SB Assailant Mission 3.1 - Diplomacys Veil

[Magellan Lin]

Magellan turned round to see Jamey approach,

"I think so." he looked back to the collapsed entrance and then at Laurana,
"I suppose that fixes that. It will take them awhile to dig through all that. We just need to hope help comes before that happens."
"What about the rear exit?" Jamey asked,
"I collapsed that before they attacked, we're trapped in here for the time being. At least the symbionts wil be safe for longer."

[Jamey Gaz]

"Admiral," Jamey asked, "how long can you hold your breath?"

<Lin>

"I have been spending some time in the deep parts of the pools and Gaz has made me aware of a shallow tunnel underneath the back of the cave wall there," pointing to the rear of the cave. "With a deep enough breath, I can pull you through using the bio suit."

Lin looked around for a moment and tried to make a decision. However, it was hard with the Lin/Magellan split. Seeing this Jamey added ...

"Sir, I have used this bio suit for the past several ... several hours deep within the pools. The time in this fluid and with the other symbiont's helping has reconnected me and Gaz. Sir, I think that even the shortest amount of time in the pools will help"

Jamey turned toward Laurana and said, "please tell me that you have some type of breathing apparatus in this cave?" Jamey's eyes were almost begging that the answer would be yes.

[Ji' Zhan]

Tedak glanced sideways at Ji'Zhan. "No offense elder, as I trust you completely, but I believe that miss Jo'leen would be safer aboard star-base Assailant." ...

"I understand, after all she is in your custody now. There is nothing that I nor the Silasi can do. I doubt that you will believe me when I say that I have no knowledge of this order ... nor do I know about the Silasi and their actions toward you that night." The looks from the room confirmed the un-belief. Shrugging the looks off Ji'Zhan said, "Tedak, I implore you to reconsider you next moves. You are to much a friend with the Council for any hasty decisions."

Ji'Zhan turned to leave, but just before walking through the door he turned back and faced both, "I stand by my statement, any Deburne that wants to leave our home-world will not be stopped nor hunted ..." now with a coy look, "unless they have a criminal record." Looking at Jo'leen, "and miss, if you do have a record may the Elders have mercy on you. No one will be able to keep you safe if you do ... "

Ji'Zhan snapped around being upset not only with Jo'leen but now at Tedak.

~back on the Planet~

Ji'Zhan took a moment to look up the young woman and to look up the Silasi reports for the past months. And as was the usual, the Silasi reports were generalized at best. Ji'Zhan was furious. He called for the head of the Silasi ... and after she arrived, Ji'Zhan told her of the story and waited for her response.

"I don't understand where your getting your information Elder, but I ..." the Silasi Head started.

"Rubbish! ... I may be a young Elder, but I KNOW what the Silasi is for ... you forget that my father's father was the first." Ji'Zhan stated

Hanging her head in disgrace the lady added, "Elder, we only serve to protect our people ... we do what the Elders can't"

Ji'Zhan's blood started to boil, "... 'what we can't' ... you say. I will show you what I CAN do Head Silasi. You will no longer work in any political nor service role as long as you live ... you will do good to be a waitress in the corner deli. As of this date ... you are relived!"

The lady started to protest, but she knew the Silasi was under Eldor's Ji'Zhan ruling ... and he was kept in the dark about what they were doing ... she was ashamed for not telling the Elder. However, she was told to keep this operation under wraps.

Ji'Zhan said before the lady left, "guards ... take her to the holding cell here in the palace ... I want a full debriefing!" Ji'Zhan knew how the guards would take his orders ... and he did nothing to stop them.

[mercy]

Her gaze locked Mercy's again, then she tapped her combadge. "Madam Secretary, your presence is requested at Science Lab three, in Starfleet Medical Building one," she said coolly, her gaze never leaving Mercy. "We have a situation, I am unable to convince Doctor Mercy to join us. He may need to be forced."

Response took a very long while, but at last another voice answered, on the secretary's communicator.

"This is Rolan, Madam Secretary's head guard. Madam Secretary is dead. She has been killed by Starfleet scum. We have them trapped for the moment, and they shall be turned in due time. You will have to wait before we can send anyone. His time will come as well."

The communication was shut off. Stuart gave T'Val a look of intrigue. "He said that Madam Secretary was dead. It must be the Admiral they are talking about, who is trapped in the caves. We need to hurry and do something. Where did Ambassador Ezdreiana go?"

A single guard that had been left behind, came forward when he had heard Stuart's question. "She has gone to the caves to battle the ones that have been turned."

Stuart looked at T'Val again. "Now what?" He thought for a moment about how they could test his theory. "How about a local broadcasting center? Couldn't we go there and try to dial in the right frequency, broadcast it throughout the area, and see if these parasites will release their hostages?"

<T'Val, Guard>

[Magellan Lin]

Magellan looked up to Jamey from his prone postion on the floor.
"I m not sure. I think a few of my ribs are cracked."

I have been spending some time in the deep parts of the pools and Gaz has made me aware of a shallow tunnel underneath the back of the cave wall there," pointing to the rear of the cave. "With a deep enough breath, I can pull you through using the bio suit."

Lin looked around for a moment and tried to make a decision. However, it was hard with the Lin/Magellan split. Seeing this Jamey added ...

