Andrew Kirk
Captain
Captain
Have you seen my tools?
Registered: Sept 26, 2005 22:01:43 GMT
Posts: 474
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Post by Andrew Kirk on May 20, 2007 1:27:43 GMT
"Andy, do you feel anything weird happening to you?" Jack asked.
Aside from a case of lethargy, Kirk felt fine. He had chalked up his lethargic attitude to the drugs used to put him and the rest of the crew under, “I feel fine Jack.” Kirk said.
The more he looked at his long time friend the more he could see a doubtful look in Jack’s eyes. It was the first time he could recall seeing Jack look this way at him directly. Kirk’s gaze was suddenly interrupted by a card being tossed in front of him, and after a moment another.
"I'll raise it twenty." Jack said, "Andy your turn,"
Kirk had hoped that nobody had noticed his sudden loss of concentration. He had become transfixed on Jack’s gaze and thus he hadn’t gotten the chance to look at his cards. Pulling up the corner of his cards he saw a three-four off suit, bad hand to start with, Kirk thought.
Smiling since he felt he knew Jack well enough, “I’ll call.”
After the flop, Kirk watched as betting went around the table. He tried his best to study his new opponents but found his attention going elsewhere, "I'll raise you fifty," Jack announced.
The bet was again on Kirk, this time he felt out played, “Fold.” Kirk replied.
Without missing a beat Kirk found himself looking beyond the card game, outside into the cold of space. He watched in almost a child like trance as the trans streaked by the window. He kept this gaze until in the distance he heard familiar cheering. Looking back at the game he saw Jack pulling in a pile of chips from the middle of the table.
“Your deal.” Kirk heard as a pile of cards where pushed in front of him.
“Be ready,” Kirk said with a smile, “I deal a hot hand.”
“Sure.” Jack blurted out in a heavily sarcastic tone.
Kirk couldn’t help but smile at the comment. In his normal pattern, Kirk shuffled the deck and after a few times he had Jack split the deck for him. As he started to deal around he caught interesting looks from Wallace. It seemed the new Chief had something on his mind.
“Easy up Mike,” Kirk said as he checked his cards, “You’re not going to be losing all night long.”
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Post by Deleted on May 23, 2007 20:31:47 GMT
"Hot hand?" Saryn querried, just to humour the Humans that were his companions. He picked up the two cards that Kirk had dealt him and studied them. A woman with a crown, and a diamond with the number eight. Saryn wondered what the remaining five cards would be as he put his two face down on the table. For some reason, he felt elated, challenged as he learned this new game.
Absentmindedly, he licked his lips, unexpectantly encountering his new fangs and he started. His eyes darted from Kirk, to Logan and finally to Wallace but none showed any sign that they had seen. He watched Wallace tap the table to check, then it was his turn. "Raise fifty," he announced, tossing the suitable chip onto the middle of the table.
He waited for the round to finish and for Kirk to show the first cards. Seeing them, Saryn smiled, baring his teeth, his eyes flickering in bemusement then leveled his gaze up to meet Kirk's, instantly meshmerised by the daunting stare that came back. "Sir?"
The spell was broken and Saryn glanced away, suddenly uncertain of how to respond to this all. He was experiencing emotions he was not used to experiencing, emotions beyond general curiosity and basic emotions he allowed himself to indulge in. It was even worse than the feeling he experienced when they were stuck in the 20th century and he had shot all those people.
The Vulcan sighed as he put down his cards for a moment and picked up his drink. Beer, as he had promised he would sample again, but it still left a foul after taste in his mouth. "Captain, I believe it is your turn to raise or fold," he said after a long silence, after watching yet another round of upping the ante. Again, he felt Wallace's longing gaze on him, the hunger in his eyes.
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Andrew Kirk
Captain
Captain
Have you seen my tools?
Registered: Sept 26, 2005 22:01:43 GMT
Posts: 474
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Post by Andrew Kirk on May 24, 2007 0:59:37 GMT
"Captain, I believe it is your turn to raise or fold," Kirk heard in the distance.
“Indeed it is,” Kirk replied. He looked quickly at his cards and again he had managed a bad starting hand, “Fold.” Kirk said pushing the cards into the pot.
The betting went back around the table leaving Kirk with nothing to do but stare off into the distance. He realized he couldn’t take it anymore and pushed himself up from the table to the surprise of everybody else, “If you’ll excuse me.” Kirk said to the sudden gaze.
He walked slowly to the window that looked out to space. It was here that he finally realized why the Chief Engineers typically chose this room, one look back and you could see the starboard warp nacelle. Looking back to the game Kirk quickly wondered if Wallace was going to ask Kirk to resign form his room and take over the Captain’s quarters closer to the bridge.
Kirk stood at the window for sometime before he was gently tapped on the shoulder. He turned around and saw Jack looking at him with a rather considered look on his face.
“What is it?” Kirk asked.
“Are you feeling alright Andy?” Jack returned.
“Yeah, why?”
“Because you have been standing at the window for the last hour.” Jack said.
Kirk couldn’t understand it. He felt as if he had just been standing at the window for a few minutes, fifteen at most, but an hour sounded absurd.
“I’m fine,” Kirk replied trying to sound confident, “I’m just a little tried that’s all.”
No matter what Kirk said it wouldn’t take the worried look from Jack’s face. Kirk cracked a smile and slapped his friend’s shoulder trying to show the man he was fine.
