Into The Fire : ACT ONE - Alliances

Blades · October 11, 2000

Hereford starbase is an Orion facility where ELITE Battle Group Commanders train. With the exception of the Orion Station itself, it's the most heavily defended base in Alpha Centauri.

And no, I doubt you'd be related to that commander Stone.

Eclipse · October 12, 2000

here goes nothing (aimed at Rattler and Gallion)

[rp on]

07:40 hrs, 15th May, 3008

Debris Field

SOL/EARTH

Commodore Antilles sat in his ready room aboard the Generis transport he had requisitioned for this mission. It had been two days of complete boardem since he left the Eclipse in Lyrius,except for that close scrape with the Galcom Customs Crusier that had been a tad overzealous. Now, he sat gathering data on galcom movements while the ship combed the Sol/Earth debris field. So far, nothing unexpected had occured. In fact, if nothing happened soon the local police force might start getting interested in what they thought he thought was interesting here.... and that could lead to disaster. While he sat lost in thought, steady tone brought his attention back to the situation at hand, Odd, he thought as he saw the light indicating an Insurgent transmission had been received along with the usual Galcom traffic they had been analyzing. he opened the communique and began reading.

quote:

TO: Eternal Warrior

Am I not Christopher Sly? Well, well see't. Come, sit by my side

and let the world slip: we shall ne'er be younger, Thou art a fool Pixan:

For if Echo were as fleet, I would esteem him worth a dozen such.

But sup them well and look unto them all: To-days and one, I intend to hunt again.

SLY Ay, it stands so that I may hardly tarry so long. But I would be loath to fall into

my dreams again: I will therefore tarry in despite of the flesh and the bloodÔÇª.

ÔÇª[Enter a Messenger]

Messenger Your honour's players, heating your amendment,

Are come to play a pleasant comedy;

For so your doctors hold it very meet,

Seeing too much sadness hath congeal'd your blood,

And melancholy is the nurse of frenzy:

Therefore they thought it good you hear a play

And frame your mind to mirth and merriment,

Which bars a thousand harms and lengthens life.

Well, well see't. Come, sit by my side

and let the world slip: we shall ne'er be younger. ÔÇª

Kyle read through the strange message again, the words brought a tiny tickle of recognition, but from what or whre he couldn't remember. Looking off into space Antilles thought through the places he had been..... Slowly the memory came back to him... It was Shakespere, but where had he heard it before and why did it seem different. Antilles looked down and read through the message again. Several minutes passes in the small chamber before he looked up again, but this time he thought he had enough to piece to gether part of his answers, An old corsair had visited Spectre, it was those lines he used that had caused Rattler to spare him for some reason, but the words were slightly changed this time. Commodore Antilles left his ready room hurridly and told the gunnery officer to watch for any ships leaving Galcom HQ and report to him. Not bothering to wait for the officers affirmation, he turned and went back to his ready room to sort out what he could of the message.

[rp off]

------------------

Commodore Kyle Antilles

ICV-Eclipse, Destiny Starstation (Nevuela)

Commanding Officer, Destiny

Spectre Fleet

"You can only love or hate something you truly understand"

editedto put my proper rank in... hard getting used to Commodore

[This message has been edited by Eclipse (edited 10-11-2000).]

Rattler · October 12, 2000

The "Man behind the mirrored glasses" had long since taken them off and had proceeded to get comfortable in his "At Sea Cabin." As he proceeded to empty his flask, his nerves had settled a bit. He was totally relaxed by the time the flask had been emptied. He had "Read the Room" as any good Gambler would have done, disabling any and all Snoops that were there. Under his breath he snarled Karl, and I thought you trusted me.. as he disabled the last of the 7 devices. In the back of his mind that song flourished again and came rushing back into his consciousness. "You've got to know when to hold them, Know when to fold them....." Memories came rushing forward like a tidal wave. He remembered them all. The loss of the 1st Necromancer. His good friend DeSylva, Locke1 being there to pull his bacon out of the preverbial fire when the Gams were intent on frying his posterior. He remembered an Eagle Eyed Galcom Commander that came to visit, Uninvited, an old Gunnery Sergeant that was Time Eternal, ever vigilant on watch, the first one to man the walls, the last to leave his post. He also remembered a fleeting Buck, and his return. Storekeeper, I hope you're still out there carrying Nails! We might need some soon!

And finally came Akira, The current mission. We're coming Mia Amigo, We're Coming!" Rattler threw the empty flask at the bulkhead and slumped into his chair. Damned it all, why must there be such times as these? Why must there always be someone out there who is afraid to face their enemies in the light of day, instead of the dark and damp alleys of the universe. What ever happened to Honor? Even the Gammulans were better enemies. At least they had honor. Rattler was in need. He quickly thumbed the intercom and spoke directly into it.

"Karl, I need another favor. Could I trouble you with finding a female companion for myself on this fine ship? No it's not what you think! Even an Old Insurgent enjoys the company of the opposite sex. I just need to talk and I find it very pleasant to speak with women. Your choice Fleet Commander. I promise to be what my Mother brought me up to be. A Gentleman......" Click

(/RP)

Commander Jamont · October 12, 2000

Here i go..

[rp]

Cmdr. Jamont walked down the long pathway leading outside his base...

He's wondering what this strange message could be ...

He's thinking of his girlfriend who is the commander of the GVC-White Light

Damnit he's thinking by himself ... i promised i would be here when she returned.

Then suddenly his pda whent off , he's looking at the message , reading it..

Cmdr.Jamont , your shuttle is here waiting for you to take you to Pixan station.

Cmdr.Jamont running back....

Ok.. Pilot take her off , and please no disturbance until we get there only if its important.

Yes SIR

[/rp]

Any good this time blades?

------------------

Commander Nick Jamont

GCV Prophecy IV, ISSHQ (Saturn)

Intel & Espionage Wing Leader - ISS Fleet

"silence is gold"

Whisper · October 12, 2000

[rp]

04:39 hours, 18th of May 3008

Lennen, Syrius

Lyrius-Lennen Jumpgate

A broad-spectrum flash. Briefly, every sensor within 25,000 klicks was blinded, as a masive but harmless shockwave instanly ripped through the system. Nobody save one cared, for the moment.

A small, sleek shape, came with the shockwave. The local starstation did and could not detect the object, but other, more sinister eyes were upon the Bold Voyager.

The sleeping form of Mr. David Liev became alert. His grim demaner somehow turned a shade more grim, as his eyes looked to his radar. On it was a single red blip. Liev hissed. The blip confirmed what he thought he knew: the Starstation Pixan and the infamous Lennen raider outpost were one and the same. Consdiering the goodies a sensor scan of his ship would reveal, Liev hoped no scout ships would investigate the Jumpgate signature. But hoping wouldn't be very useful in a firefight. He began shunting hyper-engine power to the...

A deep growl emintated from the CMD.

The Captain knew not why he had been ordered to Pixan. A Starcarrier was not an asset that was thrown around lightly in the Gammulan Navy, so he assumed this mission was vital. Given the system's strategic signifcance to Human Prime, he flet a succsess here would prove very valubale to his crew, and perhaps earn him an ear to the War Council. A simple interdiction was all required of him, to incercept all craft entering or leaving this system. The Captian could wonder why he was sent to barricade a mere pack of raiders, just as long as he did not question the Orders.

A type 3 shuttle appeared, showing unusual power flucuations. The Captain's enginering background caused him to perk his ears in curiosity, but he would destory it anyways. The cloak decive disenged and 3 fighters launced.

A mere 30 kilometers away, 4 adiitional dots appeared on Liev's radar. It was time to use some of Voyager's tricks.

Without hesitating, Liev continued his shunting. With the engines off-line, there was now enough energy in the battries to engage the cloak the shuttle had been outfitted with. Although the ships were Gammulan (murduers!), Liev addmitted that it was time to hide. He actived the cloak.

And his control board exploded. The nasal voice of the computer annouced a power overload. Cursing the Orion engineers who installed the device, but not pausing, Liev doned the VR conrol headset.

The Vandal's were onmost on top of him. Liev checked to make sure his shileds were up, and waited for the fighter there to come just a little closer. He stole a glance toward the Starcarrier. It seemed to be letting the fighters to the work. Good.

The Captain saw the target was not attepmting to flee. Contrariwise, his sensors showed that it had powered down it's engines. Perhpas hoping for capture instead of death? He chuckled at his joke.

Almost there, almost there..."Ha!", Liev exclamied, his first word since leaving Orion. The BOld Voyager's tractor beam lep out, caught, and held the advacing fighter. Just before this event, Liev flushed all power that was not going into life support or the tractor beam into the retro thrusters. At more than 2,000 kps, the captured fighter leading the way, he slamemed backward, acclelerating directly at the Gammulan carrier. At 3,500 kps, the tractord fighter crashed into the bridge. The sudden loss of mass of the dearly departed craft caused Liev's shuttle to violently pitch upwards (realative to the Starcarrier). When the bottom of the hull was at right angles to the Gammulan warship, Liev slammed all power into his afterburners, just outrunning the shockwave of the carrier's daeth.

The Captain, just become aware that something was wrong, and thinking he should have raised the shileds, was greeted with the very startled face of one of his pilots. Briefly.

While the carrier was deconstructing itself ( [/rp] Yea like that, Gallion? [rp] ), Liev surrveyed the damage. The incredible stresses that he inflicted upon his poor tractor beam had nearly ripped it pout of its housing. And the malfunctioning cloaking device had also managed to take out the hyperdrive capacitor and his targeting computer. And there were still 2 fighters left fro the now-defunct carrier.

With the lose of the targeting computer, Liev couldn't use any of his other "surprises". And without a hyperdrive, he couldn't run, either. The only option was either to space himself or try to reactivate the cloak. Since suicide was never a favored concept to Liev, he disliked both options. But, he deicded, if the cloak still doesn't work I can always still space. With that cheery thought leading him, he brought the cloak to power (quickly! The fighters just recovered from the explosion) and activied the system.