"Sir, I have used this bio suit for the past several ... several hours deep within the pools. The time in this fluid and with the other symbiont's helping has reconnected me and Gaz. Sir, I think that even the shortest amount of time in the pools will help"

Jamey turned toward Laurana and said, "please tell me that you have some type of breathing apparatus in this cave?" Jamey's eyes were almost begging that the answer would be yes.

"There are some, but not enough for all of us."

Jamey looked about him, the small band of guardians sat slumped dejectedly about the cave.
"We could do it in relay" he suggested,
"But that would mean abandoning the symbionts. What if they broke through the wall. No you go." The Head Guardian stated, "This is not your battle, you have done more than enough already. We will die with our charges>"

Suddenly an idea dawned on Jamey,
"We take them with us. If we can be quick and get out we could take all the symbionts with us."
"How?" Magellan wheezed,
"We get them all to follow the tunnel it leads eventually to a river, once there we could beam them all up to the Copenhagen."
"Symbionts do not like transporters but it could be our only chance." the Guardian replied, "fetch the suits."

[Magellan Lin]

High Priest Kale sat in his sanctuary in deep reflection.
What price was too high in securing a united and peaceful Debrune nation? None he reasoned.
He had been thinking on the subject ever since... well ever since he had been foced down the nefarious route that had led him here. To a point where he was forced to act in such a manner.

"Your emminence. You have a call"
"Who is it?"
"Former Silasi Chief Yola"
"Former? Put her on."
Yolas face appeared purple with anger.
"I have been removed from office." she spat, "You swore to me this was for the good."
"It is. You have done the Debrune a great service. You have rid us of all those that oppose the unification of our people. Jar'ron and Jak'tel shall be a threat no more."
"And yet you still have your job." she repleid coldly "I have debts to pay, a family to feed. Need I remind you that I know the truth behind Jak'dors death."
Kale went ashen
"You need not. I m well aware of my sins and I repent each day. Perhaps we should meet. Somewhere discrete."
"Send co-ordinates. I will not be forced out of my job for following your instructions. I will go to the press if need be."
"There will be no need." Kale assured her, "Good day"
He rose from his chair and removed a box from his desk and thrust it inot his pocket,
"Bring me my cloak I am going out" he declared.

[Deleted]

Tedak raced down the maze of corridors that made up Assaillant's habitat level. The visit of High Priest Kale had deeply worried him, and his subsequent talk with Ji'Zhan hadn't done much good either. The two men were more at odds than the Romulan diplomat had initially thought.

When he reached Jo'Leen's quarters, the guards barred his way. "Out of the way!" he roared, bodily shoving one of the guards aside. When the guard leveled his phaser rifle, the other guard knocked it down, sending the shot awry and just nearly missing the Romulan.

"Are you nuts!" the guard berated his subordinate, "he's the only one allowed entrance remember? Nelon's specific orders." He turned toward the diplomat, only to find him already gone into the quarters. "If they're harmed...." he threatened the younger man.

Meanwhile, Tedak had entered the guest quarters. "Miss Jo'Leen!" he called, "I fear I have grave news. High Priest Kale just visited me, and demands your release into their custody. He claims you are mentally ill." Before the young woman could start another tirade, he held up his hand. "I refused," he explained, "and demanded to see proof of his accusation. However, you are not safe here. Come with me, we shall contact your father, and I will send my personal guard with you to ensure your safety."

His gaze locked hers. "I don't intend to let harm come to you," he assured her, "I have made my promise and I generally make true my promises, if I can."

<Jo'Leen>

[Deleted]

"How about a local broadcasting center? Couldn't we go there and try to dial in the right frequency, broadcast it throughout the area, and see if these parasites will release their hostages?"

T'Val nodded, casting a frightened look on the parasite. She had hoped luring a test-subject here for study but when the secretary appeared to be killed it had shattered her hope. Before Stuart had made his suggestion, she had been about to offer mind-melding with the creature, to find its true motives and learn from its mind - if present - what could be a logical cure for their infections.

She listened to the exchange between Stuard and the guard, and found that she liked his suggestion much better. She wouldn't look forward to melding with such a disgusting creature, and it would've been far too dangerous to attempt. T'Val was even certain that Stuart would sooner have stunned her, rather than allowing her such a dangerous 'adventure'.

"Yes," she finally responded, "a general broadcast should do the trick. However, what effect with it have on the host? At worst, it could kill them."

The guard meanwhile had adjusted the setting on his phaser rifle, and waited for the two doctors to join him. The two healers were fortunate, he was not one of the infected guards, and had been one of the few to get away before infection occurred. "Come with me," he urged them. "No, leave that thing here," he ordered, "if necessary we'll come back for it later."

T'Val frowned, she thought the chances of acquiring another living specimen moot, and didn't want to leave it behind. At last, they were given no choice as the guard literally shoved them both out of the lab. "Phasers on kill," he ordered. The Trill guard knew that the healers had to do what they had to do, but he himself had a concern too. "Doctors, just one question," he said, before urging them on, "I saw what that subspace frequency did to that parasite, but how will it affect joined Trill?"

The guard himself was unjoined, but was soon to become a joined Trill, as he had been selected as a suitable host. Before he'd allow the doctors on, he would have to know.

