the situation was calm and collected. Admiral Tate had the crew at battle stations for almost eight hours now. Each member of the crew worked towards the Admiral's goal. That goal was to capture the Susquehanna. They had the small runabout on their long range sensors for almost four hours, but the Admiral held off notifying the rest of the fleet or Starfleet till he had a positive idea of what they were seeing on sensors. Most of his battle group had already chased sensor ghosts already the sector. They were now spread out across an area and volume encompassing several light years. Despite his order for them to regroup, it would take them hours to comply with the order. A situation that he simply didn't like, and this was just one more reason to exercise a bit of uncharacteristic caution.

Reports echoed across the bridge as they closed on the runabout. Its position, its engine status, and most importantly were the status of its weapons and shields. On the main view screen hung the aft view of the Susquehanna traveling at warp speed. Captain Vakath looked up from the science station "Sir, the Susquehanna's warp engines are reaching critical mass. Based on the reports from Starfleet Medical would should back off." The voice of the Vulcan was calm, even and collected. "If the pilot is suffering from paranoia delusions, than it is logical to suspect that our pursuit of the ship is only driving the pilot to act more irrational. A logical solution would be to deploy our shuttles and keep our distance while we wait for the rest of the battle group to regroup on us. This way we can allow the pilot to calm down and we can conduct a more safe capture of the fugitive."

Admiral Tate nodded as he watched the runabout on his main viewer, "Understood, but I am ending this now." Admiral Tate was well known for his hot temper and his decisive action in combat. "Captain Vakath, do we have conformation that this is in fact our missing runabout?"

"Indeed Admiral," Captain Vakath said as he nodded and added, "It is."

He turned in his chair, "Com, send to all commands 4th Fleet and Starfleet Command. We have confirmed the location of the USS Susquehanna. We are attempting to capture the fugitive now. With luck, this ordeal will be over in a matter of minutes. Include our current location with tactical data on the Susquehanna."

Lieutenant Yin nodded as he answered, "Aye Admiral. Sending now."

Admiral Tate spun in his chair, "give me a secure channel to both the Potemkin and Valley Forge."

Once more Lieutenant Yin replied, "Channel open Sir."

"Captains" Admiral Tate said as he rose up from his center chair. "Just as I have explained before once we drop out of warp, give me a second and then drop out of warp. Circle around and cut off any hope of reaching that system. If you have to fire, fire to disable only."

Admiral Tate waited for each commander of the two other ships to acknowledge the orders before continuing, "Com, open a channel." He waited a moment for the channel to be opened. "Susquehanna, this is Vice Admiral Tate. You are ordered to power down your engines at once. You are placing your life and that runabout at risk." The channel remained open for a moment with no reply. Finally the admiral ran his hand across his neck for the channel to be closed. "Sensors! What can we see aboard yet?" he asked. The fugitive's ability to create sensor ghosts and shadows has made her very difficult to track across the sector. She was resourceful, for a petty officer and a Captain's Yeoman. However she was in the big league now. This was Fleet and they ran things a lot differently than the cargo ship she was used to. He added, "I would really hate to be chasing an empty runabout."

"Sir" cried out Lieutenant Thelev ch'Ranni. The male Andorian looked up from his tactical station, "Susquehanna's warp field is starting to show signs of destabilizing. She might be going in to a warp core breech."

Captain Vakath turned and scanned the runabout with the science station sensors. "Confirmed Admiral. I am detecting increase levels of fluctuation in her energy output. The readings are being distorted by the dampening field. But what we are seeing could the result of a plasma injector leak in progress.

Admiral Tate moved back to his center chair as he said "Captain, I need those prefix code for the Susquehanna." Once seated he spun the chair to watch the Vulcan at work.

The Command Codes Captain Vakath nodded, "we have them now."

The Admiral spun in his chair, "enter the prefix code and lets shut those engines down before our petty officer blows herself up."

Lieutenant Allyn Kader spoke up from her station, "Sir, the Susquehanna reports acceptance of the prefix code. Commanding the runabout to power down all systems. She is dropping out of warp and coming to a stop." The tactical officer scanned the surrounding space, "Potemkin and Valley Forge are conducting their end run."

"Drop us out of warp right behind the runabout." he paused for a moment than turned to his communication officer, "Com, inform the battle group to stand by. Send to Star Fleet and all commands 4th Fleet. We have disabled the Susquehanna using its prefix code. We will take the fugitive in to custody momentarily." He smiled as victory was at hand. He never once doubted the ability of his crew to capture a wayward petty officer. "Com send a secure message to Captain Campbell. Inform him that those stolen files will be returned in just a moment." A grin crossed his face, "Add, just like old times, cleaning up his mess."

Lieutenant Yin confirmed that the messages were sent to their recipients.

He turned back to Captain Vakath, "Scan their computer for the stolen files."

The Vulcan nodded, "I have located the files within the runabouts computer, Sir"

Admiral Tate nodded as he issued the command, "transfer the stolen files back to our computer." Then he righted himself as he started to return to his chair. "Captain Phillips do you have a lock on the fugitive yet?" Captain Phillips was a long time friend of Admiral Tate and Captain Campbell. Admiral Tate and Captain Phillips had actually attended Starfleet Academy together. Now that Admiral Tate was a Vice Admiral, he personally asked for Captain Phillips to be his Chief of Staff.

Over the comlink Captain Phillips' voice rang out, "Sir, I am still not detecting any life forms aboard the ship. That dampening field that is throwing off the transporter targeting scanners. Give me a few more minutes Sir."

Admiral Tate nodded, "Cut through that field Capitan. I want Petty Officer Traver in our sick bay now."

"Aye Sir" Captain Phillips replied.

Captain Vakath looked up from his station with a blank expression. However in his own mind, the logical Vulcan found it strange that the Admiral's own Chief of Staff would be personally operating the transporter. It was strange to say the least. However Captain Vakath didn't mention anything as he continued to scan the Susquehanna.

Admiral Tate scanned his bridge and then motioned for a channel to be opened between his own group. He watched the main view screen as the Susquehanna hung helplessly in space. "Ladies and gentlemen, it is important to understand that Petty Officer Traver is suffering from a mental disorder. We do not want to risk any harm to her. The petty officer is a victim of the brutal treatment that she suffered under Cardassian hands. We need to treat her with the utmost respect and compassion. now, Potemkin and Valley Forge focus your sensors to work in unison with our own. Lets cut through that dampening field and beam her in to our sick bay."

Lieutenant Thelev ch'Ranni looked up from his station, "Sir, we have interlink with Potemkin and Valley Forge. Our sensors are cutting through the dampening field."

"Sir, the pilot is attempting to regain control over the runabout" Captain Vakath said calmly.

With a nod Admiral Tate motioned to the Vulcan, "Don't loss her Captain. This woman needs our help. We can't fail her."

Before anyone could say anything more, Lieutenant Thelev ch'Ranni cried out, "Sir!" his voice drew everyone's attention, "The Valley Forge just jettisoned her warp core!"

Admiral Tate turned his chair to look at the tactical station, "WHAT!?" There was disbelief across his face as he slowly stood up from this chair.

It was Captain Vakath who spoke up next, "Confirmed, sensors are detecting the warp core and anti-matter bottles of the Valley Forge twenty meters below her keel and growing rapidly."

Before anyone could react to the new crisis, the voice of the Repulse's computer came alive as it echoed across the ship. "Warp Core Breach detected"

Admiral Tate reached for his comlink as he heard another voice echo over the intercom, "Computer, prepare to eject the warp core, authorization, Larea omega 894" The voice was of his Chief Engineer, Lieutenant Larea.

"Tate to Engineering! What that hell is going on!?" Admiral Tate ordered.

Over the open comlink everyone on the bridge could hear the computer's voice replying with, "Warp ejection systems enabled."

Lieutenant Larea answered back, "Sir there is no warp breach in progress and I am not issuing these commands. Its some kind of virus in our engineering mainframe. We are trying to shunt it."

Before anyone else could they all heard the mimicked voice of the Chief Engineer issuing another command, "Computer, eject the warp core."

It was in that moment a chime drew the Admiral's attention to his chairs personal data display. He flipped up the data display and read the display. There was anger in his eyes as he realized what the data was saying. While he was reading the data, the Repulse's massive warp core and her anti-mater bottles were all ejected from the ship. The massive starship's power levels all dropped as main power went off line. The belly of the ship glowed a soft blue as the core rocketed away from the ship. Behind the Repulse the now near powerless Valley Forge attempted to maneuver on impulse alone. On the far side of the runabout, the Potemkin suffered the same fate as her two sister ships. Within moments, the all three Excelsior Class starships were brought to their knees as the runabout's power levels returned to normal.

"Sir!" called out the Tactical officer, "The Susquehanna's shields and warp engines, weapons and shields are all coming on line. She getting underway."

The Admiral slammed the data display closed, "Phasers! Target her engines. Maximum power! FIRE!"

The runabout easily dodged the first blast from the Repulse but caught the second energy beam. Without the Repulse's main power, the energy level of the phaser was nowhere enough to penetrate the runabout's fully powered shields. The other two starships limped their way in to better firing positions only to have the much more maneuverable runabout whip past them. Zipping between the ships at such close range that their targeting sensors had problems locking on to the runabout. The Excelsiors could barely power their impulse shields, weapons and life support at the same time. The Runabout made sure to leave just enough of a target to draw fire while it continued to maneuver around and among the three larger ships.

What started out as being a one sided chase that was all but over now appeared to have turned against Starfleet. The runabout zipped past the Potemkin as it raked the larger ship with fire. However this was not normal phaser fire. Instead the runabout fired a antigraviton pulse. Later science sensors would confirmed that the pulse had been a result of a link between the runabout's navigational deflector and its forward phasers emitters. The pulse slammed in to the Potemkin Deflector shields which were made up of high concentration of gravitons. Weaken due to the loss of main power, the Potemkin's shields easily buckled and failed.

Ripping past the Potemkin at full speed, the runabout had one more surprise for the fleet of three ships. Targeting the Potemkin with its aft phasers, the runabout opened fired on the now defenseless ship. Without shields, the fire from even a runabout could cause critical damage across the ship. However like the forward emitters, these phasers had been set up for a pulse. Though this time it was not a Antigraviton pulse. Instead the runabout fired a series of short-duration bursts of broadband, high-intensity electromagnetic energy. This had the capable of disrupting magnetic fields and producing current or voltage surges in conductive materials via magnetic induction. The effects were seen across the Potemkin as the lights across the exterior ship started to flicker then go out all together.

Across the Potemkin auxiliary power failed as the electromagnetic energy ripped through the power distribution systems. Without main power and now with auxiliary power failing across the ship, the Potemkin became completely helpless. No power to shields, weapons and only minimal thrusters. They barely had enough power for life support. The professional crew of the Potemkin switched gears as they fought to restore auxiliary power. Still none of them could believe that their ship was crippled by a lone runabout and a mentally disturbed petty officer. The runabout zipped between the Potemkin's secondary haul and its warp nacelles. The little runabout turned to its next target as the odds rapidly changed in to its favor. Rapidly the Repulse came in to view as the runabout cleared the Potemkin.

As it lined up its pass on the Repulse, it was forced to turn away as the Valley Forge attempted to rake the runabout with phaser fire. Spinning on its axis and going nose down, the Susquehanna narrowly avoided the onslaught of incoming fire. The runabout easily dodged around floating warp cores and anti-matter bottles floating within the combat zone. Unable to maneuver, both the Repulse and the Valley Forge started to back up from the combat zone. With much larger weapons with greater range, it was a logical action. Both larger ships moved to clear themselves from the floating dangers that now littered the combat zone. While the bottles themselves could not simply destroy a ship, they could act much like a mine. In their weakened state, an explosion near by could prove fatal to either larger ship. Adding a new level of difficulty to the situation, the Potemkin floating helplessly within the center of the debris field.