“Maybe we should just call it a night,” Kirk said now facing the window again, “I think we could all use a little more sleep before tomorrows mission.”
Just behind him the other officers tentatively agreed. One by one they filed silently out of Kirk’s quarters until he was at last alone to his thoughts.
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michaelwallace
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Post by michaelwallace on May 24, 2007 1:45:15 GMT
“Easy up Mike,” Kirk said as he checked his cards, “You’re not going to be losing all night long.” Michael let out a coy laugh. “I’ll try not to be Sir!” It was the Captain’s deal and what a deal, Michael flipped the corners of his cards up to reveal an ace of hearts and an ace of spades. Not too bad Michael thought. It was just then that Saryn raised to 50. Michael pondered, either the vulcan was not very good at this game as he had lost the last hand and always seemed to raise or he was luring Michael into a false sense of security. Not being sure of which Michael matched Saryn’s raise. “I’ll match your 50 and check.” Andrew had already folded as had Jack it was just Saryn and Michael left. Michael noticed Saryn sipping on some beer, Michael did not enjoy beer so had rejected the offer of drink. Andrew had left the table for some time and Michael and Saryn were just staring at one another. Michael noticed Andrew gazing out at the warp nacelles, he wondered if Andrew missed being the Chief Engineer. Michael then saw the flop and up popped an ace of diamonds, a 2 of hearts & a 7 of clubs. This was a good hand for Michael, he stared across at Saryn like an animal stalking its prey. “I’ll raise to 100” Michael boomed. By this point Jack had joined Andrew by the window and was discussing something. Saryn gave Michael a sort of squinted look which intrigued him greatly, he hoped the vulcan would match him as Michael had the hand in the bag. Just then Andrew announced “Maybe we should just call it a night,” Andrew said now facing the window again, “I think we could all use a little more sleep before tomorrows mission.” Michael although disappointed that he had such a good hand, was too tired to continue. He felt the rest might do him some good, with a good nights sleep he would be raring to start the first contact mission. “Ooooh well Saryn, I think I had you there but until next time.” Michael mused, Saryn just smiled in return. Michael made his way to Andrew and Jack and said his goodbyes. “Sirs, I am going to take my leave. Have a good night’s sleep everyone. Until tomorrow.” Michael informed Andrew and Jack. Michael then headed for the door and his quarters down by Engineering. Michael had found a way to tame the animalistic hunger within himself throughout the poker game and now felt like he could control himself again. This was extremely reassuring as he did not want to go around biting the crew. Michael reached his quarters, dimmed the lights and fell into bed falling asleep almost instantly. OOC: Apologies for my absense as of late, I've been revising for exams. After friday my posting will be more frequent.
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Post by Deleted on May 25, 2007 20:38:58 GMT
Saryn too, headed back for his own quarters, though it took him a fair while to even get there. The corridors were darkened to represent the night-time aboard Challenger, and his normal orientation sense was now extremely disoriented and in the darkness he saw less than during normal ilumination for some reason.
At last, he located his quarters and entered. He switched on the light and squinted at the sudden brightness. His eyes quickly adjusted but he still had to tone down the ilumination of his quarters. Walking over to his food synthesizer, he found himself suddenly famished and keyed up his favourite (vegetarian) dish. However as soon as he had taken the first bite, he felt his stomach turn and everything he'd eated that day ended up on his plate.
Sighing, he set the plate back in the dispenser and it disappeared. He was still hungry but food currently didn't set well with him. Saryn sighed again, then lay himself down on his bed and closed his eyes.
When he opened them again, they were in orbit around the planet they were going to visit in a few hours. Stiffling a yawn, Saryn got up, adjusted his clothing and walked out of his quarters. Minutes later in sickbay, he called for Logan, Wallace and Kirk to check in.
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michaelwallace
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Post by michaelwallace on May 28, 2007 20:30:42 GMT
Michael opened his eyes to awake to the bright lights of his quarters. Michael had to squint his eyes so as to avoid staring directly at the lights. He had been affected by bright lights every since the operation, Michael found it quite disturbing but he would have to endure it as part of the First Contact mission. Stepping out of bed Michael headed for the shower, he felt somewhat unclean – he was not sure if it was his appearance that was making him feel that way, or if he was just feeling a little grungy. Either way he wanted a shower.
Exiting the shower, Michael put on his uniform and approached the food dispenser and ordered a cup of tea. He grabbed the mug and sat back in his chair, clutching a PDA with the scarce details that they had on the Miranda system and its inhabitants. Michael was curious to know as much as possible about the people and in particular any technologies they may have. Finishing his tea, Michael decided to go to Engineering and checkup on his beloved Warp Engines.
Reaching Engineering he saw Ensign Riggs, Michael motioned to Riggs to approach. “Neil, how have the Engines been holding up?”
“Fine Sir, just fine. We are in orbit of the planet now, so the warp engines are not running just now.” Riggs replied
“A good time to run a few drills and checks then!” Michael responded with a grin. His junior officer turned almost as white as Michael’s ‘new face’.
Michael continued: “I’m just kidding Neil, go and get some rest. I’ll take over down here. You look like you could use some sleep.”
“Thank you, I’ll try and get some rest.” Neil replied and then headed out of Engineering and to his quarters.
Kicking back in his chair, he picked up the PDA he had been studying earlier on what little StarFleet actually knew about the Mirandans. Just as Michael placed down the PDA, he received a COM from Saryn in Engineering, instructing Michael to check-in with the Doctor in SickBay. After a quick lift ride up to SickBay, Michael entered and saw Saryn sitting at his desk reading a PDA.