<mercy?>

[Jamey Gaz]

As everyone started to put on their suits and were getting ready to move through the tunnel, Jamey waded back into the pool. Gaz and Jamey were effectively one again and the separate communication wasn't possible anymore. Jamey knew, however that there were to many symbionts in the pool. He didn't know if the guardians even knew about the deep. How there was a 'master' symbiont eons and eons old where all the symbiont came from and one day returned to. But the younger ones, after reaching the surface, were not able to return to the deep where the pressure would crush them ... only older symbionts could handle the crossing into the deep. Jamey couldn't 'tell' Gaz to inform the older symbionts to do this ... but Lin could.

"Sir, I need to talk to Lin" Jamey asked

The Admiral looked at Jamey with a look of skepticism. He couldn't understand why Jamey would want to talk to Lin and not his superior.

"Sir," Jamey continued, "there are to many symbionts and to little time ... but there are deep areas of the pools where the older symbionts can go and be safe." The guardians of the pools now looked with the same look ... skepticism. However, Jamey didn't have time to explain; the sounds of excavation could be heard by the infested on the other side of the fallen rock. "Please, trust me ... Lin will know and understand what to say. Admiral please move into the water ... Lin will take care of the rest. He will tell the older to move to deeper waters ... and the younger to move through the tunnel." Jamey wasn't even aware that anyone knew the symbionts could move ... swim ... through the milky waters. "The pressure is to deep for anyone with out protection ... Please hurry ... "


~ added later .. please read~

Jamey asked Lin if he would step in the water, "Sir, you need to get in the water ... Lin can tell the older symbionts to swim to deeper water. They will be safe there they can withstand the pressure at those deeps. The younger ones will need to go with us through the tunnel. Sir, tell Lin to tell them that!" Jamey suggested ... strongly. Lin was unresponsive ... and Jamey was getting impatient as time was running out.

Without thinking of the risks ... nor the repercussions ... Jamey grabbed Lin and pulled him into the water hoping that Lin (symbiont) would know what to do. "What are you doing!" the Admiral shouted. "Trying to help you! ... sir!" Jamey answered. "You HAVE to get in the water!"

Lin pulling against Jamey tripped over a rock and fell in the water, blood from his hurt leg was turning the milky water a shade of pink. "I will have your pips for this young man!," the Admiral said. "Yes sir, I'm sure you will ... but for right now you need to be in the water." Jamey left Lin sitting there to tend to the guardians.

The guardians that didn't want to leave was shown a place under the cave wall where there was an air pocket ... they would be safe there. The rest put on their bio suits and followed Jamey into the water.

Jamey handed the Admiral the secondary air regulator from his bio suit and leaned down to whisper in his ear.

"Sir, the pools will help you ... the other symbionts will heal the link between you and Lin ... they did for me and Gaz. Please tell Lin to inform the other symbionts to wait at the opening of the tunnel ... away from the current of the river. Please forgive me sir ... I'm only trying to help." Jamey started helping the Admiral into the deeper water and then the second both were under water. The opening to the tunnel was wide and they both stopped as the younger symbionts started to go through. After a group passed, about ten, Jamey looked back and saw that the others had made it to deeper waters. Jamey started to pull the Admiral through.

About half way, Jamey's arm pulled tight ... Lin was stuck. Jamey turned around to see the Admiral holding on to an outcropping of rock. 'What the heck!," Jamey thought. 'What is he doing!" Jamey reached for his hand and started to pull. Was it Lin or the Admiral that was resisting? Jamey didn't care. Jamey pulled the air regulator from the Admiral's mouth and as an instinct his hand let go of the rock. When Jamey saw this he grabbed him and pulled the short distance to the opening of the tunnel .. to the surface of the river. The gasp of air that the Admiral took ... Jamey could even hear through his suit's helmet. Jamey accessed the interface of his suit and contacted the Copenhagen.

"Gaz to the Copenhagen .. .respond"
"Copenhagen here what can I assist yo-" the voice came back with before Jamey interrupted it.

"I have the Admiral here .. hurt .. along with others. I also have un-joined symbionts too ... Transport us aboard .. we are under attack!" Jamey ordered

Jamey turned to see a group of people running toward them. "NOW Copenhagen ... NOW!!!" A blast from a phaser passed near the two as the familiar sparkle of the transporter took the party away and to the Copenhagen.

[evoran]

OOC: Sorry, I haven't posted for a while, I've been ill for the past few days.

It had taken them a while to get the rescue mission underway, but now they were a few hundred meters from the caves.

As they approached, they saw people with weapons lining the entrance, they were obviously members of the parasitic race.

They approached under cover. When they were at the right distance, the Admiral stood up and bellowed, "This is Admiral Hitagi Norado, STAND DOWN!"

One of the guards raised his weapon, but Voran had already fired at him, protecting his former first officer, who, nevertheless, promptly ducked.

The two, along with the 16 security men they had brought with them soon took out the outer guards and entered the caves, they found a few more guards in there, trying to get through a cave-in.

As the fire-fight ensued, the Admiral's combadge sounded and Voran recognised the voice of his former ops officer, now commanding the Galaxy, "Galaxy to Norado, this is Captain Hedges, hope we're not too late, Admiral."

"No Alan, you're right on time," replied Norado, "Have you set up habitats for the symbionts like I asked?"

"Yes sir," came Hedges' reply, "and we've modified the transporters to make them more acceptable to the symbionts."

"Alright Hedges, get them out of there." said Norado, as the last guard fell.

"Sir, the starship Copenhagen is signalling, they've been requested to beam up the party."

"Negative Mr Hedges," Voran cut in, "The Copenhagen is too small and is not fitted to carry the symbionts, you beam them up."

