From ShdoOps@aol.comSat Jan 25 12:57:55 1997 Date: Sun, 12 Jan 1997 01:13:26 -0500 (EST) Subject: SO: Red Squadron -- Holosimulation #2
FROM THE GM: The following simulation will be a group assignment. Your entire team will have to work together to complete this mission. I will establish the parameters and each of you will post your character's actions and interactions with the rest of the group. Do not write a single post resolving the entire scenario. This is one you will have to post actions for several times. Each person will further the scenario as they post. I will edit the responses so they flow into a final, overall post. You can also work out what you want to do by writing to each other and collborating, if you so choose. Because some players post more slowly than others, some of you will tend to get ahead. Everyone should try to limit themselves to posting to this scenario every other day until it is complete. Please try to keep up, even if you only post a few paragraphs every other day. As long as I receive the posts on time, I will post them back to the entire group every other day. We can establish a timetable for that once you begin the simulation. If you have questions, direct them to me as soon as possible.
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Red Squadron Holosim #2 Squadron assignment
The recruits gathered at the entrance to Holodeck Six and were greeted by Lt. Commander Ammelis and Admiral Sorvek. Each recruit was dressed the same, each in a black covert operations uniform with no markings. Each had a knapsack strapped to his or her back to place the equipment they'd be issued in.
"Good morning, recruits," Sorvek began, his face an unreadable stone. "Today you will begin the group holo-simulation program we discussed when you entered training camp. This will be the final leg of your training and can be considered a final examination, if you will. The overall objective of this sim is to team all of you how to work together as a team. While the successful completion of the sim's objectives is what you will be evaluated on, individually we will observing each of you to see how well you work with a team. You will be graded as a group on your performance. You must achieve a passing score in each to complete Shadow Ops training.
"Are there any questions?" [FROM THE GM: If there are questions, send them along.]
Finished with his lecture to the recruits, Sorvek stepped aside and allowed the beautiful Betazoid to step to the forefront. "OK, listen up. This is your mission so pay attention.
"Your Shadow Ops unit has been deployed to the Romulan Empire. Your mission is to help the Federation acquire defecting Romulan Pro Counsel Minok. Word has reached Starfleet Intelligence through the Romulan Underground that Minok has been aiding the Underground for nearly two years now. Minok's shift in loyalities were shown immediately after the destruction of the Tal Shiar in its failed joint mission with the Cardassian Obsidian Order to destroy the Founder Homeworld.
"In recent months the Romulan government has organized a new secret police organization called the Tal Rhakahn which has been working feverishly ever since to expose any and all dissidents. This organization is close to exposing Minok and he has made a secret plea to the Federation Council requesting asylum. A plea the Council has granted, but the catch is we must get him out of Romulan space first.
"You are aboard the U.S.S. Intruder, a Defiant-class destroyer used extensively by Shadow Operations. This ship has stealth capabilities similar to a cloaking device and will be able to move freely into Romulan space. You have traveled two days across the Neutral Zone and have reached the Romulan controlled planet Vendax IV. Pro Counsel Minok is on the planet at a popular resort among members of the Romulan Senate. He is most certainly guarded at all times.
"With the Intruder orbiting the planet in stealth mode, your team must beam to the surface near the resort, enter the compound, find the Pro Counsel, liberate him from his "escorts" and get back to the Intruder for the trip back across the neutral zone. Minok's safety is extremely important for not only can he offer the Federation a wealth of information about the Romulan Empire, but if he were to die or be captured, it would discourage other important Romulans from joining the Underground Movement.
"Here are some other parameters to consider as you embark on this mission. First of all, there are at least two Romulan Warbirds in orbit and two more in the sector that we know of, so if an alert is triggered they will become a problem. Beaming to or from the resort is impossible because of a dampening field around the facility and its grounds at all times -- so you will have to land somewhere outside the radius of this field, which is about one kilometer in diameter. The resort is in an isolated forest about 600 kilometers from the nearest city on Vendax, situated on a plateau overlooking a deep canyon and high waterfall. Because of the number of important guests at this resort (which caters to the empire's elite), there are a number of rovering patrols in and around the complex. Intelligence estimates at least 60 armed soldiers in the vicinity.
"The Intruder will remain in stealth mode, parked in a geosychronis orbit. There is no time limit for this scenario to be completed, but every hour you have the program engaged, the chances increase that the Romulans will detect your ship. If that happens and the ship is destroyed, you will either have to come up with an escape plan or fail.
"Are there any questions?" [FROM THE GM: If there are questions please e-mail me ASAP so I can send answers. Posting will begin as soon as you are ready.]
Sorvek continued after answering any questions: "Available in the ship's stores is most any piece of equipment you will need for the mission. Please determine now what you are taking with you.
"You are now ready to begin. Enter the holodeck when you are ready. Good luck."
As the recruits stepped through the big sliding doors into the holodeck, they found themselves in the cramped confines of the transporter bay aboard a Defiant-class destroyer. A man who looks like the captain of the ship stands in front of you, while a Bolian officer mans the transporter controls...
"OK team, we're ready to beam you down," the captain announces. He then motions to a pile of bagged equipment on the floor next to the transporter pad, "There's the gear and weapons you've all requested.
"When you reach the surface, we will transmit a short burst communication signal to the resort, using a Romulan carrier signal to piggy back our tranmission. That signal will activate a paging device Minok is carrying on him. At that time he will activate a homing signal which will allow you to locate him in the resort compound using your tricorder. The tricorders are already calibrated to detect this signal.
"Once you have him and have either left the radius of the dampening field or shut it down completely, transmit a signal to us and we'll beam you out. Any questions?"
END TRANSMISSION
Date: Wed, 15 Jan 1997 21:28:54 -0500 (EST) Subject: SO: Red Squadron holosim #2 begins
Red Squadron Standing in the transporter room of the USS Intruder Holosim #2 Stardate 9701.15
Since there were no questions, the team gathered up its gear and assembled on the transporter pad.
"We're going to beam you to a site just outside the perimeter of the dampening field. You'll be about one kilometer from the resort. It's pretty much a jungle terrain all the way there and it will be night, so be careful," the holographic captain told them.
"Sir, we're nearing the beam down coordinates," the transporter chief reported.
"OK crew, good luck down there," the captain said.
A moment later the team was transported off the Intruder and found themselves standing in an open field, surrounded by a dark jungle. Strange creatures made noises from all around them and the glowing eyes of hundreds of tree dwellers watched them as they stood around, getting their bearings.
Now the team would have to decide who was going to take on what tasks. If they wanted to beam directrly out of the report, they were going to have to take out the dampening field generator which was housed somewhere in or near the resort. They were also going to have to find Minok and get him to safety.
But who was going to perform which tasks.....
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Ensign Jake Winefield Holodeck Test 2 Stardate 9701.15
Jake was nervous his stomach ached but he tried not to show anything to the rest of the team. After the beam down Jake immediately did a quick check of his gear. From sensor jammers to communicators Jake did a diagnostic checking everything was working as expected. Most of all Jake checked the tricorders making sure they were calibrated and detecting the signal.
Out loud Jake informed the team "All gear of mine is good to go, and the tricorders are easily picking up the signal." To himself Jake thought "just don't let me screw up or do anything which will let down the team."
FROM THE GM: OK Red Squadron, you guys can figure out what you're going to do and start posting...
END TRANSMISSION
Date: Sat, 18 Jan 1997 00:52:10 -0500 (EST) Subject: SO: Red Squadron/Holodeck mission #2
FROM THE GM: OK everybody, lets put the dispute with Black Squadron behind and get on with the holodeck training mission. Ayer has provided us with the next post, so now I'd like to hear how the rest of you will continue the plot.
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Ensign Ayer Holodeck Stardate 9701.17
Ayer turned to survey his surroundings and found that they were all gathered in a thick tropical forest. The three moons at the top were giving enough light so that everyone can see their surroundings. What was most unusual about the forest was that every tree seems to have vines surrounding itself as if it was hugging in a tight embrace.
"Strange," he muttered and turned to the rest of the team. They were all ready and eager to go. "Ki'lal, Gaul, and Ubizi will follow me to rescue Minok. The rest of you will follow Tyrian to disable the dampening field generator. From the readings given by the tricorder, they are roughly about several hundred meters apart. Communicate with our team when you've disable the field generator but make sure its done using one of their access panel. Using our own Commbadge could set off an alarm. Ready, let's go."
The team splited up and started heading towards different locations on the resort. After walking for about a kilometer, they reached the outer perimeters of the resort. The surrounding bushes covered their bodies from the resort and gave them time to observe the area. Despite the fall of night, there were still people walking around which was unfortunate. Furthermore, guards were patrolling every street looking for any signs of trouble.
"It seems that getting in is harder than we thought."
