Alora DeVeau

OOC: Don K, writer behind V'Len Kel has taken the NPC prosecutor in an inquiry into certain actions by Wes Greaves. I read this post and went 'wow'. Like Wes likes to say, he's "killing it". Great job! Oh, and I left his ooc comment because I thought it was amusing. 😄 IC: (OOC - If you hate this character then I'm doing my job. If you don't hate him let me know what it would take to make you hate him.) (( Conference Room, Deck One, USS ‘Oumuamua )) Walking into the room Ress ch'Reiji sat himself across the table from the advocate, a Bajoran woman who he hoped would zealously do her job. He had been given one clear objective by his benefactors who had manipulated him to be the prosecutor at this inquest. Discredit the Marines. The man himself, Major Was Greaves, was of no consequence and if he lost or kept his position it did not matter. What did matter was making sure public opinion turned against the use of marine detachments on Starfleet vessels. His benefactors came in two stripes, first the peaceniks types. Betazoids and Vulcans and the like who idealized the last century when Starfleet was a diplomatic and exploratory organization. A pan-galactic war and countless invasions later Starfleet had come to resemble so many groups it claimed to stand apart from. The other set of benefactors came from his own home world, Andoria. Andoria had been the seat of a great empire whose warriors rivaled the Klingons in their prowess and battle tenacity. The forebears of the current government had agreed to lay down arms and join with the humans in peace and understanding. And here two and a half centuries on the humans made up the bulk of Starfleet and its marines with the Andorians known only for their art schools and skiing. That needed to change in the mind of his benefactors. If the Federation was going to become an empire, then the people who knew about empire and military might, Andorians, should be at the helm. His pale skin glistened slightly with sweat in the warmth of the conference room, which was much too hot for his liking. He was no Aenar of course, he was simply old. He'd been arguing in courts across the Federation for better than 50 years and this was to be his final opus. It was time to get on with it. Greaves: Major Wes Greaves reporting as ordered, ma’am. V’Airu: Just so. Greaves, please sit. She indicated the seat opposite her. The human was impressive. Overgrown and likely on a hair trigger much of the time. Ress expected he could exploit this. Greaves: Aye aye, ma’am. His decorations glinted as he took his seat, and Ossa raised one brow no more than a millimeter. A successful point, made entirely nonverbally. V’Airu: Major, Counselors. The hearing will now commence. Defense? Renora: Thank you, Ma’am. ::Standing:: Captain Renora Loret, Starfleet Marine Corps., Judge Advocate Division. I am appearing for Major Wes Greaves as counsel and advocate during this inquest. V'Airu: Thank you, Captain. Prosecution? Ress: My name is Ress ch'Reiji. It's interesting that the major would require an advocate and that you, Commodore, would call me a prosecutor. ::Looking at Greaves and raising an eyebrow:: I'm simply here to listen to your story. That you need an advocate however, suggests you are not as confident in the decisions you made at Okaea. I look forward to hearing your tale. He sat back and nodded to V'Airu. V'Airu: Thank you. Her gaze settled squarely on Greaves, and a hint of disappointment crept into her voice as she addressed him directly. V'Airu: These proceedings are voluntary. Major, do you wish to continue? Greaves: I understand my rights and wish to participate. I owe that at least to those who didn’t make it home. V’Airu: Very well. Ress: ::softly, but loud enough:: The triple digit number of people who didn't make it home. The Bajoran jumped in. Renora: If it please the chair, before we begin, I would like to ask Major Greaves if there is anything about the process he would like to clarify regarding this process? Greaves: I have to admit, this is my first time with something like this. How do these proceedings usually go? Am I here to defend myself, or is this just a fact-finding process? Renora was already upright and ready to answer, though she looked to Ossa first to ask permission. Ress suppressed a small smile. The whole cast was already in defense mode. Already worried and second guessing themselves. That Starfleet felt the Marine XO needed "defending" for his decisions would speak volumes in the Federation press corp. Renora: If I may, Ma’am? Major Greaves, this is not a dissimilar process to a coroner’s inquest or a medical morbidity and mortality conference. The aim of this inquest is to establish the timeline of events that led to the near destruction of the USS Thor and the loss of life associated with that. The decisions that were taken, by whom, and under what circumstances, what lessons can be learned and how repetition can be avoided. Renora concluded with another, perhaps slightly more deferential look to Ossa. However, Ossa found she had little to add. V'Airu: All correct. This is SOP for the full or partial loss of a capital ship. (Beat) However. There is an additional element to these proceedings. (beat) If you are to be my executive officer, Major, then I wish to review your arrested command of the Thor in full detail. Ress again suppressed a smile. That V'Airu would continue Kell's poor judgment a man who brought down a starship could call her judgment into question. Prosecutor: ::Gently:: As I've already stated, I just want to hear your story and the story of the other officers involved in this tragic and deadly turn of events. Greaves: Responses Renora: Should there be grounds for further action then that will be taken forward by the Judge Advocate General as appropriate. V'Airu: We don't anticipate that to be the case. This was said with a pointed glance at both counselors Ress jumped in immediately. Prosecutor: Commodore with all due respect if I am the prosecutor and she ::gesturing:: is the advocate, I must ask you to remain impartial. When you say "We don't anticipate that to be the case." it sounds as if you have made up your mind about the Major's actions in advance. :: gruffly:: This is a warning, but if needed I can find a more impartial 3rd party to conduct these proceedings. ::calmly:: Let us all proceed with an open mind. Greaves: Responses Renora: And my role is to advise you on legal matters and legislation, ensure that you are given the opportunity to speak fully and clearly and that your rights, as an individual, are respected. Ress: ::smiling:: Still here to listen. Greaves: Responses Thus preempted, Ossa waited a few moments for silence, and then asked her first question. V'Airu: You were ultimately able to retain command of the Thor, even once it crashed on Okaea. However. You made the decision to order full evacuation prior to deorbiting. Why? Ress immediately jumped over the Commodore's question. Ress: Before we get to that Commodore, for the record I want to make sure we are all clear on what happened at Okaea. The USS Thor was ambushed by some very savy pirates who not only injured Commodore Aron Kells, but who also caused the Thor to crash land in the Okaea ocean. While not a total loss the USS Thor will need a lengthy rehabilitation. While under Major Greaves command 120 individuals lost their lives and a further 200 were injured, some severely. I don't say this to dredge up bad memories, but merely to make sure we all, for the record, understand the incident we are here to discuss. (beat) Now I would like to go back a bit further than the commodore and hear about your training Major Greaves. How long were you part of Starfleet Academy's command training program? V'Airu/Greaves/Renora: Responses Ress: ::sighing:: It is highly relevant. You see Major Greaves is wearing a Marine green uniform, not Command red. Starfleet regulations are clear that command officers need to train in the command discipline and, for the record, I'd like to hear about Major Greaves command training. V'Airu/Greaves/Renora: Responses It wasn't the answer Ress had wanted, but perhaps a follow up would help the press see the man's motivation Ress: So you did attend Starfleet Academy (beat) after you spent some time in the Marines. A warrior first eh Major? ::smiling:: Very good. V'Airu/Greaves/Renora: Responses Ress: My apologies Commodore V'Airu for the digression, I simply wanted to (beat) capture all these facets. So Major, why did you make the decision to order full evacuation prior to deorbiting? V'Airu/Greaves/Renora: Responses Tags! and TBC! -- Lieutenant JG V’Len Kel Medical Officer USS Thor (NCC-82607) T239811VK2 He/Him (character and player)