"Do as he says." said Norado.

"Just did." said Hedges, "Is that you Captain Voran?"

"Sure is, Mr Hedges," said Voran, "now get us out of here before more of those guards arrive!"

Moments later, he, Norado and the security team were on the transporter pad of the Galaxy."

"Good work, chief." said Norado to the man operating the transporter.

"Hitagi, go and find Admiral Lin, if he's in fit condition, get him up to the bridge. If he's not, get him in fit condition and then get him up to the bridge; we need to resolve this situation." said Voran.

"Aye sir," said Norado, momentarily forgetting his rank, "Where will you be?"

Voran smilied, "I'll be on the bridge".

He hadn't said that for a while, especially not about the Galaxy. He was feeling like it was 2365 again and was loving every minute. He had already made his decision, he knew where he was going - right back to Starfleet.

He stepped out of the turbolift, it was magical; he was back on his old ship. It didn't look quite the same, but that was to be expected after 20 years.

Captain Hedges turned around as he entered and beamed at him.

"Captain Voran, it's so good to see you." said Hedges, as Voran crossed the bridge and they shook hands with his old friend.

Voran was pleasantly surprised to see his old tactical officer, Mel Tol, a Bolian, sitting in the first officer's chair. They shook hands too.

"My chair!" exclaimed Voran, instantly recognising his command chair.

"Yeah," said Hedges, "they wanted to replace it when they upgraded her, but I wasn't having any of it. Would you care to try it out?"

"Oh, no, no, no." said Voran, not willing to undermine a command in such a crucial situation, there would be time for the frivolities later.

Instead he assumed the vacant counselor's chair and waited for Admiral Lin.

<Lin/Others>

[Deleted]

"There is no response, Ambassador," the pilot reported as he kept trying to hail the caves.

"It must of started, speed up the pace, we need to get there immediately," Ezdrieana ordered as she held her phaser tight against her chest. The shuttle arrived in a matter of seconds, but to her great surprise there was no one at the entrance of the gate.

"Let go," Ezdrieana said.

"Ambassador, it might be a trap," her guards warned.

"I know, but if it is we will just fight back," Ezdrieana said as she ran towards the entrance of the caves. Luckily for them it seemed as the entrance was truly empty and and so Ezdrieana's party ran deeper into the caves.

Ezdrieana could clearly hear the phaser fire deep within the caves. The parasites had already reached the pools, they were in immediate danger. Then out of nowhere she felt a sharp pain go through her arm as phaser fire slightly hit her. Ezdrieana looked back and saw that her guards were already fighting the parasites.

"Follow me, we need to get to Admiral Lin," she ordered as she fired her phaser towards anything that moved.

"Give up Admiral you will not escape from here,"

"I don't think so, you parasitic [word deleted]," Ezdrieana said as she fired onto the man who said those words.

"Take cover, they have reinforcements," the parasite who must be leading them ordered.

"Fire at will, take them all out until we got Admiral Lin and the Guardians," Ezdrieana ordered as she continued to fire onto the enemy.

<Tag Lin, Mercy>

[Ji' Zhan]

Ji’Zhan stepped on the shuttle pad with a battalion of his own personal guards behind him – they were trained in extraction. The shuttle took off headed for the star base. His intentions were to take Jo’leen by force to protect her from High Priest Kale and the Silasi. Ji’Zhan was more than upset. The Silasi was a group under his control; as the other Elder’s had divisions under theirs. After all, his own grandfather started the secret order and to not know what was going on was preposterous. What did High Priest Kale think he was doing giving orders to the Silasi. What was a priest doing giving anyone orders – they were to be respected yes, but they had no place in the administration. Ji’Zhan left the Priest with more than enough busy work looking for an obscure scroll deep within the caves of knowledge; one that Ji’zhan himself didn’t know it if existed or not. But one of Kale’s downfalls was pride, strange enough from a priest anyway. His head became large with the fame of the position and lost the view of the calling. Ji’zhan wanted to spend his time as Elder returning the people, his people to their ancestral pedigree. Thinking about what could happen, Ji’Zhan left two of his guards – disguised as learners – with Kale just to make sure he would be … busy.

The shuttle came to a stop with a small thud; the doors opened and Ji’Zhan stepped out after his guards secured the bay. Making their way to the lift, Ji’zhan headed to the VIP area to setup for his … plan. The plan wasn’t really a plan at all except for getting Jo’leen away from reach. The Silasi had ways of having covert operatives that wouldn’t report back in until the ‘job’ was finished. He was afraid that Tedak wouldn’t be able keep his promise of keeping Jo’leen safe. Romulans were like that; sometimes their noses would sneak up on them … a product of a child leaving its nest before time … Ji’zhan thought. With only a nod a group of Ji’Zhan’s guards were off like shadows to complete the first phase. And shadows were too loud and noisy to convey the true training of this team.

Later that night Ji’zhan rang the door of Tedak … Tedak came to the door – a bit surprised at who was behind it …

Ji’zhan said, “hello … I wanted to chat with you for a moment.”
“Understood,” Tedak said and motioned for Ji’zhan to enter the room.
“My friend,” Ji’zhan made sure to add, “I feel that this situation is to broad for you to grasp … the need to get Jo’leen away is dire.”
“Don’t you think I know that!” Tedak exclaimed
Still calm, Ji’zhan answered, “Yes, I know you do … but there are …well … were things that I didn’t know … I do know those now and all new threats are gone. But, I still fear for the original threat … actions that I can not prevent. May we go speak with Jo’leen?”