END TRANSMISSION
Date: Sun, 19 Jan 1997 02:26:51 -0500 (EST) Subject: SO: Red Squadron/Holosim #2 continues
Tyrian M. Summers Holosim #2 Stardate 9701.18
Tyrian trekked through the jungle with his team to disable the generator that powered the dampening field. The jungle was dense and the going was slow. The eyes in the trees seemed to grow closer and the sounds grew louder Tyrian hoped they did'nt encounter anything at least until they got to the compound. The jungle roof blocked out any available light from the moons so Tyrian had put on his night vision visor. The jungle became clear in the crimson view of the scope. Just then Tyrian heard a sound from above, he looked up right as a couple of small furry creatures dropped down on his head. Tyrian was so suprised he dropped his katana onto the ground, he grabbed one of the small creatures and flung it into a tree. But before he could grab the other one, the creature pulled off his visor and jumped about fifteen feet up into the trees, dissappearing from sight. Tyrian cursed to himself as he pulled out his handheld light and flipped it on. A few minutes later they were getting into a particularly dense part of the jungle and they had to walk single file, Tyrian covered the flank. Visibility was extremely limited, the brush covering them thickly. Tyrian thought he heard something off to his left, and turned a little pointing his phaser rifle at the brush, when something like arms wrapped around his head and body pulling him into the brush before he could make a sound. He didn't know if the rest of his team knew that he had dissappeared, since he was being pulled away really quietly.
END TRANSMISSION
Date: Sun, 19 Jan 1997 21:24:07 -0500 (EST) From: ShdoOps@aol.com Subject: SO: Red Squadron/Holosim #2 continues
FROM THE GM: Here's how your team has divided up: [missed Brynaziir]
Team 1 (Take out the Generator)
Tyrian M. Summers: Human
Jacob "Jake" Winefield: Human
Sholek Romulan
Nash Vulcan
Thoraz Brynaziir Betazoid

Team 2 ( Get Minok)
Ayer Human
Saran Gaul Vulcan/Betazoid
Ki'lal Klingon
Vincent Ubizi Human
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Ensign Jake Winefield Holotest 2 Stardate 9701.19
Jake went with the group to disable the generator. In his group was Tyrian Summers, Sholek and Nash. Keeping his tricorder on he continued to scan for Romulan sensors. The few he found where basic motion sensors which Jake had no trouble sending a artificial signal to allowing the team to move on without delay.
They continued with Tyrian leading until suddenly a couple of small furry creatures dropped down on Tyrian. Jake tried moving forward to help physically remove the creatures, fearing that any phaser action might be detected, but once he go to Tyrian one of the creatures had been flung it into a tree and the creature had pulled off Tyrian's visor disappearing from sight. Jake picked up Tyrian and handed it to him saying "at least they're not Romulans"
After a few minutes more the team had reached a part of the jungle where they had to walk in single file, Jake continued to use his tricorder to scan for sensors finding none the team moved on. Minutes passed as the team tried to remain quite moving through the jungle Jake's tricorder finally detected some form of advance sensor and Jake told Sholek that there seemed to be some large sensor net up ahead. My tricorder does not have the power to send out a signal to fool it we are going to need to do it manually. Turning toward Tyrian Jake was about to explain what he had found when he realized Tyrian was not there. Jakes turned to Nash and said "where is Tyrian, how long has he been gone....?"
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Ensign Sholek Holosimulation #2 Stardate 9701.19
Sholek started of toward the field generator. He took a phaser, a tricorder, some tools, a light, night vision goggles, and a bat'leth. Putting on his goggles he headed out towards the generator with the rest of his group.
Cutting his way through the dense jungle, he continued. Not long after the team noticed that Tyrian was missing, off to his right Sholek heard a noise. He recognized the noise as the call of a Romulan Hempha monkey. He would had to be careful of his goggles. These monkeys liked to take objects that look similar to the goggles.
He stopped and counted the number of people in his group again and concluded that Tyrian was still missing. He looked around and heard some noise about 10 meters to his left. He figured that that was Tyrian and dismissed his disappearance.
A new noise, this time behind him. He ducked and listened hard. He heard a heart beat. A Romulan heart beat and it wasn't his. The Romulan slowly approached Sholek and started looking for him. The Romulan had not noticed Sholek falling to the ground.
Sholek slowly moved around the other Romulan, came from behind him, approached him, covered his mouth, and shoved the bat'leth through his heart.
After hiding the body, Sholek ran to catch up with everyone else. They would need his help deactivating the generator. If they had to blow it up it would alert the Warbirds to their presence before they could beam back up.
END TRANSMISSION
Date: Tue, 21 Jan 1997 01:55:03 -0500 (EST) Subject: SO: Red Squadron holosim #2 goes on
Tyrian M. Summers Holosim #2 Stardate 9701.18
Tyrian trekked through the jungle with his team to disable the generator that powered the dampening field. The jungle was dense and the going was slow. The eyes in the trees seemed to grow closer and the sounds grew louder Tyrian hoped they did'nt encounter anything at least until they got to the compound.
The jungle roof blocked out any available light from the moons so Tyrian had put on his night vision visor. The jungle became clear in the crimson view of the scope. Just then Tyrian heard a sound from above, he looked up right as a couple of small furry creatures dropped down on his head.
Tyrian was so surprised he dropped his katana onto the ground, he grabbed one of the small creatures and flung it into a tree. But before he could grab the other one, the creature pulled off his visor and jumped about fifteen feet up into the trees, dissappearing from sight.
Tyrian cursed to himself as he pulled out his handheld light and flipped it on. A few minutes later they were getting into a particularly dense part of the jungle and they had to walk single file, Tyrian covered the flank. Visibility was extremely limited, the brush covering them thickly. Tyrian thought he heard something off to his left, and turned a little pointing his phaser rifle at the brush, when something like arms wrapped around his head and body pulling him into the brush before he could make a sound. He didn't know if the rest of his team knew that he had dissappeared, since he was being pulled away really quietly.
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Ensign Ayer Holodeck 2 Stardate 9701.20
Walking around the edge of the perimeter, the team couldn't find a way into the resort. Turning to Gaul, he asked, "Where is the location of Minok?"
Scanning with his tricorder, Gaul responded, "From these readings, he is to be in the center of the resort. If I'm not wrong, he should be over there." Gaul pointed to a building far ahead.
Turning back, Ayer followed the path of where the finger was pointing and was shocked. For far beyond the smaller buildings loomed a tall, metallic structure. It's spire reached about 500 meters high and the base was enormous. The metal was of unknown components but it glowed under the three moons. From the way the metal was reacting to light, he guessed that the building was light powered. Behind his back, Ubizi said, "This is impossible." Ayer turned around for an explanation. "What do you mean?"
"From what I'm reading, there are four separate environments, a tropical rainforest, an aquatic compound, a winter atmosphere, and a desert," Ubizi looked back up, his face in a feature of amazement.
"The Romulans do have a strange idea of a resort. That building probably admits only to the highest ranking officers of the Romulan Empire. And inside that building is a resort that is beyond imagining," Ayer marveled.
Gaul raised his eyebrow, "A desert?"
Ayer shrugged. "It could be relaxing, if you know how. But that's not important right now, we've got to find a way in."
Ki'lal spoke, "I've detected a computer unit not far from here. It seems to be unoccupied and I believe we can use it to transport us into that building."
"Lead the way, Ki'lal." With that, the team followed Ki'lal until they reached a huge waterfall. The area was unoccupied save for the trees and the river but they weren't deterred. Searching around, Gaul was the one who found the room housing the computer. The room was located behind the waterfall and getting to that room was going to take some climbing.
For fifteen minutes, they spent their time climbing up the steep slopes and getting behind the waterfall. When they finally got in, the room was empty of any occupants. Walking towards one of the panels, Ayer searched through the database and successfully accessed the transporter. Punching in a few key sequence, they later found themselves materializing in an empty bedroom.
END TRANSMISSION
Date: Fri, 24 Jan 1997 04:12:07 -0500 (EST) Subject: SO: Red Squadron/Holosim #2 continues
Tyrian M. Summers Holosim #2 Stardate 9701.22
Tyrian struggled against his captures as they walked deeper into the woods farther away from his team. He tried to yell, but was muffled by some type of cloth covering his head and his face. Tyrian decided to give up the struggle and remain still, to await an opening in which he could escape. After about fifteen minutes, he felt himself come to a halt. Then he could feel a strange sensation......he was being carried up! Up what he didn't know, it could have been anything. His feet were set on the ground and he was released and pushed forward harshly, he heard a rattling sound behind him. Tyrian quickly took off his mask and looked around. He was in a crude jail cell, the three walls were made of thick wood planks with a front wall of rusted metal bars with a door in the middle of them. Standing on the other side of the bars were three large creatures, covered in a blue-grey fur. They each stood about seven feet tall and Tyrian estimated them to weigh about four-hundred pounds apiece. Tyrian thought what did I do to deserve this? He walked up to the bars where the three large creatures where grunting at each other and looking at him, and said, "What are you planning to do with me, fuzzballs?" He didn't know if they understood him, they looked pretty primative, but the nearest one turned and roared at him. Tyrian saw all his enormous teeth as his mouth was open all the way. Tyrian flinched at the horrible smell coming from his breath. He had a bad feeling that he was about to be someones lunch. Tyrian turned and walked to the back of the cell to think. He looked out the small bar covered window and saw he was in some sort of crude building in the trees, he couldn't tell how high up due to the darkness. But he could see various other small buildings in the other trees connected by rope and wood bridges. They had taken all his equipment,he could see it was sitting in the other room.
