[19:06] ::looks at Tal:: Hey, you wanted to be Management...thats what sucks about it. File a complaint. ;) [19:06] Captain, whenever you're ready to get this rabble into something approaching order... [19:06] Blow me up? Jester, you know the only way to kill me is to blow me out. ;) [19:06] So the Marines handle on-board security, then? That's mainly what I'm aiming for. =) [19:06] * Brad is now known as CRS1_Drexler [19:06] Nope, Sec/Tac handles on-board security. [19:06] Unless we get boarded. [19:06] LCARS, let's do the thing...and make sure Sonya get's into uniform! [19:06] * CoroLCARS =/\= CPCO_Daren has called: ATTENTION ON DECK =/\= [19:06] * CoroLCARS changes topic to '=/\= U.S.S. Coronado, NCC-97901... http://www.jestertrek.com/coro2400/ =/\= Sim in progress! =-= Coronado sims at 9:00pm ET Mondays, with an after-sim most weeks immediately following!' [19:06] * CoroLCARS sets mode: +m [19:06] ::attn:: [19:07] ::attn:: [19:07] ::attn:: [19:07] Then you silly security officers can get out of the way. ;-) [19:07] <[LCen_Farley]> ::attn:: [19:07] ::attn:: [19:07] ::attn:: [19:07] * CRXO_Tal snaps to attention. [19:07] ::Attn:: [19:07] <[CRco_Ma`Aru]> ::attn:: [19:07] ::attn:: [19:07] #uss-coronado-ooc [19:07] OK. :) Welcome to what I consider to be the first sim of August, traditionally my very least favorite time of the year for Coro simming, heh. [19:08] Though, happily, we're only missing 7 tonight, which is pretty good for an August sim, heh. [19:08] Here's tonight's briefing, brought to you by Deneva Fizz, Inc. ;) [19:08] =Sim Briefing!= Please type "ack" after you've read it... [19:08] Stardate 240307.28: "Loop in the Thread", Part 2, story by CCC and LewisSharp, teleplay by Jester. [19:08] SUMMARY: Message from the past. Message from the future. [19:08] U.S.S. Coronado has completed the initial negotiations with the Ryla, a new spiritual, culturally advanced race that lives on the "southern" edge of known Defender space. With that mission complete, Coro has tured to investigating the nearby L36/L37 binary system. [19:08] Our initial scans showed this system was radiation- intensive. However, now that the Ryla stealth that shielded this and nearby systems from closer examination is down, we can see that the radiation is Hecht radiation, emitted only when sunlight touches raw dilithium. [19:08] On reaching the system, we found that this was somewhat of an understatement: the system is made up of an asteroid field orbiting a red/orange dwarf star pair. Most of the asteroids are partially or completely dilithium crystal, and that the Jjaro apparently built a base here... [19:08] Briefing complete. [19:08] ack [19:08] * CRXO_Tal acknowledges with a crisp salute. [19:08] <[CRco_Ma`Aru]> ack [19:08] ack [19:08] ack [19:09] <[LCen_Farley]> ack [19:09] ack [19:09] ack [19:09] ack [19:10] ::raises:: [19:10] As I recall, Vanguard had just warned us that the Xur, having scouted this system and found us here, were preparing to launch a larger group into the system and that that group was 90 minutes away. [19:10] * Sonya is now known as CREN_Oswald [19:10] Given the rather impressive number of blind guesses that I'd received between last Monday and last night, I'm going to judge that 10 minutes of that time is now gone, spent arguing potential passcodes. ;) [19:11] You therefore have 80 minutes to get down to the tower, explore, and get back out... assuming you want to be gone when the Xur get here. ;) [19:11] So... I think for pure amusement value, we'll play this one in "real time." [19:11] ie, every minute that passes IRL passes in-sim. [19:12] With that said, questions. Commander Tal? [19:12] Since Savant has been our primary guesser for the "passowrd" to the Jjaro facility, and since Savant is not here, are we therefore assuming that she has fed the password in because of someone's OOC guess? [19:12] "password" [19:12] * Savant (~mouse@h24-86-174-0.ed.shawcable.net) has joined #uss-coronado [19:12] * CoroLCARS sets mode: +v Savant [19:12] answers your question ;) [19:12] ::grins:: Consider that question answered. [19:12] Anyone else? [19:12] * Savant is now known as CRS3_Savant [19:12] I think we should work out the password IC, really. ;-) [19:12] While you decide, everyone please welcome Ensign Canterbury, aka Spuzzum, who is joining us tonight. :) [19:13] Feel free, but I'm not giving you your 10 minutes back. ;) [19:13] <[LCen_Farley]> Welcome to our jungle! [19:13] We've got fun and games! [19:13] Welcome to my nightmare... [19:13] Any other questions? [19:13] ::Raises:: [19:14] Captain? [19:14] <[LCen_Farley]> ::raises:: [19:14] Is the force-feedback effect, thats what I call it, a result of the radiation...or something else that may or maybe not be deactivated once the passowrd is inputted? :) [19:15] ::raises:: [19:15] The feedback is due to the high-energy systems of Coronado reacting to the nature of dilithium, which is to act as a catalyst to high energy reactions. [19:15] You have no idea how the password might fit into this. ;) [19:15] Commander Farley? [19:15] <> [19:15] <[LCen_Farley]> I didn't know G-N-R would be preforming tonight? How much are tickets? lol [19:15] Heh. Tickets, as always, are free. ;) [19:15] Anyone else? [19:16] <[LCen_Farley]> YES!! [19:16] ::wishes he was sailing:: [19:16] <[LCen_Farley]> <> [19:16] Right. Let's sim. :) [19:16] =.\= =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= SIM START =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= =.\= [19:16] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:16] <[CRco_Ma`Aru]> ::watches a timer at the edge of the Cerberus' viewscreen countdown from an hour and twenty minutes, and wishing Coro would make some kind of action:: [19:16] CIC> ::sits in front of one of the holotable, hands steepled in front of his face as he studies 'the eye':: [19:16] ::standing in his usual location waiting:: [19:16] ::paces the bridge quietly thinking a way past all this:: [19:17] ::taps away at the science station, eyeing the Jjaro facility:: Savant, any luck with that password yet? [19:17] +com+ We have a winner. I've got a password confirmed from the facility. [19:17] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:17] E>::sits in her office reading:: [19:17] ::goes over the incomming sensor data and grunts slightly:: [19:17] <[LCen_Farley]> ::turns in the chair:: Maam should we take up a defensive position just incase, to protect Coronado? [19:17] ::looks up as Savant makes that announcement:: [19:17] +com+ Wonderful news, Savant. Prepare a probe, please. [19:17] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:18] CIC> ::drums his fingers on the console:: We've got to buy some more time. ::turns to Drexler:: Commander, recall Valkyrie and Vanquish from patrol and send them to Vanguard's position. [19:18] ::leaning against the post at the aft of the bridge, for the moment content to monitor, though still feeling very much drained of energy:: [19:18] CIC> Understood. [19:18] CIC> Then have Commander Ma'Aru take her ship there as well. We've got to delay the departure of that Xur battle group. [19:18] ::glances at Daren:: Shall we movie in ourselves or let her tackle this with that probe, sir? [19:18] ::raises an eyebrow at the communication and suddenly appears hopeful:: [19:18] CIC> +taps+ Aye aye, Commander. [19:18] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:18] <[CRco_Ma`Aru]> I'm personally more concerned with the Wraiths [19:18] CIC> ::nods over to Drexler as he closes the Xanadu logs regarding the flight from the Borg by the Thousand Ships:: Well done, Commander. [19:18] <[LCen_Farley]> Yes maam, understood. [19:19] CIC> ::nods:: +com+ Cerberus, Valkyrie, and Vanquish. from Flag: Rendezvous with Vanguard and standby. [19:19] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:19] ::rubs his chin:: is there anyway we could get into that field again and get closer to the instilation? [19:19] CIC> Now our only problem is going