<Tedak>

While Ji’zhan and Tedak talked, Ji’zhan’s special team were setting up for a distraction that would involve the whole station … no harm would come from it … but great confusion would result – giving Ji’Zhan a chance to act.

[mercy]

The Trill guard knew that the healers had to do what they had to do, but he himself had a concern too. "Doctors, just one question," he said, before urging them on, "I saw what that subspace frequency did to that parasite, but how will it affect joined Trill?"

The guard himself was unjoined, but was soon to become a joined Trill, as he had been selected as a suitable host. Before he'd allow the doctors on, he would have to know.

It was a valid question, but one that Stuart was ready to answer. "The parasites attach themselves to the central nervous system. That is how they are able to control their subjects. Symbionts on the other hand meld with their hosts and 'share' the body mutually. It is through the nervous system that the subspace frequency will cause the parasites to hopefully release their subjects."

The guard looked at Stuart questioningly. "You said hopefully?"

"Well, yes. I mean, as I was observing the affects back there in the lab, it obviously didn't kill it. So I am hoping that this broadcast will just cause them enough pain to release their subjects, thinking it's coming from them...from within. I know it's a long shot, but it's a shot. Now let's go before we have no shot at all."

The guard seemed convinced as he started leading them down the street. Stuart grabbed T'Val's hand as a small measure of safety, if not more for comfort. After a couple of blocks they had made it to the broadcasting center. It was empty.

"Do you know anything about communications?" Stuart asked the guard as he wasn't quite sure how to go about this.

"Yes, I am trained in the repair and modifications of communications equipment. Just wait here. I need to find a frequency counter to isolate your comm badges. Then I'll know what to dial in for the general broadcast over there, on that comm equipment." He was pointing to a set of terminals off to one wall.

After about fifteen minutes were spent for finding the right equipment, isolating their badges, and then dialing in the correct frequency they were ready. The guard turned had turned a few dials and pushed a couple of buttons. "There, it should be broadcasting."

"Now what?" T'Val asked as there was no evident result to be seen from their location.

"My guess is that the parasites will be leaving the bodies behind. We should start seeing them writhing around. They could be collected by your security forces and be kept in a safe place."

The guard understood. He went back to work at the communications equipment to see if he could raise some of his brethren. They were in luck. Some of them were finally responding as the parasites had released them. The guard explained what was going on, and systematically the parasites were being rounded up, unharmed.

[Magellan Lin]

Magellan was more than disorientated, much more. He was injured tired and not quite himself. Lin continued to assert himself over Magellan. It was all too much. One moment he was fighting, then lying and now being dragged into the water. He could make out faces, Jamey, Laurana but they were distant. It was like watching thorigh someone elses eyes.

Suddenly he was plunged deep into the pool. He was held be Jamey who periodically thrust the breather into his mouth. It was dark... murky in the pool, faint electrical discharges betrayed the presence of symbionts deeper in the pools. Tehy swam down, Jamey leading all the way. He felt Lin stir and then out of the gloom came the largest Symbiont Magellan had ever seen. It swam with a ponderous but practiced ease. It circled him slowly, elctric currents darted bewteen Lin and it.
*I understand* it seemed to say.
*Danger is great. We thankyou*
*who are you?* Magellan/Lin asked
*I am the one... mother and father. Come take us from our home. We trust in you and Gaz. You are good children*
It turned and swam towards the tunnel towards the river.
Magellan continued to allow himself to be guided. He gazed at awe at the sumbiont beside him.
*You are afflicted* it said *you lack the blend. It will never be true, Lin is too young... too headstrong but I can bring you your desire.*
There was a fierece electric discharge and Magellan was completly lost within Lin.

***

Magellan awoke with a start. He blinked in the bright light. The edges of his vision were blurred and he could make out only shapes.
"Hes awake." a voice mentioned, "Lie still"
Magellan realised he was struggling to sit up.
He felt pain... nausea but the discombubulation was gonbe, in fact... It hit him... Suddenly like a sledgehammer it struck him and he knew he was never going to be the same again.
He pulled himself upright his vision clearing, he could make out the standard Starfleet decor and what seemed to be a sickbay and... a doctor but not Mercy. The Doctor leaned in close a hypospray in hand.
"No" magellan tried to say but his mouth was dry and felt like sandpaper
"Pardon" The doctor asked straining to hear.
"Whole..." Magellan whispered.
"This will help you" The doctor was about to apply the sedative when a comm call came through.
=^=Doc this is Hedges Get the Admiral up to the bridge.=^=
The doctor looked annoyed and tapped his badge to reply
=^=He is in no fit state to go anywhere, he has contusions and fractured wrist, 3 broken ribs and I suspect a pneumothorax=^=
=^= Patch him up and get him up here, Hedges out=^=
"Go. We will go" Magellan whispered,
"Damn foolishness" The doctor grumbled. He strode off grabbed a med kit and returned to Magellan, "Computer. Two to beam directly to the bridge."
Magellan and teh doctor appeared in a haze of blue upon the bridge.
"Admiral" Voran greeted helping Magellan sit in one of the seats by the captains chair.
Magellan looked at Voran with a far away look.
"Admiral we have evacuated the pools" teh El Aurian mentioned, "And we have teams fighting the parasites. i have a squad on my way to Ezedriana."
"Captain... Captains. I have reports that the parasites are leaving their hosts"
Voran looked at Hedges in confusion,
"Mercy and T'Val" Magellan stammered,
"Of course they must have found a way to block the neural signal" Voran caught on,
"No good... will not affect the Queen. She must not survive."
"But where is she?"
"There is only one possibility" Magellan stated "And we are certain of it...The one person who stands agfainst joining, the new senator for Leran Manev. He must be killed."