The Bold Voyager quietly slipped from view. Sighing (an observer would swear it was a gasp of breath), Liev easaed up to full throttle and continued to Pixan. ETA 18:00.

[rp]

Hope I didn't mess anything up with having Gamms near Pixan. The Captain didn' know why he was there, so perhaps the secret is still safe.

Akuma Minako · October 12, 2000

Heh, this is getting better by the second...

[rp]

14:00 hrs, 15 May, 3008

Pixian Station

Hangar Bay

Kirin docked at Pixian station with a feeling of dred in the pit of his stomach. His heart pounded in his chest as he decended the platform and looked around him. So where is everyone?

He stood rigid in the Hangar bay his eyes scanning his surroundings for a familiar face.

[/rp]

Hey Blades, I don't know where everyone is but I could use some guidance..Hell I don't even know if I'm supposed to be here yet...

------------------

Commander Akuma Minako

GCV - Tenchi, Orion Starstation (CENTRIS)

Deterrence Battle Group

www.orion-hq.fsnet.co.uk

Blades · October 12, 2000

You're early. Very early.

David Foss · October 12, 2000

A whole three days early! Better hope Foss tracks Kirin down before the other guy

!

(RP on)

15:07 hrs, 15th May, 3008

Spaceport somewhere on Earth...

"David!"

I recognized the voice as one Sarah Ellingson, just before she practically tackled me. It took me a moment to regain my composure as she just about knocked me over.

"It's been a while, sailor!" She said with a mischievous grin.

"That it has. I say we celebrate."

20:07 hrs, 17th May, 3008

Sarah Ellingson's quarters

I've been in the military for too long. I can't even enter a house without thinking of it as nothing more than unusually large quarters. The place was huge. Even so, I didn't have long to appreciate it's beauty.

I had been thinking of Kirin and where he could have gone. Sure enough, Murphy was staring over my shoulder. Five seconds after that thought, my wristcomm beeped.

"Foss hee."

"Sir, this is station security, Lieutenant Ishanowa. You asked us to track down one Lieutenant Commander Kirin?"

"Aye, what have you found."

"Well, we were unable to find any record of his officially departing the station. However, we've practically turned this place upside down, and there's no sign of him."

"Anything else?"

"Yes, sir. We are also short one shuttle."

That caught me by surprise. "Do you think Kirin might have taken it?"

"I suppose so, sir. It's possible. If it's any interest to you, our sensor logs show that the shuttle in question was heading for the Sirius wormhole."

Sirius. And in that system was Pixan Starstation. Well, this was just perfect. If I was right, it ment that our second in command of the Tenchi had either went AWOL, or he had received the same message I had.

Or he was part of the trap.

"Thanks, Lieutenant. Keep looking for him. I'll try to track down the shuttle myself. If I find anything, I'll let you know."

"Sir, the shuttle had been gone for two days. How do you intend on finding it?"

"I have an idea where it might be. Just leave it to me."

"Aye, sir. Good luck."

"Same to you, Lieutenant. Commander Foss out."

Sarah came up beside me. "What was that all about?"

I turned to face her. "They haven't been able to find Kirin. One of their shuttles has gone missing, and I think he was aboard it. Where he took off to is anybody's guess. I'll head out tomorrow to investigate."

"Where are you going to start?"

"I don't know." I lied. "I suppose I'll start at Orion HQ. That's where this whole mess began."

"All right, but do it tomorrow, okay? It's getting late."

I wasn't going to argue, especially given the smile she gave me. But still, something about this whole meeting didn't add up. I had been given a message three days before the appointed time, presumabely to find some kind of alternate transportation. This was rediculous. Things had better become clear and they had better do so pretty freakin' quick.

(/rp)

------------------

Commander David Foss

GCV - Deterrence, Orion Starstation (CENTRIS)

Wing Leader, Deterrence Battle Group

www.orion-hq.fsnet.co.uk

'This far, no farther!'

[This message has been edited by David Foss (edited 10-22-2000).]

Commander Jamont · October 12, 2000

Blades can you read my post and check if its oke? and my character can be used in anyway of the story let me hear.

------------------

Commander Nick Jamont

GCV Prophecy IV, ISSHQ (Saturn)

Intel & Espionage Wing Leader - ISS Fleet

"silence is gold"

Commander Zeke Stone · October 12, 2000

Well, I was gonna have my ship parked at Hereford, but if it's heavily guarded, a stolen Galcom Vessel wouldn't last long

If it's highly unlikely that I would intercept the transmission then I figured I could improvise. Enjoy....

[rp]

09:30hrs, 15th May, 3008

Mission Zone 0, Moon Orbiting Centris

Compound 2, Bunker 1

"4000"

"4500, and that's my final offer," a tall rough looking fellow with long grey hair replied sternly. He had one of those moustaches that sort of just drop downward. Cmdr. Stone always thought people with those moustaches were lazy.

"If you toss in some Radine for 3000 it's a deal," Zeke urged with an equally stern face.

The tall, lazy man gave in to this, "How much do you want?"

"500 Irdium and 1000 Radine," Zeke demanded.

"Allright, we'll have it loaded up in 10 minutes if you keep your men out of the way." the man said, turning away and pushing angrily through his own men. It wasn't the price he had wanted but he needed the money for tomorrow.

For a momment the men's escorts just stared at each other, guns ready to be raised at a momments notice. Then Zeke headed back to the launch pad where his shuttle was, his men followed, two of them walking backwards to keep an eye on the enemy at hand.

Cmdr. Stone always liked doing his own bargaining. Some may think that he just didn't trust anyone else to do it, but in reality he just liked the tenseness of the whole situation. Stolen minerals for a stolen ship, that always made things extra tense.

On the shuttle, he was surprised by a message from his ship. He opened the channel and saw the familar face of his XO Jake Burke.

"Yes, what is it?" Zeke asked his friend casually.

"Zeke, while you were on the surface 3 T1 shuttles have left Orion Station and went through the Sol Wormhole within a three hour time period." Jake informed him with excited look on his face.

Zeke thought about this, could just be a coincidence. His instincts told him something was up though.

"Prepare to follow the last shuttle that went through, I'll be up there in ten minutes."

09:41hrs, 15th May, 3008

Hovering over Compound 2, Mission Zone 0, on the Moon orbiting Centris

Shuttle bay of UCV-Susceptor

Heading for the turboshaft Zeke noticed his Cheif Science Officer, Jet Thompson, looking over Shuttle 4. Curious, he went over to have a word.

"Jet, what are you up to?" he called.

Thompson immediatly stood at attention at the sound of his Commander's voice.

"Hello, Sir. I am just running some tests," Jet answered obediently and emotionlessly.

"What are you testing?"

"I may have found a way to increase the reactor's energy output and I was given permission to test it on this shuttle." Jet was a tall black man with an average build and haunting grey eyes. Zeke always found Jet rather strange, he could take anything from anyone without any retaliation but had once tossed a person across a room at Stone's command. He didn't look strong enough to heave a 300 pound man across a room, and Zeke had been joking when he told him to do this. On top of that, Jet was constantly making the ship better, he was regular genious.

"Well, continue and inform me on your results." Zeke ordered and headed for the turbolift.

On the bridge....

"Are we ready to exit the moons atmosphere?" Zeke directed the question to his XO.

"Yes, all systems are ready to go."

"Tacops, what's out there?"

"I've got a clean scan, we should be fine unless Orion spots us."

"Cloak the ship and go to passive radar." Cmdr. Stone ordered.

"We're invisible," Jake informed.

"Helm, take us away."

With that the agile craft branded the UCV-Susceptor quickly accelerated toward the atmosphere of the small moon. Zeke had the feeling he was starting something he would regret.

[/rp]

That was fun....

------------------

Commander Zeke Stone

Mercenary

UCV-Susceptor - "Never Give Up, Never Surrender"

**Anyone who is capable of getting themselves made President should on no account be allowed to do the job** -- Douglas Adams

Charles Lindsey · October 13, 2000

[rp]

Verse and meter travelled through space. Most who received it were confused. Few knew it's origins and fewer still knew it's true meaning. But it was heard and repeated.

Chavik was at Majoris commissioning supplies for the several stations being built. It had been a long day overseeing the loading of the equipment he had been able to find. He was relaxing in one of the establishments that catered to the organics. Several traders were sitting at the bar along with some tourists. Scattered around the pub were several more tables full of traders. The tech items that the Droidans sold were apparently very much in demand.

A stooped zelon entered the bar. Several people turned around to look in cluding Chavik. There was nothing special about him that Chavik could tell so he turned back around as did most of the others. As Chavik turned he caught a Falkerie at the next table motion to him.

The Zelon sat with his back to Chavik and ordered his drink from the automated console. A waitress appeared with it a short time later. The Zelon settled up and the waitress left. The Zelon leaned forward a bit but still spoke plainly. "Have you heard of the Christopher Sly?" Chavik felt his face go warm. He hadn't heard that name in a very long time.

Chavik ordered another drink and tried to listen without seeming too. "The Ghost ship perhaps?" said the Falkerie. Apparently the Zelon was confused because he shook his head. "A ship," continued the Falkerie, "black as the background of space itself. None have caught it. It can fade like a ghost in the night. It attacks our oppressors though so we do not join in the search."

The Zelon had started nodding understanding halway through the Falkeries explanation. "Yes, we have heard of the ship. Some of the Gammulans call it the devil ship. We have heard of it in our travels. Some have seen it. They say it has a human skull painted on it. It must be a great warrior indeed to take on both the humans and the Gammulans. "

"Yes it must. But it is not sly. It sneaks through the night and attacks from behind. Not sly at all. "

"Perhaps not," said the Zelon. "But it is interesting. Something is afoot. Someone will pay for this info."

The Falkerie laughed, "if you knew what it meant."

"It will become apparent in time," replied the Zelon as he returned to his drink and more idle conversation.

It was already apparent to Chavik. Something was up. He needed to get back and check the station's logs and see if it recorded the message. He got up and headed straight for the Phoenix. Seeing that all equipment and supplies had been loaded Chavik ordered immediate departure. As soon as they were far enough away from the station to iniate safe maneuvering Flight Officer David Brom asked, "Where to?"