About ten minutes later, the three creatures left the room. Tyrian hopped up and ran at the cell door, hitting it with a hard kick. He felt the door flex a little, so he tried again and again, the door moving more each time. He knew he had to hurry, for the creatures might hear him, he was making a decent amout of noise. He ran at it one more time and kicked it, that did it, the rusted lock mechanism gave way sending the door flying wide open. Tyrian ran out and grabbed his gear quickly, throwing his backpack on and grabbing his weapons. He heard something and turned to look, catching a huge paw-like hand in his face, sending him flying backwards into the wall. He quickly jumped to his feet with his black katana in his hand, already swinging as the creature advanced catching it across the chest. This infuriated the thing, he grabbed Tyrians shoulder before he could swing again and threw him towards a wall with unbelievable strength, sending him through the rotting wood wall, to a walkway outside. Tyrian got up painfully and raised his katana in time to catch the creature in the stomach, skewering him. Tyrian pulled out his sword and watched the huge moaning creature as he fell to the ground. Undetected by Tyrian a creature had come up behind him, the thing hit Tyrian on the back with a double overhand blow, sending Tyrian down to the walkway and causing him to drop his sword through the rope railing hurling far away to the ground. Tyrian drew his type II phaser and tried to get up, but the creature stomped on his back, pinning him to the ground. Tyrian blindly twisted his arm behind him and started firing wildly until he heard a yell of pain and felt the weight lift off him. Tyrian got up and fired another blast at the creature's head, finishing him off. Tyrian could hear and see other creatures running towards him along the walkways in the distance. Tyrian decided he only had one chance as the creatures advanced on his position. He went onto a nearby bridge. He wrapped his left arm to one of the ropes on the bridge and shot the supports, sending him falling to the ground still attached to the bridge. The slack in the bridge tightened up and he stopped falling with a sudden jerk. Tyrian looked down and saw that the ground was still about ten feet below the bottoms of his boots, he let go and fell to the ground, rolling forward as he hit to disperse the mommentum. Tyrian flipped on his handheld light and took off into the jungle with the creatures in pursuit.
Tyrian had been running for a while, the creatures had taken him far off course, but he was getting close to the resort. For some reason the creatures had broken off thier pursuit as if they didn't want to go this close to the base. Tyrian hoped he was still in time to help as the tower of the tall building came into view.
END TRANSMISSION
Date: Sat, 25 Jan 1997 03:13:22 -0500 (EST) Subject: SO: Red Squadron/Holosim #2 continues
Ensign Jake Winefield Holosim #2 Stardate 9701.24
Jake looked up at both his remaining team mates. "I think Tyrian is lost back there in the jungle, he could be hurt and needs us but what is more important is that we get rid of that generator. I suggest you two both continue with the mission and get through to the generator. I'll double back and hopfuly will find Tyrian before its too late."
Jake then turned around and began moving back the direction the team had just came from. In his head Jake talked to himself : "What are you doing Jake you know that the mission is more important then any one person but Tyrian has done a lot to help you over the last few weeks and Im not about to let him get lost on a mission even if its only a holo mission."
Several minutes pass a Jake follows the path back through the jungle. Then suddenly out of the corner of Jakes eye he spots someone moving quickly through the jungle being chased by some humanoid forms. Knowing that the person running must be Tyrian Jake began running towards. Jake however not being able to keep up with the much faster Tyrian figures that the best thing to do is stop the chasers. Pulling his phaser out he fires four small bursts hitting the large humanoid figures squarely. Each large frame stops suddenly and collapses onto the moist jungle ground. "That should hold them for awhile". By the time Jake turned his attention back to running figure Tyrian was gone and Jake was again alone in an alien jungle. "damn, somedays it just does not pay to get out of bed."
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Ensign Ayer Holodeck #2 Stardate 9701.24
"Alright, let's get started." Ayer started walking out the door with the rest of the team following. The hallway was deserted as the rescue team came out from the doorway.
Taking out his tricorder, Gaul reported, "Minok is on the twentieth floor and we're on the fifth. It looks like we'll have to take the turbolift, if they have one."
"No, that is too risky, the Romulans could have placed sensors in those lifts or we could run into a Romulan. We have to use the shafts and make our way up there." Turning to Gaul, he asked, "Where's the nearest shaft?"
Gaul pointed to the west and they headed in that direction. After two minutes of walking, they approached a small ventilation shaft. It was sealed in but Ki'lal walked over and ripped it open. Ayer was the last to go in and sealed the shaft with his phaser.
Climbing fifteen floors up was hard work but in the end, they finally made it to the twentieth floor. Unfortunately, the way out was blocked by two guards whom were standing on guard at a door. Taking out the tricorder to scan for any more lifesigns, they detected five more behind the door. Telling everyone to stay back, Ayer took out a stun grenade and threw it out the grate then crawled to the back. A flash of light blinded everyone but vision was restored after a moment.
Then vaporizing the grate, the team crawled out and saw the two guards lying in piles. Now, the hard task remained, Minok was located behind the door and four other Romulans are in there with him. Rescuing him was going to be tough and risky. Turning to Gaul, Ayer asked, "Are you sure there is no other way in?" Gaul shook his head.
Ayer sighed, "Very well then, you all know what to do." They nodded and Ki'lal approached the door. He placed a Magnetic Discharge which was designed to open the door by charging both sides with the same magnetic pulse. As soon as the device was planted, the door silently slid opened. It was so quiet that none of the Romulans looked at the team. Rushing it, the team began firing.
One of the guards was taken down as soon as the first shots were fired but the rest quickly took cover. Ayer was going to fire but his target took cover beside Minok. Knowing that all precautions must be made to ensure Minok's safety, he lowered his phaser and started crawling across the room.
Everyone else was busy with the Romulans. Busy enough, that the Romulans didn't even notice that Ayer had gotten around to their backs. Sneaking behind the guard that was beside Minok, Ayer put his finger on a pressure spot found behind the Romulan's neck and squeezed. The guard collapsed instantly. Pulling Minok away, Ayer looked around the room and noticed that only one other guard was left from the fire fight. Knowing there was no one he can win, he ran to a computer panel and pressed a button before Ubizi picked him off. It was too late by then for the sound of an alarm rang throughout the whole resort, alerting everyone of intruders.
"Go back to the shaft!!!" Ayer shouted over the alarm and ran out the door.
END TRANSMISSION
Date: Sat, 25 Jan 1997 22:53:19 -0500 (EST) Subject: SO: Red Squadron/Holosim #2 continues
Ensign Sholek Holosim #2 Stardate 9701.24
When Jake left Sholek began to speak to Nash. "I hope he finds Tyrian. Romulan jungles can be dangerous if your alone."
Scanning for a control panel Sholek detected a life form."I'm detecting a life form. It apears to be Romulan in origin. It apears to be a Shonek'mare, a large bear-like creature. Very dangerous and very smart. I hope our friends don't run into one."
Nash says, "I beleive I have detected a control panel. It is to the Nothwest." Nash and Sholek head towards the panel.
"I think I can access a transporter from here", said Sholek. The panel appeared to be in Romulan but he didn't need to use the tricorder to decipher it. Moments later they were transported outside of the transporter room.
END TRANSMISSION
Date: Sun, 26 Jan 1997 23:27:56 -0500 (EST) Subject: SO: Red Squadron/holosim #2 goes on
Ensign Jacob Winefield Holosim #2 Stardate 9701.25
Jake realised he was very alone with a hard choice to make. "Ok Jake what do you do A go back to your team hoping you can find them and finish the mission? Or B find your team mate and possable get killed. Well as some great Klingon once said "its a good day to die"
Jake took out his tricorder and began moving in the direction Tyrian had gone. The steady hum of his tricorder seemed to comfort Jake as he moved through the thick jungle but the back ground noise of the jungle still sent shivers up Jakes spine. Finding a small trace of human DNA he began follow the trail.
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Ensign Tyrian M. Summers Holosim #2 Stardate 9701.25
As Tyrian neared the edge of the woods near the resort he heard something and came to a stop and hid behind a tree. There were two Romulans standing nearby, one in military uniform and one in a large hooded civilian robe. The latter was holding some sort of scanning device. Tyrian pulled out his phaser and set it to maximum stun.
The Romulan holding the device suddenly had a look of terror come across his face as he looked at the screen and turned towards Tyrian's position behind the tree. But it was too late as Tyrian caught him in the head with a phaser blast that sent the Romulan to the ground. The other one quickly drew his phaser and shot at Tyrian, who ducked behind a tree as the blast disenigrated it. The Romulan kept firing as he reached for his communicator, fumbling with it as Tyrian returned fire through the trees. Finally Tyrian landed a good shot, knocking the Romulan to the ground before he could call for help.
Tyrian put on the Romulan robe and put the hood up, which hid his identity entirely. He had to leave some equipment behind which would'nt fit inside the robe, but was still able to carry a good amount of explosives. He set his phaser higher and disposed of the Romulan bodies before he walked off towards his target.