I'm no good at this, so here's a picture. 😄

(( Holosuite 2, Deck 6, Main Hull, USS Oumuamua )) Isabelle made her way along the simulated corridors of the Okaea Research Outpost. She moved close to the walls, holding a phaser in front of her. A corner was up ahead, and as she approached she could hear the faint sound of voices. She pressed herself against the wall, and slowly poked her head around the corner. Two pirates were standing in the middle of the corridor, facing her direction, but were too distracted to notice her. She took a breath and stepped away from the wall. She held her phaser out in front of her, and with a quick step rounded the corner. Before they had time to react to her presence, she fired two shots in quick succession, the pirates falling to the floor. Isabelle continued past the unconscious bodies and was a few metres along the corridor when a door slid open beside her, and a pirate rushed out. Isabelle dropped her phaser, as the pirate shoved her up against the wall, pinning her with his elbow. She managed to land a punch in the pirate’s gut, the pirate staggering backwards. Isabelle leapt forwards, grabbing hold of the pirate’s jacket and with one swift move, brought her leg behind the pirate, sweeping his leg out from under him. The pirate dragged Isabelle down with him and managed to roll over, pinning her with his weight. Isabelle reached out, her fingers straining for the phaser as the pirate wrapped his thick fingers around her throat. Gasping and starting to feel light-headed, Isabelle just managed to reach the phaser and brought it up, striking the pirate on the head, causing him to fall sideways. Without hesitation, she fired at the pirate, his body slumping to the floor. Isabelle managed to push herself upright, her chest feeling tight. She had just regained her composure when another pirate appeared in the corner. Before she was able to stun them, they had got off a shot, striking Isabelle square in the chest. Basilia: Computer, restart simulation. A moment later, the bodies and her surroundings disappeared, and Isabelle found herself once again at the entrance to the Outpost, everything frozen around her. Basilia: Computer, begin simulation. In an instant, the scene was brought to life and she could hear the waves crashing against the outpost. Isabelle stepped forward, the large double doors sliding as she approached. The layout was different this time, the doors revealing a large central area with four corridors branching off. Isabelle picked a direction and began her walk into the outpost. A corner was up ahead, and as she approached she pressed herself against the wall, and slowly poked her head around the corner. Nothing. With her phaser ready, Isabelle rounded the corner and continued along the corridor, her eyes scanning around for any openings or places where a threat could lurk. Up ahead there was a small recess in the wall. As Isabelle neared it, two figures emerged from a door further ahead. She was about to fire when she realised they were civilians. She was about to call to them, when two more figures emerged, holding weapons. One of the pirates shoved the civilian forward. Although she had tried to conceal herself, she was spotted. The two pirates grabbed hold of the civilians and pressed their weapons against them. Their voice was a low growl as they spoke. Holo-Pirate One: Drop your weapon and come out slowly. Cautiously Isabelle stepped out, knowing she had no other option and didn’t want to risk the civilians. She held her phaser out to her side and dropped it to the floor. While the first pirate trained his weapon on her, the second pirate approached her. The pirate grabbed hold of Isabelle and pulled her towards the door they had emerged from. As the pirate shoved Isabelle into the room, one of the civilians seized the opportunity. They thrust an elbow into the first pirate’s stomach, the pirate staggering backwards with a grunt. The second pirate spun around to see what was happening, and Isabelle launched a foot square in the woman’s lower back, causing them to fall to the floor. Isabelle ran out of the room but was too late. The first pirate had regained their composure and fired at one the civilians, who crumpled to the floor. Basilia: Computer, restart simulation. Once again, the scene around her faded, replaced by the outpost’s entrance. Before she was able to give the next command, a doorway appeared beside her and a figure stepped through. Anyone: Response Isabelle nervously bit her lip, her cheeks reddening. Basilia: Oh, sorry, I didn’t realise. I completely lost track of time. Anyone: Response Basilia: Just trying to get in some extra training. Can never be too prepared. Isabelle had failed on her last mission. Many people got injured under her watch, something that was never supposed to happen. Something that she would do everything to prevent again. Anyone: Response Ensign Isabelle Basilia Security Officer USS Thor T239812IB4