The Susquehanna used its tractor beam on a small group of bottles floating near the Potemkin and dragged them behind the runabout. As the runabout moved closer to the Valley Forge it dropped the tractor beam as it switched its own shields back on. The runabout fired its forward pulse at the Valley Forge, however the shots ripped under the weakened ship. The runabout spun once more as she dodged the incoming fire from the Valley Forge. Unable to secure a clear shot on the Valley Forge while dodging intensive fire, the runabout whipped past the aft section of the Valley Forge refocusing its sights back on to the Repulse

The Susquehanna barrel rolled as she dodged a pair of torpedoes fired from the Valley Forge's aft launcher. Within seconds the pride of the 4th Fleet came in to sight as the Susquehanna raked the Repulse's weakened shields with a series of antigraviton pulses. Just like before, the weakened shields bulked and failed leaving the Repulse defenseless to the next attack. Even knowing what kind of attack to expect, there was nothing they could do to sure up their shields against the antigraviton pulse. Without main power, they were vulnerable to this attack. An attack that the Susquehanna was driving home with dogged persistence.

As the runabout turned along the dorsal section of the secondary haul, it was the desperate actions of the Repulse as they fired its dorsal phaser banks. The hit wasn't enough to penetrate the runabout's shields. As the runabout rocketed over the Aft Crew Lounge, it came in to full view of anyone looking out the large windows. Another pair of phaser blasts from the Repulse's aft type 8 phasers weakened the runabout's shield a bit more but not enough to penetrate them. As the Susquehanna cleared the Repulse she fired another series of short-duration bursts of broadband, high-intensity electromagnetic energy. The fire ripped across the Repulse exposed secondary haul. Within seconds the ship was floating dead in space just like the Potemkin.

With the flagship of the 4th Fleet drifting helplessly the situation for Starfleet has gone from apprehending a fugitive to a crisis on two of three ships. All that stood in the way of the Susquehanna and open space was the USS Valley Forge. Despite being crippled the ship turned to continue the engagement with the smaller runabout. Just before the last of the power levels on the Repulse failed, the Admiral ordered that a broad band distress signal be sent to inform all Starfleet ships in the area of the situation at hand. It was a blow to a man who took pride in his combat skills. A humbling blow that would not be easily forgotten.

With both the USS Potemkin and the Repulse helpless, it was up to the Valley Forge to stop the runabout. Normally, this wouldn't even be a fight. However with the Valley Forge stricken without main power, the runabout had a more fair chance of winning this combat. A pair of photons ripped from the Valley Forge towards the runabout. The smaller ship spun and pitched hard to avoid the incoming missiles. At the same time, the Susquehanna fired its own microtorpedo at a passing anti-matter bottle.

The explosion engulfed the two missiles and blinded the Valley Forge's sensors for a moment. It was all that runabout needed to whip around behind the powerless Repulse. Using the larger ship for cover, the runabout was able to gain a better attack vector. Zipping across the battlefield, the runabout made a sprint for the helpless Potemkin as the Valley Forge attempted to hold the engagement. With the Valley Forge holding back and trying to gain a targeting lock for its powerful torpedoes, the runabout spun about and ran along the side of the [/i]Potemkin[/i]. Crossing the aft section of the secondary haul of the [/i]Potemkin[/i], the Valley Forge was in the sights of the Susquehanna. The two ships fired at the same time.

The Susquehanna's antigraviton pulse slammed in to the Valley Forge's shields, forcing them to buckle and fail. The torpedo from the Valley Forge slammed in to the nose of the runabout causing major damage and taken down its shields. The faster runabout would have the advantage still as it ripped past the primary haul of the Valley Forge leaving it just as helpless and powerless as its two sister ships. The battle was over and three Starfleet ships were left floating dead in space while the Susquehanna turned for the safety of UIH- 0351. Damaged but not caught, the Susquehanna's flight would continue for at least one more day.

Aboard the Repulse the situation on the bridge was chaotic. Everyone was in disbelief over what just happened. In one moment, they had the runabout helpless and ready to be secured. Now, EM surges across the ship were causing havoc on all systems. The communication channels were flooded with situational reports. Each report told the same story, the ship was dead in space and helpless. The Susquehanna was locked in a battle with the Valley Forge and there was nothing that could be done to help. Admiral Tate hated the idea that his flagship was nothing more than floating metal in space.

Admiral Tate watched helplessly as the Valley Forge fought back the runabout. He tapped his comlink, "Bridge to Lieutenant Wyke." Lieutenant Walker Wyke was the flight officer of the Repulse. Once the Lieutenant replied the Admiral continued, "I want you to deploy our shuttles. You are ordered to pursue the Susquehanna and destroy her at all costs! Protect your computer systems, do not attempt any communication with the runabout."

"Admiral," Captain Vakath cut the Admiral off, "That order contradicts Starfleet Medical's instructions on dealing with this fugitive." Before he could complete his logic objection to the order, the Repulse rocked violently.

The tactical officer reported that an anti-matter bottle was detonated by the Susquehanna off the port bow. While there was no damage reported it was enough to shake the already bothered crew. Sensors reported that the Valley Forge was still locked in a bitter battle with the smaller runabout. But it was only a matter of time before the smaller runabout was able to get a more advantageous firing angle on the larger ship. Everyone on the Repulse's bridge were watching their Captain and their Fleet Commander.

It was Admiral Tate who wasted no time to act, "I am sorry Captain Vakath. I am not going to wait for our ships to be destroyed by that PETTY OFFICER." It was clear his anger was overriding his judgment but it was what he was well known for. He paused a moment before continuing his orders to Lieutenant Wyke. "Lieutenant....."

Captain Vakath was not about to allow an emotionally charged situation end the life of a mentally disturbed woman. "Belay those orders Lieutenant! Admiral under......" Despite the situation the Vulcan's voice never changed tone. He kept it level and calm.

Anger flashed over the Admiral's eyes as another shock wave rocked the Repulse. As the two men sized each other up in that second, the battle between the runabout and the Valley Forge continued. Admiral Tate cut him off, "Security, if Captain Vakath opens his mouth again. Escort him to the brig!" Admiral Tate ordered as he walked up and stared in to the eyes of the Vulcan. There was this look of daring in the Admiral's eyes. He demanded loyalty from his officers and crews and he would be damned if he didn't get it.

Captain Vakath looked in to the Admiral's eyes. He knew that the Admiral would act on his threat. Something to all this wasn't adding up. The Susquehanna had avoided capture this long. It was logical to assume that it could remain free despite the Admiral's orders. "I will resist no long, Admiral. But I will log my protest with Starfleet Command."

"So be it!" Admiral Tate said. Then he turned to walk back to his chair, "Lieutenant Wyke, you have your orders"

"Yes Admiral," Lieutenant Wyke replied and closed the link.

The Susquehanna rocketed away as she headed for UIH- 0351. Just as she passed over a group of anti-matter bottles, they glowed blue as they were transported aboard the runabout. Just behind her, six type nine shuttles from the Repulse and the Potemkin formed up to give chase. Behind them, three cripple ships from the 4th Fleet hung helpless in space. Already shuttles from the Valley Forge were being deployed along with engineering pods as they started to collect their warp cores. It would be nearly twelve hours before the ships would have main power back. For the time being the flagship of the 4th Fleet and her escorts were out of the chase.

Quote:Admiral Tate to all Commands, Starfleet 4th Fleet

The stolen runabout, USS Susquehanna has been located and cornered within a large asteroid field within the solar system UIH- 0351, located at Sector 004, 09.246 by K.167. The runabout is using the asteroid field to allude capture. However we have sensor reading that confirm that the runabout is still within the asteroid field. Our shuttles which had given chase were forced to withdraw after taking heavy damage from collisions with asteroids. Currently they have created a perimeter around the field and are waiting for reinforcements.

My group has been crippled by a computer virus that was transmitted from the Susquehanna via a communication link. All three ships are currently undergoing repairs and will be back in action within the next twelve hours. However the Repulse will need to be tugged back to Deep Space Nine as the virus crippled our warp control computer. It would appear that my flagship is out of the chase for the time being.

New evidence has indicated that the over all goal of the Susquehanna is to detonate an anti-mater explosion over Cardassia Prime. I am hereby ordering the 4th Fleet to patrol all Cardassian worlds and colonies between my current location and Cardassia Prime. IF the Susquehanna manages to escape us here, Your orders are to protect these worlds and if necessary, destroy the Susquehanna.

I am ordering the Thunderchild to make best speed to our current location. It is our goal to ensure that the Susquehanna doesn't evade us here. However, if we fail. The 4th Fleet has its orders.

Captains, a word of warning. Do not over estimate your own advantages or under estimate this remarkable petty officer. To do so would leave your ship vulnerable as ours were. You are not to make any communication contact with the Susquehanna regardless of the situation. Disable the ship through what ever means is necessary. Then call for support before attempting to make the capture. Do not repeat the mistake I did! This is an order!

]]> OOC Narrator Note: This Post is to be read along with the supporting Subspace communications at the same time. Please make sure you that you follow the links for the communications while reading.

Sector 004, Northern Corridor
Stardate: 53832.05
Just outside of the system: UIH- 0351
USS Repulse NCC-2544
Vice Admiral David Tate, Commanding

During this time the USS Thunderchild is on the other side of Sector 004 at Starbase 74. With all of her fighters and axillary craft loaded and stored, she is picking up the last of her crew and preparing to get underway once more. It has been an unsettling thirty hours as the USS Susquehanna had some how slipped under the radar and vanished from the sector. The remaining ships of the 4th Fleet had been called up to assist in the search for the stolen runabout. At the current moment all ships and captains have been following the suggestions from Starfleet Medical in regards to the fugitive, Petty Officer Dolores Traver. Sector 004 has been placed on full alert as Starfleet continues to search for their stolen runabout and the fugitive.

All Federation and Starfleet ships in the Sector have been ordered to keep their sensors active for the stolen runabout. Still the runabout has managed to remain hidden from the search ships. A few reports have surfaced but they ended up being wild goose chases as no runabout was confirmed in the area. Reports of the attack on the USS Thunderchild has already been issued. The identity of the person responsible has been suspected as Petty Officer Dolores Traver. The report has also included her file from Starfleet Medical and the nature of her escape from their care. Petty Officer Traver has been described as suffering from delusions and should be considered dangerous. The reports instruct that Starfleet Medical should be contacted once the Susquehanna has been spotted. The chase was on, and Starfleet was not about to allow Petty Officer Traver's flight for freedom to continue much longer.

Within hours of the alert being issued The USS Repulse, under Flag command of Vice Admiral David Tate, has filed a report stating that they have the runabout on their sensors. The Susquehanna had been spotted by the USS Repulse heading at warp for the system, UIH-0351. The system is an uninhabited binary star system that holds a pulsar within it. Due to the nature of the twin stars and their interaction, much of the system is covered in a inversion field. Because of this field, subspace communications and short-range sensors are disrupted. This made traveling at warp within the system dangerous and tracking ships nearly impossible. Once the Susquehanna was spotted it increased its speed to its maximum warp velocity for the system. Even when the Susquehanna pushed maximum warp speeds, the USS Repulse along with her two sister ships could easily be able to catch the runabout before it reached the system.

When the alert hit the Subspace channels, Admiral Tate couldn't help but call off his war games and order his ships in a tight search pattern. During the Dominion War, much of his time was spent as a staff officer to then Vice Admiral Ross. In fact, this was the first time he had commanded a starship since he himself commanded the USS Thunderchild nearly ten years ago. The USS Repulse would normally be commanded by her captain, Captain Vakath. When Admiral Tate struck his flag aboard for the war games, he assumed command of the ship. He has yet to give up that command when the alert was issued.

For Admiral Tate, this was personal. When word came out that an intruder attacked Admiral Ross' previous flagship, Admiral Tate made it his personal mission to get to the bottom of it. Based on what little information Captain Campbell's people were issuing to Star Fleet, they didn't know much about the intruder or her goals. All that the Admiral knew was that this woman attacked one of his ships and was now attempting to escape justice. Capturing the Susquehanna is a priority for the Admiral, who has pushed his ships and their crew to their breaking points running search pattern after search pattern. Captain Vakath's logical mind had made it clear that he thought that Admiral Tate was taking this situation too seriously. After explaining how the Admiral still had friends aboard the Thunderchild, the pair couldn't avoid a professional disagreement over the issue. Finally Admiral Tate issued his orders and Captain Vakath followed them.