[Deleted]

Still calm, Ji’zhan answered, “Yes, I know you do … but there are …well … were things that I didn’t know … I do know those now and all new threats are gone. But, I still fear for the original threat … actions that I can not prevent. May we go speak with Jo’leen?”

"We?" the Romulan querried, "Jo'leen is not safe here, I must get her out of here. Earlier High Priest Kale came demanding her surrender. I showed him the door instead and he left in quite a hurry. I will not entrust her to anyone, not even you." He blocked the entrance to his quarters, not wanting Ji'Zhan to see that the girl was with him and that they had been ready to leave just before the elder called.

While Ji’zhan and Tedak talked, Ji’zhan’s special team were setting up for a distraction that would involve the whole station … no harm would come from it … but great confusion would result – giving Ji’Zhan a chance to act.

Tedak eyed the elder suspiciously. "And what makes you come calling at this hour?" he continued, "surely not to change my mind about things? The girl needs to go back to her father, and I am going to ensure that this happens. Nothing you, nor Kale can do about this, however now if you would please excuse me, I have work to do."

<Ji'Zhan>

[Ji' Zhan]

~joint post with Tedak and Ji'Zhan~

“I know you’re a busy man, Tedak. However, the need for us to take care of this together is important.” Ji’Zhan stated to the Romulan

"Is it?" Tedak replied, "the girl is not safe on Qualinost and if Debrune dignitaries travel with her it is going to attract unwanted attention."

“I have no intention of being seen,” JiZhan said, “but my people will know later what has happened … I need for the people to see that I was indeed not behind this.”

"Behind....what exactly," the Romulan demanded, "all Kale has to do is prove the girl is mentally unstable and she will be released into the custody of psychiatrists and other people that can help her. Until then, she is under my protection and is therefore my responsibility. Where she goes, I go, to make certain she stays safe." He motioned to the guards at his door. "They have orders to shoot anyone who tries to get at her, without her consent, or mine."

“Kale is no-longer in this issue … he is very busy right now … along with two of my guards to make sure he stays unharmed and busy.” Ji’Zhan stated. “We are also not going to Qualinost … please Tedak … work WITH me on this.” Ji’Zhan requested of him.

"Where will you take her, if not to her father?"

“Why are you so concerned Tedak … what stake do you have in this … will you not look past your hard Romulan head for just one moment!” Ji’Zhan said visibly frustrated.

"A young girl collapsed on the doorstep of my office, requesting asylum. I have given her that, and what good a diplomat would I be, if I did not my very best to make good on a promise given?" He frowned. "And my head is no harder than yours Ji'Zhan. I could ask you the same question."

“Tell me Tedak … what are your intentions with the Debrune? … are you going to help us with your people at all? Just how loyal were you with my predecessor?” Ji’Zhan asked.

"I am a diplomat," he retorted, "if negotiations between the Debrune and the Romulans prove necessary, I will conduct them. And how dare you ask me, when I have a Debrune son, and my ex-wife also being part Debrune. Your predecessor and I were never friends, but we respected one another."

This made Ji’Zhan furious with the Romulan … but that conversation would have to wait. About that time the station started to vibrate … the station’s dampeners were becoming misaligned causing the floor to feel more like the surface of unstable ground … sinking sand almost. Tedak was thrown to the floor as Ji’Zhan signaled for his team. The security that Tedak talked about was quickly overcome and sedated. Ji’Zhan reached the hypo-gun under his sleeve and quickly fired it at Tedak in efforts to sedate him…

As the station began to vibrate, Tedak felt as if he was falling when actually he just lost his footing and was thrown to the deck. He witnessed his guards being taken out as though they were novices in their field and he turned to glare at Ji'Zhan, ready to spring into action. However he never got that far as Ji'zhan aimed what looked to be a hypospray at him. He began laughing, but when Ji'Zhan fired it, a fine mist touched the skin on his face and hands and he started to feel drowsy. "What di-" he began, but passed out before he could finish.

Jo’leen came out of an adjoining room and saw Tedak on the floor. To her horror she also saw Ji’Zhan … “I knew were behind this!” She said running towards the door. Ji’Zhan ran to intercept her not saying a word … there was no time for words. Passing the sleeping Tedak, Ji’Zhan placed a personal transport device on his garment readiing one for Jo’Leen. With a forceful collistion the two hit as the second device found its mark. Ji’Zhan activated his, being the master to the three, and all were beamed to a shuttle … cloaked … just off from the station. Ji’Zhan signaled his guards still on the station to leave and the guards on the shuttle to take Jo’leen to the back room. Not wasting any time, the shuttle was at maximum warp headed toward Romulan space. Ji’Zhan looked down and sighed seeing the sleeping Romulan Ambassador asleep on the shuttle floor. “Carry him to the back and place in on the couch … wake him in about an hour,” Ji’Zhan instructed as he fell back into his seat relived that this part was over.