to be getting close enough to that tower to enter it. As I recall, our last venture within the field did not fare so well, and our probes do not appear to be able to survive very long. [19:19] ::looks to Tal:: Probe first, I always say. They're cheap. ::returns to the Command chair to get ready:: [19:20] CIC> I can get a probe close enough, perhaps the secret will be uncovered with that [19:20] ::shivers slightly, realizing that she really should sit down, and appropriates a nearby empty chair:: [19:20] <[LCen_Farley]> ::hears the page and inputs the directions and awaits the "go" command:: [19:20] CIC> ::Looks at the admiral:: Are you *sure* you're all right to be awake right now, Tebrun? [19:20] +taps+ Savant, you may launch the probe when ready. Your help in this matter has been appreciated thus far. Bridge out. [19:20] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:20] ::walks past the brig, whistling quietly, as he continues on his rounds:: [19:20] <[CRco_Ma`Aru]> ::frowns:: Better than waiting here, I suppose... Let's go, Farley. [19:20] ::scratches his chin and looks over at Shar:: False Matter repulses normal matter and energy right? [19:21] ::grins slightly at Tal's tact at dealing with the Flagstaff and shakes his head:: [19:21] <[LCen_Farley]> Yes, maam. ::hits the big green go button:: [19:21] ::Savant launched the probe as a reply, navigating it towards the tower:: [19:21] CIC> ::shrugs tiredly:: I'm needed here. Don't worry. I have no intention of leaving the ship. [19:21] =.\ction= Coronado launches a third probe, which begins its fall into the dilithium "asteroid field." [19:21] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:21] ::nods and watches the probes telemetry:: It is as you say, Major. [19:21] * McC|o_o| (~mcc@pc-24-151-80-046.newm2.ct.charter.com) has joined #uss- coronado [19:21] * CoroLCARS sets mode: +v McC|o_o| [19:21] CIC> ::She grinned affably:: Well, if Commander Reed asks, I'll say that you're still in your quarters. [19:22] ::crosses his legs and observes the probe on the Holotank:: [19:22] Im no scientist thats for sure... but wouldnt that suggest that if it repulses engergy and matter, that our False Matter shields would let us in closer with less damage? [19:22] ::looks over at Prescot:: I believe so Major. Still studying the science behind it. [19:23] ::having sat down, feels the wooziness abate to a manageable level, and so turns her attention towards monitoring Ensign Kerman at the helm:: [19:23] <[CRco_Ma`Aru]> ::holds onto her armrests as the ship makes the slight lurch to slipstream, jetting off towards the other defender ships:: [19:23] CIC> ::Savant watched the probe on its' course, plotting the best path instinctively:: [19:23] ::ponders:: It might be possible, but the energy drain of maintaining a full false matter shield bubble would be - well, let's just say that Engineering already doesn't like me enough as it is. ::smirks:: [19:24] CIC> ::leans back and crosses his arms, watching the probe fall towards the tower:: [19:24] ::turns to Tal:: I want you to still look into ways of getting this ship through the field and to that island where the tower is located...this transmission is not going to be worth anything if we can't get down there to retrieve whatever data may be waiting for us... [19:24] ::shrugs:: since when do Engineer's like the command staff [19:24] ::leans forward:: [19:24] CIC> I'm almost in critical range. Transmitting the password. [19:24] <[LCen_Farley]> Maam do they know what we will be up against if anything? [19:24] D9> ::rounds the corner, walking through the hall towards the turbolift, brushing past another member of the security staff:: Oh, hello, Valencos. [19:25] =.\ction= The response from the Jjaro defense facility is more or less immediate. [19:25] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:25] * McC|o_o| (~mcc@pc-24-151-80-046.newm2.ct.charter.com) has left #uss- coronado [19:25] D9> ::watches him walk past without showing any sign of acknowledgement:: Jerk. [19:25] CIC> ::Savant clears her throat and says clearly:: Exodus Gate. [19:25] ::nods:: I suggest we go with Major Prescot's idea, in that case. We use a low-powered false matter shield to repulse the dilithium fragments - and whatever weaponry the Jjaro might still have in place to attack us. [19:26] CIC> The Tower's begun to emit a flase matter shield. [19:26] [[false, even]] [19:26] =.\ction= The probe enters some kind of field of energy. A dilithium asteroid visibly bounces off it. The field is growing. [19:26] CIC> ::shows it on the holotable:: [19:26] CIC> ::watches:: It's repulsing the asteroids...thinning them out. [19:26] ::clears his throat:: ma`am... may I remind you that science is by far my worst area of expertise? [19:26] CIC> I think they're opening the door for us. [19:26] =.\ction= Represented on the holographic table, the false matter shield is a growing cone being emitted from four points on the tower. It is currently about 200 meters in diameter at its outside edge, and continuing to increase. [19:26] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:27] ::nods:: Looks like Major Prescot wins a day's extra leave when we get back to Reor'sa. ::nods at the screen:: [19:27] <[CRco_Ma`Aru]> We have the initial sensor reports from Vanguard, though all of the tactical anaylsis of Xur ships are sketchy, at best [19:27] =Description= Outside the "cone," the dilithium asteroids are clearly being slowly repulsed out of the field, or bouncing off of it where they touch it. [19:27] <> [19:27] <[LCen_Farley]> I would like it alot more if we weren't so blind. [19:27] * LTTC_Shar (~alffred@h24-82-208-88.vs.shawcable.net) Quit (Quit: The whole world is going to hell?? Peter's driving the bus??? AAAAAAAA!!!! Let me off.... I can get to hell on my own thanks.) [19:27] CIC> Indeed. Might I suggest we make our way towards the clearing as quickly as possible? We have ::checks the chrono:: Approximately seventy minutes before the Xur arrive. [19:28] D9> ::resumes whistling quietly on his journey to the turbolift:: [19:28] ::scratches his chin:: Interesting... [19:28] ::looks at the screen and smirks:: I shall drink tonight to my former science professors innacruate apprasal of my scientific abilities [19:28] CIC> +taps+ Bridge, please perpare to move Coronado through the entryway which the Tower is making for us. [19:28] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:28] CIC> ::watches:: Tell the Defiants that we're going to need some time. Harrassing tactics only. Don't start a major battle out there. [19:28] * s3v3r (~ident@modem-128.babbelas.dialup.pol.co.uk) has joined #uss- coronado [19:28] Savant has the right idea... we have limited time before we will be in battle again [19:28] Helm, set a course in towards the facility. Tactical, alert engineering that we might be needing extra power to the false matter shields. +taps+ Already on it, Savant. Thank you. [19:28] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:29] ::stands:: Somebody is clearly opening the drawbridge for us...::steps toward the helm console:: [19:29] CIC> ::Savant grinned and quipped:: Always covering her bases, Tal. [19:29] ::still shaken up from his earlier troubles:: A..Aye ma'am... ::begins to hesitantly work at the board:: [19:29] ::SAvant hot-dogged the probe around a little as she scanned the tower and surrounding area with it [19:29] =.