The three mighty Excelsior class starships move in formation at high warp. In lead, the USS Repulse, Admiral Tate's flagship. Along her left and right flanks flew the USS Potemkin and the USS Valley Forge. All three ships were traveling at warp speed with their crews at battle stations. The Admiral wanted to ensure that nothing was left to chances. This area of space was heavily traveled by Orion Pirates and the last thing he wanted to do was get jumped while attempting to apprehend the stolen runabout. As the three larger ships closed on the runabout, the Potemkin and Valley Forge started to spread out and gain speed on the Repulse. The Admiral's plan was simple. Kill the runabout's power and control systems, while the other two ships of his small wing cut off any chance of escape.

It was all about mathematics. The solar system was ten minutes away and the three larger ships were five minutes behind. Everyone aboard all four ships knew that this chase was over. In five minutes, the Starfleet ships would be in range to engage the Susquehanna. When that happened there would be no place to hide, no place to run. Everyone aboard the three larger ships knew that there was simply no way the runabout could match even one Excelsior, let alone three. Based on its actions, the little Susquehanna didn't seem to think it was completely helpless as it transferred all available power to its engines. From the sensors of the Repulse, the engines of the runabout were glowing a bright orange. The little ship was trying everything it could to escape the three larger ships. But again, the numbers simply didn't support the effort. In five minutes, this chase was going to be over. And Admiral Tate knew it. As he leaned back in his chair and smiled while watching the view screen of the little runabout making its futile flight for freedom.

On the bridge of the Repulse, the situation was calm and collected. Admiral Tate had the crew at battle stations for almost eight hours now. Each member of the crew worked towards the Admiral's goal. That goal was to capture the Susquehanna. They had the small runabout on their long range sensors for almost four hours, but the Admiral held off notifying the rest of the fleet or Starfleet till he had a positive idea of what they were seeing on sensors. Most of his battle group had already chased sensor ghosts already the sector. They were now spread out across an area and volume encompassing several light years. Despite his order for them to regroup, it would take them hours to comply with the order. A situation that he simply didn't like, and this was just one more reason to exercise a bit of uncharacteristic caution.

Reports echoed across the bridge as they closed on the runabout. Its position, its engine status, and most importantly were the status of its weapons and shields. On the main view screen hung the aft view of the Susquehanna traveling at warp speed. Captain Vakath looked up from the science station "Sir, the Susquehanna's warp engines are reaching critical mass. Based on the reports from Starfleet Medical would should back off." The voice of the Vulcan was calm, even and collected. "If the pilot is suffering from paranoia delusions, than it is logical to suspect that our pursuit of the ship is only driving the pilot to act more irrational. A logical solution would be to deploy our shuttles and keep our distance while we wait for the rest of the battle group to regroup on us. This way we can allow the pilot to calm down and we can conduct a more safe capture of the fugitive."

Admiral Tate nodded as he watched the runabout on his main viewer, "Understood, but I am ending this now." Admiral Tate was well known for his hot temper and his decisive action in combat. "Captain Vakath, do we have conformation that this is in fact our missing runabout?"

"Indeed Admiral," Captain Vakath said as he nodded and added, "It is."

He turned in his chair, "Com, send to all commands 4th Fleet and Starfleet Command. We have confirmed the location of the USS Susquehanna. We are attempting to capture the fugitive now. With luck, this ordeal will be over in a matter of minutes. Include our current location with tactical data on the Susquehanna."

Lieutenant Yin nodded as he answered, "Aye Admiral. Sending now."

Admiral Tate spun in his chair, "give me a secure channel to both the Potemkin and Valley Forge."

Once more Lieutenant Yin replied, "Channel open Sir."

"Captains" Admiral Tate said as he rose up from his center chair. "Just as I have explained before once we drop out of warp, give me a second and then drop out of warp. Circle around and cut off any hope of reaching that system. If you have to fire, fire to disable only."

Admiral Tate waited for each commander of the two other ships to acknowledge the orders before continuing, "Com, open a channel." He waited a moment for the channel to be opened. "Susquehanna, this is Vice Admiral Tate. You are ordered to power down your engines at once. You are placing your life and that runabout at risk." The channel remained open for a moment with no reply. Finally the admiral ran his hand across his neck for the channel to be closed. "Sensors! What can we see aboard yet?" he asked. The fugitive's ability to create sensor ghosts and shadows has made her very difficult to track across the sector. She was resourceful, for a petty officer and a Captain's Yeoman. However she was in the big league now. This was Fleet and they ran things a lot differently than the cargo ship she was used to. He added, "I would really hate to be chasing an empty runabout."

"Sir" cried out Lieutenant Thelev ch'Ranni. The male Andorian looked up from his tactical station, "Susquehanna's warp field is starting to show signs of destabilizing. She might be going in to a warp core breech."

Captain Vakath turned and scanned the runabout with the science station sensors. "Confirmed Admiral. I am detecting increase levels of fluctuation in her energy output. The readings are being distorted by the dampening field. But what we are seeing could the result of a plasma injector leak in progress.

Admiral Tate moved back to his center chair as he said "Captain, I need those prefix code for the Susquehanna." Once seated he spun the chair to watch the Vulcan at work.

The Command Codes Captain Vakath nodded, "we have them now."

The Admiral spun in his chair, "enter the prefix code and lets shut those engines down before our petty officer blows herself up."

Lieutenant Allyn Kader spoke up from her station, "Sir, the Susquehanna reports acceptance of the prefix code. Commanding the runabout to power down all systems. She is dropping out of warp and coming to a stop." The tactical officer scanned the surrounding space, "Potemkin and Valley Forge are conducting their end run."

"Drop us out of warp right behind the runabout." he paused for a moment than turned to his communication officer, "Com, inform the battle group to stand by. Send to Star Fleet and all commands 4th Fleet. We have disabled the Susquehanna using its prefix code. We will take the fugitive in to custody momentarily." He smiled as victory was at hand. He never once doubted the ability of his crew to capture a wayward petty officer. "Com send a secure message to Captain Campbell. Inform him that those stolen files will be returned in just a moment." A grin crossed his face, "Add, just like old times, cleaning up his mess."

Lieutenant Yin confirmed that the messages were sent to their recipients.

He turned back to Captain Vakath, "Scan their computer for the stolen files."

The Vulcan nodded, "I have located the files within the runabouts computer, Sir"

Admiral Tate nodded as he issued the command, "transfer the stolen files back to our computer." Then he righted himself as he started to return to his chair. "Captain Phillips do you have a lock on the fugitive yet?" Captain Phillips was a long time friend of Admiral Tate and Captain Campbell. Admiral Tate and Captain Phillips had actually attended Starfleet Academy together. Now that Admiral Tate was a Vice Admiral, he personally asked for Captain Phillips to be his Chief of Staff.

Over the comlink Captain Phillips' voice rang out, "Sir, I am still not detecting any life forms aboard the ship. That dampening field that is throwing off the transporter targeting scanners. Give me a few more minutes Sir."

Admiral Tate nodded, "Cut through that field Capitan. I want Petty Officer Traver in our sick bay now."

"Aye Sir" Captain Phillips replied.

Captain Vakath looked up from his station with a blank expression. However in his own mind, the logical Vulcan found it strange that the Admiral's own Chief of Staff would be personally operating the transporter. It was strange to say the least. However Captain Vakath didn't mention anything as he continued to scan the Susquehanna.

Admiral Tate scanned his bridge and then motioned for a channel to be opened between his own group. He watched the main view screen as the Susquehanna hung helplessly in space. "Ladies and gentlemen, it is important to understand that Petty Officer Traver is suffering from a mental disorder. We do not want to risk any harm to her. The petty officer is a victim of the brutal treatment that she suffered under Cardassian hands. We need to treat her with the utmost respect and compassion. now, Potemkin and Valley Forge focus your sensors to work in unison with our own. Lets cut through that dampening field and beam her in to our sick bay."

Lieutenant Thelev ch'Ranni looked up from his station, "Sir, we have interlink with Potemkin and Valley Forge. Our sensors are cutting through the dampening field."

"Sir, the pilot is attempting to regain control over the runabout" Captain Vakath said calmly.

With a nod Admiral Tate motioned to the Vulcan, "Don't loss her Captain. This woman needs our help. We can't fail her."

Before anyone could say anything more, Lieutenant Thelev ch'Ranni cried out, "Sir!" his voice drew everyone's attention, "The Valley Forge just jettisoned her warp core!"

Admiral Tate turned his chair to look at the tactical station, "WHAT!?" There was disbelief across his face as he slowly stood up from this chair.

It was Captain Vakath who spoke up next, "Confirmed, sensors are detecting the warp core and anti-matter bottles of the Valley Forge twenty meters below her keel and growing rapidly."

Before anyone could react to the new crisis, the voice of the Repulse's computer came alive as it echoed across the ship. "Warp Core Breach detected"

Admiral Tate reached for his comlink as he heard another voice echo over the intercom, "Computer, prepare to eject the warp core, authorization, Larea omega 894" The voice was of his Chief Engineer, Lieutenant Larea.

"Tate to Engineering! What that hell is going on!?" Admiral Tate ordered.

Over the open comlink everyone on the bridge could hear the computer's voice replying with, "Warp ejection systems enabled."

Lieutenant Larea answered back, "Sir there is no warp breach in progress and I am not issuing these commands. Its some kind of virus in our engineering mainframe. We are trying to shunt it."

Before anyone else could they all heard the mimicked voice of the Chief Engineer issuing another command, "Computer, eject the warp core."

It was in that moment a chime drew the Admiral's attention to his chairs personal data display. He flipped up the data display and read the display. There was anger in his eyes as he realized what the data was saying. While he was reading the data, the Repulse's massive warp core and her anti-mater bottles were all ejected from the ship. The massive starship's power levels all dropped as main power went off line. The belly of the ship glowed a soft blue as the core rocketed away from the ship. Behind the Repulse the now near powerless Valley Forge attempted to maneuver on impulse alone. On the far side of the runabout, the Potemkin suffered the same fate as her two sister ships. Within moments, the all three Excelsior Class starships were brought to their knees as the runabout's power levels returned to normal.

"Sir!" called out the Tactical officer, "The Susquehanna's shields and warp engines, weapons and shields are all coming on line. She getting underway."

The Admiral slammed the data display closed, "Phasers! Target her engines. Maximum power! FIRE!"

The runabout easily dodged the first blast from the Repulse but caught the second energy beam. Without the Repulse's main power, the energy level of the phaser was nowhere enough to penetrate the runabout's fully powered shields. The other two starships limped their way in to better firing positions only to have the much more maneuverable runabout whip past them. Zipping between the ships at such close range that their targeting sensors had problems locking on to the runabout. The Excelsiors could barely power their impulse shields, weapons and life support at the same time. The Runabout made sure to leave just enough of a target to draw fire while it continued to maneuver around and among the three larger ships.

What started out as being a one sided chase that was all but over now appeared to have turned against Starfleet. The runabout zipped past the Potemkin as it raked the larger ship with fire. However this was not normal phaser fire. Instead the runabout fired a antigraviton pulse. Later science sensors would confirmed that the pulse had been a result of a link between the runabout's navigational deflector and its forward phasers emitters. The pulse slammed in to the Potemkin Deflector shields which were made up of high concentration of gravitons. Weaken due to the loss of main power, the Potemkin's shields easily buckled and failed.

Ripping past the Potemkin at full speed, the runabout had one more surprise for the fleet of three ships. Targeting the Potemkin with its aft phasers, the runabout opened fired on the now defenseless ship. Without shields, the fire from even a runabout could cause critical damage across the ship. However like the forward emitters, these phasers had been set up for a pulse. Though this time it was not a Antigraviton pulse. Instead the runabout fired a series of short-duration bursts of broadband, high-intensity electromagnetic energy. This had the capable of disrupting magnetic fields and producing current or voltage surges in conductive materials via magnetic induction. The effects were seen across the Potemkin as the lights across the exterior ship started to flicker then go out all together.