“What’s up Doc? I got your COM, and here I am.” Michael announced to the Vulcan who did not raise his head from his PDA, as Michael was talking. Michael just stared at Saryn and awaited some sort of response that the Vulcan had actually noticed him.
<Tag Saryn>
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Andrew Kirk
Captain
Captain
Have you seen my tools?
Registered: Sept 26, 2005 22:01:43 GMT
Posts: 474
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Post by Andrew Kirk on May 31, 2007 18:10:09 GMT
“Sir we have entered the Miranda system.” Kirk heard over the COM system.
Kirk shaded his eyes from the bright light directly above him. He had fallen asleep in his uniform again and had left all the lights on, “Put us into a high orbit and start scanning the planets surface.” Kirk ordered.
“Aye sir.” Replied the crewman.
Shifting his weight he sat upright with his head in his hands. He felt groggy still from his uncomfortable sleeping position but he knew that would pass. Walking over he picked up the half empty glass of water he left on his nightstand and finished it off.
On the far wall was a schematic of the NX class starship; it showed all the systems and power usage for each of those systems. Kirk had installed it into his quarters so that he would never to too far away from a problem down in Engineering. He wondered briefly is he should ask Wallace if he wanted it.
“Captain, could you please report to sickbay.” Saryn said over the COM.
Kirk walked quickly over to the COM and pushed a red button to respond, “Of course, Kirk out.”
It’s time for a shower, Kirk thought. He walked slowly while he simultaneously tried to kick off his boots. He passed a mirror and nearly jumped out of his skin when he noticed an unfamiliar person out of the corner of his eye. As he approached the mirror he noted that his features had settled in and he looked even more grotesque than he had the day before.
“Handsome devil.” Kirk joked to himself.
After his shower Kirk walked quickly to sickbay. He was eager to get the check up over with so he could head up to the bridge and start working closely on the landing plans for their first contact mission. Just a few minutes into his walk he found himself in sickbay. As he entered he saw that Wallace had already arrived. Kirk found it strange that he was able to recognize Wallace even though his new face.
“Good morning.” Kirk said to everybody in Sickbay.
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Post by Deleted on May 31, 2007 18:42:25 GMT
He had been unable to sleep more than a few minutes, so Jack did the next best thing which was to work on his universal translator. The Challenger was close enough so that her sensors could pick up on intra planet communication.
All linguist knew that it would take at least fifty five phrases to mimic a language. The only problem was getting the correct fifty five phrases. With the computers help it would not take more than five minutes, if he was lucky.
While he waited, Jack randomly chose to listen to a conversation and see if he could pick up on the languages coding. He immediately realized that it would almost be impossible for the universal translator to mimic the dozens of dialects that were spoken on the planet. Jack could only hope their speech would be attributed for being 'out of town' folk.
"Commander Logan, please report to sickbay for a final checkup," Saryn said from the comm. Jack had all the intention of ignoring him, but realized that Andy wouldn't like that at all. They would all have to be at 100 percent capacity to make this mission work.
"On my way," Jack replied as he picked up a PDA which would allow him to continue working on a viable speech program for the away team. As he reached sickbay he could already see that there were a few people inside working. "So lets get this thing rolling."
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Post by Deleted on May 31, 2007 19:40:42 GMT
"The ceiling is up," Saryn remarked, raising his eyes 'skyward' as he replied to Michael's question, "as opposed to the deck being down." He nodded the chief engineer over to one of the beds, then turned on his heels as his sharp hearing picked up footsteps approaching sickbay. "Ah, captain, commander," he welcomed the CO and the communications chief, "please have a seat."
Once all three officers were seated, he gave them all a once-over. "How are you all feeling?" he queried, "any side effects, apart from an apparent hypersensitivity to light? Did you all sleep well?"
Saryn himself had lost no sleep due to these new personality traits he started developing, such as smiling. Except that he had woken oddly early and could not sleep again. "I woke up exceptionally early," he confessed as he continued the final examination of his three patients.
"You all seem in perfect health, given the circumstances," he concluded, then inverted his hold on the scanner and used it on himself. "Elevated endorphin levels, but otherwise perfectly healthy." The Vulcan locked gazes with each human officer. "Gentlemen, we are go. When do we beam down?"
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michaelwallace
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Post by michaelwallace on May 31, 2007 20:14:21 GMT
Once all three officers were seated, he gave them all a once-over. "How are you all feeling?" he queried, "any side effects, apart from an apparent hypersensitivity to light? Did you all sleep well?"
“I feel great Doc, never better to be honest with you. I had my best nights sleep since I have been aboard the Challenger and I didn’t even sleep for very long.” Michael replied.
Saryn continued to scan the three officers with his medical scanner.
“As for the sensitivity to light. I’ve found it is getting easier, Its not as big a problem as it was previously. I don’t know about you guys though? I’ve actually been feeling really good today.”
Michael smiled, and turned to Andy and Jack. “How have you guys been feeling?”
After Andy and Jack had finished describing their feelings, Saryn turned the scanner on himself and then said: "Elevated endorphin levels, but otherwise perfectly healthy."
“We’ve noticed Doc.” Michael joked
For a moment Michael thought that Saryn laughed at his joke, however he quickly dismissed it as wishful thinking. As for the animalistic tendencies which Michael had experienced at the poker game, Michael had not experience anything like them since and he was glad of it. Michael did not like the feeling of not being in control of himself and his actions. Just then Michael’s train of thought was interrupted by the voice of Saryn.