"Sygan, " said Chavik. Before he could say anything else Navigations Officer Edwin Harrison informed him that the course had been laid into Navitron. Chavik continued, "set course for Flux 06. Best speed."

"Sir?" asked David Brom.

"Now," said Chavik, ice settling into his voice. It warmed only slightly as he told them he would be in his quarters. Mr. Brom looked over at Mr. Harrison and shrugged. Harrison shrugged back and they set about the task of sending the Phoenix thru the fastest if not the most reliable way home.

[/rp]

------------------

Vice Admiral Chavik

ICV Phoenix, Sygan Starstation (Sygan)

Fleet Leader - Balor Fleet

Official BC3K Tester

Wold · October 13, 2000

Chavik, its amazing that you would pick the zelons for that post... here I am, bored on a zelon frieghter tring to kill time...

[rp]

Almost 3 days to kill aboard this slug! Going from having massive things to do on short notice as well as hundreds of people to be resonsible for, this ride was taking on the appearance of solitary confinement. The 10,000 credits for the "emergency" birthing and all they could come up for Commodore Wold was a closet! A 2m X 3m room with a metal plate for a bed. The only storage space was the small room under that plate. The black kevlar duffle bag that had been hastily packed replaced the long unused cleaning supplies in said space. The cleaning supplies had ended up in the recycle bin after they had been put to good use. At least the room was now sterile and didn't smell like a clogged toilet.

During the cleaning process Wold had also taken the time to sweep for bugs, both electrical and critter types. The only ones that had turned up were the ever-present cockroach. The cleaning process had also revealed some small maintenance access plates. In a few hours these would get a bit more attention. Wold suspected there was more to the zelons then just trading...they had been left alone too long in a war-torn galaxy.

In the meantime the metal slab assumed the appearence of a bed from an ill-fitting, compact field mattress and ground blanket. Next was a quick tour of the ship, minus the bridge and holds. His main goal was to find a food source, figure out how to use a Zelon bathroom, and issolate Zelon quarters. Upon completing these tasks his focus turned to the panels and some small tools in the black bag.

The next several hours were consumed with the tedious task of linking the very small hacking terminal into the frieghters computer system. Four hours and seventeen minutes later the frieghters computer system began coughing up it's secrets.

There wasn't much at first, but a message reference to a Christopher Sly was found along with some evidence that this zelon captain had very recent gammulan contact.

Wold finally ran out of energy and decided to shut down shop. Tucking these 2 small pieces of information into the back of his mind, he was asleep in minutes.[/rp]

------------------

Commodore Wold

ICV-Drakr, Spectre HQ (Antis)

Commanding Officer, Spectre HQ

Spectre Fleet

ICQ 4669033

"You can only love or hate something you truly understand"

Blades · October 13, 2000

Jamont, everything seems ok. Just get yourself to Pixan and be sure to time and date stamp your entries. If everyone else could do the same, this would be useful.

[RP]

19:22 hrs, 17th May, 3008

Orion Starstation In Orbit Of Centris

Medical Deck

Mid point through the stations second watch, Savage was gratified to find that the stations senior medical officer, Dr. Hathor, was knowhere to be seen, and as such, unlikely to intervene in what he was about to do. However, as luck would have it, his assistant, Dr. Phelps, was on station, and probably would.

ÔÇÿGood evening, Fleet Commander.ÔÇÖ Said Phelps as Savage made his way into the recovery quarter of the facility.

ÔÇÿEvening, Dr.Phelps. HowÔÇÖs my favorite patient?ÔÇÖ

He was, of course, referring to the young Commander Minako, still recovering from her suicide attempt over a week ago.

ÔÇÿSheÔÇÖs doing well,ÔÇÖ started Phelps, ÔÇÿalthough IÔÇÖm still not 100% sure sheÔÇÖs mentally competent enough for the court martial hearing.ÔÇÖ

Savage leaned forward over the reception desk and glared at Phelps. ÔÇÿShe wont be standing trial for anything.ÔÇÖ He said to her.

Phelps returned the Fleet Commanders glare with a quizzical stare. ÔÇÿShe wont, sir?ÔÇÖ

Savage shook his head. ÔÇÿNo.ÔÇÖ

ÔÇÿPardon me if Im misinterpreting regulations, sir, but I was under the impression that endangering ones vessel, putting the lives of crew in jeopardy and attempting to absolve herself of responsibility by commiting suicide was a court martial offence?ÔÇÖ

ÔÇÿExtenuating circumstances.ÔÇÖ Said Savage. ÔÇÿIÔÇÖve already taken care of the formal side of things. I just need you to sign the discharge papers and weÔÇÖll be on our way.ÔÇÖ

At this point, Dr.Phelps rose from her seat and put down the mound of paper work she was sifting through.

ÔÇÿAh, excuse me, sir, but this is highly irregular.ÔÇÖ

Savage flashed a smile at the doctor. ÔÇÿYouÔÇÖll come to find thatÔÇÖs an every day occurance here on the Orion station.ÔÇÖ

Phelps regarded him with an, Irregular my ass, look and leaned over the counter close enough to whisper to him. ÔÇÿNot on my watch, sir.ÔÇÖ

Savage didnÔÇÖt like her tone. Fair enough, she was the senior MD on station, not only that, she was directly responsible to the fleets CMO, but still, Savage was the boss, and that should count for something.

ÔÇÿRegulations clearly stipulate that a patient currently undergoing phychiatric observation cannot be discharged without both the senior medical officer on station, and the attending physician agreeing to do so. Therefore, sir, whether you or I or anybody else wants to discharge her, it cant be done without going through official channels.ÔÇÖ

Savage nodded at her. ÔÇÿYou are correct, of course. However,ÔÇÖ he said, stepping round from his side of the counted and to hers. ÔÇÿyou will find that as the Fleet Commander, I have certain priveliges that allow me to skirt these issues from time to time.ÔÇÖ

Phelps glared at him. ÔÇÿSorry, sir, but without going through official channels, you aint skirting anything. Now, come back with official approval from Dr.Hathor, and I shall begin making preliminary observations as to her current mental state. Providing she is found to be of sound mind, you can probably have her in two to three weeks.ÔÇÖ

Savage sighed. He knew it was going to be difficult to argue the point with the only officer on the station capable of refusing him an order, but he hadnÔÇÖt expected Phelps to be as problematic as he knew Dr.Hathor would be.

It was time to play his trump card.

ÔÇÿYou know, Dr.Phelps ..ÔÇÖ started Savage.

Phelps immediately knew she didnÔÇÖt like the sound of that.

ÔÇÿitÔÇÖs recently come to my attention that you have had very little actual space time since you joined the Orion fleet. Now, according to regulations, all officers serving with the Orion Fleet have to spend a tour of duty, at least once every two years, on a ship of the fleet. According to your profile, you havenÔÇÖt had any space time in nearly twenty two months.ÔÇÖ

Dr.Phelps swallowed. ÔÇÿThatÔÇÖs correct, sir. However, I am due to join the GCV-Venture later this month for a three month tour.ÔÇÖ

Savage rocked back on his heels. ÔÇÿThe Venture, huh? Isnt she attatched to Hereford on a training cruise?ÔÇÖ

Phelps nodded. ÔÇÿYes sir. SheÔÇÖs going to be on station at Hereford for the next 12 months.ÔÇÖ

ÔÇÿHmm. DoesnÔÇÖt seem like youÔÇÖre going to get to see much active duty on the front then, does it?ÔÇÖ

ÔÇÿNo, sir.ÔÇÖ Said Phelps. ÔÇÿBut then again, I go where Im assigned.ÔÇÖ

Savage thoughtfully grabbed his chin, and bobbed his head up and down a few times, appearing to be engrossed in deep and meaningful thought. Phelps didnÔÇÖt like the look of this one bit.

Turning his attention back to her, and dropping his hand from his chin, Savage played his card and hoped it would be enough.

ÔÇÿHeres the thing,ÔÇÖ he said. ÔÇÿcurrently, the GCV-Istanbul, attatched to the Deterrence Battle Group is without a CMO. Seems the existing officer came to the end of his tour, and has retired back to Earth after a long and dignified service. Now, with the DBG shortly due to return to the front to hold off the Gammulan advance, they are going to need every good officer they can get their hands on.ÔÇÖ

At this point, Phelps began to protest.

ÔÇÿPlease,ÔÇÖ said Savage, giving her a stern look, ÔÇÿallow me to continue.ÔÇÖ

Phelps became silent.

ÔÇÿNow, since we are clearly overstaffed here, and the fleet is currently understaffed, it makes perfect sense to take you away from a less than critical assignment at Hereford, and place you where you are needed.ÔÇÖ

At that moment, Savage paused and allowed his words to sink in with Phelps. After a moment or two of consideration, Phelps composed herself and spoke quietly to him.

ÔÇÿDr.Hathor will have my hide for this, you know that?ÔÇÖ

Savage smiled, and knew immediately that his underhand maneuvering had won the day. ÔÇÿDonÔÇÖt worry about Hathor.ÔÇÖ He said. ÔÇÿBy the time he knows whats going on, weÔÇÖll be long gone from here. He can complain all he likes when we get back.ÔÇÖ

Phelps sighed, and began sifting through a drawer to her left for release papers. ÔÇÿAnd when will you be back?ÔÇÖ she asked.

Savage thought for a moment, not wanting to say anything that would give him away. ÔÇÿBack in a week.ÔÇÖ He said. ÔÇÿIÔÇÖve got business elsewhere, and Im going to need Miss Minako for it.ÔÇÖ

Phelps shook her head. ÔÇÿI donÔÇÖt want to know, sir. The less I know of this, the better for all concerned.ÔÇÖ

Savage smiled again. ÔÇÿGlad you agree, doctor.ÔÇÖ

19:37 hrs, 17th May, 3008

Orion Starstation In Orbit Of Centris

Medical Deck

ÔÇÿWake up sleepy head.ÔÇÖ Said Savage, beaming down at Akuma Minako as she slowly woke from her slumber.

