ST:TTV506 | "The Guild"

Stardate 97086.1

With the situation on the mining colony settled, the Valley Forge proceeds to investigate another of the scouted star systems only to find a planet reminiscent of the previously visited 'Underworld'.

While Captain Vix & her KDF crew take point on talks with the dominant faction on the planet, an unexpected turn of events draws T'Quila even further away from her studies back on the Valley Forge...

---

View Act I - T'Quila & Tiah

T'Quila@crystyll FX | It's the late shift on the bridge. Kelly - taking the shift to rack up her command time - has the conn NPC@annpc#5570 | Kelly taps away at her usual station. T'Quila@crystyll is on duty and likely combining her work with her studies NPC@annpc#5570 | Kelly idly monitors ship systems status while she keeps an eye on the bridge (and an ear out for any ongoing conversations) T'Quila@crystyll sighs wearily, rubbing her eyes NPC@annpc#5570 | Kelly glances over to TQ as she notices her rubbing her eyes, "Tired, Chief?" T'Quila@crystyll groans, "Hm? Oh, no Commander. Sorry, it's just..." she sighs, "...I'm just reviewing the bridge officer studies and it's so much to take in..." NPC@annpc#5570 | Kelly nods, "It's quite a bit to learn, yes. But you already have experience working on the bridge. That should be at least somewhat helpful." T'Quila@crystyll: "I thought so too! But I had failed to account for how much of all shipwide operations you have to understand. How do you remember all of this?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Kelly: "It's harder at first when you're studying, over time you just...know things out of familiarity. I suppose coming from theoretical physics, all this wasn't so much for me to memorize..." T'Quila@crystyll: "I feel like I should know a lot of this stuff already. It's mainly all the policy and procedure around it all, I guess I never really thought so much on that side of things before" NPC@annpc#5570 | Kelly: "Since you learned a lot of this by experience instead of studying, you might already know what to do subconsciously from seeing everyone around you, but you just don't know what the - NPC@annpc#5570: - actual rules are." T'Quila@crystyll: "And as useful as that may be in the real world, it does not help pass exams I fear..." NPC@annpc#5570 | Kelly nods, "That's the problem with exams. I never had issue myself, due to coming from an academic background like I said, but I know there were a lot of talented cadets who struggle with - NPC@annpc#5570: - these things." T'Quila@crystyll groans lightly and slumps her chin into her hand, elbow rested on the console as she continues to read NPC@annpc#5570 | Kelly: "It might be helpful to take a break once in a while too, you know..." T'Quila@crystyll: "That's the thing. Since Tiah arrived, my off duty hours are kind of monopolized by her now. So studying becomes less achievable then. I though perhaps I could squeeze some in while covering the late+ T'Quila@crystyll: + shift up here, but it's no easier to concentrate when I have a job to do" NPC@annpc#5570 | Kelly smirks, "Monopolized, in a good way?" T'Quila@crystyll flushes a deep green, "You could say that, yeah..." her tone taking a distinctly dreamy turn NPC@annpc#5570 | Kelly chuckles, "Then that in itself should be a good break! Just make sure you have a bit of time set out for other things as well." T'Quila@crystyll: "You attended the academy on Earth, was it?" T'Quila@crystyll totally isn't changing the topic on purpose NPC@annpc#5570 | Kelly: "I did. And all the other Cadets always told me it was easy for me to talk about managing time because I didn't need anywhere near as much sleep as they do..." T'Quila@crystyll smiles, "That certainly is a Denobulan advantage" T'Quila@crystyll | Silvestrie: "I hate to interrupt Commander, but I have team reporting that they are responding to a disturbance... Deck 16, section 21" T'Quila@crystyll | Silvestrie slowly looks up from his screen and across to TQ, "...T'Quila's quarters..." NPC@annpc#5570 | Kelly: "Is...that going to be Tiah up to something?" T'Quila@crystyll looks up with a startle to Silvestrie, turning to Kelly, "Permission to leave the bridge, Commander?