Tyrian began to see more and more Romulans as he neared his target, none of them gave him a second look. Tyrian hoped his squad had been successful in his absence, but since he had heard nothing and had not been beamed out, he figured that they had as of yet not been. A couple of Romulans in military uniforms were entering the target building so he quickly followed them in and then split off down another hallway.
He looked at his tricorder he had hidden up his sleeve and found the room, it was very near! As he approached the last hallway, a lone romulan guard was standing in front of the hallway.
He said to Tyrian, "What is your buisness here?"
Tyrian replied,"This will explain it I believe..." and reached into his rope.
Tyrian caught him completely off guard with the small commando knife, shoving it deeply into his chest. Tyrian dragged the guard quickly into the room with him and shut the door behind him.
As Tyrian scanned the controls of the dampening field he realized that it was still in operation. Either his team had difficulties in reaching it before him, or they were dead. Tyrian didn't have the technical expertise to disable it without a system warning alerting other systems that there was something wrong with it.
So Tyrian opened a large side panel and planted all his explosives into it, a definate overkill, but what the hell. After placing the panel back on he set his remote detonator. He drug the dead Romulan behind a computer console in the back of the room and then left.
For the next fifteen minutes he walked around the building, hoping to spot the rest of his team coming in by setting his tricorder to pick up their comm badges. Just then he heard an alarm going off in another building, then it went off in the one he was in. Tyrian's grip tightened on the detonator as he quickly exited the building. He noticed a good deal of romulans in military dress running past him towards another building.
=============================================================
Ensign Ayer Holosim #2 Stardate 9701.26
The sound of the alarm followed them through to the shaft. As they neared the shaft, a group of guards walked into the hallway. They were highly trained for they wasted no time firing at the intruders. Ubizi was the first to approach the grate and the shots barely missed him. Stepping back to a surrounding wall, they considered their options.
"Ki'lal, keep those guards busy," Ayer said but the Klingon was already peering through the side and started firing at the Romulans.
"There's no way we can get into the shaft without one of us getting hit," Gaul said.
"We've got to find another way," Ayer said. Turning to Minok, he asked, "Are there any places that we can go to hide until the other team has taken out the generator?"
Minok thought about it then said, "At the top of this building lies a solar collector. If we can get to there, the Romulans wouldn't dare fire at us for fear of destroying the whole resort." He paused for a moment, then said, "Security measures have already been implemented so we cannot use the lifts or the transporter. But there is one way, we can use the maintainance core. Follow me," and the Pro Counsel headed towards a corridor.
The rest of the team followed and after winding through some twisted hallways and having a few firefights, they reached a huge door. Minok punched in a code on the panel and it slid open. As soon as the team walked in, the door slammed shut and a 'click' was heard. The room was more than it seems for there was a huge hole in the middle about 25 meters in diameter and extending all the way up and down. The walls of this cylindrical hole were made of circuits and access panels. Apparently this was where all primary repairs were made at.
Ayer turned to Minok and saw that he had already pulled out several pair of boots from a storage compartment. Passing it to everyone, he said, "Here, these are anti-gravity boots, I trust you know what they are for from your studies at Starfleet Academy."
They all nodded, strapped their boots on, and activated the energy cells. As they rose to the next level, the door from where they came from disintegrated and Romulan guards swarmed in. They were confused at first, wondering where the intruders had gone to, when one of them look up. He immediately shouted and took a shot at them. The other romulans soon followed.
Luckily for the rescue party, the boots took them high enough and fast enough away from the guards that the shots all missed. Ki'lal turned to Minok and asked, "How long will it take before we reach the top?"
"We'll reach the solar collector in approximately three minutes."
"In the meantime, we can decide what to do once we get there," Ayer said.
END TRANSMISSION
Date: Mon, 27 Jan 1997 00:08:34 -0500 (EST) Subject: SO: Red Squadron/holosim #2 continues
Ensign Jacob Winefield Holotest #2 Stardate 9701.26
Jake realized that the chances of catching up with Tyrian or any of the other teams was near zero. "How could you have been so stupied as to break away from your team?"
Moving father through the jungle Jake's tricorder finaly registered life forms larger than 1.5 meters. But according to the signs they where dead. Jake moved out into a clearing and located the bodies of two dead Romulans.
"Obviously Tyrian has been through here."
Jake decided that he had best not continue following Tyrian and decided instead to make himself useful to the team.
Moving carefully through the shadows Jake made his way a public comunication booth. Once inside Jake disabled the door to make the booth look out of order. Then he began using his communication gear to link the public terminal into the military channels. From this point Jake figured he could keep tabs on the rest of the team as the Romulans reports came in and with any luck he could cause some problems for the Romulans as his team mates did their jobs.
END TRANSMISSION
Date: Tue, 28 Jan 1997 00:34:06 -0500 (EST) Subject: SO: Red Squadron/Holosim #2 last post
FROM THE GM: Here it is! Sholek has finished the holosim with his most recent post. You will now start to wrap up training so you can all get on to your first real mission...
=============================================================
Ensign Sholek Holosim #2 Stardate 9701.28
The cooridinates he used had transported Sholek, Nash and Brynaziir to the generator control room. They spotted Tyrian and suddenly an alarm went off. They could see Romulans in military uniform heading for another building.
"Waiting for us", Sholek said to Tyrian. "It appears you are ready to blow the generator. I have a more logical solution, though. I can deactivate it."
"Where have you been and where is Jake?" questioned Tyrian.
"Nash tell him while I deactivate the shield so we can transport out", Sholek said heading toward the control panel.
Nash tells Tyrian, " When we discovered your disapearance, Jake headed out to find you. There is a good chance he may encounter a Shonek'mare, a very intelligent Romulan animal."
"Speaking of the Shonek'mare," Sholek interupted, "based on the hair fibers on your clothing I would dare to speculate that you have encountered one yourself." Sholek conitinued to press buttons the whole time through.
"You mean those big fury thing were Shonek'mares? The temporarily held me captive."
"Not surprising," Sholek said compleatly emotionless. "They keep their food alive until they get hungry. There. The Generator is disabled," Sholek said as he hit his comunictor."Ayer, this is Sholek. We have disabled the generator. Based on the alarms I would conclude that you have rescued Minok. Correct?"
"Yeah, we have him. Lets get out of here."
"Sholek to Intruder," he said after hitting his combadge."Mission accomplished. Beam us up."
=============================================================
Red Squadron Holosim #2 Stardate 9701.28
As each member of Red Squadron felt themselves being seized by a transporter beam from their various locations throughout the Romulan resort, the holosim ended and the simulated rooms and buildings disappeared, leaving the recruits standing in various areas of the holodeck.
The doors to the room slid open and Lt. Commander Ammelis entered, carrying a padd. The group, minus the holosimulated Minok, gathered around the commander as she spoke.
"Good job team," she said. "You're finished with the sim. Your evaluation will foillow in a couple days. Hit the showers and catch some R&R. You start wrapping up your classes tomorrow. You're in the home stretch now. Also, your new commanding officer arrives tomorrow, so get ready to meet him. Dismissed!"
(FROM THE GM: Until classes officially end, you can all resume posting your activities around the base. Sortha's arrival takes place immediately after this post. You'll receive an evaluation on the sim, new orders, and your first assignment later this week.)
END TRANMISSION
Date: Thu, 23 Jan 1997 00:05:57 -0500 (EST) Subject: SO: Red Squadron/Sortha en route
Lt. Commander Sortha En route to Earth Stardate 9701.22
Lieutenant Commander Sortha stirred uncomfortably in his seat. It was Starfleet standard, which meant it was too small. Instead of becoming annoyed, Sortha endured it...it improved his internal discipline.
The high speed shuttle that was transporting him from his former post on the U.S.S. Hood, and his meeting with a Starfleet Rear Admiral in Intelligence, was three days in transit. They were not due to arrive at Australia, Earth for another full day.
Like all of his race, Sortha was patient. He could afford to be with a life span in the area of 300 years. He used the time to review the files of the team he would be leading, and depending on in the very near future. The files were extensive, including Starfleet personality profiles, histories, experience, talents and capabilities. The team was diverse, apparently talented, but as yet unblooded. This would prove to be interesting.
Beside him a human female ensign stirred uncomfortably. "It's time for dinner, sir, will you be joining us for dinner?"
Sortha sighed. Dinner with humans was always a tedious task. But he would have to behave himself, the ensign next to him was obviously already nervous. The large Gorn was used to the reaction by now and he did his best to put her at ease. Turning his unblinking gaze upon her he flicked his toungue in a friendly manner and attempted a very toothy grin in as friendly a manner as possible. "Yessss, I will dine now. Sssank you."
The ensign blanched and scurried off to prepare the meal. Sortha shook his head. He would dine delicately on the tidbits these humans ate, and then return to his quarters to consume 20 kilograms of replicated tosk meat.
Soon he would be able to turn his attention to more interesting matters along the Klingon neutral zone...
END TRANSMISSION
Date: Sat, 25 Jan 1997 03:13:32 -0500 (EST) Subject: SO: Red Squadron/Sortha arrives
FROM THE GM: This post will actually take place after your team finishes holosim #2, but I'm posting it now to get Sortha into the game a little...