Through blurred eyes, she made out the features of Fleet Commander Savage smiling at her, and was at once confused, and surprised to see him.

ÔÇÿSir?ÔÇÖ she said sleepily. ÔÇÿKarl?ÔÇÖ

Savage pulled back, and took a seat close to her bedside. ÔÇÿTime to get up, Akuma. YouÔÇÖre getting out of here.ÔÇÖ

Akuma slowly began to push herself up in bed, and leaned back into her pillows. ÔÇÿWhat?ÔÇÖ

Clearly, Commander Minako was still gripped by the deep slumber she had been in and out of since she was admitted. During the times when she had been conscious, the attending physicians had been monitoring her closely, and she had been on an effective suicide watch the entire time.

ÔÇÿAkuma, weÔÇÖre going somewhere, you and I. And we have to leave now.ÔÇÖ

She rybbed a palm over her blurred eyes, squinted into the light and assured herself that she wasnÔÇÖt still dreaming, and that the Orion Fleets Commander was, in fact, sitting beside her, telling her to get up. ÔÇÿWhere are we going?ÔÇÖ she said.

Savage shook his head. ÔÇÿI cant tell you just yet. Although I can tell you, weÔÇÖve got a companion on our journey.ÔÇÖ

Just then, the events of last week flooded back to Akuma. All at once, she felt remorse, guilt and embarresmant. She quickly looked down at her wrists, and was surprised to find only faint scars where she had slashed herself. Examining them closely, she suddenly lost all control of her emotions, and began sobbing.

As she lowered herself to her lap, Savage pulled close to her and put an arm around her shoulder.

ÔÇÿItÔÇÖs ok.ÔÇÖ He said, reassuringly. ÔÇÿEverything is ok.ÔÇÖ

Akuma fought to break free from him. ÔÇÿNo, itÔÇÖs not ok.ÔÇÖ She said. ÔÇÿI betrayed you, the fleet, family ÔÇªÔÇÖ

There she trailed off, and began crying openly into her lap.

Savage knew he had to take control of the situation quickly, or things were going to get progressively worse for the both of them. The last thing he needed was an officer incapable of following his orders in an emergency situation, and although nothing was an immediate emergency, if she didnÔÇÖt take control of herself now, it may come back to haunt her later on, when things were more urgent.

ÔÇÿCommander Minako.ÔÇÖ Said Savage, sternly. ÔÇÿGet a grip of yourself and get your ass out of bed, right now. WeÔÇÖre going on a mission, and IÔÇÖll be damned if Im taking a sobbing little girl with me into a life or death situation. If you donÔÇÖt think youÔÇÖre up to it, IÔÇÖll leave you here right now and have your discharge papers waiting for you by the time I get back.ÔÇÖ

Savage paused and waited to see if his words had an effect on the sobbing Minako. He hoped that his sharp tone had shocked her back to her senses, since she had never heard him speak to anyone else in this manner. His easy going attitude and generally laid back personality, replaced with that of a harsh sounding drill sergeant might have been enough to turn things around.

It took a moment, but Akuma Minako composed herself. ÔÇÿSorry, sir.ÔÇÖ She said, pulling her head back and wiping a hand across her tear blurred eyes. ÔÇÿIm ok now.ÔÇÖ

Savage nodded, and stepped away from the bed. ÔÇÿGood. Now, get yourself up and dressed. IÔÇÖll be waiting for you outside. And donÔÇÖt dally, we got a timetable to keep to.ÔÇÖ

19:54 hrs, 17th May, 3008

Orion Starstation In Orbit Of Centris

Shuttle Launch Deck

As the pair approached the shuttlecraft Nimitz, Pete Reynolds, the Orion Stations chief of communications drove up in a cargo transported and parked outside the shuttle craft. He waved at Savage as the pair approached, and waited awkwardly for the Fleet Commander and Akuma Minako to pause beside him.

ÔÇÿGot everything?ÔÇÖ asked Savage.

ÔÇÿUh, yes sir. I think so, sir.ÔÇÖ Said Reynolds.

Savage inspected the cargo containers, and checked the contents against the manifest he had with him. Satisfied that everything was in order, he dropped the pad onto the closest crate and turned to face Reynolds.

ÔÇÿYou have your instructions?ÔÇÖ

Pete nodded. ÔÇÿYes, sir. Although IÔÇÖm still not sure what this is all about.ÔÇÖ

ÔÇÿAnd thatÔÇÖs the way itÔÇÖs going to stay for the time being.ÔÇÖ Said Savage. ÔÇÿJust make sure you rendevous with your contact and donÔÇÖt get into any unessesary trouble.ÔÇÖ

Pete smirked. ÔÇÿMe, sir? You know I donÔÇÖt get into trouble, sir.ÔÇÖ

Savage smiled, and then turned away and stepped upto Minako, who was waiting patiently for him at the foot of the shuttle craft. ÔÇÿGet the cargo loaded into the hold, then report back to C&C and hold all traffic until weÔÇÖre clear out of the region.ÔÇÖ

ÔÇÿAye sir.ÔÇÖ Said Reynolds, getting back into the cargo transported. ÔÇÿAnd sir?ÔÇÖ

Savage turned and faced his Comms officer just as he was mounting the first steps into the shuttle craft.

Reynolds flashed him a smile. ÔÇÿKeep your head down, sir.ÔÇÖ

Savage returned the smile, and snapped off a quick, and less than official salute. That done, both Savage and Minako entered the shuttle, and headed for the cramped flight cabin.

19:58 hrs, 17th May, 3008

Shuttlecraft Nimitz, Orion Station Shuttle Launch deck

Flight Cabin

ÔÇÿWhat took you so lon-ÔÇÿ started Rattler, as Savage and Minako entered the flight cabin.

Both Akuma and Rattler froze in motion and speech as they recognised eachother. For the longest time, neither of them spoke. Savage noticed the look of surprise in Rattlers face, and flashed the old Insurgent a myschevious smile and stepped past him to take the helm.

As he passed, a powerful hand shot out and gripped the Orion Fleet Commander above the elbow.

ÔÇÿWhat is she doing here?ÔÇÖ he said, sounding angered.

Savage looked down at the Insurgents hand, and then into his eyes. Like a non verbal warning, Rattlers grip eased, and he released Savage to continue to the helm position.

ÔÇÿYou wanted company, you got it.ÔÇÖ

Rattler looked towards Minako, who was still frozen on the spot, utterly speechless.

ÔÇÿYes,ÔÇÖ started Rattler. ÔÇÿBut not her!ÔÇÖ

Savage, his back to the old Insurgent blew out a sigh. ÔÇÿAnyone I choose, remember? DonÔÇÖt ***** at my choice.ÔÇÖ

Rattler turned away from Minako again, feeling a little embarresed and took the seat next to the Fleet Commander. ÔÇÿCommander Savage,ÔÇÖ he said. ÔÇÿwhy did you bring her here?ÔÇÖ

ÔÇÿThree reasons.ÔÇÖ Said Savage, making pre-flight launch checks. ÔÇÿFirst, you wanted female company, and I think you will agree, sheÔÇÖs all woman. Two, I need a calming influence with me on this trip, or itÔÇÖs likely IÔÇÖll murder you in your sleep and jettison the body, what with your incessant chatter. And third,ÔÇÖ Savage turned his head and looked directly at Insurgent One. ÔÇÿif you are not on the level with me, and this is some sort of elaborate trap, I wanted to make sure that I had someone with me that you would want to see put in harms way.ÔÇÖ

Rattler shook his head at Savage, and pulled an ugly face at him. ÔÇÿIÔÇÖm disappointed in you, Savage. I thought you were a man of integrity. I cant believe you would use her as a weapon against me.ÔÇÖ

Savage pulled an equally ugly sneer at Rattler, showing that he too could be disappointed. ÔÇÿIm just making sure we both understand eachother. And now, I believe we do.ÔÇÖ

From behind them, the near comatose Akuma Minako finally broke free of her inability to speak. ÔÇÿExcuse me?ÔÇÖ she said. ÔÇÿBut would someone please tell me just what the hell is going on?ÔÇÖ

The console in front of Savage bleeped, alerting him to the fact that Reynolds had finished loading the cargo in the shuttles bay. ÔÇÿTime for that on the way.ÔÇÖ Said Savage, tapping into the flight console and bringing the engines online.

ÔÇÿYes.ÔÇÖ Said Rattler, looking to Akuma and then back to the Fleet Commander. ÔÇÿPleanty of time for that on the way.ÔÇÖ

Moments later, flight clearence granted from C&C, Fleet Commander Savage, Commander Akuma Minako and Rattler of the Insurgency shot out of the Orion Starstations Shuttle Launch bay and towards an uncertain destiny.

This trip was going to be interesting.

[/RP]

Akuma Minako · October 13, 2000

Blades! You're mean!

[rp]

Akuma opened her eyes reluctantly to gaze into Commander Karl Savage's eyes. Everything fell apart as soon as she saw them. Her heart thudded increadably in her chest, all she wanted to do was sleep.

"Akuma, weÔÇÖre going somewhere, you and I. And we have to leave now." His voice held a commanding voice yet it wavered with some sense of caution also.

Tiredly she rubbed her palm accross her eyes wiping the sleep away and just wished him to be a dream... I'd better be dreaming... "Where are we going?"

"I cant tell you just yet. Although I can tell you,weÔÇÖve got companion on our journey."

Akuma blinked slightly groggy and really really confused. Companion? Where the hell are we going! You're so mysterious! Damn you! And then suddenly everything came back like slamming into a sun and not having time to prepare for it. Tears came to her eyes and she collapsed.

She heard him attempt to console her "...Okay..." She blinked and then shook her head.

"No! Everything's not okay!" Her heart gave a painful wrench of sorrow. "I betrayed you, the fleet, family..."

Then his voice cut her to the bone and she stiffined. "Commander Minako. Get a grip on yourself and get your ass out of bed, right now. We're going on a mission, and I'll be damned if I'm taking a sobbing little girl with me into a life or death situation. If you don't think you're up to it, I'll leave you here right now and have your discharge papers waiting for you by the time I get back."