OOC: Just loving the sauciness of the EMH and the character development that is blossoming here with V'Len. IC: EMH: I don't mean to distract from the problem at hand Counselor, however there seems to be some confusion here that needs to be addressed. Lieutenant Kel was CMO onboard the Thor, not the Oumuamua. Toz: I’m sure you’ve been preparing for this conversation, but now is not the time to stand your ground, doctor. Give us a little time. You won’t be left out, I assure you. This Doctor Toz was perceptive, and seemed to be trying to offer some assurance. The EMH had little value for verbal promises however, as she followed written guidelines and official orders. To her "not being left out" probably meant responding to emergency situations only. V’Len: ::softly:: Ok. Ok. ::sigh:: Do we need to discuss with V'Airu how the sickbay is organized? I'll admit to having some days when I'm full of energy and others when I'm exhausted, do we need to determine what to do in those cases. Brodie: Response EMH: Until I am ordered by Commodore V'Airu herself, I will not stop performing my duties as CMO aboard this ship. Frankly, from what I have heard so far on your last mission, the Thor's medical crew did not understand the saying "Help, or at least do no harm”. Toz: What? We have not caused harm, and we do understand the word help. V'Len: Yes I'd like an explanation. Our backs were against the wall and we saved a lot of lives. Perhaps you ought to put a sock in it? V'Len: oO Oh no that's exactly what I did to Greaves on the Thor. Darn it. Oo Brodie: Response EMH: First of all, watch your language while in my sickbay. Secondly, I understand you were in dire circumstances, but the use of unapproved fungi and alien water to treat crew members was beyond risk averse, it was just dangerously cavalier. You had no idea the danger you could have caused to your crewmates. It may have seemed like a good idea at the time, but my programming ensures that I will make the best medical decisions possible for the crew over an extended period of time. Toz: Then this report is accurate? ::waving the tricorder around:: You used the fungi and alien water as a treatment? And it worked? I’m thoroughly impressed, doctor. V’Len: Yes, it was excellent. The EMH watched as V'Len and Toz reached across the room to bump fists. They seemed to not understand her point. Without understanding the risks, sometimes you could do more damage to patients by not using studied, approved interventions. In her opinion, the fact that it had worked this one time for Lt. Kel was dangerous, as he might feel emboldened to take such action in the future. The next time it could cause casualties, and he would likely stand trial in that case. She would table this for now, as V'Len needed to be examined. V'Len: I'll make sure your name is on the publications. Brodie: Response Toz: Can we get on with the exam? Cussing and discussing isn’t getting us anywhere. V'Len: Well I think we're good here. Should I check back in a week? EMH: Lt. Kel, I still need to perform a full assessment of you, or as you indicated that you have a rapport with Doctor Toz, she will need to examine you. Rox: Dr. Kel are you going to tell them or should I? She gave a stern look towards Nurse Rox. The Nurse should be keeping her informed of everything going on related to sickbay. It would seem she was keeping some sort of secret for Lt. Kel. Toz/Brodie: Response V'Len: ::hesitantly:: I have been experiencing some anxiety that my cardiac inducer will stop working. Rox: I've found him sleeping in his office 3 of the last 6 nights. EMH: Lack of a good night's rest can further increase symptoms of anxiety. Lt. Kel, you should be sleeping in your quarters and keeping good sleep hygiene. Toz/Brodie: Response V'Len: Well it makes it easier to sleep. I can bring up the inducer on the monitor and see that it's still working and I know everything is fine. And if something does go wrong I'm right here in sickbay. EMH: Lt. Kel, even the cardiac technology of 21st century Earth medicine was quite reliable. Modern cardiac inducers are nearly 100% reliable. As I placed it in your body myself, I can assure you it was done exactly as the procedure should be performed. Toz/Brodie: Response V'Len: ::angrily:: Well of course I know modern cardiac inducers are nearly 100% reliable, but it's not in your chest it's in mine! The EMH watched as V'Len looked down at the floor. EMH: Lt. Kel, I don't think I need to remind you that I technically don't have a chest, or a heart. This allows me to remain objective in these types of situations. Toz/Brodie: Response V'Len: The truth is I don't feel much like V'Len Kel anymore. V'Len Kel was optimistic and energetic, he didn't sleep in his office or check his pulse to make sure he was still alive. I think V'Len Kel is gone (beat) I'm just not sure what's left. EMH: V'Len, usually at this point I would refer you to the Ship's Counselor. As he is standing right here, and you have requested Doctor Toz to care for you, I will respect that and return to my office. ::turning to Toz:: I will review your charting thoroughly, and if any assessments were missed you will be hearing from me. ::to Brodie:: It is my recommendation that Lieutenant Kel be removed from duty until his physical and mental condition can receive the proper assessment. Toz/Brodie: Response With that the EMH walked through the doors into her temporary office. She wasn't confident in her future aboard the ship, and the capabilities of the ex-Thor's medical staff to care for its crew. She was programmed to do her duty, and she could not do this if she was relegated back to emergency response only. She imagined it was like sleeping for non-holograms when she was turned off, although she did not dream. The EMH pondered if she was a different kind of being, would she feel scared about never being turned back on again? With that final thought, she pulled up the logs of the U.S.S. Voyagers Doctor and began to review them once again. End scene for 'Oumuamua EMH Mark IV 'Oumuamua EMH Mark IV Acting CMO USS 'Oumuamua T239902U11

I think that's the first time Alora's ever been considered creepy. 😄

@Wes Greaves, the Batman of Star Trek.

I'm at the mechanic reading this giggling out loud while hoping no one thinks I'm crazy!

Call now and you'll receive your own miniature model of Starbase 118 as a special thank you!

Awww, thank you!

Just so we're clear.

Honestly, that's probably what it will take.

Understatement of the year?