Across the Potemkin auxiliary power failed as the electromagnetic energy ripped through the power distribution systems. Without main power and now with auxiliary power failing across the ship, the Potemkin became completely helpless. No power to shields, weapons and only minimal thrusters. They barely had enough power for life support. The professional crew of the Potemkin switched gears as they fought to restore auxiliary power. Still none of them could believe that their ship was crippled by a lone runabout and a mentally disturbed petty officer. The runabout zipped between the Potemkin's secondary haul and its warp nacelles. The little runabout turned to its next target as the odds rapidly changed in to its favor. Rapidly the Repulse came in to view as the runabout cleared the Potemkin.

As it lined up its pass on the Repulse, it was forced to turn away as the Valley Forge attempted to rake the runabout with phaser fire. Spinning on its axis and going nose down, the Susquehanna narrowly avoided the onslaught of incoming fire. The runabout easily dodged around floating warp cores and anti-matter bottles floating within the combat zone. Unable to maneuver, both the Repulse and the Valley Forge started to back up from the combat zone. With much larger weapons with greater range, it was a logical action. Both larger ships moved to clear themselves from the floating dangers that now littered the combat zone. While the bottles themselves could not simply destroy a ship, they could act much like a mine. In their weakened state, an explosion near by could prove fatal to either larger ship. Adding a new level of difficulty to the situation, the Potemkin floating helplessly within the center of the debris field.

The Susquehanna used its tractor beam on a small group of bottles floating near the Potemkin and dragged them behind the runabout. As the runabout moved closer to the Valley Forge it dropped the tractor beam as it switched its own shields back on. The runabout fired its forward pulse at the Valley Forge, however the shots ripped under the weakened ship. The runabout spun once more as she dodged the incoming fire from the Valley Forge. Unable to secure a clear shot on the Valley Forge while dodging intensive fire, the runabout whipped past the aft section of the Valley Forge refocusing its sights back on to the Repulse

The Susquehanna barrel rolled as she dodged a pair of torpedoes fired from the Valley Forge's aft launcher. Within seconds the pride of the 4th Fleet came in to sight as the Susquehanna raked the Repulse's weakened shields with a series of antigraviton pulses. Just like before, the weakened shields bulked and failed leaving the Repulse defenseless to the next attack. Even knowing what kind of attack to expect, there was nothing they could do to sure up their shields against the antigraviton pulse. Without main power, they were vulnerable to this attack. An attack that the Susquehanna was driving home with dogged persistence.

As the runabout turned along the dorsal section of the secondary haul, it was the desperate actions of the Repulse as they fired its dorsal phaser banks. The hit wasn't enough to penetrate the runabout's shields. As the runabout rocketed over the Aft Crew Lounge, it came in to full view of anyone looking out the large windows. Another pair of phaser blasts from the Repulse's aft type 8 phasers weakened the runabout's shield a bit more but not enough to penetrate them. As the Susquehanna cleared the Repulse she fired another series of short-duration bursts of broadband, high-intensity electromagnetic energy. The fire ripped across the Repulse exposed secondary haul. Within seconds the ship was floating dead in space just like the Potemkin.

With the flagship of the 4th Fleet drifting helplessly the situation for Starfleet has gone from apprehending a fugitive to a crisis on two of three ships. All that stood in the way of the Susquehanna and open space was the USS Valley Forge. Despite being crippled the ship turned to continue the engagement with the smaller runabout. Just before the last of the power levels on the Repulse failed, the Admiral ordered that a broad band distress signal be sent to inform all Starfleet ships in the area of the situation at hand. It was a blow to a man who took pride in his combat skills. A humbling blow that would not be easily forgotten.

With both the USS Potemkin and the Repulse helpless, it was up to the Valley Forge to stop the runabout. Normally, this wouldn't even be a fight. However with the Valley Forge stricken without main power, the runabout had a more fair chance of winning this combat. A pair of photons ripped from the Valley Forge towards the runabout. The smaller ship spun and pitched hard to avoid the incoming missiles. At the same time, the Susquehanna fired its own microtorpedo at a passing anti-matter bottle.

The explosion engulfed the two missiles and blinded the Valley Forge's sensors for a moment. It was all that runabout needed to whip around behind the powerless Repulse. Using the larger ship for cover, the runabout was able to gain a better attack vector. Zipping across the battlefield, the runabout made a sprint for the helpless Potemkin as the Valley Forge attempted to hold the engagement. With the Valley Forge holding back and trying to gain a targeting lock for its powerful torpedoes, the runabout spun about and ran along the side of the [/i]Potemkin[/i]. Crossing the aft section of the secondary haul of the [/i]Potemkin[/i], the Valley Forge was in the sights of the Susquehanna. The two ships fired at the same time.

The Susquehanna's antigraviton pulse slammed in to the Valley Forge's shields, forcing them to buckle and fail. The torpedo from the Valley Forge slammed in to the nose of the runabout causing major damage and taken down its shields. The faster runabout would have the advantage still as it ripped past the primary haul of the Valley Forge leaving it just as helpless and powerless as its two sister ships. The battle was over and three Starfleet ships were left floating dead in space while the Susquehanna turned for the safety of UIH- 0351. Damaged but not caught, the Susquehanna's flight would continue for at least one more day.

Aboard the Repulse the situation on the bridge was chaotic. Everyone was in disbelief over what just happened. In one moment, they had the runabout helpless and ready to be secured. Now, EM surges across the ship were causing havoc on all systems. The communication channels were flooded with situational reports. Each report told the same story, the ship was dead in space and helpless. The Susquehanna was locked in a battle with the Valley Forge and there was nothing that could be done to help. Admiral Tate hated the idea that his flagship was nothing more than floating metal in space.

Admiral Tate watched helplessly as the Valley Forge fought back the runabout. He tapped his comlink, "Bridge to Lieutenant Wyke." Lieutenant Walker Wyke was the flight officer of the Repulse. Once the Lieutenant replied the Admiral continued, "I want you to deploy our shuttles. You are ordered to pursue the Susquehanna and destroy her at all costs! Protect your computer systems, do not attempt any communication with the runabout."

"Admiral," Captain Vakath cut the Admiral off, "That order contradicts Starfleet Medical's instructions on dealing with this fugitive." Before he could complete his logic objection to the order, the Repulse rocked violently.

The tactical officer reported that an anti-matter bottle was detonated by the Susquehanna off the port bow. While there was no damage reported it was enough to shake the already bothered crew. Sensors reported that the Valley Forge was still locked in a bitter battle with the smaller runabout. But it was only a matter of time before the smaller runabout was able to get a more advantageous firing angle on the larger ship. Everyone on the Repulse's bridge were watching their Captain and their Fleet Commander.

It was Admiral Tate who wasted no time to act, "I am sorry Captain Vakath. I am not going to wait for our ships to be destroyed by that PETTY OFFICER." It was clear his anger was overriding his judgment but it was what he was well known for. He paused a moment before continuing his orders to Lieutenant Wyke. "Lieutenant....."

Captain Vakath was not about to allow an emotionally charged situation end the life of a mentally disturbed woman. "Belay those orders Lieutenant! Admiral under......" Despite the situation the Vulcan's voice never changed tone. He kept it level and calm.

Anger flashed over the Admiral's eyes as another shock wave rocked the Repulse. As the two men sized each other up in that second, the battle between the runabout and the Valley Forge continued. Admiral Tate cut him off, "Security, if Captain Vakath opens his mouth again. Escort him to the brig!" Admiral Tate ordered as he walked up and stared in to the eyes of the Vulcan. There was this look of daring in the Admiral's eyes. He demanded loyalty from his officers and crews and he would be damned if he didn't get it.

Captain Vakath looked in to the Admiral's eyes. He knew that the Admiral would act on his threat. Something to all this wasn't adding up. The Susquehanna had avoided capture this long. It was logical to assume that it could remain free despite the Admiral's orders. "I will resist no long, Admiral. But I will log my protest with Starfleet Command."

"So be it!" Admiral Tate said. Then he turned to walk back to his chair, "Lieutenant Wyke, you have your orders"

"Yes Admiral," Lieutenant Wyke replied and closed the link.

The Susquehanna rocketed away as she headed for UIH- 0351. Just as she passed over a group of anti-matter bottles, they glowed blue as they were transported aboard the runabout. Just behind her, six type nine shuttles from the Repulse and the Potemkin formed up to give chase. Behind them, three cripple ships from the 4th Fleet hung helpless in space. Already shuttles from the Valley Forge were being deployed along with engineering pods as they started to collect their warp cores. It would be nearly twelve hours before the ships would have main power back. For the time being the flagship of the 4th Fleet and her escorts were out of the chase.

Quote:Admiral Tate to all Commands, Starfleet 4th Fleet

The stolen runabout, USS Susquehanna has been located and cornered within a large asteroid field within the solar system UIH- 0351, located at Sector 004, 09.246 by K.167. The runabout is using the asteroid field to allude capture. However we have sensor reading that confirm that the runabout is still within the asteroid field. Our shuttles which had given chase were forced to withdraw after taking heavy damage from collisions with asteroids. Currently they have created a perimeter around the field and are waiting for reinforcements.

My group has been crippled by a computer virus that was transmitted from the Susquehanna via a communication link. All three ships are currently undergoing repairs and will be back in action within the next twelve hours. However the Repulse will need to be tugged back to Deep Space Nine as the virus crippled our warp control computer. It would appear that my flagship is out of the chase for the time being.

New evidence has indicated that the over all goal of the Susquehanna is to detonate an anti-mater explosion over Cardassia Prime. I am hereby ordering the 4th Fleet to patrol all Cardassian worlds and colonies between my current location and Cardassia Prime. IF the Susquehanna manages to escape us here, Your orders are to protect these worlds and if necessary, destroy the Susquehanna.

I am ordering the Thunderchild to make best speed to our current location. It is our goal to ensure that the Susquehanna doesn't evade us here. However, if we fail. The 4th Fleet has its orders.

Captains, a word of warning. Do not over estimate your own advantages or under estimate this remarkable petty officer. To do so would leave your ship vulnerable as ours were. You are not to make any communication contact with the Susquehanna regardless of the situation. Disable the ship through what ever means is necessary. Then call for support before attempting to make the capture. Do not repeat the mistake I did! This is an order!

]]> <![CDATA[Act One, Scene Three]]> http://www.orlandogamers.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=173 Tue, 29 Jul 2014 22:13:50 -0700 Akirapryde]]> http://www.orlandogamers.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=173 OOC Narrator Notes: the following meeting takes place only with the characters Leana Vanlaere, V'rol and Erica Leona McCoy All players are encourage to PM these players so you can offer them ideas on what questions they should ask. Please make sure you PM both characters involved

Meeting With Gul Bolon, Stardate 53830.74

The brig at Starbase 74 was heavily guarded by both Starfleet personnel and a small group of Klingon warriors. The numerous crimes of Gul Bolon has earned him the nickname the Butcher of Velos. His prisoner of war interment camp had a reputation of being one of the most brutal among all of the Dominion/Cardassian POW Camps. During the three years he was in command of the camp, over five hundred prisoners were murdered or died as a direct result of abuse from the guards and camp staff. Well over half of the surviving prisoners who were brought to Velos VII Internment Camp would never fully recover from the brutal conditions of the camp. One in eight prisoners were tortured to death under the direct supervision of Gul Bolon, himself. Now, after the war, his fate was decided to be in the hands of the Klingon Empire.

After a year long battle in Federation courts and numerous intense Negotiations, the Federation has finally accepted Klingon Empire's request to extradite Gul Bolon to stand trial for war crimes. Out of these negations came a new treaty that would bring home hundreds of former Federation citizens being held by the Klingon Empire for various crimes against the Empire. There were many within the Federation Council that are still outraged over the trade off. That didn't change the fact that support for the new treaty was steadfast. Currently Gul Bolon is scheduled for transport from Starbase 74 to Qo'noS at the end of the week.