============================================================
Lt. Commander Sortha At Shadow Ops training camp Stardate 9701.24
A scalding hot wind whipped the faded blue UFP banner at Shadow Ops base camp. It was one of many dust storms that plagued the interior of the Australian continent. Small pieces of desicated vegetation flew past along with stinging particles of fine grain sand.
The cadets of Red Squadron stood at attention as a small black dot on the horizon quickly became the outlines of a Federation Surak-class long range shuttlecraft. The Vulcan designed shuttle grew until it filled the immediate horizon. Gracefully the shuttle descended to within inches of the desert floor and hovered there, the craft's powerful anti-grav thrusters keeping the shuttle motionless even against the buffeting wind.
Immediately an access port opened and a large black clad figure emerged. In the swirling dust, it was hard to see clearly, but obviously it must be the new CO just arrived. Each cadet waited in anticipation.
They had heard through rumours that their CO would be Lieutenant Commander Sortha. Like most races that were not well represented in Starfleet, Lieutenant Commander Sortha stood out due to his uniqueness. He was the only Gorn out of ten Gorn exchange officers to continue serving with the Federation. The others had served for a number of years but had eventually returned to the Gorn Starfleet. Only Sortha remained. No one asked him why.
The Gorn strode up to the assembled cadets, looking at them through dark unreadable eyes. For an almost involuntary biological reason, the humans in the group felt nervous, an unexplained irrational fear of reptiles dating back to the earliest times of man's existence, or his religions. After a brief pause, the Gorn spoke.
"Disssmisssed. Reasssemble in classsroom 1 in five minutes." With that the large Gorn turned and strode toward the command center.
The cadets broke ranks and headed toward classroom 1. Excited chatter broke out as soon as they were out of earshot of the Gorn.
"So what do you know about him? He looks like one tough SOB. Did you see those arms," Cadet Winefield asked.
"Oh he didn't look so tough" Tyrian responded, "you just have to know where to hit him."
"And where do you hit a Gorn?" Ayer intoned.
"A good question" Cadet Nash answered. "Actually according to current anatomical records there are no actual vital points on a Gorn that are susceptible to attack by standard human muscular strength."
"How about a well placed groin shot" Ki'lal snarled.
"Gorn genatalia are kept completely inside the body" Nash intoned deadpan. The rest of the cadets broke into laughter.
"So should we call him Ironballs Sortha" Tyrian joked.
"Actually Lieutenant Commander might be safer" Thoraz replied thoughtfully. "Does anybody know about him?"
"Actually," replied Sholek, "I have heard about him. The Romulans and the Gorn have been blood enemies for centuries. So understanably I was interested in him. I also had the forethought to do some background research on him." Sholek paused for effect, "Lieutenant Commander Sortha was involved in the battle at Wolf 359. His ship was crippled in the battle, no shield, no propulsion, no weapons. All the other senior officers were killed. So he diverted emergency power from life support to the transporters and beamed the survivors off the ship."
"So he saved the rest of the crew? Ayer asked. "What ship did they beam to?"
Barely concealing the delight he would have at his friend's surprise, Sholek replied with a smile, "the Borg ship."
"What!" several cadets exclaimed in unison.
Sholek continued, "Yes he armed them with demolition charges and phaser rifles and beamed the remaining complement of 123 crew directly into the Borg ship. According to Starfleet records they spent seventeen minutes on the Borg ship." The cadets eyed each other thoughtfully. They had all heard stories about the Borg, and each shuddered to think what those seventeen minutes must have been like. During Wolf 359, seventeen minutes would have been an eternity.
"So how did he get off the Borg ship? Jacob Winefield asked.
"After Starfleet realized defeat was inevitable, they called a general retreat and ran disaster recovery program Omega." The cadets knew that Omega was an emergency rescue computer program that located all starfleet comm badge signals and beamed survivors off of lifepods, crippled ships and other locations in the battlefield before Starfleet vessels beat a retreat from the area.
"How many were beamed back with him?" a cadet asked.
"Of the 123 crew that beamed aboard the Borg ship, 12 survived. According to eyewitness reports, the Borg modulated their personal shields within 1 minute to render Federation hand phasers inoperative. The battle degenerated into hand-to-hand combat. Sortha ordered the survivors to attack the ship itself while he and the remaining security members attacked the Borg in hand to hand combat. I heard that Sortha personally dismembered over 100 Borg before the beam-out. The rest of the crew complement caused extensive localized damage in the Borg ship, however like the rest of Starfleet, they eventually lost that day."
The cadets were now huddled close together outside of classroom one. "Great! Jacob said. We're going to serve under a certified lunatic!"
"HAH!" Ki'lal exclaimed exuberently. "There will be much glory and blood in our future! We should rejoice! I look forward to serving under such a commander! It will be an Honor!"
With that Ki'lal strode arrogantly into classroom 1. The rest looked at each other and slowly filed in after him.
Moments later Lieutenant Commander Sortha strode into the classroom. In the small confines of the academic room his enormous bulk seemed even larger. He carried a datapad and a black sack with something bulky in it. He strode with measured strides toward the front of the classroom. "Sssit, at eassse." The cadets sat in their seats expectantly.
Sortha looked over the waiting cadets. "You have been chosen for a ssserious misssion. Asss you know the Federation was caught by sssurprise by the sssudden change in Klingon politicsss. Make no missstake, normal intelligence operativesss receive far more training than you have and are usssually more experienced. You will have to make up for thisss deficiency by usssing your brains." Sotha reached into the bag he had carried in earlier, and retreived what looked like a partially destroyed metallic arm and hand. The cadets soon realized that it was part of a Borg. They all shivered in revulsion as Sortha continued,
"Thisss is a Borg arm. I have it because it was retreived from my ssshoulder after the Battle of Wolf 359. There Ssstarfleet bravely faced the Borg in open battle and just as bravely died." There was silence for a moment. "I underssstand from your records that some of you are what humans call bad asssssesss." The last word came out as an almost unintelligible collection of s's. "However, do not believe for a moment that by being a bad assssss that you will survive the missssions you will go on. Your objective is ssstealth. If you can accomplish the misssion without battle you will have sssucceeded. Remember, the missssion must come firsssst. Thissss work will require a ssstronger form of bravery than courage on the battlefield. It will require the courage to die perhaps unknown and quietly in a God forsssaken area of ssspace that no one knowsss about. You will not be recognized, you will not become public heroes. If you are sssucessful, no one will ever know your namesss. Our sssatisssfaction must come from inssside, knowing that we have done our duty. If we do fight, we will fight to win. We will assssk no quarter, and I am sssure"
Sortha continued looking at Ki'lal, "none will be given. For my part, I will accomplisssh the misssionss that Ssstarfleet has asssked me to complete. If posssible, I will keep you alive asss well. Disssmisssed."
END TRANMISSION
Date: Tue, 28 Jan 1997 23:55:49 -0500 (EST) Subject: SO: Red Squadron/Promotions
Internal Message From: Lt. Commander Ammellis Admiral Sorvek Subject: Promotions
The following Red Squadron recruits have earned promotions to the rank of lieutenant: Ayer, Tyrian Summers, Ki'lal and Winefield. Congratulations.
END
Date: Wed, 29 Jan 1997 00:37:11 -0500 (EST) Subject: SO: Red Squadron/After the holosim
Ensign Ayer Shadow Ops Training Base Stardate 9701.28
Walking out of the room, Ayer did not know what to expect from a commander such as Sortha. A cold and insensitive person was his first thought but when he thought about it some more, he felt that the Gorn truly cared about the people that he commanded provided that his feelings did not get in the way of duty. If necessary, he would sacrifice them and himself for Starfleet and the Federation as was shown in Wolf 359. Ayer couldn't really blame him, Sortha was representing his people in the Federation and he can't allow his personal feelings to show but must instead, shape his feelings and actions to reflect those of his people.
Ayer headed to the mess hall for some reading and took out his PADD. He was there for less than an hour when he noticed Tyrian was sitting down in front of him. "Hey there, Ayer. So, what do you think of our new commander? Not quite what I expected."
"I think he could teach us some new insights although ones that I do not look favourably on." Ayer sat down his PADD and looked up.
Tyrian smirked, "Yeah, I know what you mean. But if he can help us strike a blow against the Dominion, then I'm for it." He looked around for a while then his gaze settled on the PADD, "What's that you're reading?"
Ayer picked up the PADD and switched it off, "Just reading some news about the Founders. They seem to be very quiet right now but I'm sure they are setting plans up to cause more damage to this side of the wormhole. Lucky for us, DS9 has handled the threat pretty well over the years."
"With their shielding and firepower, they better be. One things for sure, I'm glad that the changeling, Odo, lost his shapeshifting. Ironically, I'm thankful for the Founders for taking that ability away from him. I think it was a serious threat to the Federation."
Ayer looked stunned for a moment then said, "I didn't think so. I felt that Odo did more than his share of service to Starfleet and the Federation. Three months ago, he prevented a full scale war between the Federation and the Klingon Empire by revealing Mar'tog as a changeling. If it wasn't for him, we would still be at war. But I can understand the loss of your father. I'm truly sorry for what happened. The Jem'Hadar are a vicious race but they are in a way innocent. They were genetically engineered, the true enemy is the Founders. Somehow, we have to strike at them first before they can uncover our secrets."