\ction= The cone reaches its largest width... about 250 meters wide at its widest, but shrinks down to barely 35m close to the tower. [19:29] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:30] CIC> ::nods:: +com+ Vanguard group, from Flag: Tentative defense only. No major engagements, just harass them a little when they come back. [19:30] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:30] D9> ::enters TL:: Deck 7. [19:30] ::turns back to his console and prepares a Squad of Marines to suit up and report to ATR1 for potential deployment to the Jjaro instillation:: [19:30] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:30] ::frowns, for a moment prepared to go back and assume the helm, but holds off, prefering to see how he deals with the stress from earlier:: [19:30] CIC> ::frowns:: That opening is too small for the ship. They will need to dispatch a shuttle. [19:30] <[LCen_Farley]> ::hears the page:: Oh goodie! [19:31] ::turns to Daren:: I'd like to take an away team down there in a shuttle, sir. [19:31] +taps+ Major Prescot to General Ironside... I have a squad of Marines on standby in case we are needed for escort duty down on the surface [19:31] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:31] =Description= Meanwhile, those ships monitoring the situation in the nearby L035 system now have good sensor data from Vanguard, nested outside the system. Three of the Xur starfish carriers are currently gathering fighters which have been patrolling nearby systems. Group by group, the fighters dock with the carriers... [19:31] <[LCen_Farley]> A little hit and run tactics. [19:31] CIC> Mmm. I feel like taking Kelaka out for a jaunt, too. [19:32] <[CRco_Ma`Aru]> Confirm transmission, Farley. ::looks down as a new datastream opens:: [19:32] ::holds up a hand:: Just a moment, let's get the ship there first... [19:32] CIC> What do you think, Admiral? Shall we let Captain Daren go, or do you want us to? [19:32] CIC> +taps+ Acknowledged, Major. Deploy at your discretion, however I do not believe they will be needed. The Jjaro would not leave a trap for us in such a manner. [19:32] D7> ::exits TL, glancing around for trouble, before continuing on his way:: [19:32] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:32] <[LCen_Farley]> +com+ Message recieved Coronado. [19:32] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:32] CIC> ::nods tiredly:: We can't risk a transporter beam in that, but tell whomever is flying the shuttles to hurry. ::turns:: Savant, get Kelaka ready to fly. [19:32] <[CRco_Ma`Aru]> ::watches a second countdown clock in the viewscreen:: Four minutes away. Sure all systems are operational? [19:33] ::nods:: We can close to a reasonable distance. But we can't get too close. Those false matter shields will cut right through us. [19:33] CIC> Aye, Admiral. Your gig will be ready in two minutes. [19:33] <[LCen_Farley]> ::does a fast check:: Yes, maam. [19:33] +taps+ Shuttlebay, prep Diana for flight. [19:33] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:33] CIC> ::turns to Drexler:: This is Coronado's mission, Commander. However, if you wanted to volunteer Kelaka's services with yourself as a pilot... I would not object. [19:33] ::Savant sent a check to the helm, to inform them of the launch of Kelaka upon their arrival at the tower:: [19:34] We should prepare a team at once ma`am... May I recommend myself and one of my other marines for safety? [19:34] ::glances at D'Rall:: Are you up to a little excursion. Lieutenant? [19:34] Helm, slow and steady please... [19:34] CIC> If it is their mission, I shall not interfere. ::leans back:: [19:34] <[LCen_Farley]> How many Defiant class ships do we have maam? [19:34] ::confirms the launch of Kelaka while taking the ship carefully along its course:: [19:34] D7> ::walks into the target range:: We'll start easy today, I think. Computer, level two difficulty. [19:34] <[CRco_Ma`Aru]> We're going to want to hold the drop to impusle as long as possible, we want to come right next to Vanguard, but far enough away from the Xur. [19:34] =.\ction= Coronado is now deep inside the false matter cone. It is unnerving to say the least, to watch the dilithium asteroids bounce off the field mere tens of meters from the hull... [19:34] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:35] CIC> I feel positively claustrophobic in here. [19:35] <[LCen_Farley]> Understood maam. [19:35] <[CRco_Ma`Aru]> ::blinks at the question:: Vanquish and Valkyrie are both first generation Reorsan defiants, they're going to meet us there. [19:35] ::shakes her head weakly:: Actually Commander, I'm just here to observe today. ::wan smile to match her pale face:: I'm probably the last person onboard you'd want flying a shuttle at this point... ::nods her head towards Ensign Kerman:: However, I'm sure the ensign here wouldn't mind a little trip. I think I can cover his board 'til you get back. [19:35] =.\ction= Valkyrie and Vanquish, already cloaked, reach their positions near Vanguard, awaiting orders... [19:35] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:36] Mr. Canterbury, please get as much of the specifcations down for this shield the Jjaro facility is projecting...just in case we need to create one of our own. [19:36] <[CRco_Ma`Aru]> Thirty seconds...standbye red alert. [19:36] CIC> It certainly appears a little confining, doesn't it? ::crosses his arms:: What's the condition of the deflector? Will we be able to initiate slipstream drive once we are ready to depart? [19:36] ::finds himself having to watch the walls of the cone steadily close in, shuddering knowing what will happen if he messes up now:: [19:36] <[LCen_Farley]> ::gets ready for the drop in speed and the red alert statis:: [19:36] ::shakes her head:: If you're not up to it, then I shall cover the flight myself. Major, get me a Marine. [19:36] CIC> Confining is a good word for it. I hate having things this close to my sensors.. they're so poorly resolved... [19:36] +taps+ Engineering, from Bridge. [19:36] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:37] E>+taps+ engineering here [19:37] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:37] <[LCen_Farley]> +taps+ Engineering perp for red alert and battle damage. [19:37] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:37] <> [19:37] <[CRco_Ma`Aru]> ::watches the approach cloak click to zero just as the Xur timer reaches one hour:: Now, Farley. [19:37] <[LCen_Farley]> <> [19:37] +taps+ Understood, I'm on my way. [19:37] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:37] ::nods and taps at his console for a few moments, calling for a replacement for his console and for a GSgt to meet him at the Diane shuttle in the shuttlebay:: [19:37] ::looks to Tal:: The Away Mission is yours.... [19:38] We will be at the shuttlebay awaiting our departure ma`am... ::stands as his replacement comes in:: If you will excuse me... [19:38] +taps+ Commander, meet me in Main Shuttlebay in two minutes. We have a Jjaro installation to investigate and rather quickly. [19:38] D7> ::jogs briskly to the turbolift:: Coming through. [19:38] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:38] <[LCen_Farley]> ::Brings us out of slipstream and to impulse rather quickly and then into position with the other ships:: [19:38] CIC> ::Savant cooled down Kelaka somewhat reluctantly, she was hoping to get to use it again:: [19:38] D7> ::enters TL:: Bridge. [19:38] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:38] I don't need to remind you, that time is of the essence Commander. You really don't want me to leave you behind. ::grins:: [19:38] E>+taps+ yes ma'am [19:38] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:38] =.\ction= Coronado slowly glides to a stop about 175 meters from the top of the Jjaro defense tower. There's just enough room for a shuttle to clear the top of the saucer without striking the field above. [19:38] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:38] CIC> ::glances at the chrono:: Fifty-eight minutes. [19:38] ::exits out of the bridge after recieving some kinda nod from Tal and calling out the loation for the Marine barracks:: [19:38] < [19:39] ::enters the TL:: Wish us luck, Captain. [19:39] E>::heads out of engineering, grabbing an engineering kit on her way out:: why is it always me... why not a "give me an engineer for this away team"::continues muttering:: [19:39] TL> Main Shuttlebay. [19:39] ::inwardly sighs as she really wouldn't mind, but the orders from Savant and Lauren, confirmed by Doc Reed, giving her no choice but to stay onboard:: [19:39] ::exits the TL and quickly heads over to the tactical station:: [19:39] <[LCen_Farley]> ::gets the reply from engineering that all is ready:: [19:39] Bridge the ship to Yellow Alert! ::looks around at the secondary personnel filling the stations:: [19:39] =.