I don't need assigned quarters, she said. I'm going to look in the commercial district, she said. Be careful what you wish for. 😉 IC: ((Freedom Beach, Little Risa, StarBase 118)) The Commercial Sector of StarBase 118 reminded Aine of something she'd read about in ancient Earth history. The city on the North American continent named New York had once been referred to as The City That Never Sleeps. She'd never been there but imagined it was much like the cities she had been to. Sure there was always a vibrant nightlife, but for the most part the majority of a city just slept. The Commercial Sector wasn't like that at all. Some of her appointments to view apartments were even scheduled late into the night. Thankfully she didn't have anything else really going on and luckily this one was during the day. Her first appointment was set for a small highrise in Little Risa just off the beach. And by small it was still nearly as big as the resort she'd stayed in when she was on the actual Risa. As she approached the building, she was amazed how they'd gotten the environment to match so well. About the only thing that it might be missing was Risa's three moons. The lobby of the building was very typically Risian. Wide open with big leafed plants everywhere. A woman approached her dressed in what might be considered formal were it not for the very short skirt and very low collared shirt. And much like her short time on Risa, Aine felt overdressed in her typical leggings and flannel shirt. Keana: Hello! ::grabbing and hugging Aine:: You must be my 1500? Sherlock: Yes, ::reaching out to shake hands:: Lieut...um...Aine, I'm...Aine. Keana: It's lovely to meet you! The woman was overtly chipper and it caught Aine off guard. She had to remember that this was a civilian area of the station. Formality probably wasn't something they practiced much of, especially in Little Risa. Keana: Well, as you may have noticed, we have direct beach access. This building also has its own dining hall, complete with fully stocked bar. It has synthale if you prefer. Sherlock: Oh, no, I definitely prefer the real thing. Keana: Excellent! Keana's smile was huge. The kind of smile Aine was sure she practiced for every potential tenant. Keana: Within walking distance, there's many shops, bars, and specialty services ::giving Aine a wink::. You're never alone in Little Risa! Sherlock: Great. ::nodding her head slowly:: oOIs this for real?Oo Keana had led her to a lift which promptly took them up to the sixth floor. After a short walk down the hall and some small talk Aine was sure Keana practiced like her smile, they came to the apartment for rent. When the door swished open, there was a burst of cool air. Walking in, it seemed more like an extended stay resort room than anything else. Keana: You have your living space, kitchen with a replicator if you prefer not to cook, and a half bath. And over here, ::pushing Aine along with a hand in the small of her back:: Is your bedroom. And a wonderful master bath. This was one of the most important things to Aine, a water bath. It was something she always looked forward to when either the Resolution or the Excalibur came into dock. She always reserved a room on DeepSpace 224 just for that. Yeah a sonic shower got you clean, but there was nothing quite like laying back and soaking in steaming hot water to relax. The tub of this apartment looked like it could hold four people, not that she'd want to have three others with her in it. Keana: You also have two balconies overlooking the beach. ::leading Aine to the balcony of the master bedroom:: It's a wonderful view! The door slid open and the warm and slightly humid air rushed in as Aine stepped out to the railing. From here she could see Trinity City and Ashalla. And something else... Sherlock: ::pointing to a couple on the beach:: Um, what are they doing? Keana stepped up next to her to see what she was referencing. Keana: Oh! Jamaharon. Sherlock: Oh god! I...uh...need to go. Aine quickly turned and went back inside, and straight for the door. While the view and weather were great, she didn't feel comfortable with that happening right outside her door. It wasn't that she didn't understand, it just wasn't her thing to watch. Keana: ::yelling after Aine:: Well, let us know if you change your mind! tbc Lieutenant Aine Sherlock Tactical Officer StarBase 118 Ops R239712AS0

You beat me to it! Completely agreed on this, well done indeed!