Gul Bolon's case has struck a deep nerve within the Federation as there is no doubt of his fate once the Klingon's find him guilty of war crimes. There are those within the Federation that support the extradition while there are an equal number of opponents of the extradition. Even in light of saving hundreds of former Federation citizens this has not changed the opposition against extradition. A group of Federation Council members have taken their case to the Federation Supreme Court in hopes of stopping the extradition of Gul Bolon. However it is unlikely that the case will be heard before the court prior to the extradition.

Currently a pair of Starfleet medical officers have been able to receive special permission from both Starfleet Command and the Klingon Empire to speak to Gul Bolon in regards to the time he spent as the commanding officer of Velos VII Internment Camp. By request of the Klingon Empire, the questions were strictly limited to those having to do with Federation prisoners. This pair of medical officers from the USS Thunderchild sit and listen, Gul Bolon recalls the events in his camp during the past few years. It was clear that this Cardassian held no remorse over his actions nor any measure of empathy for his victims.

"Did I kill Major Maura MacConnell? I have never hid the truth of my actions. After all, I am proud of them. Both failure and success alike. My actions were driven by that single goal to please the Gods I serve. Yes, I worship the Founders. I met one, once. I look back on that moment as one of my most dearest memories. The way she smiled at my reports and gave me that nod of hers. I felt her blessing in that moment. I recall it as if it happened just yesterday. But that is not why you are here. You want to know about Major MacConnell."

He ran his hand over his head as he got comfortable. "Yes, I know her very well. Before the destruction of the Obsidian Order in 2373 her name crossed my desk a number of times. I had warned my superiors that her unit, the Ghost Recon, would became a serious threat to us in the future. I spent so much time studying them and their tactics. My team had planned a mission to capture a group of Maquis that had been a bit too successful. Just before we were to carry out our plan, Major MacConnell and her Ghost Recon swooped in and captured our targets before we could get to them. Months of work and the our prize was lost just like that. Thanks to the Ghost Recon. It wouldn't be the first time they would embarrass me."

"In 2372 when the Cardassian Intelligence Bureau took over for the Obsidian Order, I was asked to accept the role as Camp Commander of Velos VII Internment Camp." Anger flashed in his eyes as he recalled the events of that year. "It was a demotion. It wasn't my political enemies that I had to fear, it was the reputation that I was having at the hands of the Ghost Recon. My wife left me and took my kids shortly there after. At one time I commanded hundreds of operatives across the DMZ. Now I was demoted to commanding a simply prisoner of war camp on some forgotten world. I knew why I was demoted to running an internment camp. It was because of the events the year before. I just had to wait my time and I would have my revenge on her" noting the question on their faces, "yes on Major MacConnell."

He leaned back in his bed and smiled, "then came the trap for Admiral Ross's fleet and his precious Ghost Recon. It would have been a brilliant plan if we didn't know ever detail of the plan weeks before they left Deep Space Nine. We knew everything of their plans, even the last minute changes that were made enroute to Velos system. Oh, the Array would be fully operational when Admiral Ross and his fleet arrived. By this time, the Ghost Recon would have been nothing more than ghosts themselves. However that is not how it happened. Once more that bitch MacConnell and her Ghost Recon pulled a victory out of assured defeat. Somehow she had figured out that we had a trap planned for them. I don't know how they were able to slip in, but they did. They up loaded their damn virus right from regional commander's own terminal in his very office. To add insult to injury, they escape before anyone knew what happened. The Array was worthless to us when Admiral Ross arrived."

"The information we had said how the Ghost Recon was going to withdraw from our lines and rejoin their own. Two whole divisions were waiting to cut off their retreat. But they never showed up for the battle. Instead she once more slapped me in the face. She attacked my own camp and liberated hundreds of my prisoners. I demanded that I be allowed to capture the unit seeing how the plans of my superiors' had failed. I was given the a whole divisions with ordered to capture as many as possible so that the access code for the Array could be recovered. I hate MacConnell and her Ghost Recon, but I respect them for their skills. Three times I thought I had them pinned and ready for defeat. Three times she managed an escaped. Even with updated information on when and where their evacuation shuttles would arrive, Ghost Recon continued to survive despite my best efforts. But in the end, it was numbers who got the best of them. Without hope of rescue, Ghost Recon became my celebrity guests. Fifty two in total were captured that day. Major MacConnell thought that death would claim her that day. I ordered one of the best Cardassian surgeons from the other side of the planet to save her life."

"Because of her wounds, I had to wait before exacting my revenge on her. So I tortured her men for the access codes to the array." He leaped up to his feet with laughter. A motion that caused the guards to draw their weapons on him. "Oh I knew they didn't have the codes" he said walking over to the far wall. "The information said that the creator of the virus was a female communication tech. two of my men found her body after the battle." He turned and smiled as he tapped his head, "If they knew the tech was dead, than the Major and her unit would have been taken away and used for other purposes. I wanted to keep her with me till I was finished with her. So, I killed the two soldier who found the body and never reported its discovery. I would have all the time in the world to enjoy my revenge on that bitch."

There was joy and fulfillment in his eyes as he spoke, "Oh the ways I inflicted pain on her. Her screams would filled my heart with such relief." he paused and walked towards them there was a sense of darkness in his eyes that was unmistakable. "But I had mercy. She had her own medical staff standing by twenty six hours a day. She never wanted for any medical treatment. That is, once I was finished with her. I even moved her holding cell to my personal living quarters so that I could hear her screams at any hour of the night. I would dream up new ways to punish her, to make her suffer. One by one her men died and she knew that she was powerless to stop it. She had no information I cared about, but that didn't stop her from trying. I learned so much about her. How her parents died, the boy she loved as teen, Her hopes, fears, passions. Even the love for a particular Klingon. She told me everything. Or so I thought. Even as her life rested in my hands, that bitch still defied me."

"It was only a few weeks before the end of the war when I learned some startling news. It would appear that there was a possible unknown member of Ghost Recon in my camp. I was told that Petty Officer Traver had changed. I guess if I had not been so fixated on the major, I would have noticed also. Before, the young Petty Officer would make no effort to fend off my officers and men from enjoying her. However after the escape and recapture, all of a sudden Petty Officer Traver grew a spine. I ordered her to be tested. I set there holding her blond hair forcing her to look me in the eyes while two of my officers enjoyed her. I could see the hate and rage in her eyes as she fought against the bounds that held her down. This, thing in her eyes, was there even after months of being treated like this. Something that Petty Officer Traver had never had."

"I didn't know who this person was, but I was sure it was not Petty Officer Traver. I went on a hunch and dragged this impostor before Major MacConnell. I tortured both for hours but neither one would admit to knowing the other. Sure they would half heartily admit it, but I could tell they these efforts were not truthful. I turned my attention to this impostor and for the next few weeks, I warped her mind, beat her, I did everything possible to break her. I locked her in a sensory deprivation chamber for days on end. I even altered her perception of reality by using simulated memories. We made her believe that it was after the war and she had returned home a hero. For a week in real time, we had her believing she was actually home on Earth for months. Oh that was the greatest idea I ever had. When we were done with her, that little impostor was in tears crying so hard." His smile was so unsettling as he spoke, "We dragged her sobbing like a baby before the major and demanded to know who this impostor was. I had that little impostor now, she was going to break. I could see it in her eyes. She was about to give up everything. That was till I heard the major say, 'Tha gaol agam ort, beannachd leat, piuthar.' I don't know what it means, but it shut that little impostor right up. I will never forget those words till the day I die. That bitch did it to me again. She denied me, my victory."

Anger flashed in his eyes, "I didn't have a choice. It was their fault. I injected the major with a lethal does of radioactive particles. I had taken months to make sure I had the right mixture of everything. I wanted the major to live for as long as possible while her insides were eaten alive. I tested this mixture on other humans in my camp to ensure that the results would be what I wanted. I never in my life heard someone scream out in such pain and suffering. It was almost pleasing to my ears as she laid on the floor. I told the impostor that I could save her if she only tells me what I wanted to know." he waved his hand and dismissed the anger, "sure it was a lie but she didn't know that. Still the impostor refused to answer any questions. I locked her in a box with holes in it. I wanted her to see and hear the major die. And it took hours for the major to finally stop screaming. Then after that, nearly a day for her body finally stop altogether. Actually much longer than I had expected. I had to skip dinner while I waited for the major to die. The impostor wouldn't break. I ordered her to be placed back in her mental simulator."

"I had planned to bring her out at the end of the week but the war ended and well, lets say I had to make a speedy escape. But not before I took my prize from the major. Before her body was incinerated, I claimed her soul. I can trade it, for just one piece of information." He returned to his bad and set down with a smile. "Tell me something Starfleet. Tell me who was the impostor. I have my suspicions, but I really want to have them confirmed. You tell me who she was, and I will tell you how to find my trophies."

OOC Narrator Edit: Cleaned up a few minor spelling and grammar mistakes. Also the date that the Cardassian Intelligence Bureau took over.]]> OOC Narrator Notes: the following meeting takes place only with the characters Leana Vanlaere, V'rol and Erica Leona McCoy All players are encourage to PM these players so you can offer them ideas on what questions they should ask. Please make sure you PM both characters involved

Meeting With Gul Bolon, Stardate 53830.74

The brig at Starbase 74 was heavily guarded by both Starfleet personnel and a small group of Klingon warriors. The numerous crimes of Gul Bolon has earned him the nickname the Butcher of Velos. His prisoner of war interment camp had a reputation of being one of the most brutal among all of the Dominion/Cardassian POW Camps. During the three years he was in command of the camp, over five hundred prisoners were murdered or died as a direct result of abuse from the guards and camp staff. Well over half of the surviving prisoners who were brought to Velos VII Internment Camp would never fully recover from the brutal conditions of the camp. One in eight prisoners were tortured to death under the direct supervision of Gul Bolon, himself. Now, after the war, his fate was decided to be in the hands of the Klingon Empire.

After a year long battle in Federation courts and numerous intense Negotiations, the Federation has finally accepted Klingon Empire's request to extradite Gul Bolon to stand trial for war crimes. Out of these negations came a new treaty that would bring home hundreds of former Federation citizens being held by the Klingon Empire for various crimes against the Empire. There were many within the Federation Council that are still outraged over the trade off. That didn't change the fact that support for the new treaty was steadfast. Currently Gul Bolon is scheduled for transport from Starbase 74 to Qo'noS at the end of the week.

Gul Bolon's case has struck a deep nerve within the Federation as there is no doubt of his fate once the Klingon's find him guilty of war crimes. There are those within the Federation that support the extradition while there are an equal number of opponents of the extradition. Even in light of saving hundreds of former Federation citizens this has not changed the opposition against extradition. A group of Federation Council members have taken their case to the Federation Supreme Court in hopes of stopping the extradition of Gul Bolon. However it is unlikely that the case will be heard before the court prior to the extradition.

Currently a pair of Starfleet medical officers have been able to receive special permission from both Starfleet Command and the Klingon Empire to speak to Gul Bolon in regards to the time he spent as the commanding officer of Velos VII Internment Camp. By request of the Klingon Empire, the questions were strictly limited to those having to do with Federation prisoners. This pair of medical officers from the USS Thunderchild sit and listen, Gul Bolon recalls the events in his camp during the past few years. It was clear that this Cardassian held no remorse over his actions nor any measure of empathy for his victims.

"Did I kill Major Maura MacConnell? I have never hid the truth of my actions. After all, I am proud of them. Both failure and success alike. My actions were driven by that single goal to please the Gods I serve. Yes, I worship the Founders. I met one, once. I look back on that moment as one of my most dearest memories. The way she smiled at my reports and gave me that nod of hers. I felt her blessing in that moment. I recall it as if it happened just yesterday. But that is not why you are here. You want to know about Major MacConnell."

He ran his hand over his head as he got comfortable. "Yes, I know her very well. Before the destruction of the Obsidian Order in 2373 her name crossed my desk a number of times. I had warned my superiors that her unit, the Ghost Recon, would became a serious threat to us in the future. I spent so much time studying them and their tactics. My team had planned a mission to capture a group of Maquis that had been a bit too successful. Just before we were to carry out our plan, Major MacConnell and her Ghost Recon swooped in and captured our targets before we could get to them. Months of work and the our prize was lost just like that. Thanks to the Ghost Recon. It wouldn't be the first time they would embarrass me."