Discharge? Oh gods! She felt like crying all over again but thought better of it. Knowing that it would do little or at all good. She straightened, wiped away the tears and spoke with an unwavering voice that she could only pull when bullied into it. "Sorry sir. I'm okay now."

Blades smiled and stood up. "Good now get youreself up and dressed. I'll be waiting for you outside. And don't dally, we've got a timetable to keep to."

She hurried to get dressed in uniform and found time somewhere to brush her hair and apply makeup. As she gazed into the mirror she noticed how fragile and pale her face seemed. Like you've been in a coma you silly girl! Don't dally! Remember? She nodded once, gave a bright salute to her reflection and left the med bay. But she wasn't prepared for what was next on Blade's so called schedule.

***

Upon entering the Flight deck she froze. Oh god... She fought strongly with her emotions of wether to give him the biggest hug in the world, collapes in a pitiful heap of tears or run away. Instead she found she couldn't move at all.

Rattler and Blades began talking...Like she wasn't even there! Hello? Excuse me? Akuma Minako on deck? She just gave an exasperated sigh and when finally she could speak "Excuse me. But would someone please tell me what the hell is going on?" You morons! Karl I'm so going to get you back for this!

Much later Akuma Minako found her way to a secluded hallway and brooded. Her mind reeling with so many unanswered questions and a sudden inablility to speak with either of the two gentlemen.

I'm not speaking to Karl because he would be getting a piece of my mind. I don't want to make a scene on his flight deck. I'll wait till we're alone to scream and ***** and complain... And Rattler? Oh gods, I can't! I betrayed him...This is all my fault. Self doubt, fear, the feeling of absolute failure washed over her for the tenth time and, with a quick glance around to make sure no one was watching or approaching let out a wail containing every emotion she had felt up till now.

I don't want sympathy! I want answers! But those are so far away! And no one will tell me. I should have just stayed at home and layed in bed and cooked supper for my parents.... She choked off a sob. Except I have not parents...No family...I'm really alone!

Her hand gripped the siding of one of the walls and clenched around a metal bar. It was hot to the touch but she didn't flinch away, instead she kept tightening.

With her other hand she withdrew the Insurgent One badge and held it to her heart. Leaning forward she hit her head against the wall and watched blood slowly seep from the clenched fist.

What am I going to do now.

She let go of the pipe with another wail and sunk to the floor drawing her knees up to her chin and closing her eyes. For one, you can show everyone that you're not incompitant. Her concious nagged at her. Show everyone that you're not a failure. Akuma opened her eyes and blinked.

Get up Akuma. Get up and show them that you're better than they thought. Show them that you're a commander. Commander Akuma Usagi Minako of the GCV Tenchi. Akuma stood.

Tenchi... Akuma faltered then began her walk back to the Flight deck. For Tenchi.

She entered the Flight Deck, the badge still clutched in one hand, her other placed convineantly behind her back. "Now," She said with a startling loud voice. "I want explinations."

[/rp]

Gah.

------------------

Commander Akuma Minako

GCV - Tenchi, Orion Starstation (CENTRIS)

Deterrence Battle Group

www.orion-hq.fsnet.co.uk

Gallion · October 13, 2000

[rp]

2114, 17th May, 3008

VOQ, Galcom HQ

Earth, Sol

ÔÇ£That is a bunch of Bull!ÔÇØ Gallion said, more like yelled, to his barrister, ÔÇ£you know damn well that is not how it happened!ÔÇØ

ÔÇ£Hold on to yerself there lad,ÔÇØ Jacob Meyers replied, ÔÇ£weÔÇÖve to apply the Murphy factor here, as you keeÔÇÖ a telling me. How can I formulate a defense if I do not take into consideration all possible venues of approach that the Persecution may use? You know well and good that you have a snowballÔÇÖs chance in Hades to get out of this mess, if even that.ÔÇØ

Gallion recoiled some at last part of MeyersÔÇÖ tirade. The past several days had been both confusing and frustrating for the old Corsair. He was use to being on the offensive. Since the beginning of the current Gammulan hostilities, he has been on the defensive, both in combat and now in a possibly deadly court-martial. One that he may very well not beat or survive. The evidence against was damning, and unless he pulled a rabbit outtaÔÇÖ his arse, he had no way of mitigating most of it.

ÔÇ£IÔÇÖve had worse odds before Jacob. Were you able to get the pompous twit and arse to cooperate?ÔÇØ Gallion replied once he regained control of himself.

Lt. Cmdr. Montigue Scott entered the quarters that served both as GallionÔÇÖs abode and jail, followed by and flanked two Marines that were provided for [security reason by the staff weenies of GHQ.

ÔÇ£Good Evening to ye Sir!ÔÇØ The chief engineer of the Graf Spee began, ÔÇ£thought that I would bring ye a lilÔÇÖ sumÔÇÖthinÔÇÖ of home to help ye in ye time oÔÇÖ woe and troubles.ÔÇØ Mr. Scott handed his commander a small package.

ÔÇ£Thanks Monti,ÔÇØ Gallion said as he accepted the package, ÔÇ£how are the repairs and refit going?ÔÇØ

ÔÇ£Better than expected and will be complete ahead of schedule,ÔÇØ was ScottÔÇÖs reply, ÔÇ£The Graf Spee has a launch window at 0800 on the ÔÇÿmorrow for a shake-down cruise to the Moon. Will be seeinÔÇÖ ye soon Sir and will let ye knoÔÇÖs how everythinÔÇÖ went.ÔÇØ

Mr. ScottÔÇÖs last remark was like a slap in face, but there was something in the way that Mr. Scott said it and the look in his eyes that sparked a flicker of light deep in the darkened soul of the old Corsair. Gallion just nodded and watched as Mr. Scott departed with the Marines in tow. Lt. Cmdr. Scott stopped and turned towards Gallion just as he reached the hatchway and said, ÔÇØGunney sends his regards Sir! He also told me to tell ye to quit acting like a fool and to pay attention to events around ye.ÔÇØ Having said that and with a wicked looking a grin, the Chief Engineer departed. He had a schedule to keep and things to do.

ÔÇ£Now what was all that about?ÔÇØ said the dumbfounded barrister that hadnÔÇÖt understand a word of what had just transpired over the last few seconds.

ÔÇ£DonÔÇÖt worry about it Jacob,ÔÇØ Gallion said as he opened the package that his Chief Engineer gave him. Inside were two things; a small piece of paper and a strange looking button. The button he recognized as the one he had worn when he was affiliated with the now defunct society of lounge lizards and scrawled on the slip of paper was a strange messageÔÇª.

quote:

Thou art a fool Pixan: To-day we hunt again.

Gallion recognized GunneyÔÇÖs chicken scratch and wondered what the heck that misguided fool was up to now. Unconsciously, he began rubbing the scar on his neck as things began to fall into place. For two days ago Gallion had received a strange message on his datapad. One that he was not able to recover. The message in itself hadnÔÇÖt bothered Gallion. What bothered him was that it came from the hunter himself, FC Savage, FL of Orion Fleet, one of the same twits that had laid several of the many charges against him. One of many that is on the ProsecutionÔÇÖs witness list against him. One of many that Gallion has come to consider as opposition and as such will be treated accordingly. Then something clicked within his reasoning he almost had it, it almost fell into place but Gallion couldnÔÇÖt quite put all the pieces together. To many missing and unknowns to contend with, and he was here, in protective custody, pre-trial confinement, unable to do anything ÔÇô even to shore up his own defense.

So you think that I am a fool Gunney, you think that I am a Pixan, ready to be hunted? He could do nothing about the ÔÇÿmorrow until he got through what was left of today. Gallion thought as he turned his attention to matters at hand and back towards his still bewildered barrister.

ÔÇ£Ok Jacob, letÔÇÖs go over this again,ÔÇØ Gallion said with a mischievous grin on his face as he burned the slip of paper and rubbed the button in his fingers, ÔÇ£from the top this time.ÔÇØ

[/rp]

The plot thickens

The fireworks begin in me next post

TTFN

[This message has been edited by Gallion (edited 10-13-2000).]

GREG MILLER · October 13, 2000

[rp]

07:19 hrs, 15th May, 3008

Orion Starstation In Orbit Of Centris

Commander MillerÔÇÖs Suite

As I awoke and came to my senses, a faint red light kept flashing in my not yet awake eyes. I soon realized for some strange reason my message center in my room, had a message for me. Hmm, I thought, who could be sending me a message it this early hour? I got out of bed, and walked over to the panel on the wall and accessed it. To my amazement, it was coded and need my authorization. ÔÇ£Commander Greg Miller, Authorization Miller Alpha Alpha Epsilon Nine Seven One One.ÔÇØ As the pending message was accessed and processed :

Communication

TO: CMDR GREG MILLER

FROM : FC SAVAGE

SUBJECT : SPECIAL OPS

CONTENT :

Commander,

The following is FYEO. This message will autodelete itself in 60 seconds and will leave no records in your database.

We need to meet to discuss a matter of the utmost urgency. You are to make every effort to travel to the Pixan Starstation and meet with myself, and another representative on board the SS Vulture at 23:30 hrs, 18th May 3008. Come alone and unescorted. USE alternative methods of transportation to reach your destination, and tell no one of your movements, or whereabouts.

All will be revealed shortly.

End Communication.

As I read the message, I didnÔÇÖt know what to think and my first reaction was VERIFICATION. ÔÇ£Computer, locate Fleet Commander Karl Savage.ÔÇØ ÔÇ£Fleet Commander Savage is not on board the station.ÔÇØ Hmm, that is odd I thought, must really be important to just leave and not tell me. ÔÇ£Computer, when did Fleet Commander Savage depart?ÔÇØ ÔÇ£That information is not available.ÔÇØ ÔÇ£Computer show me a list of Orion Ships currently docked.ÔÇØ As the list was compiled, the two ships I was looking for, Tsunami, Sark, were still in space dock undergoing repairs. Well, looks like I got a trip to take.