=============================================================
Internal Message To: Red Squadron recruits From: Admiral Sorvek Subject: Holosimulation #2 evaluation
This message is to inform you that Red Squadron passed Holosimulation #2. Your score on the sim was 100 out of a possible 100. An 85 is the lowest possible passing grade.
Your performance on the sim was well executed and logical. You are all to be commended.
This also concludes your Shadow Operations training. Your orders will follow in the coming days as you wind up your classes. Live Long and Prosper.
END TRANSMISSION
Date: Thu, 30 Jan 1997 09:36:46 -0500 (EST) Subject: SO: Red Squadron/Post training
Lt. Tyrian M. Summers Post-training Stardate 9701.29
Tyrian couldn't believe the sheer size of Sortha! The lizard-man was enormous. Tyrian remembered his boasting remarks before he met his new commander, but it looked like this guy could make him eat those remarks. Anyway, Tyrian figured at least that his commander was a warrior and wouldn't be a coward under fire.
Tyrian looked down at his lieutenant stripes on his black,grey, and gold uniform as he walked into the mess hall. He couldn't stop thinking about his new promotion. He sat with Ayer and had a conversation about the future.
After he left, he went and had a good workout in the holodeck, he played out a new sim against some Jem'Hadar warriors, killing them all easily with all his adrenaline flowing through his body. He increasingly set up the difficulty level, until it was on highest. He barely was able to defeat them, and sustained a long rip down his uniform sleeve. "Damn!" Tyrian shouted as he shut off the computer and left. He would have to get it fixed, he supposed. Tyrian went to bed wondering about the forthcoming mission.
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Internal Message
To: Red Squadron graduates
From: Admiral Sorvek
cc: Lt. Commander Sortha
Lt. Commander Ammelis
Subject: Orders
Congratulations on your completion of Shadow Operations basic training. As you end your training here at Shadow Operations Training, I would like to take the opportunity to inform all of you that you are being assigned as a Covert Operations/Rapid Response unit aboard the U.S.S. Stealth, command ship of Shadow Ops. Also, while serving on the Stealth, you will each be assigned shipboard duties by your commanding officer.
Also, I would like to remind all of you that there will be a party in the Darkshadow Lounge to celebrate your graduation from Shadow Ops training. All graduates are encouraged to attend. You are free, however, to depart the training base at anytime to begin your shore leave. Transporters may be used to depart the base at 0600, 0900, 1200, 1500, 1800 and 2100 daily. Transport sites are anywhere on Earth or to orbital facilities. There will also be outgoing shuttle flights to Sydney, San Francisco and Spacedock on the same schedule as the transporters.
Traditionally, we offer graduates a one week shore leave prior to beginning their first assignment, but the Stealth is currently in spacedock and is ready to depart on its first mission. Therefore, you will all be given a two day leave before you must report for duty.
It has been a pleasure to serve as one of your training commanders and I wish all of you prosperity in your new roles as Shadow Ops agents. Your commanding officer will be Lt. Commander Sortha, while the Stealth is under the direct command of Shadow Ops field commander, Admiral Erik Jaegar. Technical details and crew information about the Stealth will be transmitted shortly.
Until we meet again, Live Long and Prosper. Admiral Sorvek
=============================================================
Red Squadron Final Day Stardate 9701.29
The Red Squadron graduates celebrated their successful completion of training camp with a huge bash in the Dark Shadow Lounge. All of the team was there, except Lt. Commander Sortha, who was wrapping up some last minute details with Admiral Sorvek in the command center.
Red Squadron had received its assignment, and they were all excited. The new Shadow Ops command ship -- the U.S.S. Stealth, probably the best assignment a Shadow Ops training graduate could hope to earn. Unfortunately, not everyone would be going.
Saran Gaul and Vincent Ubizi had been transfered to other assignments -- Gaul to a solo field operative position on Starbase 301 and Ubizi was being sent back to Starfleet Command for an analyst job with Starfleet Intelligence. Ayer, Tyrian Summers, Sholek, Ki'lal, Nash and Thoraz Brynaziir would all be going on to the Stealth, however.
As they ate and drank in honor of their new assignment and the promotions earned by three of the team members, the mood was suddenly overshadowed as the six members of Black Squadron wandered into the Lounge, looking very irritated.
"There they are," Black Squadron leader Greg Dunham said as he and his gang approached the Red Squadron recruits. "What a bunch of butt-kissing targs!"
"You guys stole our assignment!" Lucas Carver, another Black recruit, said spitefully. "We were promised the Stealth when we all came here, but instead we're getting assigned to some backwater space station near the Neutral Zone."
"Sorry guys," Tyrian said, shrugging. "Guess we just impressed Admrial Sorvek more than you did."
Before anyone from Black Squadron could respond, the Darkshadow Lounge's barkeep, Seklara, stepped in with a tray of drinks for Red Squadron and interrupted the brewing confrontation.
"Greg, why don't you and your friends have a seat on the other side of the room," Seklara urged them. "I'll have a waitress get right over to you."
"Why don't you get out of our faces, Andorian!" Dunham spat, returning his attention to Summers. "Come on, Summers. Why don't you all stand up and lets settle this once and for all."
From behind them, there was a sudden hissing sound and a lumbering shape entered the room. Dunham and the other Black Squadron troublemakers turned around to see Lt. Commander Sortha walking up behind him. The Gorn said nothing as he approached, but he was staring intently at Dunham with a scowl on his face
END TRANSMISSION
Date: Thu, 30 Jan 1997 22:41:39 -0500 (EST) Subject: SO: Corrected orders
FROM THE GM: Include Jacob Winefield in the orders to join the Stealth, he was inadvertantly left out.
END
Date: Fri, 31 Jan 1997 00:25:35 -0500 (EST) Subject: SO: Red Squadron/Encounter with Black Squadron
Lieutenant Ayer Graduation Day Stardate 9701.30
Ayer woke up to a beep from the computer, signaling a message for him. When he was fully conscious, the computer spoke, "Lt. Ayer, there is a personal message that is being delivered to you."
"Put it through," and walked towards the screen. It immediately flickered on and displayed the face of the chief of security on DS9. "Odo!" What a surprise to hear from you. "How are you?"
Odo shrugged, "Everything's fine, thank you for asking. I see you just woke up. I'm sorry if I've disturbed you."
"No, I was planning on getting up around this time anyway."
He nodded then said, "Before I forget, congratulations on your promotion, lieutenant."
Ayer looked a bit uncomfortable, "Thanks but I have yet to get used to it. The name Lieutenant Ayer sounds somewhat unfamiliar and it's making me paranoid."
Odo smiled a little then said, "You'll get used to it." His smile then faded and turned to one of seriousness, "So, how is everything?"
"Everything's fine. My relationship has actually improved ever since I was taken to Shadow Ops. No one here seems to care about anyone's past, at least, I haven't seen anyone intrested in my past."
"I'm glad everything turned out for you," Odo said. He turned away from the viewscreen for a moment to talk to someone then turned back, "It seems I have to get back to work, Major Kira brought me the criminal activities for today."
"I understand," and closed the link. Just as he was about to leave, Ayer noticed another message that had came in and he opened it. It was a transmission sent by Admiral Sorvek to all of Red Squad. Apparently there was to be a party held today at the Darkshadow Lounge. As he read it, the first thing that came to mind was Black Squad. A settlement was never reached between the two squads. Ayer sat back a moment to rethink the holodeck incident.
----------------------------------------
After the rest of Red Squadron had beamed in, Ayer was saved by one of his friends. Since Black Squad was outnumbered and surprised by the sudden arrival of the rest of the team, they were quickly defeated. But before Red Squad was able to truly defeat them, all members of Black Squad beamed out.
But before they beamed out, Greg Dunham, had promised revenge on the group. No one really cared at that time, they were all too happy at defeating Black Squadron.
-----------------------------------------
As he read on, Ayer was dissapointed at the loss of two friends. Since they were to be out of the base this afternoon, Ayer decided to visit them. Gaul was the first that he said goodbye too, and although Ayer did not know that much about him, he did feel that Gaul would have been a great addition to the team. After he spoke with Gaul, he tried to look for Ubizi, when he couldn't find him, he asked the computer where Ubizi was. With deep regret, he found out that Ubizi had left in the morning.
When the time came, Ayer headed for the party. All of them had a great time and the food was great. The party was reaching its peak when the door slid open. Ayer was expecting Lt. Cmd. Sortha to come in but when he saw who it was, his smile faded. There was a brief arguement and it seemed that Black Squad was ready to fight when Sortha came in.
END TRANMISSION
Date: Fri, 31 Jan 1997 00:51:29 -0500 (EST) Subject: question
Hi, just wondering what u guys were planning to post about the darkshadow lounge incident with black squadren so I could start my next post. If we fight I think we should make it into a huge barfight including all the other bar patrons. Let me know your ideas, hopefully before your post is sent. Also I was wondering what everyones specialties and area of training was. Thanks, Tyrian.