((Corridor, New Dominion Battleship)) Their boarding mission was off to a rocky start, but nothing unexpected. Wes had anticipated resistance. They were trying to mitigate it some by quick aggressive action in multiple boarding parties. After all, dealing with three small incursions on a ship was harder than dealing with a single large one. To that end a squad of Marines was securing the ship's shuttle bay while another fire team was wreaking havoc elsewhere as a diversion. The Major's team was supposed to have beamed in near the prison cells, but precise placement left much to be desired. They'd arrived half a deck away and now they were threatened to be pinned down by the initial security response. The four Starfleet officers were clinging to what cover they could find in the mostly empty hall. Alcoves for doors, no more than several inches deep, had become a life line as several New Dominion personnel fired poloron weapons from down the corridor at least 50 meters away. To their credit, the small team was giving much more than they took. Phaser beams crossed haphazardly with the purple poloron blasts, and often times were finding their marks. The problem was the responding crew outnumbered the boarding team. Surprise was already lost and if they lost their aggressive offensive momentum they'd be cornered in no time. A thought their security officer obviously shared. Basilla: We need to move, continue towards the brig. We risk getting surrounded if we stay here. Kel: I have to concur, this is not an ideal situation. The woman was spot on in her assessment, and if the situations had been different Wes would have offered words of encouragement. This however wasn't training. They were in a real firefight, and disaster and death was inches away at every given moment. There was no time to plan. No time for unneeded words. Only action. The Marine Mk III-C phaser rifles were purpose designed for these types of fights. Unlike the standard Mk III, the designers had recognized that the men and women behind the rifle would likely be in situations in which a tricorder would be necessary but unwieldy. To that end they had integrated a purpose built tricorder to the rifle. It added to the heft of the weapon, and could only be read while looking down the sights, however it was perfect for situations like these. Like he had done a hundred times in training and on other operations, Wes keyed in the scanner, bringing up a small holographic display over and around his sights. Firing a rapid burst of three shots to get the security crew's heads down, he then brought up the ship's schematics to find what he was looking for. Greaves: There's another corridor that branches off to the left ten meters ahead. We need to press into their attack to reach it! Brodie: You get Kel ahead, I’ll follow and cover the rear. Basilla: I’ll provide covering fire. Isabelle leaned out, a flash of purple narrowly missing her and fizzing out in the wall beside her leaving a blackened scorch mark. She held up the phaser rifle and fired several shots in the direction of the Dominion crew, paused for a second and fired several more bursts. Basilla: Go. Brodie: ::To Basilia:: Follow as fast as you can. Wes never even heard Brodie's words of encouragement. Without even a glance, Wes obeyed Basilia's directive, his trust in the woman's judgement implicit. There wasn't time to second guess when the blasts of energy were being exchanged. You just had to accept that the other members of the team were doing their job in the moment. From his low crouch Wes exploded into motion, sprinting forward as Isabella's orange beams past down the hall to his left. Hugging the right bulkhead the Marine tried to keep her field of fire as open as possible. Her return fire was their life blood as the three of them moved forward to the entrance to the next corridor. Finally reaching the crossing point, a four way intersection of hallways, Wes shouted instructions for the others moving with him, not waiting to see if they were followed or not. Greaves: Brodie, clear right! Kel, clear left! The pirate crew had seen them moving through the open and suddenly had decided to brave Basilia's fire. Two of them, now just a couple dozen meters further down the corridor, popped out into firing positions and let loose a hasty stream of energy. He didn't have time to slow down as the Marine approached the branching corridors so he didn't. Instead, he slammed into the corner of the intersection at full speed, his shoulder making an uncomfortable crunch as his momentum carried him into the metal. The move may have saved his life however, as purple poloron blasts scorched the bulkhead where he would have been had he slowed to a stop. Dropping back into a crouch, Wes leaned out from his new place of cover and snapped off a rapid series of shots, trying to pin the pirates back into the cover they'd left. By the sounds of it, he wasn't the only one fighting for his life. Sounds of a struggle were clear to both of his sides and behind him as Kel and Brodie covered the other two corners in the four way intersection. Heavy breathing and the sound of a sickly crunch of metal on flesh came from one end while a rapid series of phaser blasts came from the other. Every fiber of his being demanded the Marine turn to help his comrades who we're obviously fighting their own battles, but the firefight to his front was more important. If his fire slackened it would give the pirates enough