"In 2372 when the Cardassian Intelligence Bureau took over for the Obsidian Order, I was asked to accept the role as Camp Commander of Velos VII Internment Camp." Anger flashed in his eyes as he recalled the events of that year. "It was a demotion. It wasn't my political enemies that I had to fear, it was the reputation that I was having at the hands of the Ghost Recon. My wife left me and took my kids shortly there after. At one time I commanded hundreds of operatives across the DMZ. Now I was demoted to commanding a simply prisoner of war camp on some forgotten world. I knew why I was demoted to running an internment camp. It was because of the events the year before. I just had to wait my time and I would have my revenge on her" noting the question on their faces, "yes on Major MacConnell."

He leaned back in his bed and smiled, "then came the trap for Admiral Ross's fleet and his precious Ghost Recon. It would have been a brilliant plan if we didn't know ever detail of the plan weeks before they left Deep Space Nine. We knew everything of their plans, even the last minute changes that were made enroute to Velos system. Oh, the Array would be fully operational when Admiral Ross and his fleet arrived. By this time, the Ghost Recon would have been nothing more than ghosts themselves. However that is not how it happened. Once more that bitch MacConnell and her Ghost Recon pulled a victory out of assured defeat. Somehow she had figured out that we had a trap planned for them. I don't know how they were able to slip in, but they did. They up loaded their damn virus right from regional commander's own terminal in his very office. To add insult to injury, they escape before anyone knew what happened. The Array was worthless to us when Admiral Ross arrived."

"The information we had said how the Ghost Recon was going to withdraw from our lines and rejoin their own. Two whole divisions were waiting to cut off their retreat. But they never showed up for the battle. Instead she once more slapped me in the face. She attacked my own camp and liberated hundreds of my prisoners. I demanded that I be allowed to capture the unit seeing how the plans of my superiors' had failed. I was given the a whole divisions with ordered to capture as many as possible so that the access code for the Array could be recovered. I hate MacConnell and her Ghost Recon, but I respect them for their skills. Three times I thought I had them pinned and ready for defeat. Three times she managed an escaped. Even with updated information on when and where their evacuation shuttles would arrive, Ghost Recon continued to survive despite my best efforts. But in the end, it was numbers who got the best of them. Without hope of rescue, Ghost Recon became my celebrity guests. Fifty two in total were captured that day. Major MacConnell thought that death would claim her that day. I ordered one of the best Cardassian surgeons from the other side of the planet to save her life."

"Because of her wounds, I had to wait before exacting my revenge on her. So I tortured her men for the access codes to the array." He leaped up to his feet with laughter. A motion that caused the guards to draw their weapons on him. "Oh I knew they didn't have the codes" he said walking over to the far wall. "The information said that the creator of the virus was a female communication tech. two of my men found her body after the battle." He turned and smiled as he tapped his head, "If they knew the tech was dead, than the Major and her unit would have been taken away and used for other purposes. I wanted to keep her with me till I was finished with her. So, I killed the two soldier who found the body and never reported its discovery. I would have all the time in the world to enjoy my revenge on that bitch."

There was joy and fulfillment in his eyes as he spoke, "Oh the ways I inflicted pain on her. Her screams would filled my heart with such relief." he paused and walked towards them there was a sense of darkness in his eyes that was unmistakable. "But I had mercy. She had her own medical staff standing by twenty six hours a day. She never wanted for any medical treatment. That is, once I was finished with her. I even moved her holding cell to my personal living quarters so that I could hear her screams at any hour of the night. I would dream up new ways to punish her, to make her suffer. One by one her men died and she knew that she was powerless to stop it. She had no information I cared about, but that didn't stop her from trying. I learned so much about her. How her parents died, the boy she loved as teen, Her hopes, fears, passions. Even the love for a particular Klingon. She told me everything. Or so I thought. Even as her life rested in my hands, that bitch still defied me."

"It was only a few weeks before the end of the war when I learned some startling news. It would appear that there was a possible unknown member of Ghost Recon in my camp. I was told that Petty Officer Traver had changed. I guess if I had not been so fixated on the major, I would have noticed also. Before, the young Petty Officer would make no effort to fend off my officers and men from enjoying her. However after the escape and recapture, all of a sudden Petty Officer Traver grew a spine. I ordered her to be tested. I set there holding her blond hair forcing her to look me in the eyes while two of my officers enjoyed her. I could see the hate and rage in her eyes as she fought against the bounds that held her down. This, thing in her eyes, was there even after months of being treated like this. Something that Petty Officer Traver had never had."

"I didn't know who this person was, but I was sure it was not Petty Officer Traver. I went on a hunch and dragged this impostor before Major MacConnell. I tortured both for hours but neither one would admit to knowing the other. Sure they would half heartily admit it, but I could tell they these efforts were not truthful. I turned my attention to this impostor and for the next few weeks, I warped her mind, beat her, I did everything possible to break her. I locked her in a sensory deprivation chamber for days on end. I even altered her perception of reality by using simulated memories. We made her believe that it was after the war and she had returned home a hero. For a week in real time, we had her believing she was actually home on Earth for months. Oh that was the greatest idea I ever had. When we were done with her, that little impostor was in tears crying so hard." His smile was so unsettling as he spoke, "We dragged her sobbing like a baby before the major and demanded to know who this impostor was. I had that little impostor now, she was going to break. I could see it in her eyes. She was about to give up everything. That was till I heard the major say, 'Tha gaol agam ort, beannachd leat, piuthar.' I don't know what it means, but it shut that little impostor right up. I will never forget those words till the day I die. That bitch did it to me again. She denied me, my victory."

Anger flashed in his eyes, "I didn't have a choice. It was their fault. I injected the major with a lethal does of radioactive particles. I had taken months to make sure I had the right mixture of everything. I wanted the major to live for as long as possible while her insides were eaten alive. I tested this mixture on other humans in my camp to ensure that the results would be what I wanted. I never in my life heard someone scream out in such pain and suffering. It was almost pleasing to my ears as she laid on the floor. I told the impostor that I could save her if she only tells me what I wanted to know." he waved his hand and dismissed the anger, "sure it was a lie but she didn't know that. Still the impostor refused to answer any questions. I locked her in a box with holes in it. I wanted her to see and hear the major die. And it took hours for the major to finally stop screaming. Then after that, nearly a day for her body finally stop altogether. Actually much longer than I had expected. I had to skip dinner while I waited for the major to die. The impostor wouldn't break. I ordered her to be placed back in her mental simulator."

"I had planned to bring her out at the end of the week but the war ended and well, lets say I had to make a speedy escape. But not before I took my prize from the major. Before her body was incinerated, I claimed her soul. I can trade it, for just one piece of information." He returned to his bad and set down with a smile. "Tell me something Starfleet. Tell me who was the impostor. I have my suspicions, but I really want to have them confirmed. You tell me who she was, and I will tell you how to find my trophies."

OOC Narrator Edit: Cleaned up a few minor spelling and grammar mistakes. Also the date that the Cardassian Intelligence Bureau took over.]]> <![CDATA[Act One, Scene Two]]> http://www.orlandogamers.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=168 Sun, 20 Jul 2014 08:47:01 -0700 Akirapryde]]> http://www.orlandogamers.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=168

Welcome Aboard, Captain (Stardate: 53829.75)

It has been just over six hours since the intruder invaded the USS Thunderchild and they are no closer to solving the mystery of who the intruder is then they were during the attack. Lieutenant Kinchlirah in all of her Klingon stubbornness refuses to accept neither the Computer's identification nor the acting Chief Medical Officer's DNA identification of the intruder. Lieutenant Kinchlirah claims that neither of those identified match her own eye witnessed account of the encounter. Due to this, Commander Bonham has granted her time to expand her own investigation in to who might be responsible for the attack.

While the ship's crew might not know who was behind the attack, it was clear what they were after. The intruder had managed to steal over 65 teraquads of seemingly random data from the ship's computer core. However thanks to the limited science department, they were able to swift through the data taken and verified that nearly half of the data stolen were all linked to Admiral Ross and his staff. Personal logs, official reports, and activities were all targeted by the intruder. The rest of the data all appeared to be random bits of data to cover up the true target of the intruder. Commander Bonham personally placed Lieutenant Paaleia, two other Vulcans in charge of rebuilding the worm in hopes of learning more about the intruder and her abilities.

The worm was impressive according to Lieutenant Paaleia. She said that had never seen anything quite like it. After its mission was complete, it self deleted its self. What made it so impressive was the skill used to mask its actions till it was too late for the ships own Computer Core to react to it. It was also highly advanced in its search algorithms as it was able to search massive number of memory blocks at once. It was twice as fast as the most advanced Starfleet search program. Sadly, this impressive worm was not able to be rebuilt fully. After six hours of work, Lieutenant Paaleia conceded that the most she and her team will be able to salvage was about one third of the worm. However this was more than enough to help identify the programmer who created the worm.

Thanks to the work of Lieutenant Paaleia and her team, two more virus were discovered in the ship's computer systems. One virus left the veteran Vulcan near speechless. It was a type of clone program that simulated normal computer functions while the entire system was hijacked. Regardless of what the crew commanded the computer to do, it only simulated the actions while the actual ship reacted to commands from elsewhere. This virus only survived for a few minutes till the ship's computer was able to identify it and neutralize the threat. However during that limited time, the Thunderchild had no control over her own helm, navigation or engines. This virus was clearly used to help the invader escape the ship on her terms.

The last virus was the one which took control over the transporters, internal sensors and internal communications. With controls of the transporters routed off the ship, the intruder or someone else was able to target select personal of the ship and transport them from where they were to another place on the ship. Using the ship's own sensors, the intruder or someone else was able to ensure that the Deck 8, Section 15 would remain clear of crewmembers while the data was stolen. This virus also allowed someone to monitor internal communications freely. Like the search worm, both of these viruses self destructed as well.

His team was able to figure out how the intruder was able to fool the ship's sensors and remain so close. They had used tethers and formed a direct link to the ship's sensor grid. As far as the ship was concerned, the little runabout was part of the Thunderchild. To fool crew members who might have been looking out a window or view port. The intruder ran cords of lighting along the haul of the runabout. These lights simulated stars whipping past while the ship was at warp. The intruder painted the runabout jet black and turned off all the running lights. While the ship wasn't cloaked, it was very hard to detect. A clever low tech way of over come a possible problem.

The only bit of good news was that no one was seriously injured during the attack aside from Cadet Madhev. However the young cadet's wounds were inflicted by her own shipmate. A fact that Commander Bonham was going to bring up to Ensign Faulknen regarding phaser combat in close spaces. Nonetheless, it was surprising that there were no major causalities. Not that Commander Bonham was complaining. Still, a lone intruder made his crew look like a ship full of second year cadets. This bothered his ego more than anything else. Searching for warp trails was equally upsetting and proving to be just as frustration. Based on scans, there were nine equally hard to find warp trails. Each had a variance that could mean it came from the real USS Susquehanna. Each trail headed off towards major areas of space travel making tracking the trails at long distance much harder.

He simply didn't have the resources to follow all of them at the same time with the Thunderchild. If he commanded the Thunderchild off in the wrong direction he risked loosing what other trails as they dissipated. He decided to dispatch all four of his runabouts and all four warp capable shuttles to follow the numerous warp trails which were left behind by the intruder. As the scouts were deployed, he ordered the much faster Thunderchild to follow the most logical trail to its end. This bought them enough time to a hasty rendezvous with the USS Intrepid so that the Captain and XO can come aboard. The commander hoped to have something to report to his new captain and XO. However his trail came up cold as they discovered the trail ended at a Class IX Long-Range Multimission Warp Probe. They had followed one of eight decoys.

Based on the specs of the USS Susquehanna, the runabout was not capable of firing this model probe. Based on what they discovered with the probe, it was not launched via a normal torpedo launcher. This proved that the intruder could adapt to the limitations of what she had on hand. This made her even more dangerous. This was topped by the computer viruses and the personal sensor damping device. The technical knowledge of the intrude was clearly on par with the best minds he had aboard the ship. This fact seemed to discount the computer's identification.