Date: Fri, 31 Jan 1997 02:30:21 -0500 (EST) Subject: SO: Stealth/Ship specs
FROM THE GM: Here's your ship. See the attached picture....
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U.S.S. Stealth (NCC-49107) Canada-class starship (upgraded)
Commanding officer: Admiral Erik Jaegar Captain/Executive officer: Unnamed
Duties Survelliance, monitoring troop/fleet movements, intercepting transmission (encrytion/decryption), mobile command base
Classified Duties Rapid deployment of covert operatives, spy missions
Background
Canada-class ships were originally designed about 15 years ago for use in exploration and light defense situations. Stealth was commissioned as a Starfleet Intelligence vessel, serving duties as a covert operations and spy ship. The ship was eventually drydocked and redesigned for use as a Special Operations starship for the Shadow Operations division of Starfleet Intelligence.
Dimensions:
Length: 259m
Width: 110 m
Height: 80m
Decks: 12
Crew: 112
Transporters: 3 primary
2 cargo
10 emergency
Auxiliary craft:
Two (2) Type 6 Personal Shuttles
Two (2) Type 7 Personal Shuttles
Speed and Performance:
Stealth is one of three Canada-class starships with four warp engines (normally have only two)
Warp Capabilities: 9.92 sustainable for up to six hours
Systems
Main Computer: LCARS upgraded system
Sensors:
High quality sensors for intelligence-gathering.They are configured for optimum use in intelligence gathering: long-range scanning for vessels and artificial constructs, short-range scanning of planetary systems, and monitoring of communications traffic.
Long Range Array: 10.5 ly high resolution
Tactical Array: 12.5 ly h-r
Navigational Array: 15 ly h-r
Weapons:
Saucer Module Dorsal Phaser Array -- Type X
Saucer Module Ventral Phaser Array -- Type X
Engineering Section Ventral Phaser Array -- Type VIII
Engineering Section Aft Phaser Array -- Type X
Forward Photon/Quantum Torpedo Launcher (located on saucer module)
Aft Photo/Quantum Torpedo Launcher
* There are 100 standard photon torpedos onboard and 30 quantum torpedos
Other Tactical systems
Defensive shielding, when not in Stealth Mode, is good, and can be easily enhanced and even doubled if power is reconfigured from weapons and the warp engines.
Abletive Armor: Hull of the ship is protected by a layer of thick abletive armor which help protect it once shields have been collapsed.
Decks: (The following descriptions are merely highlights of what is on each deck. Much of Stealth's space is consumed by sensors and other survelliance and communications gear)
Deck One: Bridge, Admiral's Office, Observation Conference Room
Deck Two: Admiral's quarters, Captain's quarters, First officer's quarters, VIP Guest quarters, Admiral's dining hall, Captain's office
Deck Three: Senior officer quarters, Transporter Room 1
Deck Four: Standard crew quarters
Deck Five: Forward messhall/lounge, Holodeck #1, Recreation facilities
Deck Six: Security center/brig, Saucer main docking port, Debriefing room
Deck Seven: Sickbay/Medical - Research/Forensics Labs
Deck Eight: (Engineering section) Engineering, Holodeck #2
Deck Nine: Cargo Bay 1, Transporter Room 2
Deck Ten: Cargo Bay 2, Upper Portion of aft hangar bay
Deck Eleven: Stellar Cartography, Middle Portion of aft hangar bay
Deck Twelve: Lower/Landing Deck of aft hangar bay
Medical:
Double ward sickbay with adjoining operating area and CMOs office. In the event of heavy casualties, medical staff will be required to take over other areas of the ship, starting with cargo bays and holodecks. An Emergency Medical Holographic program is provided.
Recreation:
The lounge/messhall on deck 5 is where all officers and guests are allowed to mix and mingle. The lounge is fitted with comfortable chairs, plus 30 dining tables (seating four). Food and drink are accessed through replicators. There are also two holodecks onboard and a gymanisum/recreation area
Engineering:
Cruising Speed Warp 9.92
Sustainable cruising speed will be warp 9.92. This factor can be maintained for up to 6 hours.
Stealth Mode:
The ship uses a new stealth technology developed by Starfleet which allows the ship to evade sensors through modulation of its shields to new energy bands. While the shields are being used in this manner, they are vulnerable to enemy fire. Also, the ship can power down all non-essential systems to decrease its sensor signature.
History
The Stealth was commissioned in 2367 at McKinley Station without fanfare and was immediately put into service for Starfleet Intelligence. Designed as a fast, manuverable vessel with powerful sensors for spying and intelligence gathering, Stealth was used extensively for border patrol duty along the Romulan Neutral Zone and the Cardassian DMZ from 2367 until 2370.
In 2371 the ship was on an intelligence gathering mission near the Volon Colonies when it was attacked and boarded by the Maquis, who wanted to seize the ship for their own use with the help of a traitor onboard. After an intense 16 hour battle aboard the Stealth, the crew managed to drive the Maquis invaders away. The ship sustained some damage during the mission and was brought into space dock for repairs.
At the time Starfleet was in the process of assembling Shadow Operations and the decision was made to refit the Stealth and recommission her as the command ship of Shadow Ops. Upgrade and refit, including the addition of two additional warp engines was completed in 2372 and the ship was sent on a six month shakedown cruise.
Stealth recently returned from its shakedown and will serve as the command ship of Shadow Ops under the command of Admiral Erik Jaegar, Shadow Ops field commander. The ship will be staffed by a crew of Starfleet regulars and between 6-10 Shadow Ops personnel, who will also serve as senior staff.
Command Personnel Files: TO FOLLOW
Date: Sat, 1 Feb 1997 00:29:05 -0500 (EST) Subject: SO: Stealth/Bar confrontation
FROM THE GM: Great posts! I did a little editing to both so they flowed together easier. Hope eveyone enjoys and I hope to hear back from somebody soon in response to the cliffhanger ending...
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Lt. Commander Sortha Darkshadow Lounge Stardate 9701.31
Sortha strode slowly into the room surveying the impending storm that was about to break between Red and Black squadrons. Notwithstanding the obvious hostility between the two groups, Sortha's heat sensitive skin could discern simply by walking by Greg Dunham and Tyrian Summers that they were in a very emotional state, their body temperatures radiating several degrees above standard. The bar had gotten very quiet since Sortha's arrival, part of that was the usual reaction to the arrival of a senior officer, but part was also due to the fact that Sortha was Red Squadron's C.O. and people were expecting a showdown.
The Gorn's bulk had the opposite effect however, despite his hostility Dunham knew Black Squadron would get wiped if they started a brawl with Red Squadron with Sortha in the room. Dunham expected at least a verbal admonishment from the Gorn anyway, however he continued past both Dunham and Tyrian and simply sat at the bar. Slowly, still eyeing each other Dunham and Tyrian each sat down. Tyrian whispered to Ayer in a stage whisper, "they don't seem too hostile now, do they?" and immediately glanced at Dunham who was visibly fighting to maintain control. The man's face was several shades of red and purple and he was actually shaking.
Ayer leaned close to Tyrian and said "Unless you really want a fight, I wouldn't push him any further."
Before Tyrian could answer however, Ki'lal gave a hearty laugh, "Hah! Those pah-tockhs are too cowardly to do anything but talk!" With an exagerated gesture he turned his back on black squadron and slammed down a large mug of synthahol blood wine.
There was a sound from the bar. Sortha stood up and swiped his debit card over the bar scanner and walked toward the doors without saying a word. Within moments he was out the door and into the night. Only Sholek had noticed that the big Gorn had a small tricorder attached to his belt. With the Gorn's disappearance, a still hush came over the bar as Black Squadron looked intently at Red Squadron with pure hate in its eyes.
Suddenly Dunham pushed his chair back and it fell with a thud to the floor. The bartender ran over immediately, but was the recipient of a backfist from Dunham that sent him flying. Tyrian immediately stood up and the rest of Red Squadron followed him, as did Black Squadron. Dunham and Tyrian closed on each other within seconds, each grabbing the other arms as they struggled for position.
Suddenly there was a large bang and a flash of brilliant white light that temporarily blinded everyone in the room, there was a feeling of disorientation, not unlike that of a sustained transport. "Argggghhhhh", Ki'lal bellowed, his first thought was that someone had set off a flash-bang grenade. He knew they were used to disorient the people in a room so that the attackers could make quick work of the dazed inhabitants. He struggled to see so that he could face his adversaries. Once he got his hands on the Black Squadron slime who had pulled this stunt he would tear him limb from limb.
However, to everyone's shock, it wasn't a bar patron who had set off the flash-bang grenade. Within seconds Jem' Hadar warriors decloaked and started pouring into the bar with both bladed and energy weapons. A shrill red alert sounded and large explosions could be heard going off around the base. The recently promoted cadets scrambled for cover. They didn't even have weapons. Great Winefield thought, a lieutenant for one day, then a corpse for the next. They looked in horror as the bartender was blown into small pieces by a Jem'Hadar energy weapon. Soon, uniformed Starfleet security personnel joined into the fray. The casualty rate was high with both Jem' Hadar and Starfleet personnel dying quickly in the enclosed space of the bar.