"Gentlemen, we are go. When do we beam down?"
Michael shrugged his shoulders then turned and looked at Andy: “So Captain, when do we leave?”
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Andrew Kirk
Captain
Captain
Have you seen my tools?
Registered: Sept 26, 2005 22:01:43 GMT
Posts: 474
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Post by Andrew Kirk on May 31, 2007 22:46:33 GMT
“So Captain, when do we leave?” Wallace asked.
“In a few hours,” Kirk replied, “We need to move out of orbit and behind one of the planets moons.” Kirk finished as he reached inside his cargo pocket and pulled out a PDA, “Our early scans show a active space program. It seems they are in the process of testing out a warp engine so this is almost perfect timing.”
Kirk handed the PDA to Michael who began to look over the PDA with serious interest. He knew the engineer inside of himself wanted to take a close look at how these new humanoids designed warp engines, but Wallace needed them more than he did.
“So Challenger is going to drop us off then?” Jack asked.
“Not exactly,” Kirk said, “We are taking a shuttle pod in.”
Jack seemed relieved. Kirk knew the last thing they wanted was a transporter malfunction that could make this surgical transformation permanent.
“Jack has been working on the universal translator so when he’s finished we shall depart. I want everybody to take a look at the section we are going to be landing in and study the customs and the clothing. We need to appear as one of them. Also, everybody needs to pack a phase pistol and scanner with them, understood?”
Kirk watched as each of them nodded silently, "Good, dismissed." Kirk said.
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michaelwallace
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Post by michaelwallace on Jun 1, 2007 0:55:24 GMT
“Our early scans show a active space program. It seems they are in the process of testing out a warp engine so this is almost perfect timing.”
After hearing Andrew mention testing a warp engine. Michael’s ear pricked up as Andrew passed him a PDA with the sketchy information on the warp engines. “Sir, this could be a great opportunity to study how this humanoid culture have developed their warp engines. I would love the chance to get my hands on it…” Andrew just smiled at Michael, clearly the Captain knew exactly what the young Engineer was thinking.
Jack asked Andrew how they would be travelling to the surface and all Michael heard was shuttle pod. He had never actually used a shuttle pod before so this would be a new experience for him, although Michael didn’t even feel the slightest bit nervous. Michael was too enthralled in the opportunity of learning about this culture’s technologies and their first warp capable engines.
The Captain explained the need to bring a scanner and a phase pistol and also to study customs and clothing of the Mirandans. Afterwards, they were dismissed:
"Good, dismissed." Andrew ordered, as Saryn and Jack headed for the door Michael remained.
“Captain, could I have a moment of your time?” Michael asked
“Sir, I am going to need help studying this warp technology and any other technologies that the Mirandans might have. The possibilities are endless, they could use different power sources for their warp cores – we could learn so much…”
Michael was overly excited about the whole prospect as this was his first, first contact mission and opportunity to study a similar humanoid culture’s technology.
Michael continued. “… Anyway sir, sorry to ramble. But I was hoping you would assist me with the analysis of the warp teachnology and any other technologies we come across. Its just so vast, as you know all too well a warp engine is like a piece of art, carefully sculpted and crafted and it takes time to learn the systems and components. And I was thinking two heads would be better than one?”
Michael just stopped talking as he felt he had embarrassed himself enough and awaited the Captain’s response.
<Tag Andrew>
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Andrew Kirk
Captain
Captain
Have you seen my tools?
Registered: Sept 26, 2005 22:01:43 GMT
Posts: 474
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Post by Andrew Kirk on Jun 1, 2007 5:51:09 GMT
Kirk couldn’t help but smile. He too was eager to get his hands the real alien technology, to see how it was built and possibly get into the minds of these Mirandans, as Starfleet was calling them.
“I agree Michael,” Kirk said being casual, “From one engineer to another this is a rare chance to study another species engine designs. Maybe even get a chance to watch them field-test it. Pack any extra scanners you think we might need.”
“Of course sir.” Michael replied.
“Good.” Kirk said patting Michael on the back.
Kirk watched as walked out of Sickbay. He stood there and started to daydream about what new ideas these aliens might have that could inspire human engineers to improve on their designs.
”Sir?” Saryn asked interrupting Kirk’s daydream.
“Yes.” Kirk said, hoping that he could play off his daydream.
“Your check up is complete. You may return to duty if you like.”
“Thank you,” Kirk said before making his way to the door, “Make sure you have anything you need before we depart. I have a feeling we will be required to stay down on the surface for some time.”
“Of course sir.” Saryn replied.
Kirk nodded and then proceeded through the doors. He walked with child like excitement to the bridge. There were a lot of firsts for him this mission. First away mission as the Captain of the Challenger, first First Contact, first chance to look at fledgling warp technology. There was apart of him that wanted to explain and teach everything he knew about warp engines, but he knew it wasn’t his place to give out that information.
“Report.” Kirk said as he stepped onto the bridge.
“Sir, we have just arrived on the shadow side of the moon.” Replied the helm officer.
“Did the planets satellites pick us up?” Kirk asked.
“If they did they aren’t talking about it.” Jack replied.
“Good,” Kirk said as he walked over to Jack’s station, “Do we have our flight path planned out?”