Commander Bonham ran over the encounter, the more it was clear that this intruder was one step ahead of them. This bothered the commander greatly. Based on voice recording, she knew her way around the ship. Security protocols for their ship and more importantly, she knew the crew. It was clear that she was speaking with some unknown accomplice during the encounter. This person could have been operating the ship's systems during the encounter. Commander Bonham felt as if he was in a match of strategy, logic and tactics with a Vulcan.

An hour ago, two more reports from the scouts came back and they were disappointing. Two of his runabouts had discovered two more decoys. With three trails down, that only left six others to come back. 'Six' Commander Bonham thought. It seemed like such a small number, yet in this moment it seemed like a massive number. Commander Bonham stood in the transporter room waiting for their captain to beam aboard. "Six" he mumbled under his breath.

"Sir we are ready to beam them over" informed the transporter tech.

Commander Bonham nodded, "Energize."

With that command the transporter lit up and a single person beamed aboard. Commander Bonham was surprise to only see Captain Jackson F. Campbell and no First Officer. It had been just over a year since he had seen Captain Campbell . With all the honor and dignity of a Starfleet Officer, Commander Bonham stepped forward, "Welcome Aboard Sir!" He said loud enough for the crew in the hall to hear. "The USS Thunderchild awaits your command."

Narrator Note: Any Active Character in the game may make a post in this greeting thread including Captain Campbell.]]>

Welcome Aboard, Captain (Stardate: 53829.75)

Narrator Note: Any Active Character in the game may make a post in this greeting thread including Captain Campbell.]]> <![CDATA[Act One, Scene One]]> http://www.orlandogamers.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=157 Mon, 07 Jul 2014 20:48:00 -0700 Akirapryde]]> http://www.orlandogamers.org/forum/showthread.php?tid=157

PROLOGUE

Quote:"Acting Captain's Log, Stardate 53829.04"

"Where to begin." Sighs for a moment

"We are one day out of Utopia Planitia Fleet Yards enroute for Deep Space Nine. The USS Thunderchild NCC-63549, has once more risen from the ashes of its near destruction. This time our near destruction was at the hands of the Dominion and their ruthless Jem'Hadar fighters. During the final hours of the Dominion War, we were conducting rapid raids behind enemy lines. During one of our raids when we were jumped out by a handful of Jem'Hadar attack ships. At first the attack seemed random, but as the battle continued it was clear that somehow the enemy knew where we were and how to hit us hard. The attack came swiftly and without warning as they pounced on us from a nearby asteroid field. During the hight of the battle, both Captain Evelyn Hoffman and Executive Officer, Commander Zdenko were killed."

Another shorter sigh

"Prior to the battle, my role aboard the ship was as a pilot assigned to the tactical fighter wing. However due to injuries from a prior battle, I found my post on the Bridge coordinating the fighters with the ship's actions. I wish I was anywhere else but on the bridge during that battle. If I was just in my fighter with my brothers and sisters, I wouldn't be here today to leave this log. But fate had another role for me and now I must fulfill that role, rather I like it or not."

"With our core leadership dead or not on the bridge I was forced to assumed command of the ship. The battle was brutal and the Jem'Hadar once more proved how they can be a very aggressive enemy. With the bridge smashed I was forced to act as both Commander of the ship, Tactical Officer and Helm Officer all at the same time. As the battle raged, there were times that I was the only active officer on the Bridge. We took a heavily pounding during the battle and at one point we lost main power. I remember back during the Academy how it was said that within any military unit is a group of people on the verge of chaos and panic. This may be true, but not for this crew! They ARE the exception to that rule. Despite loosing nearly all of the senior staff, the junior officers held their departments together. I don't think any commander could ever be more proud of any crew during such a situation as I am after the fact. This ship survived that battle because of its junior officers and the crewmen that supported them."

"As the battle continued, engineering was able to restore main power and had beaten the Jem'Hadar fighters back. However this short breathing room came at a heavy price. So many of the ship's crew and our fighter pilots had paid a high price. Still despite our best efforts, time and the battle were shifting against us. Sensors detected a pair of Breen warships closing on our position. We only had minutes till the Breen were to arrive and the Jem'Hadar ships were regrouping to renew their attack on us. I was left with the painful decision. Do I order our retreat or stay and fight. In retreat I save the ship and whats left of the crew. And at the same time I would be abandoning our fighters at the edges of the battle. Staying and fighting didn't ensure that we could save those brave pilots or meant I could retreat later. My God, what a painful choice."

"With our warp engine back on line, I gave the order to withdraw from the area. I remember the moment those words slipped my lips. Those who agreed with my order followed them without question. Those who didn't turned and gazed at me. I felt their pain and knew what was in their minds. I was breaking one of the most important unwritten rules in Starfleet. Never leave your shipmates behind. How could I forgive myself for what I was about to do. I was leaving my own brothers and sisters behind. I could hear their voices as they were locked in a life and death struggle. I didn't have time to think, the window was closing on our escape. I demanded the order be followed and what was left of the bridge crew obeyed it. I never gave that order a second thought at the time. But it is all I can think about now."

"I can still hear the communication channels echoing in my memory when I close my eyes. The voices of my brothers and sisters calling out to me. They begged for us not to abandon them. Pleaded for us to come back and get them. But we didn't have a choice. I didn't have a choice. It was either leave or the whole ship would be lost. I won't lie, I do wonder sometimes if we could have pushed forward and broke the Jem'Hadar lines. And in doing so, allowed our cut off fighters to come aboard. Would we have been caught by the Breen during that attempt. I have replayed the battle over and over again in my mind. Each time, trying to figure out what I could have done to save them. To do something better than what I feel like I had to do."

"I guess the worse is not really knowing if I made the right call or not. I know for a fact that this will become an order that will haunt me for years to come. I can see this in the eyes of those crew members that remained aboard during and after the refit. So many of them look at me with honor and respect, but there are just as many that look at me with hatred and disgust. So many had been lost during that battle. So many friends and shipmates who had perished, could I have saved my fellow pilots? The unanswered question that will also haunt be, this much I am sure of."

"I know that Lieutenant Jenifer Luther, one of our engineers, thought my actions were cowardly. She has made her opinion of my actions and of me personally clear on a number of times during our repairs. I do feel for her loss. Her husband, Lieutenant Markus Luther, was a member of my fighter group who was still fighting when we were forced to withdraw. Both of them had been a pair of my best friends and now he is gone. Jenifer wont speak with me unless it is about the repairs or in regards to official business. I have tried to express my sorrow for her lost but she shut me out. Maybe it is something I deserve. After all, I alone stand by my actions and because of them, he is gone. Markus had been listed as missing in action but after the war his remains were discovered. Now his official status is listed as killed in action. My best friend is dead, and my order is to blame. I am to blame for his death. How could I ever expect her to forgive me when I can't forgive myself."

"If you ask Star Fleet, they think I made the right choice. I have a shiny new medal to prove their thoughts of my actions. 'Showing Courage and Leadership in the true spirit of Star Fleet' is what the plaque reads. Vice Admiral Ross patted me on the back telling me I did a fine job in saving my fellow shipmates and the ship. Some even suggest that I was a hero in my actions. I don't feel like much of a hero. Jenifer requested a transfer off of the ship two months ago. I don't blame her. I know that look in her eyes when she looks at me. I couldn't even bring myself to look her in the eyes anymore. She left the ship with hardly any fanfare. I guess her days of exploring the galaxy are over. She has returned home and started to rebuild her life. I too feel the call of the stars fading in my ears as well. Its time for me to find a new life beyond Starfleet as well. I don't think I have many more battles left in me."

"After the battle, the ship was in shambles and main power failed not an hour after we made our escape. For nearly three hours we were dead in space and the crews' nerves were on edge till a pair of Romulan Warbirds showed up. It was lucky for us that they did, they were able to tug us back to Deep Space Nine. To think, that I would have been so grateful to see Warbirds. It was under the orders of Vice Admiral Ross, that I would remain in command of the Thunderchild as we limp our way back to the Fleet Yards for repairs. He tasked me with an amazing mission. To command the complete refit of the ship. The vision of Admiral Ross and Admiral Tate was remarkable. An honor that I don't think I deserve. The repair crews couldn't believe that the ship had survived. By this time, we realized how badly our ship was damaged. But the Thunderchild was a proud and strong ship. She had survived the Battle of Sector 001 and she would also survive this. During the nearly year long repairs, I was promoted to Commander as I continued to over see the repairs and refit of the ship."

"During our repairs, I had to replace Lieutenant Luther as she departed the first chance she got. I was lucky to stumble across a upstart fresh Lieutenant Kiera Medart. Smart kid but she has no real idea what is beyond the Sol System. I caught wind that she was looking to leave the shipyards and we needed to new Chief Engineer. Who knew that my pretty shiny new medal won me some favor with Star Fleet Command. I went to Admiral Ross and spoke with him about her request to joining our crew. I mentioned how she was leading much of the repairs and the installation of the new engines. I pointed out that no one knew this ship better than Lieutenant Medart. Next thing I knew, she was promoted to full Lieutenant and her transfer was approved."

"For all of her smarts though, she has failed to be able to locate the problem with our warp engines. It would appear that we are bleeding off energy via our warp field. She has sworn up and down that her engines are operating at peek efficiency, however the loss of energy is still there. The problem started to show its self right after we left the Fleet Yards. During the last few hours, I have made a point to dog her about her new engines and the loss of power. I know it is getting under her skin but I need to see where her breaking point is. I plan to push her even harder tomorrow if she can't correct the problem by then. Hell we only been out of the yards for just over a day. There is no reason why the engines should be bleeding power like this."

"The energy bleed off is enough of a problem but there is also the annoying problems with our computer have been plaguing us since we left the ship yards. The good news is that the random false alarms are giving the security teams a run for them money. It is good training if you ask me. Still, I would like to deliver the Thunderchild to her new Captain in prefect working order. If only Lieutenant Medart can fix her engines or she better have a good reason as to why we are bleeding energy. That or I all give her some close personal combat training with our resident Klingon exchange officer."

Laughs a bit, "Lieutenant Kinchlirah seems like a fine officer. Her combat record is rather impressive. She brings to the ship a whole new point defense system that is singly designed to protect the ship against small ships like Jem'Hadar fighters. A massive power drain on the ship, but creates a interlocking network of micro phasers that can track and engage these fast moving targets at close ranges. The system is remarkable if it will function as Lieutenant Kinchlirah claims. On a personal note, when the rumors came down that I might be assigned as Executive Officer Lieutenant Kinchlirah and I had to end our personal relationship. We have assured ourselves that this is only temporary. Once I deliver the ship to Deep Space Nine and her new commander, I have my own plans."

"Ensign Arendse made a bothersome comment to me yesterday. He said that he was inspired to serve under a hero like me. I will give the young ensign credit. One day he will make a fine Tactical Officer, but his current judge of character is off. I am no hero. A hero would have been able to save those pilots before we withdrew from the battle. No, I am just that guy that made that call. For right or wrong, I must accept what I ordered. And because of that order, my best friend is dead. My fellow pilots are dead. Would Captain Hoffman or Commander Adolfs had made the same call? No, I do not see myself as a hero. I don't think I ever will."

"Currently we are enroute to Starbase 74. Limping along due to computer and warp field problems. The Thunderchild is operating on a skeleton crew and will be picking up the rest of her crew once we arrive. At that time we will also be picking up our new fighter wing along with their fighters. I had had the flight crews stationed at Starbase 74 to continue with their training. I managed to hand pick most of the pilots that would make up this ships new wings. Some of them are combat vets, while others are fresh from the Academy. Together they make a strong mix of skills, experience and fresh ideas. I am sure that our new captain will be impressed with these men and women."