\ction= The automatic alert warning sounds as Coronado's alert status changes to yellow . [19:39] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:39] *> ::exits out into the corridor and jogs quickly down towards the Barracks just a bit away:: [19:39] CIC> ::pauses, glancing out at the tower:: Savant, how far away are we from that facility? [19:39] ::double-checks Ensign Kerman's calculations, but then finds herself having to give up her empty seat to another person:: [19:39] <[LCen_Farley]> ::brings red alert up and running:: [19:40] CIC> One hundred and seventy five meters, Sir. [19:40] SB> ::quickly crosses the shuttlebay to Diana and brings the craft's systems to full flight readiness:: [19:40] MB> ::quickly moves into his office and begins to change into his armor:: [19:40] SB>;:steps into the shuttlebay and looks around:: blah... stupid away missions.. [19:40] ::looks at the readings of the tower's shields:: This is odd. [19:40] ::looks to the new arrival on the bridge:: Mr. Canterbury, please get as much of the specifications down for this shield the Jjaro facility is projecting...just in case we need to create one of our own. [19:40] CIC> ::pauses:: I could simply translocate myself there, if necessary. [19:40] odd? ::turns:: [19:40] SB>::heads over to the Diana and boards:: [19:40] CIC> If you feel so confident in your abilities, Sir. . . [19:40] ::feels the dizziness increase and decides it would be best to retreat at this point, departing the bridge headed for the turbolift:: [19:41] They're false matter shields, but they aren't, sir. [19:41] +taps+ Major Prescot, you have one minute before Ms. Oswald and I leave without you. I suggest you hurry. [19:41] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:41] CIC> Well, this is interesting. The tower is counting down using an octal number set. [19:41] ::steps closer:: Explian. [19:41] MB> ::suits up in record time, checking his rifle and extra clips and requesting a site to site to the shuttlecraft Diana:: [19:41] Diana>;:sits down at the engineering console, after stowing her engineering kit:: so where we off to today... we're not leaving without the guns... [19:41] CIC> Counting do....how long? [19:41] * CROP_Tlaloco (kied@bgp595039bgs.bayber01.nj.comcast.net) has joined #uss-coronado [19:41] * CoroLCARS sets mode: +v CROP_Tlaloco [19:41] CIC> Looks like about two hours at the current loss rate. It looks like power to the false matter cone [19:41] SB> ::dematerializes in behind the Commander, her own voice comming across his comlink:: yes ma`am [19:42] CIC> ::glances at Savant tiredly, then nods:: Even the Jjaro can't maintain a false matter field forever, it seems. [19:42] Well, they're generating a false matter shield, yes, but it's not the same as a regular false matter shield. Hard to explain, really. It's not just bouncing matter, for one. [19:42] CIC> Two hours. ::pauses:: That would give the Xur time to investigate this facility. [19:42] Diana> I might be called crazy by some, but I'm not stupid Tal... with our ship's away team history... we need Prescot... [19:42] TL> ::steps into the mercifully empty turbolift:: Deck 7. ::slumps against a wall, willing herself to make it as far as the lounge:: [19:42] Dia> We're heading to the Jjaro Facility that we discovered in this dilithium field. I need the best Engineer on the ship, and that would be you, Ms. Oswald. [19:42] CIC> Any way to shut down the-- ::nods as Ironside has the same thought:: How do we shut it down when we're done in there? [19:42] Dia> +com+ Bridge, from Diana. Clear for launch. [19:42] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:42] CIC> It's still very impressive, considering the size of the field. I'll look into it [19:43] +taps+ Daren to Tal, standby one moment... [19:43] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:43] <[LCen_Farley]> The ship reports red alert ready, maam. [19:43] Diana>::glances back at Prescot:: so where exactly do I pick up some battle armor like that? [19:43] ::transfers to the outbound flight system to monitor the Diana's departure:: [19:43] Dia> +com+ Sir, I need not remind you that time is of the utmost importance here today.... [19:43] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:43] CIC> ::turns to Drexler:: Tell Vanguard and her escort to begin when ready. Remind them again I'm not looking for a major fight over there. [19:43] CIC> ::Savant lounged back into her chair at the logistics support station, putting her feet up on her terminal:: [19:43] CIC> Just a distraction. Buy us some time. [19:43] Dia> ::nods at the Marine next to him and exhales:: Heres to an uneventful mission ::looks over at Oswald:: Im sure if you asked nicely you could get some requisitioned from the Quartermaster... Just inform him of your lineage [19:44] ::changes comm frequencies:: +Taps+ Bridge to CIC, would anyone from the Flag Staff wish to accompany the away team for observational purposes? [19:44] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:44] *> ::gathers what strength she has left and manages to leave the turbolift walking at a sedate pace, the doors to Seventh Heaven just ahead of her:: [19:44] Dia>::looks oddly at Prescot:: what lineage? [19:44] =.\ction= Ship's condition is currently: Yellow Alert . [19:44] <[LCen_Farley]> Maam, if I might make a suggestion? [19:44] <[CRco_Ma`Aru]> Very good, take us inline with Vanguard and stand ready for a coordinated attack. [19:44] Dia> oh dad.... yea... that might get me in more trouble than it's worth... [19:44] <[CRco_Ma`Aru]> Yes? [19:45] Who your father is... Ah that is very possible.. [19:45] Dia> you think the quartermaster would miss a set about my size... [19:45] CIC> ::taps a couple of commands, bringing up an away team monitor in the other holotank:: +taps+ Bridge, Away team. CIC. The power to the facility's false matter generators will remain for approximately two hours. You're going to have to find a way to disable the field when you're ready to leave to prevent the Xur from approaching. You have approximately fifty minutes left before the Xur arrive. [19:45] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:45] =.\ction= Diana continues to hold. A dilithium asteroid bounces off the field 7.4 meters from her hull. [19:45] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:45] ::waits patiently, looks to Canterbury working at the station:: +taps+ Commander Tal, you are cleared to launch... [19:45] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:46] I do believe that is our cue commander... [19:46] Dia> +com+ Roger. [19:46] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:46] Dia> ::launches the shuttle:: [19:46] <[LCen_Farley]> Since we have 3 ships that look somewhat alike, maybe we should use a 3 prong hit and run attack setup. What I mean is one ship attacks and falls back, another does the same and so on. That way it might look like we only have that one ship to them. Then if it gets ugly, we could hit them with all 3 and surprise them, maybe. [19:46] Dia>::looks at Tal:: you didn't tell me that not only are we going into the middle of a dilithium astroid field, but we also have a time limit before the Xur come to blow us up.. [19:46] ::watches the Diana fly off, wishing he were at the controls:: [19:46] Dia> ::glances at her console:: I'm sure that would have come up eventually. [19:46] CIC> +taps+ Bridge, CIC. If you have any ideas as to how to replicating the Jjaro false matter field, I suggest you begin researching it. If the away team cannot disable the Jjaro tower remotely, we will have to collapse the field with us still inside. [19:46] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:46] CIC> ::watches the shuttle, a pained look on his face:: [19:47] Dia>::shakes her head,pulls out a padd and makes a note before putting it away and going back to her console:: [19:47] 7H> ::manages to snag her usual seat having gotten a 'meal replacement milkshake' from the replicator, sitting just in time to see the Diana depart:: [19:47] CIC> . . . are you okay, Tebrun? [19:47] I've been bombarding these shields with EM pulses and gamma radiation, and they're both being reflected just like matter is. [19:47] =.