<Tag JACK>
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michaelwallace
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Post by michaelwallace on Jun 1, 2007 19:46:00 GMT
“I agree Michael,” Kirk said being casual, “From one engineer to another this is a rare chance to study another species engine designs. Maybe even get a chance to watch them field-test it. Pack any extra scanners you think we might need.”
“Of course sir.” Michael replied.
“Good.” Kirk said patting Michael on the back.
Michael was pleased that Andrew was pleased to assist him. He may have numerous technologies to scan and identify, alone it would take too long. Also, the opportunity to examine an alien culture’s first warp engine would be a massive job, even for Michael. There would be so much which needed to be identified and examined closely to see how the engines operated. Michael was getting carried away and hurriedly left SickBay and headed for Main Engineering.
Upon reaching Main Engineering, Lucy Scott was on duty. Michael had previously appointed her as his Assistant Chief Engineer. Michael called over to her.
“Lucy, I’m going to be going down onto the planet as part of the First Contact mission so I’m leaving you in charge of my engines. Make sure they are in good shape and pass me a PDA with engine performance and warp conditions.”
“Already on it Chief, Catch!” As Lucy tossed the PDA towards him, Michael caught it and nodded.
Michael explained the upcoming mission to Lucy: “Thanks Lucy. I’m going to need various engineering scanners for the mission, apparently the Mirandans are in the process of testing their first warp engine. So it should be a valuable opportunity to gain some insight into an alien cultures warp capable engines.”
“You seem excited by it sir, I would be too. Good luck, I wish I could go with you.” Lucy answered
Michael smiled and then sat down at his workstation, since boarding the Challenger he had always kept his scanners in his workstation drawer. Ahh here we are he thought to himself as he pulled out his scanners, including a thermal scanner and a geological scanner… Michael felt both would be useful as he remembered to pack an extra scanner for the Captain. Sitting back in his chair he pulled out the PDA, Andrew passed him with details of the Mirandans warp engine tests and space programme. Michael decided to get some input from his team of Engineers who were all running basic checks, so he turned to Neil & Lucy.
“Neil and Lucy, could you both join me. As you both know I’m heading down to the surface and this PDA details the sparse information on the Mirandan’s space programme and warp tests. So what do you think, Michael said pointing to one of the engine thermal images that the Challenger had taken?”
Michael remained with his Engineers discussing the possibilities with the warp technologies on the planet. Michael was hoping that by brainstorming with his team he would be more adept at identifying the components and power sources when he was on the ground.
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Post by Deleted on Jun 2, 2007 23:45:14 GMT
Jack had asked Saryn to finish with him first and without any objections from the others he proceeded with the checkup. Jack still felt a bit uneasy with his new appearance, but he felt perfectly normal. When this mission was over he vowed to get a really dark tan.
"Thank you Saryn," Jack said when he noticed that the Vulcan healer was no longer scanning him," I'll be on the bridge completing the translation program."
Jack nodded towards Andy and left sickbay. As he studied his PDA he was able to better understand the challenge that lay before him. He would be able to speak the language well enough to pass for a native in a day or two, but he wasn't so sure about his crew mates. The translator would work, but the language involved a lot of emotion. It would be especially hard for the resident Vulcan, who didn't show any outward emotion in the first place. He would need to brief them all before they headed down to the planet.
"Helmsman, you have some experience in communications," Jack said as he entered the bridge.
"Yes sir," the helmsman answered.
"Please assist me with this program," Jack said," we need to find the best way to integrate the Vulcan language and this language as best as possible."
"Understood sir," the helmsman responded. It didn't take long for Kirk to appear on the bridge. Jack prided himself in knowing what to do and had already ordered the ship to a safe location on the other side of the planet's moons.
“Did the planets satellites pick us up?” Kirk asked.
“If they did they aren’t talking about it.” Jack replied as he finished checking there military network.
“Good,” Kirk said as he walked over to Jack’s station, “Do we have our flight path planned out?”
"Yes sir, we will be traveling in a modified pod that should be able to block any of there sensors," Jack replied as he showed Andy the schematics. They had laced the pod with a reflective metal that scrambled scanners. It wasn't strong enough to scramble the Challenger's scans, but the planets sensors weren't as advance.
"I also need to brief everyone before we go," Jack said as he finished downloading the translation program into a modified communication device. Jack knew that having theirr bulky scanners wouldn't be a good idea. So he made a device that would act as a communication device and a translator. It was in its developmental stages still, but he was confident that it would be a great asset during this mission," I also recommend we leave just before dawn when the entire planet's defense system goes down for 23 minutes."
(Andy)
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Andrew Kirk
Captain
Captain
Have you seen my tools?
Registered: Sept 26, 2005 22:01:43 GMT
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Post by Andrew Kirk on Jun 4, 2007 22:16:58 GMT
"I also need to brief everyone before we go," Jack said as he finished downloading the translation program into a modified communication device. " I also recommend we leave just before dawn when the entire planet's defense system goes down for 23 minutes."
“Good idea,” Kirk said thinking about how hostile this civilization might be, “Go ahead and arrange that briefing, we will be leaving in one hour.”
<Tag Jack>
Kirk walked over to the helm officer and began to talk about the flight plan. He wanted an experienced pilot to fly them down and back; There was no way Kirk was going to risk them getting noticed because of a rookie pilot. From the helm officer’s station, Kirk watched as Jack gathered all the materials he thought he would need on the planet. If Kirk didn’t know better he would’ve thought that Jack was looking forward to this mission, despite their odd appearance.
off: gather your things because as soon as Jack posts his briefing we are going to be on our way.