Later in the trip, Ji’Zhan went to the room where Jo’leen was being kept unrestrained. She spoke instantly upon seeing Ji’Zhan, “What do you mean by kidnapping me!”

“I didn’t kidnap you, I’m protecting you,” Ji’Zhan answered.

“You really mean for me to belive that don’t you … what are you going to do with me!” Jo’leen demanded.

“I’m taking you to your father,” was the simple reply to her question.

Dazed Jo’leen said, “huh? … your not going to kill me”

“No,” Ji’Zhan continued, “The Silasi police were acting without my knowledge … as I told you before … and I have taken care of that. Kale, I believe, is to blame. I don’t know why or how they were getting to your family, but that has stopped. I can only say that I’m sorry for the ones that didn’t escape as you did. But as the code goes for that order … once an order has been placed … operatives do not report back in until the job is done. I feared for your life … and the only safe place for you is with your father. Tedak was simply taking to long to get you to safety. Do you understand now … ?”

<Jo’leen>

[evoran]

"There is only one possibility" Magellan stated "And we are certain of it...The one person who stands agfainst joining, the new senator for Leran Manev. He must be killed."

"Okay," said Voran, "We'd better get down there. Would you care to accompany us, Admiral Lin?"

<Magellan>

"Right, Commander Tol, you're with me/us, Mr Hedges, you have the bridge," said Voran, once again getting caught up in the moment, then added sheepishly, "but, you knew that..."

With that, they exited the bridge and Voran contacted Gaz and Ezdreiana and told them to meet them in the transporter room.

<Gaz/Ezdreiana>

They soon found themselves in the senate building. They went to the reception desk. There was no one there.

"Mr Tol, get on to the computer, find out where the senator is." said Voran.

Tol did as he was told and soon had the results, "He's in his office on the 8th floor."

"Let's go." said Voran.

<Gaz/Ezdreiana/Magellan>

[Jamey Gaz]

After beaming on-board the ship, Jamey helped the crew convert the cargo bay into a make shift Trill habitat for the symbionts. Using the knowledge of some the crew, they made aquariums and beamed the milky water from in the caves into them. Providing a current by heating the water similar to the planets own thermal methods seemed to stabilize the symbionts. Jamey had no intention on returning to the surface of Trill until the threat was gone ... but higher ranking persons had other plans.

Getting a message from Voran, stating that Gaz and Ezdreiana meet them in the transporter room, Jamey headed in that direction. Before he had time to think more about not wanting to be back on the surface .. there he stood.

Tol answered a request, "He's in his office on the 8th floor."

"Let's go." said Voran.

Making their way to the lift to go to the eighth floor, Jamey felt a nudge in his stomach pouch. "I think we need to take the stairs ... the lift is to much of a give-away," Jamey suggested.

"Agreed," said Voran ... and the group found their way up by manual means.

The floor was spooky ... almost as if the whole floor was death itself ... dripping with the resentment of years and years of hatred and jealousy ... one could almost smell it in the air. What would the find ... Jamey didn't want to see ... not even his mind's eye ... what could be waiting.

[Magellan Lin]

Jo'leen looked at Ji'Zahn skeptically and then shook her head.
"I dont know what to think or who to beleive anymore. I just want to see my father. If you can promise me that will be the case then perhaps that is a leap of faith I will have to take"
"I can give you that promise" Ji'Zhan replied
Jo'leen looked at Tedak,
"Would he have betrayed me?"
"I have no doubts about the Ambassadors integrity, he can just be too slow to act. I have distracted the High Priest but it will not be long beofre he and those he works with will realise what has happened. We have a very small window of opportunity."
"I understand. But I need some insurance." she crossed to the terminal and entered some commands.
"What are you doing?"
"I have encrypted a file into Tedaks computer. If I do not contact him once I am with my father the file will unlock and reveal to him some very damaging secrets."
ji'Zhan looed at the screen of coded words.
"That is not necessary."
Jo'leen paused and met Ji'Zhans gaze,
"I respcetd Jak'dor, I even voted for him. I respected his position. He like my father wanted unity through talk not war. Likewise I respect his opinion of you, but I will not be a fool. I trust you only so far. Now if we are to depart I suggest you lead the way before the good Ambassador awakes."

Tag Ji'zhan.

(you can post them getting to her father if that is the idrection your wanting to take. when/if you get there I ll sim Jar'ron)

[Magellan Lin]

There is only one possibility" Magellan stated "And we are certain of it...The one person who stands agfainst joining, the new senator for Leran Manev. He must be killed."

"Okay," said Voran, "We'd better get down there. Would you care to accompany us, Admiral Lin?"

before Magellan could reply the doctor interceded.
"Like hell he is. He's going straight back to sickbay."
Voran ignored him,
"Admiral?"
Magellan still seemed to have that far away look in his eyes,
"What. Yes... we mean no... I mean no. Its best I rest. Its him though. Jola Terek, the symbionts in the pool could sense him - taunting them. He'll be in the senate building."

***


Jola Terek paced his office irritably beside him lay four corpse, once his soldiers the parasites had been driven from thier hosts and he had been forced to kill them.
The parasites skittered around the room baring their pincers in anger and distress.
Things were not going as planned. He had failed the Overlord as so many others had. Trill would fall to them... just not today. Now he just had to find away for the Queen within him... part of him to escpae with as many of the parasites as could be taken with him.
There was a shuttle on the roof he/she knew it would be a race to reach it.
Like the pied piper he left the office and made for the stairwell a trail of parasites shittering behind him.