\ction= Up close, the Jjaro defense tower is a stunning artificat. Unlike the tower in Alexandria, this one is whole and unblemished. Enormous power radiates from within and there are no scars, much less the gaping wounds that marked the tower that you've seen before. [19:47] CIC> ::quietly:: At forty minutes, I'm going over there myself. [19:48] <[CRco_Ma`Aru]> ::smiles slightly:: A good idea, but we don't have much of an idea how good the Xur's sensors are. They could be tracking us already. [19:48] Dia> ::archs the shuttle around tightly and speeds for what appears to be a landing zone:: [19:48] =Description= The tower itself is more than three kilometers in height, built of the same pink-grey granite that the Alexandria tower is built from (a scan reveals that the tower is a little bit of Juno, built from rock inside the once-asteroid). The control room is there at the top, but the only entrance is now at the bottom, on the "island" of rock. [19:48] <[LCen_Farley]> True, maam. ::looks a little down:: [19:49] CIC> Savant, can you get me an interior scan of the control room of that tower? [19:49] * MJBC_Prescot is now known as {MJBC_Prescot} [19:49] =.\ction= Ship's condition is currently: Yellow Alert . [19:49] * CROP_Tlaloco (kied@bgp595039bgs.bayber01.nj.comcast.net) Quit (Quit: ) [19:49] CIC> ::Savant passes a scan result base to Ironsides' terminal:: [19:49] * CREN_Oswald is now known as {CREN_Oswald} [19:49] Dia> +com+ I've located the only noticable entrance to the facility. Designated LZ Alpha. Landing in one minute. [19:49] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:49] ::observes the field holding back the chaotic clutter and shudders to think of the power it must take to make that possible:: [19:49] =.\ction= Jarringly, at least six Jjaro anti-proton defense turrets track Diana as she approaches, though none of them fire. [19:49] <{MJBC_Prescot}> ::looks at the bottom of the tower then the top:: looks like we have us a climb ahead of us.. [19:49] <{CREN_Oswald}> we get to climb the tower? [19:50] CIC> ::looks down and compares the scan image to the visual on his screen, preparing to pick an insertion point if his movement becomes necessary:: [19:50] * CRXO_Tal is now known as {CRXO_Tal} [19:50] CIC> Patience, General. [19:50] <{CREN_Oswald}> ::sighs:: I knew I should have went for the dipolomatic career route... [19:50] <{CRXO_Tal}> Dia> ::drops the shuttle rapidly but gently to the LZ:: [19:50] CIC> Preparation only, Admiral. [19:51] <{MJBC_Prescot}> ::watches the threat detector on the shuttle go off like a christmas tree:: The Jjaro sure know their security... I would love to watch someone without the password try and get in here [19:51] CIC> ::nods slowly:: [19:51] CIC> I certainly hope that they don't dally; I'd hate to be stuck in here when the field runs out. . .why don't we pull Coronado back, now? There's no reason to leave her in here at this point. [19:51] =.\ction= Diana sets down on the island of rock in the great sea of dilithium that makes up the bulk of this side of the planetoid. [19:51] <{MJBC_Prescot}> ::looks back at the other Marine:: I have point, you take the rear... prepare to disembark [19:51] <{CRXO_Tal}> Dia> ::parks the shuttle with nary a bump nor grind to be found:: [19:52] CIC> Diana would not survive the transit out of the field if they have to collapse it from the inside. We will need to pick her up. [19:52] ::makes a face upon drinking the shake:: Liquified ration bars. ::rolls eyes:: Great. [19:52] <{CREN_Oswald}> ::gets out of her seat and grabs the engineering kit from where she stowed it:: [19:52] <[CRco_Ma`Aru]> Worth look into, though. ::watches the four Defender ships quickly approaching the other ships:: Meanwhile, why don't we have our cloak up as well? If anything is going to suprise them, it's that. [19:52] <{CREN_Oswald}> good landing.... [19:52] 7H> ::tries to relax, knowing she should be taking it easy but at the same time tired of being stuck in her quarters:: [19:52] ::looks to D'rall:: Lieutenant, would you mind filling in at the Mission Ops panel? Mr. Canterbury is a bit busy analyzing the False Matter shielding of this facility. I'd like you to maintain an open comm channel and transporter locks on the away team... [19:52] <[LCen_Farley]> We are preped and ready to go maam. [19:52] CIC> Coronado won't survive the transit if we're caught in here either. [19:52] =Description= The area is a little eerie. The sky is gold- black, the great shadow of the tower blocking the light from the false matter field. Coronado hangs uncomfortably close, like a great weight preparing to crash down on your head. The tower itself is more invisible than visible, though the entrance is lit, as if waiting for you. [19:52] <{MJBC_Prescot}> ::Stands and moves towards the door of the shuttle:: are we ready here? Shall we move? [19:52] CIC> We survived....mostly, before. Hopefully by then the Captain will have figured out a way to emulate the False Matter field. [19:53] <{CRXO_Tal}> Dia> Checking Environmental scans... One moment. [19:53] <[LCen_Farley]> Double checks everything and notices the clock didn't go up, so puts it up fast. [19:53] Um... I think I can do that sir. I mean, I've never done it before, but how hard can it be? [19:53] ::looks to Kerman:: Oh, Mr. Kerman...thought you were someone else...please do. [19:53] CIC> We didn't get nearly this close before. I just don't feel safe in here, and there's no reason for us to remain here. [19:53] <[LCen_Farley]> <> [19:54] <{CRXO_Tal}> Dia> Either we don environmetal suits, or we risk beaming in. [19:54] =.\ction= Vanguard unnests and launches the first attack, concentrating on the great "arms" of the starfish carriers. [19:54] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:54] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:54] =.\ction= Ship's condition is currently: Yellow Alert . [19:54] <{CREN_Oswald}> ::looks at Tal:: I vote for environmental suits, quickly though... [19:54] <{MJBC_Prescot}> ::looks back at the Commander:: we are on the clock.. [19:54] ::nods nervously, well aware he's messed up enough already today and ties in the Mission Ops readouts to the helm station:: [19:55] <{CREN_Oswald}> ;:shrugs and starts getting the coordinates for beaming in ready:: [19:55] =.\ction= The Xur carriers are caught flat-footed by the assault, particularly when Vanquish and Valkyrie start their runs, using their small size and great speed to skim the surface of the ships, launching assaults along their lengths. [19:55] ::looks over the various controls and readouts and finds it's not exactly a science to figure this out:: [19:55] <{CREN_Oswald}> every one ready to be beamed in? [19:55] <{CRXO_Tal}> Dia> As we are "on the clock", I suggest we risk beaming over. I trust everyone is fine with this? Good, energize. [19:55] <[LCen_Farley]> ::starts the assault run on the starfishes surface:: Here we go! [19:55] <{CREN_Oswald}> ::hits the button and the away team is beamed into the tower:: [19:56] CIC> ::aloud:: Forty minutes. One hundred for the field. [19:56] <{CRXO_Tal}> ::demats/remats:: [19:56] 7H> ::finds it a little unusual to be in the lounge at this time, the yellow alert having most people on standby and away from the room:: [19:56] <{MJBC_Prescot}> ::demats/remats:: [19:56] <[CRco_Ma`Aru]> ::stares into the short-range display for a moment, then looks up at Farley:: Let's concentrate on the area right of Vangaurd, this side of the other two Defiants. [19:56] <{CREN_Oswald}> ::demats/remats:: [19:56] <[LCen_Farley]> ACK [19:56] ::can't help but pace from station to station, slowly, waiting to hear something from the away team:: [19:56] ::watches the away team commbadge transponders disappear briefly as they enter transport:: [19:56] <[CRco_Ma`Aru]> Shoot to disable, try to take out any FTL drives, then move on to the next target [19:56] <[LCen_Farley]> ::sets in targeting scanners for "soft" spots:: [19:56] =.