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michaelwallace
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Post by michaelwallace on Jun 5, 2007 1:58:03 GMT
Having spent some time hypothesising from the brief notes and observations made on the Mirandan warp technology and how it operated, Mike lay back in his chair. He had spent little over an hour with Neil and Lucy debating ‘what ifs’ and ‘maybes’, Mike had hoped it would have been a helpful exercise and got his mind geared up for examining some Mirandan technology close up and maybe even the warp engine. Leaning back on his chair he thanked Lucy and Neil for their input. “Thank you both for your input on this, I’ll let you know how it all works out. Now back to work!” He barked in jest. Turning to focus on his PDA again with the Mirandan customs and attire Mike got a message on the COM. It was Commander Logan informing Mike of a briefing on the mission before they went down to the planet. He had an hour until the briefing. Frantically making sure he had packed everything, he had packed a lot of equipment but it could be left in the shuttlepod if need be. Each scanner was a necessity to Mike, one thing he had learnt as a cadet you can never have too many scanners, each scanner could point him a step closer to finding a solution to a given problem. Mike had great faith in the technology at his finger tips. Deciding to head to his quarters to grab a couple of lucky charms like his grandfathers pocket watch before the mission. He turned to his engineers and wished them good luck. “Try not to blow up the engines and the ship while I’m away!” He smiled “Aye sir” They replied in unison Reaching his quarters Mike lay on the bed and then jumped up grabbed a mug of tea. He was going to miss tea during the mission and began inputing all his observations on Mirandan technology into his PDA. Receiving a further reminder call, Mike decided to head to the Bridge and keep Andy and Jack company on the Bridge. It was very rare that Mike went to the Bridge, except to deliver reports when he felt he should make an appearance. Most of the time he sent his reports up via a junior officer, Mike belonged in Engineering. He lived and breathed it, it was in his blood. Mike took the lift up to the Bridge and was almost immediately greeted by Jack at least he thought it was Jack. Mike was finding it difficult to tell one another apart since the surgery. "I'm all packed and ready to go Sir, I just thought I'd see how things were on the Bridge before the briefing." (Jack/Andy) Either of you can pick it up
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Andrew Kirk
Captain
Captain
Have you seen my tools?
Registered: Sept 26, 2005 22:01:43 GMT
Posts: 474
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Post by Andrew Kirk on Jun 5, 2007 5:36:49 GMT
"I'm all packed and ready to go Sir, I just thought I'd see how things were on the Bridge before the briefing." Kirk heard Wallace’s voice from the back of the bridge.
Kirk smiled as best as he could with his new face. He had a gut feeling that Mike was having a hard time telling the three apart. He watched from the helm as Jack turned back to face Kirk before giving Wallace a polite reply.
Kirk caught Wallace’s attention and motioned for him to head over to the helm. Kirk had wanted his input and thoughts on the warp designs they had found. He also wanted to show Wallace key hot spots in the Northern Hemisphere that would be of engineering interest. Kirk couldn’t help but feel like a kid going off to a gigantic engineering playground when he first say these sites.
“Mike, I want you to try and pick out a spot from this list that we can try and investigate up close.” Kirk said still smiling, “Starfleet wants a very detailed report and I thought it would be best for each officer to have a specific area they could report on.”
<Tag Mike>
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Deleted
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Post by Deleted on Jun 5, 2007 11:24:53 GMT
Saryn spent the last few hours before taking the shuttle down to the planet in his quarters, resting and reading up on acquired information. He worried about knowing precious little about the Mirandans and their behaviour, especially since to their own crew, they looked like vampires.
He had noticed various (younger) crewmembers recoiled away from him when they reported to sickbay, and preferred treatment from one of his nurses rather than himself. Of course, he couldn't find fault in their behaviour, but he did find it extremely illogical as in fact he was no vampire and had none of the vampirical cravings. Yes, he did prefer dimmed light at the moment, and his sleeping rhythm had changed somewhat, but he still consumed normal food. Less than usual for certain, but it was still normal vegetarian food.
He had cravings for meat but when he tried to consume it, it came back out just as fast as he had eaten it. His system was built on a vegetarian diet, and no cosmetical changes would change that, thus any animal food didn't sit well with him in the first place. He did hope none of the natives would notice his preference for floral food rather than animal, and that he wouldn't be an oddity.
Saryn's skin was just as translucent white as that of his three human companians, except that he had retained the pointed ears, which were hidden under the hood of his cloak most of the time.
Putting his notes aside, Saryn got to his feet and checked his medical bag one final time. It didn't sit well with him that he was required to carry a phase pistol even though he hid it in his medical back. Checking his equipment, he nodded to himself in satisfaction; he was ready to go as soon as the call came.