07:47 hrs, 16th May, 3008

Orion Starstation In Orbit Of Centris

Commander MillerÔÇÖs Suite

The big day was now upon me, and the reality sunk in as I awoke and laid there thinking about the circumstances. ÔÇ£Why would Blades want to meet on a Pirate Station, this to me makes no sense.ÔÇØ I then headed for the shower.

10:04 hrs, 16th May, 3008

Orion Starstation In Orbit Of Centris

Commander MillerÔÇÖs Suite

As I was getting ready for this grand adventure, I decided to go with a low profile attire, black khakis, navy blue tee shirt, black leather jacket, and of course, my Nike tennis shoes, white and blue. I also made sure to grab my side arm and wrist laser, for one of the two just might end up saving my life. I knew I couldnÔÇÖt just take a GALCOM shuttle and expect to dock at Pixan in one piece. Looking at OrionÔÇÖs civilian ship log, I noticed an LRT-15, the S.S. Miser, leaving for the trader station Centron, in the Polaris System, with no crew, just cargo, at 11:00 hours. Hmm, I thought with a little luck and a modest amount of cash, maybe I can persuade captain Naymor to drop me off at Pixan. With a plan now conceived, I need to start covering my bases. First off I once again turned to the Comms panelÔÇª.ÔÇØLt. Cmdr Sean Collins please respond.ÔÇØ ÔÇ£Collins here sir.ÔÇØ ÔÇ£I have decided to take some leave effective immediately, you have the Sark until I return. Miller out.ÔÇØ ÔÇ£Aye Sir, sheÔÇÖll be here when you get back.ÔÇØ I decided not to contact Commander Bosch, just in case I might run into him latter on. With that done, I also decided to leave a reminder of my existence, should I not make it back to my quarters ever again, and I shuttered at the thought.

Personal Log, Stardate 3008.05.16

If you are reading this, than you must assume that I have passed on in my life. Although I am no longer among the living, please be rest assured that I died defending the Galaxy. All that I can tell you is I did the best I could, and it wasnÔÇÖt good enough. Lt. Commander Sean Collins by the power vested in me by Galactic Command, I hereby promote you to the full rank of Commander, and grant you command of the GCV-Sark. You were one hell of a good First Officer and friend. IÔÇÖm sure as you already know; take good care of the Sark, and she will take good care of you. Godspeed my friend.ÔÇØ

ÔÇ£Computer end transmission and on my mark, tag this message as FEYO and send it to Lt. Cmdr Sean Collins, exactly one month from today, authorization Miller Alpha Alpha Epsilon Nine Seven One One. Mark!ÔÇØ I figured a month was long enough, to keep the suspense of my disappearance going. With all the basses cover, or at least I thought, now it was time to hail a taxi sort of speaking. Before I left though, I now needed to "disappear" to the rest of the station. "Computer, wipe all records of my activity for today and place a security lock on my Commlink. Authorization Miller Alpha Alpha Epsilon Nine Seven One One." "Confirmed." I procedded to grab my duffel bag, and head for Civilian Launch Bay 3.

10:36 hrs, 16th May, 3008

Orion Starstation In Orbit Of Centris

Civilian Launch Bay 3

I made my way to the Miser , virtually unseen by Orion Officials, and proceeded to contact her Captain. ÔÇ£Captain Naymor, let me introduce myself, I am Wayne Muller, (Decided to use an alias to cover my tracks) and I noticed that you are heading to Starstation Centron. I was wondering, for a fee, could you possibly consider dropping me off at Starstation Pixan?ÔÇØ ÔÇ£Pixan huh, well this is going to cost you, how much of a fee were you talking about?ÔÇØ, he said. ÔÇ£Name your price.ÔÇØ, I wittingly replied. ÔÇ£How does 500,000 GalCreds sound?ÔÇØ ÔÇ£Sounds fair to me, when do we leave?ÔÇØ ÔÇ£Well then, welcome aboard.ÔÇØ I then proceeded to take my place next to him at the helm and wait for take-off.

11:11 hrs, 16th May, 3008

Centris Space

S.S. Miser

After we had gotten underway Captain Naymor looked at me and said, ÔÇ£This must be your lucky day, I am heading to Pixan as it is, need to drop a shipment there before continuing on to Centron.ÔÇØ Puzzled, I replied, ÔÇ£But your intended flight path makes no mention of this. How can that be?ÔÇØ ÔÇ£Well, you see I supply this band of Pirates with what they need, the pay is good and I ask no questions.ÔÇØ Now really intrigued I had to inquire further. ÔÇ£Ok, so how do you expect to get past the GALCOM Patrols in the area?ÔÇØ With a smirk he added this, ÔÇ£Well you see, they made sure the supplies get through, and equipped me with a cloaking device. I engage it while clearing the Jupiter wormhole into Sirius, proceed to Lennen, then dock.ÔÇØ I declined to probe further into this shady business deal, but made a mental note to impound this ship and arrest her Captain the next time he steps foot on Orion Station.

13:31 hrs, 16th May, 3008

Pixan Starstation In Orbit Of Lennen

Launch Bay 13

The trip to Pixan went relatively uneventful, as I got an eyeful as to how the underworld worked. After I paid my unlikely cab driver, I then went to secure myself some quarters to retreat to and plan my next move. I made my way to the Admissions Office and registered under my Alias, hoping that if Blades would look over the Stations guest compliment, my middle name (Wayne) and the rearranging of my last name (Muller) would jump out at him. After I got my room pass, I headed straight for it. Opening the door, the sight of my room was less than what I am normally accustomed to, and a subtle foul smell to boot, but considering where I was and what I was involved in, it felt more than cozy at the moment.

[/rp]

Finally, I am here! Blades this better be good, cause I just spent an awful lot of money on a one way trip to hell!

------------------

Commander Greg Miller

GCV - Sark, Orion Starstation (CENTRIS)

Fleet XO, Wing Leader, Tsunami Battle Group

www.orion-hq.fsnet.co.uk

'Here cometh the storm!'

[This message has been edited by GREG MILLER (edited 10-13-2000).]

Rattler · October 14, 2000

(RP)

The Old Insurgent sat there, brooding as normal. The inclusion of Akuma had not only surprised him, but had temporatily short circuited his thought process as well. He'd lost a good friend to the enemy trying to keep her from harm's way and now Blades had dragged her right back into the thick of things! Rattler viewed her as something precious, something to be guarded and kept far removed from such things that, if discovered, would tarnish all it touched. Rattler made a mental note to "Speak to Karl" about this when it's all over and done with, should they make it back in one piece!

The Old Insurgent finally turned to Akuma and cleared his throat..."Ahh...Hmmm! It's been a long time Akuma. I hope you received the item that I sent you. If so, keep it safe. It might save your life someday, if I'm not around to do it myself."

Rattler had seen it, tightly clinched in her hand but wanted her to admit that she had the artifact. Admission was a necessary thing with an affiliation with the Insurgency. If she admitted that she had it, then she also affirmed that she still considered Insurgent One a member of the Family. That was enough for him. He would not actively recruit her to the Insurgency and she knew that. If he had wanted her in the Insurgency, he would have taken her to Sygan instead of Galcom. Joining the Insurgency must be a personal choice, made with the deepest conviction. When he had rescued her, those many years ago, she was but a mere child with many more years of mental development ahead of her. It just wouldn't have been fair to her, or the Insurgency. Now the choice would be hers...and hers alone!

Again the Old Insurgent turned and spoke to her....From the heart!

"Akuma, now get a grip on yourself. Since Karl here has seen fit to drag you into this mess, I'll let him fill you in on what this is all about. I will tell you that this is all about making things right again. This will be your opportunity to regain ballance with yourself and with the Universe. You seem to have lost that ballance and focus. Well, Uncle Rattler's here to help you regain what you have lost, and as a side benefit, regain what he's lost as well. We're going to get Akira, and since you are along with us, It's your chance to help! Understood?"

With that he abruptly turned to Fleet Commander Blades and gave him a look that could have killed if he had been just 1 meter closer. Another benefit of those Mirrored Glasses!

"Karl, Fill her in on the details! She's your subordinate, she's just MY Family!"

(/RP)

------------------

Insurgent One, Rattler

ICV Necromancer, Spectre HQ (Antis)

Commander-In-Chief,

Insurgency

Official Tester, Battlecruiser Series

[email protected]

ICQ 12894104

"You can only love or hate something you truly understand"

[This message has been edited by Rattler (edited 10-14-2000).]

Ben Somerset · October 14, 2000

[RP]

1209hrs, 18 May, 3008

UCV Eagle approaching SS Pixan

Lennen, Sirius

As an officer Benjamin Somerset despised Pixan Starstation, and anyone associated with it. As a person, he admired the firepower that the station and most of the ships around it carried. That still didn't mean he would really appreciate the creatures he would have to deal with before this meeting.

On the long trip here, he had a lot of time to think. What struck him as odd was how much he thought about how very close he had come to losing his ship, and probably his commission for good. From what he had heard from sources with the Fleet Command, Commander Benjamin Somerset was on the chopping block.

After the Massacre, quite a few Wraith Fleet officers had to face the brunt of being questioned not by a regular board of inquiry, but one comprised of the highest elements of the GalCom Military. They were not a happy board either as they faced another long war with the Gammulans. Needless to say they wanted someone to blame.

Initially, it was one Commander Benjamin Somerset.

When he had been escorted into the briefing room he was taken aback by the sheer number of stars and medals adorning those present. None of them were of less than Flag Rank. And they all wanted to talk to him. What he had personally ordered at Rinaal was a direct violation of the Credian Accords, which GalCom signed in good faith. It appeared that his thinly veiled threat to Wraith HQ Commander Matasuke to file a protest worked.

The secretive G-2 Units that had been placed in the Cyrian System were in fact nuclear mines. And the Accords strictly stated that no nuclear weapons would be used by a sovereign government in anothers territory. In violation of those Accords, they had placed mines near the Pravis jumpgate to stop what they believed to be the inevitable Second Gammulan War.