\ction= The transporter run is a little jarring -- more painful than normal, though not bad -- but then you're in the tower. There's air to breathe, but no gravity. You hang suspended, only barely tied to the small planetoid below you. [19:56] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:57] * CRS1_Drexler (garstini@ip68-3-134-2.ph.ph.cox.net) Quit (Ping timeout) [19:57] <{CREN_Oswald}> ::looks around wondering why in the world she didn't just beam them into the control room:: [19:57] <{CRXO_Tal}> Hope everone remembers their zero-gee training. We're making for the upper control room. Let's go. [19:57] =.\ction= A quick check shows that it would take a dropped object more than a minute to reach the ground from arm's height, and you can easily pull yourself around if you have something to pull against. [19:57] <[LCen_Farley]> ::fires the various weapons at the targets indicated:: - ----> [19:57] CIC> ::Savant sat back and watched, feeling more than a little useless at this point. She was used to being asked to do consatant checks or fulfilling requests, and the entier fleet had hit a lull for once. She didn't really know what to do with herself:: [19:58] <[CRco_Ma`Aru]> Keep us out towards the edges of groups, too. We can't afford to be surrounded. [19:58] ::monitors for away team tricorder data or communications:: [19:58] <[LCen_Farley]> ::moves the ship to avoid any defensive fire:: [19:58] <[LCen_Farley]> Ack [19:58] <{CRXO_Tal}> ::grabs handholds where she can find them and starts towards what appears to be an upward access tube:: [19:58] <{CREN_Oswald}> ::follows Tal's lead:: [19:58] <[LCen_Farley]> ::moves the ship out and back towards another target:: [19:58] 7H> ::closes her eyes and leans back in the chair, letting the fatigue show on her face for the first time today now that she is alone:: [19:58] <{CRXO_Tal}> +taps+ Coronado, from Tal. We're in and proceeding towards the upper control room. [19:58] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [19:59] =Description= The interior looks much as you remember from Alexandria. A great arched ceiling, three arched doorways leading out, a great crystal formation over your head. [19:59] ::looks to Canterbury:: Do you think, in a crunch, you would be able to recreate that False Matter shield, using our own systems? [19:59] <{MJBC_Prescot}> ::frowns as he begins to make his way up as best he can, grabbing ahold of a flat peice of metal and trying to magnetize his boots on his suit to it:: [19:59] =.\ction= Ship's condition is currently: Yellow Alert . [19:59] ...Maybe. [19:59] <[LCen_Farley]> ::manages a second to radio home:: +com+ Coronado, we have engaged the Xur! [19:59] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [20:00] <{CREN_Oswald}> ;:stares at the crystal formation:: uhhh... Tal, does that look like a S'pht to you? [20:00] =.\ction= The Xur finally begin to respond -- apparently their reaction time isn't the best -- though their marksmanship isn't much better. The attack is slow and a little bit... hesitant, but beams of weapons fire begin rippling out from the starfish arms. [20:00] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [20:00] ::taps a few sequences:: It's not too far removed, but there's things that it's doing that I don't understand. [20:00] <{CRXO_Tal}> I had no experience with the S'pht, but it does resemble Coronado's recordings of the S'Pht imagry. [20:00] +com+ ::Savants' voice hung close to Farley and Ma`Aru:: Well done on your first pass. The team is proceeding quickly, they shoudlnt' be too long, we hope. [20:00] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [20:00] ::smacks the console:: Bloody 'ell. [20:01] <[LCen_Farley]> ::see's the defesive fire and moves the right ways:: [20:01] ::perks:: Maaaaybe. ::turns to Canterbury and examines him a bit closer:: Maaaaaaybe? Ensign, I don't know who you had as a principle instructor at the Academy, but maybe is not an option on this test. [20:01] ::yawns briefly, finding this not much more exciting than a normal helm shift:: [20:01] <{CRXO_Tal}> Tricorders. Scan as we move. [20:01] <[CRco_Ma`Aru]> Evasive actions, and full power to shields. [20:01] <{CRXO_Tal}> ::pulls out a science model and sets it to auto-record:: [20:01] <{CREN_Oswald}> ::nods to herself and goes a little bit faster, muttering something about ghost houses as she pulls out her tricorder and begins scanning:: [20:01] =.\ction= The fighters, however, seem to be ignoring the attack and placidly continue their docking process. [20:01] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [20:01] <[LCen_Farley]> ::pushes the ship to some of her limits to avoid the fire and pushes the shields to max:: [20:01] <{MJBC_Prescot}> ::begins his trek upwards as fast he can, finding a nearby wall and moving himself up quickly, his suit gathering information as he goes:: [20:01] <{CRXO_Tal}> ::picks her hand holds carefully, propelling herself along quickly and efficiently:: [20:02] If I had anything more conclusive for you, sir, I'd be happy to share. ::tries to hide the sarcasm in his voice:: [20:02] <[CRco_Ma`Aru]> ::frowns:: I don't know how much effect we are having... [20:02] <{CRXO_Tal}> Set tricorders to transmit to Coronado. If we don't get out alive, at least our data will. [20:02] <[LCen_Farley]> Maam the fighters don't seem to worried about us. I would recommend we start paying some attention to them. [20:02] CIC> ::rubs his chin as he watches the away team move:: That tower is several kilometers tall. ::taps a query into the computer to determine how long, at their current rate of ascent, it will take to get to the control room:: [20:03] +com+ ::Savant replied to Ma`Aru:: Perhaps if you fired into the docking bays and struts of the ships you'd have greater effect? [20:03] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [20:03] <{CRXO_Tal}> ::approaches an access shaft:: This looks like it goes all the way to the top. Let's go. [20:03] ::is jarred back to his senses by the computer registering incoming data from the away team's tricorders:: Captain, tricorder data from the away team coming through now... [20:03] ::nods and steps a bit further from the tactical station:: Keep working...run a computer simulation if you have to. [20:03] <{CREN_Oswald}> oh that's a pleasant thought ::sets her tricorder to route her data to the coronado:: [20:03] <{MJBC_Prescot}> ::moves over to were Tal is and looks in it:: Indeed, lets hope it speeds up our time [20:03] =Description= Like the tower in Alexandria, the initial tubes leading up eventually lead to the "soft marble" corridors and the iris doors. All are closed and sealed. [20:03] Let's have it...::looks to Kerman:: [20:03] <{CREN_Oswald}> ya know False matter is holding this place together? [20:03] <[CRco_Ma`Aru]> ::shrugs slightly, looking towards Farley:: Worth a shot or two, at least. [20:04] <[LCen_Farley]> If I remeber my history maam, if you took out the fighters of a carrier then you took out there fighting ability. [20:04] ::nods, slightly surprised and relieved of his tension:: Thank you, sir. [20:04] <[LCen_Farley]> Here we go then. [20:04] =.\ction= Vanquish manages to blow an arm off one of the starfish. [20:04] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [20:04] =.