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Deleted
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Post by Deleted on Jun 7, 2007 1:59:07 GMT
"Good idea,” Kirk said thinking about how hostile this civilization might be, “Go ahead and arrange that briefing, we will be leaving in one hour.” "Understood," Jack replied as he left the bridge to prepare his belongings. With all of the work he had to finish, he had completely forgotten to get his things ready. Jack was glad that the inhabitants of the planet were not very fashion oriented. It was customary to only wear one pair of clothing a day. After only taking ten minutes to get ready, Jack was back on the bridge collecting his things. "I'm all packed and ready to go Sir, I just thought I'd see how things were on the Bridge before the briefing." "Well you're just in time, the briefing is going to be in five minutes," Jack said as he turned to face the Chief engineer and former chief engineer. Jack knew Andy enough to know that he dearly missed his engines. His thoughts were interrupted when he heard the lift doors open. "Well I guess we can start a few minutes early." Everyone followed him around the console and waited for him to begin. Jack had hoped that Starfleet would have created an official meeting room, but of course that was the last thing on their mind. "These will be your translation and communication device," Jack said as he handed everyone their very own ," they need to be on you at all times. If you loose it... well your screwed. Also when speaking, you must make sure to be as expressive as possible. Facial expressions are very important." (All) "As you have all noticed, we all have longer teeth," Jack mentioned looking at Saryn," Saryn, I'm sorry to say that meat is very important in there diet. They do eat vegetation, but not much." (Saryn) "Most important of all, never physically touch a male and female at the same time," Jack said stressing every word," it signifies your intention to mate." Jack knew how idiotic it sounded and he agreed with those feelings, but for them it took three. (All) "There is more," Jack said," these people are very open about their sexuality. Its very possible that someone might find one of us attractive and try to touch you. My recommendation is to just run away. I haven't been able to find any information on what to do if you don't want to copulate." (All) OCC: Hey I wanted to something different. Personally I think I'd run away. What about you?
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michaelwallace
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Registered: Mar 29, 2024 0:13:35 GMT
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Post by michaelwallace on Jun 7, 2007 14:40:52 GMT
Mike joined the Captain over at the helm as Andy pointed at the console with a list of specific locations for them to investigate. Andy motioned:
“Mike, I want you to try and pick out a spot from this list that we can try and investigate up close.” Kirk said still smiling, “Starfleet wants a very detailed report and I thought it would be best for each officer to have a specific area they could report on.”
Mike paused for a moment, “Presumably we have some images and some thermal scans of the specific sites… it would be interesting to try and determine what each site actually is whether it is a power plant or a military base or a library.”
(Andy)
Andy instructed Mike to where the specific images were and Mike paused flicking through them quickly. Then studying each image in detail again to make sure he had not missed anything, clicking 4 of the images and bringing them to the front of the screen. Mike surmised
“These 4 sites would be of the highest research value and should give us a broad spectrum of data to analyse. If you look closely we have a civilian power plant, so access should be relatively smooth and obviously we have the benefit of studying the Mirandan’s power creation and flow. Secondly, we have a military base – but with some major thermal readings which lead me to believe some sort of research is being carried out on an unknown energy source. Site 3 is the space centre and test site, its relatively open so we should be able to get close to the test and might be able to witness a test in action. Finally, there is the town closest to the space centre, it may be worth surveying the mirandan’s interactions with one another but that’s for the sensor jockeys!” Mike smiled as he finished and asked Andy what he thought.
“So what do you think Sir?”
(Andy)
After Andy had finished they turned to find Jack motioning them both to his console. Saryn was now aboard the Bridge and the briefing was about to begin. Jack began by introducing the translation and communication device that the away team would be using on the mission, Michael was listening intently making sure he knew all he could about the Mirandans and their customs.
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Andrew Kirk
Captain
Captain
Have you seen my tools?
Registered: Sept 26, 2005 22:01:43 GMT
Posts: 474
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Post by Andrew Kirk on Jun 8, 2007 8:57:00 GMT
“So what do you think Sir?” Wallace asked.
“I think they are all excellent sites, which makes it hard to choose one from another. In the interest of time we should focus on the town and the space program. Admiral Gardner specifically wants us to try and find out how far along their warp capabilities are. I have a feeling he wants to know more from a military perspective rather than simple exploration.” Kirk said.
Just as he finished Jack called everybody over to his station. Kirk as well as the others listened as Jack spoke in great details about the Mirandan’s and their ways. Kirk could tell this wasn’t going to be like any of the other away missions he and the crew had ever gone on.
“Thanks Jack,” Kirk said, “Lets try not to touch anybody then.” Kirk joked.
The let out a little chuckle at Kirk’s joke much to his delight. Jack then went back to business and passed out a PDA to each person with basic information on it. It listed the shuttle pods flight plan, destination, as well as planned places of observation, and all the customs Jack had just mentioned.
“OK, everybody grab their things and meet me in the shuttle bay.”
sorry it's short, but i'll get us down to the surface tomorrow.
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Deleted
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Post by Deleted on Jun 9, 2007 21:59:07 GMT
Saryn had already taken everything he needed to the final mission briefing. He was once more wearing the black jumpsuit and his shining dark red cape, the hood up so that it covered his ears and cast a shadow over his face. He would have no trouble with touching the Mirandans as physical touch brought him discomfort in general. That, and he was a married man so he had no desire to get tangled up in any romantic issues.
He walked out of the briefingroom, straight towards the shuttlebay,where the pod was already waiting to depart. Not waiting for the others, he boarded the shuttle and strapped himself in, setting his bag down beside his seat. The Vulcan felt a little perculiar, not quite himself and it annoyed him.
Leaning back, he closed his eyes and forced calm upon himself. His fingers folded around the arm rest and tightened as he willed himself to relax. He counted his breaths, in and out, in and out, forced himself to slow his breathing and focus on the mission at hand. He was worried about their custom of consuming meat; he had tried that the evening before and had ended up being utterly ill. He would have to try a way to avoid it without insulting the Mirandans. "An allergy would perhaps work," he murmured, as he settled himself in his seat.