It worked.

To an extent.

The mines had kept them alive when nothing else would have, not even reinforcement. Of course, the entire Fleet Command wanted to hear his justification for the action, and the violation of the Accords. After it was all over, a pale faced Somerset left the briefing room, wondering if his next stop would be a prison colony.

Fortunately for him, it was not. Fleet Command had decided that the Gamms wouldn't publicize such a heavy loss of forces to the "Incompetent Humans", and no one else was present in the system to note that the weapons had been used. And since they weren't talking, GalCom wouldn't either.

A few days later, one of Somerset's sources close to Fleet Command had told him he had been saved by the skin of his teeth. Many still wanted to throw the book at him, but they couldn't. Not without admitting violation of the Credian Accords. So he had gotten off the hook.

What he hadn't told them was that he thought he was doing his duty in protecting those who served under him to the best of his ability, and Accords be damned. He also didn't mention that if he to choose again, he would still use those mines to blow a good portion of the Gammulan Armada out of the stars. They didn't ask, he didn't tell.

Others hadn't been so lucky. Not too long after his own interview he had heard that Commander Gallion had been taken into custody prior to a court-martial hearing. Somerset had never particularly liked Gallion's way of doing things. They were very...unorthodox. He had always preferred a certain military decorum, while Gallion painted a skull and crossbones on the hull of his ship. Even so, he admired the mans capability to accomplish and survive the near impossible.

Just as he expected Gallion to pull through this. They could slow the wily Corsair down, but never stop him. Not without a first-class fight.

The closer he got to Pixan, the more he wondered what he was going to do about his marriage. They weren't going to let him go dirtside with a war on. He was a Wing Leader, with previous frontline combat experience. GalCom wouldn't give up such a valued battlefield seasoned veteran easily. There wasn't any way to fight that.

And there was no way to know if he would live through this war. He made it through the last one, but not without some very close calls. What Somerset needed was time. Time to come up with answers.

As the comm chimed, he knew that he didn't have the time now. Pixan was requesting he change vector for final docking procedures. Though he didn't like turning over his vessel to these pirates there was no other way to get in a docking bay.

After he landed, he checked to make sure that anything identifying him as GalCom military was safely stowed in the leftover secret compartments of the Eagle. He grabbed his civilian ID, and some credits. Hard cash always worked best in the seedy places, Somerset had found. Just before he exited the Eagle, Somerset grabbed up a non-issue sidearm, and checked the charge on it before slipping it into a holster. All of this scum on Pixan brandished weapons, so he would merely be fitting in.

He walked around Pixan for while, learning the general layout of the place. During his exploration, Somerset found a small bar that was named "Slick Willy's Saloon". As the name suggested, it turned out to be a human bar. Even though there were some other species present, the majority of them were humans. At least, they appeared to be. With pirates, one could rarely tell how human they were anymore. Somerset sat down, laid a ten credit chip on the table, and said "Give me a Emperian Ale." Since Sirius was a neutral system, the human female tending bar said, "Coming right up, pal."

[/RP]

I won't drain the bar dry, but I'd be intrigued to see the company I could run into while I'm here.

Note on the Accords: Personally, I think that even in 3008, nations would sign what amounts to the present day Geneva Conventions. Treatment of POW's, limiting what kinds of weapons of warfare are used (ie; nukes), and the like. Just hope I'm not out of line using it.

------------------

Commander Benjamin Somerset

GCV Swiftsure, Wraith HQ (Lyrius)

Wing Leader - Wraith Fleet/SIN Wing

Stealth is the only thing between you, and your enemy's guns.

[This message has been edited by Ben Somerset (edited 10-17-2000).]

Akuma Minako · October 16, 2000

[rp]

Akuma stared at Rattler before inclining her head. "I have it...Rattler." She says. His head then turns towards Blades and he proceeds to barrade Karl.

Forgetting protocol, forgetting everything, even her burned hand she takes two steps forward till she is standing in front of Insurgent One. The Thirty-One year old woman suddenly collapses against Rattler and gives hims a warm hug. "You ARE family...My family."

She smiles warmly up at him then turns to Blades still standing very close to Rattler. "Now Blades." She says with a biting undertone to her voice. "Explain."

[/rp]

Damn you Blades! I wanna be Twenty-One not Thirty-One! Why can't I? Bah! You fleet commanders! Even commanding our ages! I hate politics!!!!!!!!!!

------------------

Commander Akuma Minako

GCV - Tenchi, Orion Starstation (CENTRIS)

Deterrence Battle Group

www.orion-hq.fsnet.co.uk

Eclipse · October 17, 2000

[rp on]

0400 hrs, 18th May, 3008

DEBRIS FIELD

SOL/EARTH

Kyle Antilles sat on the bridge, if it could be called that, of the Generis. He had slept very little since intercepting that message. Now he sat thinking if his first translation had been correct....the way he had read it, the Old Corsair would have been ariving at Pixan today... yet nothing had happened. If nothing did soon, he was going to have to start making his own way back to the Eclipse and then on to Pixan. In the time he had been awake, he had put together a rough idea of what he knew of the Corsair and his ship. It seemed that it was nearly impossible to detect cloaked or not, that and if tales of a ghost ship with white skull and crossbones could be believed the Corsair might just be harder to track than he had first thought. It sounded like there were a few "modifications" the Old Pirate had made to is ship, Antilles made a mental note to have his crew watch for any hyperjumps with no sources and report immediately to him. With any luck and if intel was right about a high ranking member of Corsair Wing recently placed under court marshal he'd have his man.

He shifted to a more comfortable position, and drifted off to sleep with thoughts of the pirates of old swirling through his unconscious brain.

[rp off]

------------------

Commodore Kyle Antilles

ICV-Eclipse, Destiny Starstation (Nevuela)

Commanding Officer, Destiny

Spectre Fleet

"You can only love or hate something you truly understand"

[This message has been edited by Eclipse (edited 10-16-2000).]

Maxamillian · October 17, 2000

rp

11:33hrs, 15th May, 3008

Covert Base in GAMMULA Star System

Cmdr Maxamillian, G2, Prime Fleet

Max was at last seeing the completion of the covert starbase. He had worked for two years with the Kandorians to set up this base, now it was finished. GALCOM would now be able to know in advance the fleet movements of the Gammulans without the risk of ships and men. The cloaking device would not contaminate the drones that would opperate this base and unless the Gammulans walked smack into it there wasn't anyway to detect it. Even standing right in front of it, Max could only see a slight shimmer like the waves of heat rising from a hot pavement.

Covert mines, covert stations, covert operatives, was it all getting to him? Max had been at it for a long time, he had friends in the most unlikely places....Max, cut his thoughts short, it was time to get back to Terran space and take that long overdue vacation.

"Tacops Control,activate transporter.", he quietly spoke into his wristcomm.

When he emerged from the transporter he went directly to the bridge. "What is the radiation level Mr. McFearson?"

"Lever #6, Sir, we are still within the safety levels."

"Thank you, Navigation, plot a coutse for Earth, we are going home."

There was a low murmmer amoung the bridge crew. Everyone was glad that these orders were being issued. It is harder on a crew to play hide and seek with the enemy then to fight them.

"Connor, tell the crew we are going home." Max told his number one before he sank down in his command chair. Connor turned with a smile and spoke quietly into the comm system. This was an intellengence ship and everything was done quietly.

Max was deep in thought when the comm light on his console started to flash. He punched the button and saw that there was a FYEO message for him.

"Bridgett," he quietly said to his Comm officer,"I'll take it in my quarters."

"Aye, Sir, it will be waiting for you on your console."

"Thankyou", Max headed for his quarters.

Communications

TO:Cmdr Maxamillian

FROM:FC SAVAGE

SUBJECT:SPECIAL OPS

CONTENT:

Commander

The following is FYEO. This message will autodelete itself in 60 seconds and will leave no records in your datebase.

We need to meet to discuss a matter of the utmost urgency. You are to make every effort to travel to the Pixan Starstation and meet with myself, and another representative on board the SS Vulture a 23:30hrs, 18th May 3008. Come alone and unescorted. Use alternative methods of transportation to reach your destination, and tell no one of your movements, or whereabouts.

All will be revealed shortly.

End Communications.

Max, the head of the largest intellegence group of Galcom, leaned back and watch as the message dissapeared from his comm screen. Now this was interesting, when did Karl start going covert.

Max hit the comm button, "Connon, adjust the course a little, we are going to Jupiter."

"Aye, Sir."

Max thought Karl had sent him the message, more for information then actually expecting his actual presence, but then again the tone was rather sinister. Max was going to turn over temporary command of "Dreadnaught" to Connor and let him head to GALCOMHQ without him. There was an old mercenary ship stashed away on Europa, the "Black Witch". She was small but had the firepower of an old MK1 cruiser. What better way to travel then in his alternate persona Max Slater the Mercenary. Oh well, the vacation will have to wait.

rp off

Ok Blades, you got my attention. Max will be arriving in the old "Black Witch" as Max Slater Mercenary, I'll post my progress if you want to fit him in....

'MAX'

------------------

Cmdr. Maxamillian (MAX)

GCV-Dreadnaught, GALCOMHQ (Earth)

G2 Intelligence/Security; G3 Tactics (Acting)-Prime Fleet

Commander Jamont · October 17, 2000

[rp]

Shuttle carrying cmdr. jamont to pixan starstation.

Meanwhile onboard..

Commander !!

yes , pilot?

Where nearing pixan station , shall i radio the station for landing clearance ..

Sure you do that..

YES SIR

Shuttle prophecy , requesting landing clearance.

Pixan station : your cleared for landing.

please proceed to docking bay 1

OK here we go...

WHAMBAAAANG .... !!!!

What the hell says cmdr. jamont

Wooo sorry sir.. i guess the engines couldn't handle it no more..

Hehe damn crap shuttles ... send a message to pixan station that we need someone to come pick us up.

[/rp]

Can someone please intergrate my story in some elses , that my shuttle is picked up? blades can you do that? or someone else?