People in the offices around him stared in disgust at what they saw. They recognised the parasites and fled in panic. Jola Terek ignored them pausing only to despatch those who got in his way.
And those that did in horrific ways, torn limb from limb until the plush carpets were slick with blood.

[ajohnson]

OOC: I thought it was Leran Manev?

[Magellan Lin]

Leran Manev is the name of Trills Capital City

[Ji' Zhan]

The shuttle approached a section of space far from patrol or trade routes; Ji’Zhan had set-up the encounter through a convert succession of people. Based on the sensor readings, Jar’ron and Jak’tel took the bait. Ji’Zhan had set up a false image of him self through the ship’s communication system to transmit the person Jar’ron was expecting to see. The conversation went as planed and the masked Ji’Zhan talked Jar’ron to beam over to get Jo’leen.

Ji’Zhan started to think back at what it took to make this happen … how it all looked from the eyes of the Romulans, the Federation and his own people. He hoped that everyone would see the efforts and that those efforts wouldn’t occur in vain. He had to use some underhanded methods to pull this whole meeting off. However, it was working … Jo’leen would soon be safe … what Tedak would do … what Jar’ron actions were going to be … would all be fixed in history by this time tomorrow.

Ji’Zhan called for Jo’leen. As she came into the forward section of the shuttle she saw the familur shape of the a ship she knew on the view screen.

Knowing that no one knew of the special markings on that ship she said, “your not lieing to me are you?”

Ji’Zhan responded, “your eyes are not deciving you young one … you know what you see.”

The smile on her face even shocked her … it had been so long since she had a true joyfull emotion. “I’m safe now,” she said.

“Well, that is yet to be seen … I need for you to greet them when they beam over … I need for you to stand here so you will be between. I will not have guards in this room when they arrive … only me, you and Tedak.” His own comment reminded him of the Romulan in the other section of the shuttle. Ji’Zhan called for his guards to bring him and wake him.

The stage was set; an alarm sounded on the shuttles panels indicating what everyone could see … a transporter beam (Romulan in appearance) with a figure of two men … Jar’ron and Jak’tel.

Ji’Zhan remained seated and said, “hello brothers,” keeping with Debrune custom, “it is good to see you.” At that point, Tedak started to come to and look upon the scene before him … Jar’ron and Jak’tel’s faces were too showing that their brains were not understanding what was before them. Ji’Zhan was glad that during the transport in … the transporter on his shuttle disarmed any weapon … … … … …

<TAG … >

[Magellan Lin]

Jak'tel took a step forward menacingly and reached for his hand weapon... it was gone.
Jar'ron laid a hand on his nephews arm to hold him back.
"Be still" he demanded
The young Debrune glared at his uncle but relented begrudgingly.
"Jo'leen" Jar'ron greeted opening his arms wide.
Jo'leen ran to him and was enveloped by him.
"Elder Ji'zhan" he greeted formally and politely.
"Jar'ron"
"Is this a trap. Have you used my daughter to get to me."
"If it were I could have blasted you from the skies"
"True"
"Dont beleive him we are prisoners." Jak'tel spat,
"Be quiet. Elders do not lie, they may stretch the truth but not lie. I thankyou for returning my daughter."
"It was my duty"
"Will you allow Jo'leen to beam to my ship?"
Ji'Zhan nodded,
"Jak'tel take Jo'leen to the Regard."
"What!!"
"Do it"
"You are weak old man. This is a trick."
Jar'rons eyes narrowed and h rounded on Jak'tel.
"DO AS I SAY"
Jak'tel aquiesed and allowed Jo'leen and himself to be tranported away.

Jar'ron moved to meet Ji'Zhan face to face.
"Things on our world are a mess. Too many things have been allowed to happen. This is never what I wanted for our people. I still beliee our way is with the romulans but stronger than that, we should be united whatever. To prove this too you I volunteer to return withyou."

Tag Ji Zhan

"No tricks, you rescued my daughter I owe you one. I have no political future anymore. Every single supporter I had on Qualinost is dead. And there are wheels within wheels at work here."

TAG Ji Zhan

"I will come peacefully and account for my actions but there is one thing you should know. Fear is a mighty tool, and fear of someone can drive people to do things out of character or position but I can swear to you now. I did not order Jak'dors death."

Tag Ji'Zhan

[Deleted]

Tedak murmured in his sleep as the guard shook him, and tried batting him away. However when the guard prodded him more forcefully, he bolted upright an angry scowl crossing his features. "Why that..." he started, but was met with the Debrune guard's disapproving scowl.

The Romulan allowed himself to be pulled to his feet, and supported back to the front of the shuttlecraft. He was still drowsy when he entered, but it was all gone when he saw Jar'ron and Jek'tel appear, and Jo'leen run into her father's arms. "Seems Kale was wrong after all," he announced, "and I was right not to hand her over into Kale's custody."

He moved to stand beside Ji'Zhan. "You could've just asked," he chided the Elder, "and I was already on my way to get her to her father, your stunt delayed us." Yet his tone was not accusing, but rather matter-of-factly. "Jolan tru Jar'ron," he said, turning to the Debrune, "if you did not order Jak'dor's death, then have you knowledge of who might have, so that we can bring this person to justice?"