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Kelly nods, "Go ahead. Probably best for you to check out this situation." T'Quila@crystyll: "Thank you, Commander. Silver, please ask your team to wait for me. If something is wrong I don't want to scare her..." T'Quila@crystyll | Silvestrie nods, "Sure thing, Tee" NPC@annpc#5570 and Crewman Trac wait for TQ on the deck near her quarters. T'Quila@crystyll exits the turbolift nearest her quarters and hurries along to meet the security folks NPC@annpc#5570 nods to TQ as she approaches, "Chief. We were sent here on report of a disturbance in your quarters." T'Quila@crystyll: "Hey, Nish..." she peers around the corner with a wince at the sounds coming from the door. Like a heavy impacts every few seconds, mixed with sounds of general ruccus T'Quila@crystyll: "What the hell is going on in there...?" NPC@annpc#5570 glances over as well, "I'm not sure, we were told to hold until you got here. I thought you might know..." T'Quila@crystyll shakes her head absently, "I wish I did... alright, I'm going in..." NPC@annpc#5570: "I think one of us should go in first." NPC@annpc#5570: "Just in case. That's Security's job, after all." T'Quila@crystyll: "I don't want to risk frightening her if something is wrong though?" NPC@annpc#5570: "I suppose that makes sense. Give us a shout if you need help." T'Quila@crystyll: "Trust me, you'll hear. Just be ready, only please... don't hurt her. Whatever is wrong, I am certain she does not mean to hurt anyone" T'Quila@crystyll mutters, "...I hope..." NPC@annpc#5570 nods, "We won't hurt her, I promise." T'Quila@crystyll gingerly moves to open the door. As it hisses open she peers in, "Tia-... woah!" she jumps back as ball of reddish energy flies past her and impacts the wall opposite NPC@annpc#5570 | The Crewman sets a hand on his phaser nervously, but Nishaa shakes her head and motions to TQ, indicating to the Crewman to let her try talking first. T'Quila@crystyll: "Tiah...?" she offers, hesitantly peering around the doorframe T'Quila@crystyll FX | Tiah is indeed inside, pacing the room ferociously - desperately even - like a caged animal. Her tails twirl and flick back and forth with sharp movements T'Quila@crystyll FX | Tiah paces a little more and red sparks between to form between the tips of her tails before she turns - letting out a yell - and jumping in the air, unleashing the energy in another ball + T'Quila@crystyll: + towards the door. Only she stops herself short of launching the attack on the poor door when she spots TQ NPC@annpc#5570 takes a step back as she sees the red sparks. T'Quila@crystyll | Tiah pants uncontrollably and though she resists hurling the energy, she resumes pacing T'Quila@crystyll steps further into the room at that, "Tiah, what's wrong? Please... you're scaring me" T'Quila@crystyll | Tiah mumbles through heavy panting as she paces, "Too tight... no air... no sky... nothing lives..." she turns to TQ, "This place is dead, Tiah does not know what to do!" NPC@annpc#5570 carefully steps up behind TQ, remaining outside the door but ready to pull TQ out if needed. T'Quila@crystyll edges her way closer, "Tiah, I don't understand... Please, help me know what is wrong" T'Quila@crystyll | Tiah continues her pacing and mumbling, almost unaware of TQ T'Quila@crystyll looks back to the others with a confused expression, "Any ideas...?" NPC@annpc#5570 replies quietly, trying not to startle Tiah or even get her attention, "I think she means our environments are too...unnatural? Not enough natural environment for her, maybe." NPC@annpc#5570: "I've heard some visitors talk about how sterile Starfleet ships are..." T'Quila@crystyll nods, "Tiah, is that what is wrong? You need to be around nature?" T'Quila@crystyll | Tiah stops pacing and stomps over TQ, grabbing her tightly. Her eyes wide and ears upright & alert, she looks almost scared T'Quila@crystyll: | Tiah: "Nature... yes. Tiah craves the real world..." her eyes water, looking almost pained as she pulls herself against TQ trying to fight this instinct NPC@annpc#5570 takes a step forward, looking to TQ, "Have you taken her to a holodeck yet? I'm not sure if simulated environments will be enough, or if she needs to actually be planetside..." T'Quila@crystyll: "I did actually, I though she might enjoy it - and she did - but I think that was just because it was time