After a while, Saryn felt himself relax, then opened his eyes as he heard the others board the shuttlepod. His eyes shone from under the hood, his expression obscured from view. "Captain...I must admit feeling uneasy," he admitted in a whisper, "I am...scared of what we will find."
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Andrew Kirk
Captain
Captain
Have you seen my tools?
Registered: Sept 26, 2005 22:01:43 GMT
Posts: 474
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Post by Andrew Kirk on Jun 10, 2007 16:56:48 GMT
Kirk made sure to finalize some last minute details before he left. It was a habit that he had gotten into down in Engineering. To some degree he felt like a mother leaving the ‘To do’ list for his children to make sure things got done by the time he had come home. He knew he had a good crew, especially the Engineers, since he knew them the best he could trust them to take care of things while he was on the surface.
“Mr. Jones,” Kirk called out to the helmsman, “Lets get this show on the road.”
“Aye sir.” Replied Jones as he got up form his seat.
The two walked back to the shuttle bay where they all packed into one single shuttle pod. It would have been more comfortable to take two but Kirk didn’t want to risk being spotted on their scopes with two pods.
The three officers pilled in after Jones and found Saryn already waiting for them. Kirk noted that he was really getting into character but that character was suddenly broken as Saryn whispered into Kirk’s ear.
"Captain...I must admit feeling uneasy," he admitted in a whisper, "I am...scared of what we will find."
It was hard to hear the voiced concern from a Vulcan. Kirk had never heard this tone from Saryn before and wondered if Saryn was having some adverse effects from the surgery. He took a moment to trying to look past Saryn’s new face and remember the Vulcan he had come to know.
“It’ll be fine,” Kirk replied in a whisper, “We’re here to find strange new things. So we have to keep an open mind.”
“Ready when you are sir.” Jones’ announcement interrupted Kirk’s train of thought.
“Take us out Mr. Jones.” Kirk replied.
Everybody held onto something as the shuttle pod took up and departed Challenger’s shuttle bay. Kirk sat with his eyes transfixed on the world they were now going down to. It was at this moment that he found himself wondering what was going on down on the planets surface. If they were detected would they appear as an object of interest as old UFOs were to early Humans, or would they be interpreted as hostile. Kirk hoped that it wasn’t the latter.
“Sir, we shall be entering orbital altitude in a matter of minutes.” Jones said.
“Very good. Steady as she goes.” Kirk replied.
Kirk now wondered what everybody else was thinking. What they expected to find and to see. Did any of them feel the same way Saryn was feeling? Kirk guessed he could just ask them when they got to the surface.
“Sir, I’m picking up a strange reading?” Jones said.
“What is it?” Kirk asked.
“Not sure yet.
Kirk got up and moved the front of the shuttle pod in hopes that he could help Ensign Jones determine what he saw. Looking down at the scanners Kirk started to have that sinking feeling. A single blip continued on its course heading right for them.
“What do you make of it sir?” Jones asked.
He stood look hard at the scope and then it dawned on him, “Evasive actions.” Just as he finished speaking a large explosion rocked the shuttle pod. The shuttle pods lights blinked and alarms were going off. Kirk could feel the pull of gravity and knew they were going down.
“What happened?!” Jack yelled.
“I think we just took a torpedo hit.” Kirk yelled back over the loud alarms.
“I think you better take your seat sir, this is going to be a rough landing.” Jones yelled.
Kirk rushed back to his seat, fighting the pull of gravity until he reached his seat. Everybody had the chance to buckle into their seats except Ensign Jones. He had continued to fly the shuttle pod as best as he could under the circumstances.
The ground came up fast and Kirk could tell they were in a nosedive. Jones struggled with the controls and managed to pull the pod up in an attempt to make a smooth crash landing but the shuttle stalled at the peak of the maneuver causing the pod to crash hard on its belly.
The forward motion of the craft kept it moving for a short distance until it smashed headlong into a tree. The sudden stop nearly caused Kirk to black out from the strain.
<Tag ALL>
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michaelwallace
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Registered: Mar 29, 2024 0:13:35 GMT
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Post by michaelwallace on Jun 10, 2007 17:06:02 GMT
After the Jack had finished the briefing, Andy instructed everyone to get their gear ready for the mission: “OK, everybody grab their things and meet me in the shuttle bay.”
As Michael exited the Bridge he headed for his quarters quickly to gather his bag and get changed into his ‘Mirandan’ attire. Mike could not help thinking about what Jack said about the Mirandans not being shy about expressing their feelings. This worried Mike quite a lot he would have to be careful about how he would react to being touched and be careful not to wrongfully encourage anyone. Reaching his quarters Mike grabbed his bag and changed into his Mirandan clothes, they almost felt more comfortable than his jumpsuit.
As he rushed out of his quarters he popped his head into Engineering. “I’m off on the away wishing now guys, try to keep the Engine warm for when I get back.”
He smiled then ran off down the corridor. Just catching the lift, to the looks of shocked faces of his fellow crewmembers still not used to his appearance. Clutching his bag by his side, he reached the shuttlebay just as Andy and Jack did.
This was to be Mike’s first time in a shuttlepod and he was slightly nervous but the prospect of the Engineering playground that awaited him was the only motivation he needed. Nodding at Andy and Jack they got into the shuttlepod to find Saryn already strapped in. Mike strapped himself in across from Saryn and noticed Saryn looking a bit off colour even for the Mirandan comp lection he now had. Slightly concerned, Mike asked:
“You okay Saryn?”
(Saryn)
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