freedom to train their sights back down the corridor again, where Ensign Basilia was sprinting toward them, completely exposed. Wes just had to trust that they could handle themselves for the precious seconds it would take Basilia to join them. Fortunately, Kel's voice offered some early assurance that he could handle himself. Kel: All clear here. Greaves: Basilia, I'll cover for you. Move! Basilia: Response Brodie: ::Shouting:: I’ve got something to buy some time – Izy…when you see the smoke – run! A hint of relief washed over the Marine at the sound of Brodie's voice. Even as he confirmed the Lieutenant Commander was still in fighting shape, he leaned out into the hall once again, firing off a half dozen controlled blasts to pin down the pirates once again. More than that Wes could hear someone prepping something metal behind him, which he could only guess was some kind of smoke grenade given the Counselor's comment. Kel: What smoke? Greaves: No time. Longer we're here the worse it's gonna get. Just keep covering and bounding. From a dozen meters down the hall, just past a slight curve in the corridor, Wes saw movement. The ship's crew had gotten reinforcements and it looked like they were preparing to rush their position. Given time, it would be disasterous for Basilia, and if the timing was bad enough, it'd make Brodie an easy target as well. Wes's answer to the increasing resistance was one drilled into him since Marine Corps boot camp so many years ago. Aggressive offensive action. Standing quickly and stepping fully into the corridor, Wes layed down an intense series of phaser blasts, no more than a quarter second between shots. At this close of range, the only thing to distrub his aim was the steps he took and the action of squeezing the trigger, both actions of which he was deliberatly and excellently drilled in. The bright orange energy plowed into the walls and doorframes the pirates were using for cover and sent several scurrying deeper down the hall. It was enough for the Marine to cross the intersection to the far side and gain a better firing position. Brodie: Gas out! Kel: oOGas?Oo Basilia: Response Once set on the far side however, he realized that Lieutenant Kel had followed him on the hazardous move. Brodie on the other hand took the opportunity to toss something around the corner, cannoning it off the curvature of the wall, and then a long slow hiss began. Fortunately the heavy sounds of running footfalls signaled Basilia's approach, and then all at once the team was back together. Brodie: Run! The hallway in the direction of the ship's crew had filled with smoke at an alarming rate, completely obscuring his field of fire. The effect worked both ways however, and at least for the moment, they had plenty of concealment. With the team back together, Wes took a hard left down the hall. From the schematics he knew this would circle around behind where the pirates had been pushing them from. More importantly, they were less than a hundred meters from the brig. Taking off at a hard jog, the Marine led the way, rifle at the ready but swinging widly from side to side at the force of the run. Greaves: Fifty meters this way and we'll circle behind them. Hurry, before the smoke dies down! Basilia: Response Kel: What was that? Brodie: Anesthizine…mixed with an opaque smoke. They can’t see through it…and if they try and walk through it...they’ll not make it five steps. The small group ate up the distance quickly. His heavy gear slowed down their movement significantly, but Wes was glad to have it. Especially with him up front. If he took a shot from someone laying in wait it just might save his life. Greaves: Not a bad trick Commander. Basilia: Response Kel: So we're doing chemical weapons now? Brodie: I’m not really a fighter…so I like to make sure I have a few tricks to keep things even. That was a mild option….so it won’t hold them for long before they regroup. Their collective breathing was labored from the exertion, but Wes was confident in how they were faring so far. They'd survived two firefights already, and the team was obviously still in high spirits. There wouldn't be so much talking if things were truly dire. Now they just needed to get to the brig and get the Commodore out. They could do this. As the team continued to run along the slightly curving auxiliary corridor they passed several dozen doors leading into other compartments as well as a few branching hallways. Glancing between is rifle sights, the holographic tricroder scan, and the corridor in front of him, the XO did his best to manage the flood of information his body was taking in while maintaining the fastest reaction time he could. The curving corridor was about to link back up with the hall they had started in, and by his assessment of the blueprints, they would pop out just a few meters behind where the Commander's smoke grenade had gone off. At least two minutes had gone by while they ran, and he hoped the smoke had dissipated. As they approached the intersection that was thankfully confirmed. A dozen humanoid bodies lay motionless, scattered about the corridor, knocked unconscious from the gas or phaser hits. Movement however caught his eye and the Marine immediately threw himself against the bulkhead bringing his rifle to bear. The action quickly proved unnecessary however as his sights came across a humanoid man seizing on the ground. Kel: Stop. Wait. This man needs help. Greaves: (Shaking his head and glancing