spent together. She must be going stir crazy cooped up in my quarters all the time I'm on + T'Quila@crystyll: + duty..." NPC@annpc#5570: "Does the Captain not allow her to wander the ship at all?" T'Quila@crystyll: "She is allowed..." looks to Tiah, "You know you don't have to stay in here, right?" T'Quila@crystyll | Tiah nods, "But Tiah has no purpose without Quila. Nowhere real to enjoy without her" NPC@annpc#5570 looks to Tiah, "So, you'll be fine without nature...as long as you're with T'Quila?" T'Quila@crystyll | Tiah nods, "When Tiah is with Quila nothing else matters. But when Tiah is alone, she feels the lifelessness of this place" NPC@annpc#5570: "What about mingling with other people on board? Socializing in the lounges or something?" T'Quila@crystyll: | Tiah's ears flit back and forth curiously, "But Tiah is for Quila?" NPC@annpc#5570: "You can still spend time with other people. It might help the ship feel more lively. That's how a lot of people spend their spare time on the ship." T'Quila@crystyll: "Tiah, you can't just stay cooped up in here waiting for me to finish my shifts every day" T'Quila@crystyll: | Tiah: "But what is the purpose? More strange faces does not make this place not dead" T'Quila@crystyll: "I suppose just hanging around social hubs would get tedious after a while after doing it every day..." NPC@annpc#5570: "Well, everyone tends to have other hobbies aside from just socializing with friends, too." T'Quila@crystyll: "That's it! Tiah, we need to find a hobby - an interest - something you can enjoy when I'm not here, something to make your own!" T'Quila@crystyll | Tiah's ears go away, accompanied by a curious tilt of her head, "Tiah does not understand..." NPC@annpc#5570: "You probably don't even know what you'd enjoy doing until you try it. I think you should try new things, and see what you like." NPC@annpc#5570: "Maybe that's learning about everyone on the ship, or stargazing, or...maybe helping out with the botanists since you like nature." T'Quila@crystyll: "And I think I know just where to start. Come on Tiah, you'll enjoy this I'm sure!" T'Quila@crystyll | Tiah brightens, tails swaying optimistically T'Quila@crystyll looks to Nishaa, "Perhaps you should both accompany us for the moment. Just until we know things are settled..." NPC@annpc#5570 nods, "Sure thing." She peers into the quarters, "Do we need engineering in here, or is it mostly superficial?" T'Quila@crystyll glances back and smiles, "Nothing a little TLC can't remedy. We'll be fine, thanks. Come on then!" she takes Tiah's hands and encourages her along NPC@annpc#5570 and Crewman Trac follows. T'Quila@crystyll | They squeeze into the turbolift, all being swatted by excited tails in the confined space... NPC@annpc#5570 backs into the side and tries to avoid the tails. T'Quila@crystyll | They may have been avoidable in the corridor, but in here there is no escape NPC@annpc#5570 sighs and bears with the constant tail attacks. T'Quila@crystyll laughs, "Tiah, we really must find a way to keep those things in check" T'Quila@crystyll | Tiah looks around innocently, "What things?" NPC@annpc#5570: "Pretty sure she means the tails..." T'Quila@crystyll eyerolls, brushing a fluffy white tail from her cheek, "/Those/ things!" and laughs again T'Quila@crystyll | Tiah: "Oh!" she giggles, "This is another problem with confined dead place... Real world has no such concerns!" She hrms a moment and concentrates. The tails wrap around each other and intertwine + T'Quila@crystyll: + into one big bushy tail, "There!" she beams proudly NPC@annpc#5570 chuckles, "That's better." T'Quila@crystyll: "Impressive! Don't feel bad about it though, I don't think anyone really finds them offensive or anything. Just, with so many they can get a little... intrusive" T'Quila@crystyll | Tiah smiles sweetly, "Tiah understands, don't worry! Tiah will try to keep them under control when around other people. It's not like they are all needed so much with this bipedal form anyway!" T'Quila@crystyll FX | Exiting the turbolift after travelling down a few decks, they proceed through a few more corridors NPC@annpc#5570: "Where are we headed to?" T'Quila@crystyll: "You'll see, I want it to be a surprise for her!" T'Quila@crystyll: "So I guess when you were a pure vulpine, the