\ction= Ship's condition is currently: Yellow Alert . [20:04] <{MJBC_Prescot}> ::grunts as they come across one of the corridors and and doors:: I think we need our engineer now [20:04] <{CRXO_Tal}> ::grabs a good hand-hold and braces for a moment, the muscles in her arms tightening, tensing, before she launches herself upward with all her strength:: [20:04] <[LCen_Farley]> ::moves the ship in for another attack that looks like the rest except it will end up being towards the fighters:: [20:05] CIC> ::Savant sighed and leaned back in her chair, conjuring up a holograph beside her of the tactical situation Vanguard and Vanquish found themselves in, glaring at it:: [20:05] <{CRXO_Tal}> ::reches the first cross-way:: Indeed. Ms. Oswald? [20:05] ::patches the combined tricorder data stream to the 'tank, where it scrolls the sensor data alongside one display showing a general location of the active transmitting tricorders in the tower:: [20:05] <[LCen_Farley]> Be there in 10 seconds maam. [20:05] <{CRXO_Tal}> <> [20:05] =.\ction= Cerberus begins a run against the fighters, which are caught completely by surprise. It's very much like shooting fish in a barrell, and the little Defiant class ship nails more than a dozen on her first pass. [20:05] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [20:05] ::punches up the feed of the battle with the Xur on a nearby monitor, keeping an eye on the time:: [20:05] <{CREN_Oswald}> ::follows Tal up::yes indeed [20:05] <{MJBC_Prescot}> ::looks around, hating having to stay in one place on a mission like this:: [20:06] CIC> +com+ Away team, CIC. You have thirty minutes before the Xur are estimated to arrive. [20:06] CIC> ::glances at Savant, then the tank:: Seems to be going well enough. [20:06] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [20:06] <{CREN_Oswald}> can we go a bit faster... I want to get out of here... [20:06] <[LCen_Farley]> ::takes the ship hard up and over and opens up with a wide spread to maximize the effect on many fighters:: [20:06] <{CRXO_Tal}> ::waves a hand at the door and nods at Oswald:: Open. Quickly. [20:06] <[CRco_Ma`Aru]> Great shoting, Farley. Set up for another run. [20:06] CIC> Rather. I get the impression that all of those fighters may begin to activate on them soon, however.... [20:06] <{MJBC_Prescot}> ::points at the door:: Impass ma`am [20:06] <{CRXO_Tal}> +com+ Roger that, Flag. Away team out. [20:06] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [20:06] <{CREN_Oswald}> ::does her best to open the door:: [20:06] ::quietly thinks to himself:: That shield's matrix is almost like carbon-14... ::continues working:: [20:07] <{CRXO_Tal}> ::whips out a phaser, ready to try her lock pick if Oswald is unsuccessful:: [20:07] <[LCen_Farley]> ::makes a setup for another run on another fighter group this time differently, knowing they know he's coming:: [20:07] =.\ction= The door slides open, revealing a chamber and a corridor beyond. The chamber is blank and featureless white-grey marble-not- marble, like many of the rooms in Alexandria tower. The whole place is getting more and more uncomfortable and spooky. [20:07] <[CRco_Ma`Aru]> ::takes a look at the system-range sensor scan currently in the viewscreen, noticing the countdown clock casualy tick past the thirty minute mark:: [20:07] ::paces to the main holotank, stares at the image of the tower on the surface of that rock:: [20:07] 7H> ::forces herself to finish off the shake, the aftertaste in her mouth making her realize just how much she already missed solid foods:: [20:07] <{CREN_Oswald}> ::gulps at Tal's phaser:: [20:07] <{CRXO_Tal}> Good work. Let's go. [20:07] <{MJBC_Prescot}> ::moves into the next room and scans the area, moving forward, setting a quick pace, his rifle drawn:: [20:07] CIC> It's interesting how slow they are to respond. An effect of the tar na zee, perhaps? [20:07] CIC> Can you scan for evidence of long-range communication of some sort? Perhaps they're being controlled remotely. [20:08] <[LCen_Farley]> Maam, we should have the other defient class ships take on the fighters and leave the starfish ships to the capital ship. [20:08] <{CREN_Oswald}> ya know this place is flooded with Hecht radiation... I don't want to know what happens when/if we fire our weapons... [20:08] CIC> ::crosses his arms, frowns, glancing over at the tactical plot:: Or...perhaps they're not under control of the tar na zee at all. [20:08] <{CRXO_Tal}> ::slides along as if she is some sort of unnatural creature of the void, her movements fluid and graceful:: [20:08] CIC> Or it could be an effect of their biology. You all seem incredibly sluggish to me, after all. [20:08] * RAGC_LoraKor sets mode: +b *!*@*dialup.pol.co.uk [20:08] <{CREN_Oswald}> ::follows Tal:: [20:08] * s3v3r was kicked by RAGC_LoraKor (Messaging URLs) [20:08] <{MJBC_Prescot}> ::looks back at Oswald, then to hid HUD display and grunts, motioning for his man to holster rifle and moving down the corridor still at a fast pace:: [20:09] <{CRXO_Tal}> It's not the radiation so much as it is the dilithium particles. There is no sign of such particles here. [20:09] <[LCen_Farley]> ::gets the ship into the next attack run:: Hang on! [20:09] <{CREN_Oswald}> ::sniffs:: that we can detect... [20:09] <{CRXO_Tal}> ::moves to the next access tube:: This one goes higher. [20:09] <[CRco_Ma`Aru]> ::nods:: Relay the message after this next run. [20:09] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [20:09] =.\ction= Ship's condition is currently: Yellow Alert . [20:09] CIC> ::checks to see how far up the tower the away team is on the plot:: [20:09] <{MJBC_Prescot}> ::unclips his FM sword and points the unactivated blade at the corridor infront of him as he continues:: [20:09] <{CRXO_Tal}> ::nods:: As I said, there are no signs of the particles. [20:09] =.\ction= This attack run goes much the same, with the fighters ignoring the attack and continuing with their docking... at least, for most of the pass. [20:09] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [20:10] <{CRXO_Tal}> ::propels herself upward without a glance back:: [20:10] <{CREN_Oswald}> ::glances at Prescot:: I think I'll stick by you.. [20:10] <[LCen_Farley]> ::comes up from under a starfish to the next batch of fighters fire a full spread of torpedoes:: [20:10] * obs_Sharp (~LewisShar@Toronto-HSE-ppp3745021.sympatico.ca) has joined #USS-Coronado [20:10] * CoroLCARS sets mode: +v obs_Sharp [20:10] <{CREN_Oswald}> ::hurries after Tal:: [20:10] CIC> ::Savant idly turned the attention of Vanguards' scanning suites to check for long range communication:: [20:10] <[LCen_Farley]> ::pulls from the attack run and goes out for setup on the next run:: [20:10] <{MJBC_Prescot}> ::smirks at the Commander:: yes ma`am... ::moves off again:: [20:11] ::wonders who the heck is moving so fast down there, as one of the link indicators moves quite a fair bit:: [20:11] <{CRXO_Tal}> ::catches herself before impacting at the top of the next crossway:: [20:11] =.\ction= The Xur begin counter-attacking in earnest now, as the fighters break formation and begin trying to swarm the Defender ships. [20:11] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [20:11] <{CRXO_Tal}> Hurry along. We need to reach the top soon. [20:11] CIC> The Xur ships are certainly showing the same radiation emission as the affected ships. Extensive ansible commuication signals as well [20:11] <{CREN_Oswald}> ::arrives at the top of the crossway moments after Tal:: hear, hear [20:11] <{MJBC_Prescot}> ::comes up behind Tall:: How far are we till the top?? [20:11] <[LCen_Farley]> +com+ All defiant class ships concentrate on the fighters. All capital ships on the starfish! [20:12] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [20:12] <{MJBC_Prescot}> << thats Tal>> [20:12] +Com+ Away Team, this is Coronado, uh...we'd really like to see you interfacing with some computer technology down there...or something...please. [20:12] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [20:12] ::taps in a few buttons, running a simulation, and is rewarded with a failure klaxon:: Wonderful. ::kicks the base of the console lightly and continues experimenting:: [20:12] <[LCen_Farley]> ::moves the ship differently now to avoid being trapped:: [20:12] * Kari (~Kari@adsl11.rapidsys.com) has joined #uss-coronado [20:12] * CoroLCARS sets mode: +v Kari [20:12] * [CRco_Ma`Aru] (~Kari@adsl11.rapidsys.com) Quit (Write Error: Broken pipe) [20:12] <{CRXO_Tal}> We're about a kilometer up, I would judge. [20:12] * Kari is now known as [CRco_Ma`Aru] [20:12] =.