further down the hall) Negative. We need to keep moving before more security show up. Basilia/Brodie: Response Wes took his eyes off the corridor long enough to meet Kel's gaze. It was obvious the Doctor felt strongly about the issue, and the moment Wes feared had come to pass. The Doctor had failed to immediately and instantly obey one of his orders. The hesitation was enough. Arguing would take longer than just dealing with the wounded man. Wearing a severe look, the Marine motioned the doctor toward the injured on the ground. It was the wrong decision to wait here, but he'd just have to hope it didn't bite them in the ass. Kel bent over the man with his tricorder and then holstered his weapon. He took out his hypospray. Kel: Just give me a minute, this man could hurt himself further, I can give him a sedative and we can be on our way. OOC - I think there was a slight mixup/copy paste error in the the tags for me so I smoothed over the wrinkle here. Sorry for any discontinuity! Greaves: 60 seconds Doc. No more. (Looking to Basilia) Ensign, help me cover the hall. Counselor, cover our rear. Brodie/Basilia: Response Kel frowned but turned back to his work. The seizure was intesne and it looked like V'Len was having trouble getting the hypospray administered. Wes turned his eyes back down the most likely place for a threat to pop out, rifle at the ready. Kel: Just relax sir I'm only trying to help. The hypospray finally fell in position but just as Kel pressed the release the man's hand shot up into his chest. A croaking gasp exited his lungs. Kel: ::Gasp:: The sound of something wet smacking against flesh followed by Kel's strained gasp delivered another shot of adreline to Wes's brain. His eyes snapped back to the Doctor to find Kel struggling above the now motionless crewman. The Doctor appeared to be waivering, barely keeping himself in a crouch, let alone standing up. Slowly, V'Len pushed himself against the wall and reached up to his chest. Even in the dim alert lighting of the vessel the Marine recognized the dark stain of blood on Kel's hands and chest. And a gore soaked knife held in the motionless crewman's hand. Kel: oO Greaves is going to kill me. Oo ::softly:: Commander could you assist me. Brodie/Basilia: Response Time slowed as the team collapsed on V'Len, trying to determine the extent of his injuries. Wes however stayed exactly where he was, several feet away and watching down the corridor. The way V'Len moved. They way his words came in gasps and the blood poured down his uniform. The wound was immensely serious. Worse yet, he could hear the sound of running from behind them. More of the crew were responding. This time from the direction they had come from. Greaves: We need to move. Now. Brig is Thirty more meters down the hall. Lieutenant, can you move? Kel tried once again to push himself up but this time he only succeeded in leaning off the wall and slumping down on his back on the floor. That answered that. Finally tearing himself from an overwatch position the Marine stepped toward the fallen Trilldorian and grabbed both Isabella and Alex's arms. Greaves: We're out of time. When that security team finds us we have to be some place defensible. The brig is our best bet. We'll have to stabilize him after we move. Basilia/Brodie: Responses Greaves: (Directing the woman down the hall) Ensign, blocking position. Now. Buy me 30 seconds. (Directing the counselor the other direction) Alex, cover the direction toward the brig. We're moving soon. Brodie/Basilia: Response Greaves: I understand. Trust me. Brodie/Basilia: Response With steel in his eyes the Marine looked from one to the other, then released his hold on their arms, letting them free. Without waiting to supervise their movements Wes knelt down directly in front of Kel, his rifle hanging loosely by a sling about his shoulders and the muzzle faintly scraping the metal deck plating. For a few seconds, his gaze stared directly into the Doctor's eyes, not for a second drifting to the slightly pulsating knife wound near where the Trilldorian's heart should be. His face was close enough to V'Len's to feel the haggard breathing from the wounded doctor. Greaves: (Quiet, deathly serious, tone) Lieutenant, listen to me closely. You are going to take your right hand and apply pressure to your wound. You are going to stand the hell up right now and run down that corridor, and when we get to the brig you are going to point to the anti-coagulant in your medkit and we're going to get you out of here. And do you know what happens if you don't? Kel: Response The sound of running feet was getting closer and Wes hoped that they had a few more seconds before the corridor erupted in a firefight again. Moreso, he hoped Isabella was ready to give them hell. Greaves: If you don't that means one of is going to pick you the hell up and carry you. You and I both know that means we're going to have one less gun in the fight and it can aggravate that injury. So, I'm going to say it one more time. Brodie/Basilia: Response Greaves: (Shouting but not breaking eye contact with Kel) I need twenty more seconds! (Quietly back to Kel) Stand. Up. Kel: Response Brodie/Basilia: Response OOC - Don, if you get a chance, let us know OOC how badly you want to be hurt and if you want us to carry you or not! Tags/TBC ========================= Major Wes Greaves Executive Officer Marine Detachment Commander USS Thor - NCC 82607 E239702WG0 =========================