tails served more of a purpose?" NPC@annpc#5570 follows along curiously. T'Quila@crystyll | Tiah smiles and nods, "Definitely! Tiah still finds it strange to comprehend how bipedals remain balanced without them!" T'Quila@crystyll approaches the door to what the others would recognize as the arboretum NPC@annpc#5570 smiles upon seeing the door, "I thought you might choose to come here." T'Quila@crystyll | As they draw nearer, Tiah sense something; ears picking up and she sniffs the air, looking to TQ Wide eyed, "...life?" T'Quila@crystyll smiles, opening the door, "Yes Tiah... life!" T'Quila@crystyll | Tiah turns to the opening door, eyes widening further still and jaw hanging agape, she tenses like a coiled spring but pauses and looks to TQ, "Is Tiah permitted...?" NPC@annpc#5570: "You won't...eat the plants or anything, right?" T'Quila@crystyll smiles, "Yes Tiah! Go, enjoy! Just... try not hurl any of those energy things in here. I'll really get it in the neck if anything gets damaged..." NPC@annpc#5570: "Or that!" T'Quila@crystyll | Tiah beams with glee, "Tiah will never hurt nature!" and giggling a little, "Tiah is also not a herbivore. Tiah just wants... to play!" T'Quila@crystyll FX | With that, she bounds forwards with remarkable agility, tails spreading as she runs and jumps around the arboretum, dancing around the exotic flora and taking in all the new sights and scents T'Quila@crystyll stands in the doorway, watching, "This might be premature, but I think we have found a new favourite place for her..." NPC@annpc#5570 chuckles as she follows TQ to the doorway, "I thought she might like it too." T'Quila@crystyll: "I still like your idea of finding her something... constructive, to invest herself in though" NPC@annpc#5570: "Maybe you can talk to the botanists, have them teach her how to care for the plants. That way she can spend time in here and be helpful rather than getting in the way of anyone working inside." T'Quila@crystyll: "I think she maybe still doesn't comprehend the idea as such things never played a part of her former life or something. But now she is humanoid, that will be a part of her" T'Quila@crystyll smiles, "An excellent idea Nishaa!" T'Quila@crystyll idly watches Tiah playing as they talk, but frown a little as she disappears from view, "Where did she-..." NPC@annpc#5570 smiles back, "It should be a good way to introduce her. She might find other hobbies as she goes, or end up being a full time bota-" she pauses as TQ loses sight of Tiah and realizes she has as well. T'Quila@crystyll looks up at the rustling of distant treetops (this place is 3-4 decks high and covering a large footprint of the engineering section!) NPC@annpc#5570 follows TQ's gaze up... T'Quila@crystyll | Tiah is leaping between the trees! Her tails spreading to almost give the impression of gliding, though it's likely more a feat of agility. That or her mental power are more developed than anyone + T'Quila@crystyll: + thought... T'Quila@crystyll: "Well I'll be damned. Is she...?" NPC@annpc#5570 chuckles, "She really looks at home here..." NPC@annpc#5570: "Maybe we should move her quarters here...or does she just use yours?" T'Quila@crystyll: "She was assigned her own but... yeah, she kind of made my place her own from day one too..." T'Quila@crystyll | Tiah continues before dropping to a graceful landing in front of the others, "This place is beyond words! A pocket of life among all the death!" NPC@annpc#5570 smiles, "I'm glad you like it." T'Quila@crystyll: "As am I, Tiah. And a little relieved... do you think having this place to come to will help?" T'Quila@crystyll | Tiah beams happily and nods, "Tiah can come here when Quila has to work!" T'Quila@crystyll chuckles, "I'll take that as a yes then. Thank you Nishaa, I think the situation is in hand now" T'Quila@crystyll | Tiah takes TQ's hand and tugs her along, eager to show her all that she has discovered in the small paradise, "Come on, you have to see too!" NPC@annpc#5570 nods and watches as Tiah drags TQ inside, "You two have fun!" T'Quila@crystyll: "Just a little to make sure you will be ok here... I still have a duty shift to get back to. Nish, tell the bridge I'll be back as soon as I can!" her voice trails off as she is dragged away NPC@annpc#5570 chuckles, "Will do, Tee!"