Lieutenant Ayer was hit within seconds and his vaporized body disappeared without a trace. Tyrian and Winefield looked on in horror, but their attention was soon distracted by a Jem' Hadar hurtling over a table at them. Tyrian caught his momentum and was able to sidestep and with a push sent the Jem'Hadar careening into the bar. More vicious fighting followed. With a large roar, Ki'lal picked a Jem'Hadar off his feet and slammed him into three other Jem'Hadar who were about to open fire on members of Black Squadron. The Jem'Hadar all went down in a heap, but Ki'lal didn't see the Jem'Hadar that had materialized behind him. His last thoughts were of rage for not seeing his killer as he felt the impact of the beam and slowly slid into blackness.
Red and Black squadron were now picking up weapons dropped by dead Jem'Hadar and starfleet personnel, making it easier to fight back. Tyrian found himself back to back with Dunham. They had each slaughtered several Jem'Hadar and had been covering each other's back for the last two minutes.
They looked over the bar and saw almost half of Black and Red squadron lying motionless on the floor. Other patrons of the bar were in various states of destruction, with body parts and blood everywhere. Slowly Red and Black squadron had formed a semi-defensible position behind the bar. The fighting was desperate. Suddenly a new wave of Jem'Hadar materialized.
There were almost fifty warriors now converging on the six or so Shadow Ops lieutenants.
Tyrian looked at Sholek and Thoran, the only members of Red Squadron left and the three Black Squadron members led by Dunham. They all looked at each other. They were definitely going to die here. Somehow the conflict between Red and Black squadron seemed petty and unimportant. They all ducked behind the bar. "Okay on the count of three, we go over the top firing. At least we'll die killing Jem'Hadar!" Everyone nodded. "One-two-three-"
In the middle of the room stood Lieutenant Commander Sortha. At first Tyrian couldn't believe his eyes. Had the Gorn killed all fifty Jem'Hadar. He couldn't believe it. However there was another answer. "End Ssortha program RB1" Sortha intoned and everything in the room vanished to be replaced by the black and yellow grid of the holodeck. The other members of Black and Red squadrons that had been "killed" but actually stunned, were coming around. Everyone looked around in confusion.
Sortha simply turned on his heel, said "exit" and left the holoroom.
"Imminently logical" Sholek stated.
"What!?" grumbled Ki'lal who was just coming to.
"I noticed that Lieutenant Commander Sortha was wearing a tricorder when he came into the bar. I did not realize the significance until partway through the simulation."
"How did we get here?" Thoraz asked.
One of the Black Squadron members spoke up, "The original flash-bang blast came from the bar. He must have transported us while we were disoriented from the blast. We attributed the transporter effect to the effects of the blast."
"And the tricorder must have been feeding the exact coordinates of everyone in the bar to the holosim computer" Ayer said.
"So that we appeared in the same positions in an identical bar!" a Black Squadron member added in.
"I thought the bar looked a little odd" Nash said, "But I was too busy fighting Jem Hadar to really notice."
"But that means that he must have had a holosim of the bar already set up!" Winefield exclaimed.
"That S.O.B.!" both Tyrian and Black Squadron's Dimitri Petrovich said simultaneously. Then they looked at each other sheepishly, and burst out laughing. Soon Black and Red squadron joined in, even Ki'lal, who picked an uncomfortable Black Squadron member off his feet in a giant Klingon bear hug. "Hah! You fought well for a Pah-tackh! Ha Ha Ha!"
"Well the odds of an undetected Jem'Hadar attack this deep in Federation territory with the new warning sensors installed is approximately 234.5 to 1" Sholek intoned deadpan.
"Oh drop it." Nash said. "Let's go back to the bar and really celebrate."
After a short walk across the base, they reached the bar. Inside, the grinning Andorian was already busy cleaning the blackened streaks on the bar left by the flash-bang grenade. There were large mugs of real beer sitting on the tables, waiting for black and red squadron to drink them down.
And while Black and Red squadrons had apparently mended their long standing feud, Greg Dunham quietly left the party, his face impassive as he walked away. He stopped at the exit from the bar and glanced back, shooting an icy glare at Tyrian Summers as he left.
Dunham, unimpressed with Sortha's demostration, wasn't about to let the feud end -- not like this. He intended to settle it on his own terms.
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Admiral Sorvek In his office with Sortha after the bar fight Stardate 9701.31
"Detonating a flash-bang grenade in the Darkshadow Lounge? Transporting officers against their knowledge and will into a holodeck simulation?" Sorvek said, watching the Gorn officer seated across from him with a cold stare. "I hope there was a purpose to this chaos, commander?"
Sortha nodded. "There wasss. Both Ssquadrons needed to learn that they are not one anotherss enemy. The true enemy iss the Jem'Hadar. Admittedly, it was an extreme measure, but I wass aware of the problems existing between the two ssquads. It wasss the besst way I could think of to end thiss disspute."
Admiral Sorvek walked around his desk, his hands clasped behind his back and pondered Sortha's statement for a moment.
"And it was apparently an effective measure," Sorvek said. "Both groups appear to be getting along well. While I am concerned about your techniques, I will admit they do hold some logic."
"Thank you, sir," Sortha said.
"Unfortunately, Black Squadron's aggressiveness couldn't be curbed prior to this," Sorvek said. "They were an elite team of recruits from the Academy, destined for what many saw as a great future in Starfleet Intelligence. But their aggressiveness prompted me to reconsider their choice of assignments. That's why Red Squadron was given the Stealth and not Black."
"Dunham appears to have been the instigator in all of the incidents," Sortha commented, recalling the files he'd read on the previous problems between the two squads.
"Yes. He was a star student in the academy, but since he came here his attitude and disposition have come into question," Sorvek said. "He has been reassessed and will probably not be given a field assignment at this time. He's too unstable."
"That is a shame. But loose cannons are not what we need in Shadow Ops right now," Sortha said.
"Indeed," Sorvek replied. "Very well, Commander. I am satisfied with your explanation of the incident in the lounge. I am certain it will become the fodder of future recruit training stories. You are dismissed. And good luck with your team aboard the Stealth."
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Lt. Tyrian M. Summers Post Training Stardate 9701.31
After the little conflict and subsequent celebration in the Darkshadow Lounge, Tyrian left before the others. He was anxious to get home and see his family. He stopped by the transporter room and set up a time to go and then walked back to the barracks to finish packing. After he did he turned to his locker one more time to check to see if had gotten everything.
He reached for the handle, and suddenly he felt a solid blow to the back of his neck that sent him into the locker, imprinting his outline in the metal doors. Before Tyrian could even turn around his attacker was pummeling some sort of blunt metal object. Tyrian dove through a nearby bunkbed and hurridly scrambled to his feet on the other side.
As he suspected it was Greg Dunham, Black Squadron leader. Dunham paused for a momment and said to Tyrian, "You and your friends really messed things up for me, and now I will make you pay for it."
With that, Dunham charged Tyrian. Tyrian dropped to the ground and swept his legs from underneath him, sending him into the wall and knocking the piece of pipe out of his hand. Dunham got up and Tyrian expertly blocked all of his punches and kicks, then caught him with a solid uppercut and then a roundhouse kick that sent him into the wall again face first.
Tyrian didn't stop, he shoulder-blocked Dunham into the wall, and then caught him with a hard body-blow to the rear of his kidneys. Dunham fell to the floor in a heap. Tyrian followed up with a couple of hard elbows to the back of Dunhams head, hard enough that they should have been enough to stop any human. Tyrian got up slowly and walked back a few steps.
Suddenly, Dunham got up again! Tyrian charged forward unable to believe his eyes, he threw a punch that connected directlly in the center of Dunham's face, AND IT STUCK THERE!
Dunham was a Changeling!!! Tyrian tried to pull his hand out of the mass where Dunham's head should have been, but couldn't budge it. The torso of the Changeling's body began to morph into a big mass with Tyrian's hand caught in it. The Changeling formed his Dunham body again this time holding Tyrian's caught hand in one of his own hands.
The face formed and said, "You shouldn't have messed with me solid, now I will have to assume your form." Dunham smashed the speechless Tyrian in the face with a fist that sent him backwards off balance, and then pulled him back and hit him again. Tyrian tapped his comm badge and frantically yelled, This is Lt. Summ...........but that is all he could get out before the Changeling ripped off the badge and threw it across the room, out the barracks door. Tyrian was able to break the hold now that Dunham was solid again, he dove for one of his large bags and pulled out his Katana.
Tyrian jumped up and sliced at the midsection of the Changeling, but the area he hit just desolidifyed and the blade passed right through, doing nothing. The Changeling just laughed at him. Tyrian turned and went for his phaser which he had unfortunatly packed.
The Changeling morphed his arms into long projections and wrapped them around his neck, choking the life out of him. He couldn't break the Founder's grip on his throat no matter what he did. He was gasping for air as the Changeling laughed from behind him. Tyrian knew if somebody didn't come by soon he would be dead and the Founder would assume his identity aboard the Stealth, doing unforseeable damage to his friends. Tyrian thought to himself: ....but they were all still in the lounge....
END TRANSMISSION