Yes, please, ask the man who's going to kill you for assistance.

They do have a talent for that.

I agree!

((Ghemor Memorial Hospital, Andak, Cardassia Prime)) There were many aspects of Cardassia that had drawn Arys in, intrigued and fascinated her, and made her feel right at home. The larger cities were brimming with life, a fusion of Cardassian and Federation influence that kept the homesickness at bay, and yet sated her hunger for new experiences. The smaller villages were less cosmopolitan and more intimate, and much like the Cardassian community back on Starbase 118, offering artisan specialties and a glimpse into how old traditions could enrich new culture. Lukin’s home was located in the outskirts of Andak, and Arys never tired of admiring the the mountains that rose from the north and the west, and how the black rock glittered in the Cardassian sun. But then there were the harsh realities that came to light if one knew what to look for, and suddenly Cardassia was once more an alien planet, and so very different from the Federation. Arys had learned this the hard way when Geleth was in need of medical attention, and when the called emergency skimmer did not arrive because, as an orphan, her priority was not high enough. Arys had decided to cheat the system and used her own ID bracelet to indicate an emergency, and eventually Geleth had received the care she needed, but only as far as her priority allowed. Lukin, Arys knew, had a meeting with Ferri and would return home late. She had found her own solution for the problem, and she wasn’t quite sure into how much trouble she had gotten herself with it. Nurse: Here is her room. The Cardassian halted in front of a hospital room, and the door promptly opened. Arys stepped inside, and decided then and there that she had made the right choice. The walls were pale but not sterile, and the lighting was less harsh that that of the rooms low-priority patients were kept in. A large window offered different settings and currently allowed a view on the Cardassian sunset, and a holoemitter allowed for entertainment if it was wished for. An adjustable hospital bed stood in the middle of the room, and between comfortable looking sheets of the standard grey fabric, Geleth was sleeping. The girl has been sedated when Rishon had discovered a growth in the girls lung, and decided that a sample was needed. Arys walked over to Geleth, pulling a chair to the side of the girl’s bed, and taking her hand. She looked pale, more pale than usual, and while she had access to Geleth’s medical file and was thus informed about the treatment plan, she still worried. And she wasn’t just worried about Geleth. Arys had, strictly seen, broken the law when she had used her own emergency beacon to call for help. She could claim that she didn’t *know* any better, had assumed that Geleth’s was broken, and perhaps people would believe her. What was a lot more difficult to explain away however was how she had essentially bribed a stressed and overworked head of Paediatrics to grant her privileges. When Doctor Ganra had taken Geleth away, Arys had - true to her word - sought out the interns superior. He had turned out to be a middle-aged Cardassian who was head of an understaffed department and hadn’t slept in days, and had stopped just short of hugging Arys when she had offered her help in exchange for an increase in priority for Geleth. And now? Now she was, apparently, working in a Cardassian hospital, and needed to figure out a way to explain Lukin why that was the case. No matter. She sighed and reached for Geleth’s hand. To say that she loved the girl was perhaps a little early, but she was her brother’s daughter. That made her family. And Arys had failed her father and grandfather, and she wouldn’t fail Geleth. ***************** Lt. J.G. Trovek Arys Medical Officer Starbase 118 Ops J239809TA4