------------------

Commander Nick Jamont

GCV Prophecy IV, ISSHQ (Saturn)

Intel & Espionage Wing Leader - ISS Fleet

"silence is gold"

Gallion · October 17, 2000

[rp]

0720, 18 May, 3008

VOQ, Galcom HQ

Earth, Sol

An ancient joke ÔÇª What kind of bird donÔÇÖt fly ÔÇª ? echoed in GallionÔÇÖs thoughts as he waited in his quarters ÔÇª Jailbird! ÔÇª for his barrister and escort to arrive. He reflected on his Galcom career, searching for something meaningful, something tangible that he could hold onto. His career was a speckled one since the day he entered the academy. One fraught with obstacles, many of his own creation and filled with near misses. A career that legends were made of and yet, despite all that has past, and that was currently going on, it was a career that he wouldnÔÇÖt have changed one iota - even if he had the chance.

Tonk! Tonk! Tonk! echoed from the hatchway and throughout his quarters signaling the arrival of his escort party. TheyÔÇÖre Here!ÔÇª

Gallion took a few moments to look into a mirror and straightened his uniform some, smoothing out some wrinkles, fixing his gig-line, and straightening out his placard of decorations. He checked his left front pocket for the button that Meyers had given him and rub it some for good luck.

Get going old man, Gallion said to himself as he moved towards the hatchway and opened it, they havenÔÇÖt beaten me yetÔÇª. The ever-smiling barrister, Jacob Meyers, Esq., and two rather large, blank faced, and heavily armed Marines greeted him. A sinister and somewhat smug looking grin appeared on GallionÔÇÖs mug. ÔÇ£ÔÇÖtis a fine day in paradise, is it not barrister?ÔÇØ he said to Meyers. Without waiting for a reply from the somewhat confused but still smiling barrister, he began down the crowded passageway towards the courtroom. Personnel who recognized him made way for the party. Some onlookers likened GallionÔÇÖs stride and journey to a dead man walking. All one had to do was look into his eyes and they would see that he was far from becoming a dead man.

The time is 0738, it will take the party at least ten minutes to reach the courtroom, fifteen at the max.

0728, 18th May, 3008

Docking Bay 13, Galcom HQ

Earth, Sol

Graf Spee, youÔÇÖre cleared for launch. Good Luck! Galcom control out!

Docking lines cleared, reactor 100% and on-line, engines ready, hyperdrive fully chargedÔÇª

The launch checklist echoed through the bridge of the Graf Spee. The major and most of the minor repairs to the ship were complete and a fresh stealth coat had been molecularly fused to armor and hull exterior of the battlecruiser. Lt. Cmdr. Ron Rico Cuervo, acting Commander of the Graf Spee, was still amazed at the speed and thoroughness of the repairs over the last 3 days. The Graf Spee actually launched earlier than previously planned.

Rico felt an ever so slight lurch as the forward thrusters were fired, propelling the battlecruiser away from Docking Bay 13. At the same time, against Galcom procedures Rico thought, the cloaking system was activated and cloaking field had formed by the time the black battlecruiser cleared Docking Bay 13 and Galcom HQ.

He was home, and the Graf Spee was home, back within the dark void of space.

ÔÇ£Ready Chief? Gunney? Resprick?ÔÇØ Rico said into his commlink, ÔÇ£LeFevre?ÔÇØ

Three almost simultaneous and one ÔÇ£Aye SirÔÇØ were the replies.

Rico looked at his chronometer and waited ...

Tick....Tick...Tick...Tick...Tick...Tick...Tick.......0740

ÔÇ£Initiate!ÔÇØ Rico bellowed to the bridge crew and commlink, ÔÇ£Report!ÔÇØ

ÔÇ£We got him Sir!ÔÇØ LeFevre reported from the newly reconstructed SES in CB1.

ÔÇ£Team standing by!ÔÇØ reported Resprick as he got the reassuring nod from Gunney York.

ÔÇ£Target locked!ÔÇØ reported the Graf SpeeÔÇÖs Chief Engineer from the transporter controls in the transporter room.

ÔÇ£Signal sent!ÔÇØ reported the comms officer, ÔÇ£T minus 30 seconds...29...28...

The countdown had begun, there was no turning back for Lt. Cmdr. Cuervo or the crew of the GCV Graf Spee. Rico nervously tapped on the arm of the command chair, much as Gallion had, waiting for the seconds to slowly tick by.

ÔÇ£...14...13...12...11...10...9...8...7...6...5...2...1...ZEROÔÇØ

ÔÇ£Course plotted to Nav Coordinates Sir!ÔÇØ

ÔÇ£Transporter Activated...ÔÇØ

It had begun. They, the ship and crew had passed the event horizon, way beyond the point of no return. The next five minutes would bear proof to whether they succeeded or that they would join their Commander as a dead man walking...

The Time is 0741, 18 May, 3008

[/rp]

Next post ÔÇô Fireworks

I promise

TTFN

[This message has been edited by Gallion (edited 10-17-2000).]

Maxamillian · October 17, 2000

rp

14:20 hrs, 17th May 3008

Lennen Space, Debris Field

Slater had arrived. He scanned the local space with the modified sensor array only high ranking GALCOM G2 officers had access to. He would remained cloaked for another six hrs, then head for Pixan. The "Vulture" wasn't anywhere in sight, but that didn't mean that she was here.

The crews on Pixan would remember him as a very tough, high priced merc. The last time he had used this persona he had passed around alot of money, greesed the wheels so to speak. They would remember him as Slater, only a very few people knew who Maxamillian really was and they could be counted on one hand, that is except the crew of the "DREADNAUGHT".All the covert opperators that were under his command really never got to see the man that gave them orders. He pushed the AI panel and activated MAGAN.

"Magan, I'M going to my quarters, call me in six hrs. Until then keep a close eye on things" Magan was the AI for the ship and she was almost human. She thought Slater needed looking after and did a very good job of it.

"OK Max, let me know if you need anything else. Have a good rest." Slater knew that Magan was a machine but when you opperate a starship alone you have a tendency to humanise it or her.

Slater walked to his quarters with a brisk stride. He knew something was buzzing in the solar winds, he could feel it in his bones.

rp off

I'm in Lennen Space waiting to see what's next. Ol'Rattler knows who Maxamillian is because we have crossed blades a couple of times. Max is the G2 for Prime Fleet and is very active with covert opps and infiltration. He has well placed moles in most of the hot spots. He has ops on Specter, and New America that are so deep that they don't even know who they are. Ain't hypno drugs grand. As you can see he isn't a very nice guy, but he is honourable. Work him in if you want, I think you may need his assets if we are going to sneak around EARTHCOM. They are kind of right wing earthers if you know what I mean. Think of them as the guys that fly around with the lasar rifle in their back windows ------------------

Cmdr. Maxamillian (MAX)

GCV-Dreadnaught, GALCOMHQ (Earth)

G2 Intelligence/Security; G3 Tactics (Acting)-Prime Fleet

Charles Lindsey · October 18, 2000

[rp]

22:30 May 15, 3008

With Chavik gone Mr. Brom brought the hyperjump engines online and brought the Phoenix around to the coordinates Mr. Harrison had calculated. The jump took only a few seconds then the Flux Field loomed large in the viewscreen. Mr. Brom eased the Phoenix forward at 75% throttle. The Flux Field grew larger still as they approched and soon everyone could see the enormous energies the field was made of. It was a gaseous cloud with lightning arcing through the mist. At the center was a black point. The point of singularity that would take them to their destination. The Phoenix drew ever nearer to the singularity and the field filled the bridgeviewer. The massive energies drew the Phoenix in and they jumped.

Chavik sat in his quarters wondering what had brought on mention of Christopher Sly. That traders knew of it was most disturbing. It had to have been sent broadband. Chavik thought of going back to the bridge but knew he wouldn't be much good until he learned what the heck was going on. Best to let his crew do their job and not make them nervous with his presence.

The Phoenix had jumped and wound up 200 clicks further from the station than when they entered the Flux Field. The exit point had swung back around to the same region the entry point was in. Mr Harrison recalculated the waypoint and the Phoenix again eased forward. Again the swirling energy grabbed the Phoenix and they jumped. This time they were 300 clicks away from the field but this time were closer to the station. Once more the Phoenix entered the heart of the Flux Field and jumped. "This is getting tiring," said Mr. Brom.

"Nature of the Beast," replied Mr. Harrison as he calculated the waypoint for the third time. "Unstable little suckers."

"Never had one this stubborn before," said Mr Brom after his sixth attempt. Just after he promised himself he would contact Chavik after this attempt failed, they made it. Mr. Harrison plotted the course and they headed to Sygan.

After they had docked Communications officer Kathy Siamet informed Chavik that they had arrived. He thanked her and headed straight to his office. He turned on his computer and the messages indicator started blinking. Opening his messages he noticed one marked urgent.

Communication

TO: Chavik

FROM : RATTLER

SUBJECT : SPECIAL OPS

CONTENT : Feathers

Commander Chavik,

The following is FYEO. This message will autodelete itself in 60 seconds and will leave no records in your database.

We need to meet to discuss a matter of the utmost urgency. You are to make every effort to travel to the Pixan Starstation and meet with myself, and another representative on board the SS Vulture at 23:30 hrs, 18th May 3008. Come alone and unescorted. USE alternative methods of transportation to reach your destination, and tell no one of your movements, or whereabouts.

All will be revealed shortly.

End Communication.

Chavik was more worried than ever. The SS Vulture was a free lance name. And what was Rattler doing at Pixan? Alternate methods my ass, thought Chavik. A call down to the loading bays ensured the Phoenix would be well stocked. Two days to get to Pixan. Plenty of time to plan. Or worry.

[/rp]

edit in, oops formatting didn't hold. fixed.

------------------

Vice Admiral Chavik

ICV Phoenix, Sygan Starstation (Sygan)

Fleet Leader - Balor Fleet

Official BC3K Tester

[This message has been edited by Charles Lindsey (edited 10-18-2000).]

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