\ction= The corridors continue upwards. There are lifts that don't appear to be working, and stairs that you feel fortunate not to have to use in the microgravity environment. Each level is also smaller and more featureless than the last. [20:13] CIC> Admiral, they've ascended only about a kilometre up the tower. At their current rate, they will not reach the control room before the Xur arrive. [20:13] <{CRXO_Tal}> ::pushes forward, leading the away team ever higher, ever farther in:: [20:13] ::takes a moment to make sure Coronado is staying away from the walls of the cone, then turns back to monitoring the away team:: [20:13] <{CRXO_Tal}> +com+ Working on it, Captain. Tal out. [20:13] <{MJBC_Prescot}> ::raises an eyebrow:: then we must not delay here... ::pushes up and higher:: [20:13] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [20:13] <{CREN_Oswald}> ::follows Tal closely:: [20:13] * LTdr_Dyson (~lt_comman@host-66-81-32-72.rev.o1.com) has joined #uss- coronado [20:13] * CoroLCARS sets mode: +v LTdr_Dyson [20:13] ::steps closer to Canterbury:: Anything yet, Ensign? [20:13] CIC> +taps+ Bridge, from Flag. [20:13] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [20:14] ::backs away from the tactical station:: +Taps+ Daren here [20:14] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [20:14] * obs_Sharp is now known as LCen_Skylooker [20:14] =.\ction= Ship's condition is currently: Yellow Alert . [20:14] <[CRco_Ma`Aru]> Take us closer to the other ships, Farley. I want to be ready for a coordinated attack if this battle evens out [20:14] <[LCen_Farley]> Ack [20:14] E> ::start to monitor ship system..:: [20:15] <{MJBC_Prescot}> ::moves up and down along the corridors, moving as fast as he can, getting the hang of zero G again:: [20:15] =.\ction= The good news is that the carriers stop recovering fighters and start launching them against the SF ships. Presumably that will delay their departure. [20:15] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [20:15] <[LCen_Farley]> ::moves the ship avoiding the fire and fighters fireing when he can to the others in the group:: [20:15] ::shakes his head:: I can do most of the work from here, but we'd need to get an engineer to take a look at the emitters to be able to do the rest. ::adds, as an afterthought:: Sir. [20:15] 7H> ::finding herself drawn to the view again:: [20:15] +com+ ::Savant reminded Ma`Aru and the rest of her fleet together:: Might I remind the Vanguard subfleet that their mission is to harass; do not directly engage! [20:15] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [20:16] =.\ction= The bad news is that the battle is now no longer about shooting fish in a barrel rather that shooting angry pirannha trying to strip your flesh. Valkyrie is eventually swarmed and takes hull damage before slipping free. [20:16] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [20:16] <{CRXO_Tal}> ::grits her teeth and pushes herself to her limits to reach the top:: We must hurry. [20:16] +taps+ Bridge here, Admiral ::repeats, wondering what happened:: [20:16] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [20:16] 7H> ::the stars visible through the open end of the cone seeming to beckon to her:: [20:16] <[LCen_Farley]> We need to move out of range and regroup. [20:16] CIC> Twenty minutes. [20:16] CIC> +taps+ Captain, recommend your away team risk beaming to the control room. We're running out of time in L035. [20:16] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [20:16] <{MJBC_Prescot}> ::continues at his fast pace, no longer speaking as he moves faster and faster against the corridor, trying to gain more ground as fast he can:: [20:17] ::nods looking at a status monitor:: +taps+ Acknowledged. I'll speed them up... [20:17] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [20:17] <{CREN_Oswald}> how much taller is this tower? [20:18] <[CRco_Ma`Aru]> ::stares at the fighters coming at them in the close range sensor display, and ignoring Savant:: Right. Take us back towards the warp in point and let the others know what we're doing. Hopefully we can string a good part of their fighters along. [20:18] E> ::makes sure that everyone has enought power to do their job up there..:: [20:18] <[LCen_Farley]> +com+ Coronado, the fight is evening out now! [20:18] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [20:18] <{CRXO_Tal}> ::grits her teeth:: To hell with this. +taps+ Tal to Diana. Site-to-site transport to this facility's control room on the top level. All three of us. Energize. [20:18] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [20:18] =.\ction= Meanwhile, the tower team finally reaches what appears to be the last set of three staircases leading upwards. [20:18] ::turns to Kerman:: Prepare to transport the away team to the Control Complex located here ::points at a schematic:: [20:18] =.\ction= The Xur make a liar out of Farley as one of the starfish carriers finally draws a bead on Cerberus and nails her. [20:18] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [20:18] +com+ Daren to Away Team, prepare for transport in five seconds.... [20:18] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [20:18] <{MJBC_Prescot}> I think we are making headway... ::continues climbing upwards against the staircases:: [20:19] <{CRXO_Tal}> ::frowns:: +taps+ Diana, please respond? [20:19] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [20:19] ::nods:: Aye sir. ::patches into the Diana's onboard systems and beams the away team to the control room at the top level:: [20:19] <[LCen_Farley]> +com+ All craft to rally point..... ::gets thrown around:: [20:19] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [20:19] <{CRXO_Tal}> ::grimaces:: +taps+ Appreciated, Coronado. [20:19] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [20:19] ::looks to Kerman:: Energize... [20:19] CIC> ::SAvant, realizing that she was being ignored, turned her attention elsewhere... she began to toy with the emitters of the various ships in Vangaurd subfleet, experimenting with an idea or two of hers:: [20:19] ::energizes the Diana's transporters:: [20:19] =.\ction= Ship's condition is currently: Yellow Alert . [20:19] =.\ction= The transporter activates, wrapping the Away team in blue quantum mist... [20:19] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [20:19] <{CREN_Oswald}> ::demats/remats:: [20:19] <[CRco_Ma`Aru]> ::grips the sides of her chair as the ship is struck:: [20:19] =.\ction= Prescot had just reached what is probably the door when he is beamed through it. There is a moment of pain and disorientation. [20:19] [CoroLCARS SOUND] [20:19] <{CRXO_Tal}> ::briefly wonders about the shuttle's comm gear as Coronado reaches out to her:: [20:19] <{MJBC_Prescot}> ::demats/remats:: [20:20] ::runs calculations and tries to raise a shield:: I've done-- ::mutters under his breath as the failure klaxon quietly and innocently sounds:: 0.6 seconds. [20:20] <{CRXO_Tal}> ::demats/remats:: [20:20] <[LCen_Farley]> ::starts getting reports:: [20:20] <{CREN_Oswald}> ::takes a deep breath before looking around and picking a place to plug into:: [20:20] =.\ction= The tower control room is much like the one in Alexandria -- 360 degree windows and consoles labelled in the serpentine Jjaro script. The consoles are dark and inactive. However, there is someone waiting in the room. [20:20] <{CRXO_Tal}> Move out. We need to shut down the field protecting Coronado and then - ::glances up:: Who the hell are you? [20:20]