"Speaking of, tomorrow morning we will be rendezvousing with the USS Intrepid to pick up our new Captain and Executive Officer. I personally know Captain Campbell. He served aboard as a Operations Officer during the war, before joining Admiral Tate's staff. He is a good officer and a friend. I can't think of a better officer to lead this fine ship and her crew. As for the new XO, there are only rumors about who that might be. My own guess is that Captain Campbell already has one in mind. As for my role, I have fulfilled my duty. I have seen the ship from space wreck to rebirth. Today, the USS Thunderchild has become the first official carrier in Starfleet. This along with my own long term plans, I have to say my career couldn't end on a better note. That considering how I reached this point in the first place. This is much more than what I dare ask for."

"After our short stay at Starbase 74, we will be departing for Deep Space Nine where our ship will take part in the promotion ceremony of Admiral Ross. I have it on good authority, that the Admiral has personally requested our ship along with a few others to be part of his ceremony. The Thunderchild was his Flagship during the invasion of the Velos system. While that invasion failed, the aftermath of that operation put this ship on the path that turned it in to what the Thunderchild is today."

"Commander Addison Bonham, acting Commanding Officer, USS Thunderchild, End Log."

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PROLOGUE

Quote:"Acting Captain's Log, Stardate 53829.04"

"Where to begin." Sighs for a moment

"We are one day out of Utopia Planitia Fleet Yards enroute for Deep Space Nine. The USS Thunderchild NCC-63549, has once more risen from the ashes of its near destruction. This time our near destruction was at the hands of the Dominion and their ruthless Jem'Hadar fighters. During the final hours of the Dominion War, we were conducting rapid raids behind enemy lines. During one of our raids when we were jumped out by a handful of Jem'Hadar attack ships. At first the attack seemed random, but as the battle continued it was clear that somehow the enemy knew where we were and how to hit us hard. The attack came swiftly and without warning as they pounced on us from a nearby asteroid field. During the hight of the battle, both Captain Evelyn Hoffman and Executive Officer, Commander Zdenko were killed."

Another shorter sigh

"Prior to the battle, my role aboard the ship was as a pilot assigned to the tactical fighter wing. However due to injuries from a prior battle, I found my post on the Bridge coordinating the fighters with the ship's actions. I wish I was anywhere else but on the bridge during that battle. If I was just in my fighter with my brothers and sisters, I wouldn't be here today to leave this log. But fate had another role for me and now I must fulfill that role, rather I like it or not."

"With our core leadership dead or not on the bridge I was forced to assumed command of the ship. The battle was brutal and the Jem'Hadar once more proved how they can be a very aggressive enemy. With the bridge smashed I was forced to act as both Commander of the ship, Tactical Officer and Helm Officer all at the same time. As the battle raged, there were times that I was the only active officer on the Bridge. We took a heavily pounding during the battle and at one point we lost main power. I remember back during the Academy how it was said that within any military unit is a group of people on the verge of chaos and panic. This may be true, but not for this crew! They ARE the exception to that rule. Despite loosing nearly all of the senior staff, the junior officers held their departments together. I don't think any commander could ever be more proud of any crew during such a situation as I am after the fact. This ship survived that battle because of its junior officers and the crewmen that supported them."

"As the battle continued, engineering was able to restore main power and had beaten the Jem'Hadar fighters back. However this short breathing room came at a heavy price. So many of the ship's crew and our fighter pilots had paid a high price. Still despite our best efforts, time and the battle were shifting against us. Sensors detected a pair of Breen warships closing on our position. We only had minutes till the Breen were to arrive and the Jem'Hadar ships were regrouping to renew their attack on us. I was left with the painful decision. Do I order our retreat or stay and fight. In retreat I save the ship and whats left of the crew. And at the same time I would be abandoning our fighters at the edges of the battle. Staying and fighting didn't ensure that we could save those brave pilots or meant I could retreat later. My God, what a painful choice."

"With our warp engine back on line, I gave the order to withdraw from the area. I remember the moment those words slipped my lips. Those who agreed with my order followed them without question. Those who didn't turned and gazed at me. I felt their pain and knew what was in their minds. I was breaking one of the most important unwritten rules in Starfleet. Never leave your shipmates behind. How could I forgive myself for what I was about to do. I was leaving my own brothers and sisters behind. I could hear their voices as they were locked in a life and death struggle. I didn't have time to think, the window was closing on our escape. I demanded the order be followed and what was left of the bridge crew obeyed it. I never gave that order a second thought at the time. But it is all I can think about now."

"I can still hear the communication channels echoing in my memory when I close my eyes. The voices of my brothers and sisters calling out to me. They begged for us not to abandon them. Pleaded for us to come back and get them. But we didn't have a choice. I didn't have a choice. It was either leave or the whole ship would be lost. I won't lie, I do wonder sometimes if we could have pushed forward and broke the Jem'Hadar lines. And in doing so, allowed our cut off fighters to come aboard. Would we have been caught by the Breen during that attempt. I have replayed the battle over and over again in my mind. Each time, trying to figure out what I could have done to save them. To do something better than what I feel like I had to do."

"I guess the worse is not really knowing if I made the right call or not. I know for a fact that this will become an order that will haunt me for years to come. I can see this in the eyes of those crew members that remained aboard during and after the refit. So many of them look at me with honor and respect, but there are just as many that look at me with hatred and disgust. So many had been lost during that battle. So many friends and shipmates who had perished, could I have saved my fellow pilots? The unanswered question that will also haunt be, this much I am sure of."

"I know that Lieutenant Jenifer Luther, one of our engineers, thought my actions were cowardly. She has made her opinion of my actions and of me personally clear on a number of times during our repairs. I do feel for her loss. Her husband, Lieutenant Markus Luther, was a member of my fighter group who was still fighting when we were forced to withdraw. Both of them had been a pair of my best friends and now he is gone. Jenifer wont speak with me unless it is about the repairs or in regards to official business. I have tried to express my sorrow for her lost but she shut me out. Maybe it is something I deserve. After all, I alone stand by my actions and because of them, he is gone. Markus had been listed as missing in action but after the war his remains were discovered. Now his official status is listed as killed in action. My best friend is dead, and my order is to blame. I am to blame for his death. How could I ever expect her to forgive me when I can't forgive myself."

"If you ask Star Fleet, they think I made the right choice. I have a shiny new medal to prove their thoughts of my actions. 'Showing Courage and Leadership in the true spirit of Star Fleet' is what the plaque reads. Vice Admiral Ross patted me on the back telling me I did a fine job in saving my fellow shipmates and the ship. Some even suggest that I was a hero in my actions. I don't feel like much of a hero. Jenifer requested a transfer off of the ship two months ago. I don't blame her. I know that look in her eyes when she looks at me. I couldn't even bring myself to look her in the eyes anymore. She left the ship with hardly any fanfare. I guess her days of exploring the galaxy are over. She has returned home and started to rebuild her life. I too feel the call of the stars fading in my ears as well. Its time for me to find a new life beyond Starfleet as well. I don't think I have many more battles left in me."

"After the battle, the ship was in shambles and main power failed not an hour after we made our escape. For nearly three hours we were dead in space and the crews' nerves were on edge till a pair of Romulan Warbirds showed up. It was lucky for us that they did, they were able to tug us back to Deep Space Nine. To think, that I would have been so grateful to see Warbirds. It was under the orders of Vice Admiral Ross, that I would remain in command of the Thunderchild as we limp our way back to the Fleet Yards for repairs. He tasked me with an amazing mission. To command the complete refit of the ship. The vision of Admiral Ross and Admiral Tate was remarkable. An honor that I don't think I deserve. The repair crews couldn't believe that the ship had survived. By this time, we realized how badly our ship was damaged. But the Thunderchild was a proud and strong ship. She had survived the Battle of Sector 001 and she would also survive this. During the nearly year long repairs, I was promoted to Commander as I continued to over see the repairs and refit of the ship."

"During our repairs, I had to replace Lieutenant Luther as she departed the first chance she got. I was lucky to stumble across a upstart fresh Lieutenant Kiera Medart. Smart kid but she has no real idea what is beyond the Sol System. I caught wind that she was looking to leave the shipyards and we needed to new Chief Engineer. Who knew that my pretty shiny new medal won me some favor with Star Fleet Command. I went to Admiral Ross and spoke with him about her request to joining our crew. I mentioned how she was leading much of the repairs and the installation of the new engines. I pointed out that no one knew this ship better than Lieutenant Medart. Next thing I knew, she was promoted to full Lieutenant and her transfer was approved."

"For all of her smarts though, she has failed to be able to locate the problem with our warp engines. It would appear that we are bleeding off energy via our warp field. She has sworn up and down that her engines are operating at peek efficiency, however the loss of energy is still there. The problem started to show its self right after we left the Fleet Yards. During the last few hours, I have made a point to dog her about her new engines and the loss of power. I know it is getting under her skin but I need to see where her breaking point is. I plan to push her even harder tomorrow if she can't correct the problem by then. Hell we only been out of the yards for just over a day. There is no reason why the engines should be bleeding power like this."

"The energy bleed off is enough of a problem but there is also the annoying problems with our computer have been plaguing us since we left the ship yards. The good news is that the random false alarms are giving the security teams a run for them money. It is good training if you ask me. Still, I would like to deliver the Thunderchild to her new Captain in prefect working order. If only Lieutenant Medart can fix her engines or she better have a good reason as to why we are bleeding energy. That or I all give her some close personal combat training with our resident Klingon exchange officer."

Laughs a bit, "Lieutenant Kinchlirah seems like a fine officer. Her combat record is rather impressive. She brings to the ship a whole new point defense system that is singly designed to protect the ship against small ships like Jem'Hadar fighters. A massive power drain on the ship, but creates a interlocking network of micro phasers that can track and engage these fast moving targets at close ranges. The system is remarkable if it will function as Lieutenant Kinchlirah claims. On a personal note, when the rumors came down that I might be assigned as Executive Officer Lieutenant Kinchlirah and I had to end our personal relationship. We have assured ourselves that this is only temporary. Once I deliver the ship to Deep Space Nine and her new commander, I have my own plans."

"Ensign Arendse made a bothersome comment to me yesterday. He said that he was inspired to serve under a hero like me. I will give the young ensign credit. One day he will make a fine Tactical Officer, but his current judge of character is off. I am no hero. A hero would have been able to save those pilots before we withdrew from the battle. No, I am just that guy that made that call. For right or wrong, I must accept what I ordered. And because of that order, my best friend is dead. My fellow pilots are dead. Would Captain Hoffman or Commander Adolfs had made the same call? No, I do not see myself as a hero. I don't think I ever will."

"Currently we are enroute to Starbase 74. Limping along due to computer and warp field problems. The Thunderchild is operating on a skeleton crew and will be picking up the rest of her crew once we arrive. At that time we will also be picking up our new fighter wing along with their fighters. I had had the flight crews stationed at Starbase 74 to continue with their training. I managed to hand pick most of the pilots that would make up this ships new wings. Some of them are combat vets, while others are fresh from the Academy. Together they make a strong mix of skills, experience and fresh ideas. I am sure that our new captain will be impressed with these men and women."

"Speaking of, tomorrow morning we will be rendezvousing with the USS Intrepid to pick up our new Captain and Executive Officer. I personally know Captain Campbell. He served aboard as a Operations Officer during the war, before joining Admiral Tate's staff. He is a good officer and a friend. I can't think of a better officer to lead this fine ship and her crew. As for the new XO, there are only rumors about who that might be. My own guess is that Captain Campbell already has one in mind. As for my role, I have fulfilled my duty. I have seen the ship from space wreck to rebirth. Today, the USS Thunderchild has become the first official carrier in Starfleet. This along with my own long term plans, I have to say my career couldn't end on a better note. That considering how I reached this point in the first place. This is much more than what I dare ask for."

"After our short stay at Starbase 74, we will be departing for Deep Space Nine where our ship will take part in the promotion ceremony of Admiral Ross. I have it on good authority, that the Admiral has personally requested our ship along with a few others to be part of his ceremony. The Thunderchild was his Flagship during the invasion of the Velos system. While that invasion failed, the aftermath of that operation put this ship on the path that turned it in to what the Thunderchild is today."

"Commander Addison Bonham, acting Commanding Officer, USS Thunderchild, End Log."

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