View Act II - Gwi's Debrief

Gwi@annpc#5570 FX | Gwi and his team had the most eventful experience, but they were not the only team to discover a civilization among the potentially habitable worlds identified by the stellar cartography - Gwi@annpc#5570 - department. One of the other teams also detected signs of civilization but did not make contact and returned to the Valley Forge after a quiet trip. Gwi@annpc#5570 | Once the business on Volstak is finished and the Lupan and miners seem largely settled, the ship has set out towards this other world while Gwi briefs Keelah on their findings from Volstak. Gwi@annpc#5570 sets a PADD on the table. It displays a rotating image of a Preserver starchart, "This is the Preserver map from the ruins. And..." He taps on the PADD... Gwi@annpc#5570 | The image transforms into a comphrensible Starfleet format displaying star systems and stellar phenomena. But there are also icons across the map that don't look like stars or stellar bodies, - Gwi@annpc#5570 - and various lines coming from them that are drawn across the map. Gwi@annpc#5570: ((Something like this: https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/memoryalpha/images/e/ef/Chintoka_tactical_map.jpg/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/340?cb=20070206054204&path-prefix=en)) Gwi@annpc#5570: "What does that look like to you, Captain?" Keelah@crystyll perks a brow, curiously observing the image, "It is gratifying to see that astrometrics were able to translate the data into our charts" Keelah@crystyll spins the PADD, looking at it from different directions, "It almost looks like... a deployment strategy?" Gwi@annpc#5570 smiles, "It took a lot of work, and prodding the Lupan Priestess for translation." Gwi@annpc#5570: "And yes, we believe from this map and other elements found in the ruins that this was a Preserver military base. Of course, as with all things archaeology, there is a lot of guesswork and - Gwi@annpc#5570: - counter-theories." Keelah@crystyll: "Do we have any theories on the relevance of the movements shown here?" Gwi@annpc#5570: "Not yet. I've asked Tactical to look into it. But Commander Lendaria did manage a rough translation of some of the Preserver symbols." Keelah@crystyll leans back, holding focus on Gwi, "And what did she find?" Gwi@annpc#5570 points to the symbol inside one of the icons, "That one translates to the Preserver word for First-Born," he points to a different symbol, "And that we can partially translate to mean synthetic - Gwi@annpc#5570 - life ship." Keelah@crystyll: "The Nuhar?" Gwi@annpc#5570 nods, "We believe so. There are other symbols we cannot translate either, but Professor Lycas made an interesting observation from one of them." Keelah@crystyll: "Oh?" Gwi@annpc#5570 points to a symbol which appears to be three diagonal lines, then takes back the PADD and taps on it before turning it back to Keelah. It shows the Lupan Priestess, her red fur unmistakable. Gwi@annpc#5570 taps again and the image zooms in on a necklace around her neck. It is adorned with what seem to be a ring of teeth, of various sizes and likely extracted from dead creatures or even other Lupan. - Gwi@annpc#5570 - The centrepiece of the necklace however, is a circular carved stone with a similar symbol in the centre. Gwi@annpc#5570: "It could be a coincidence, it's a simple enough sign to come up with. But given the Priestess' worship of the Preservers, I doubt that's the case." Keelah@crystyll: "I don't suppose she was so forthcoming about it?" Gwi@annpc#5570: "She said it was the symbol of the Sisterhood, but incorporated into a variety of other iconography. From her explanation, it seems comparable to the Vulcan IDIC, or the crucifix in certain Earth - Gwi@annpc#5570: - cultures. As for its origins, she only said it was given to them by the gods and refused to elaborate further." Keelah@crystyll: "Interesting..." she continues to study the map and iconography Keelah@crystyll: "Where does this starmap plot to in relation to our current position?" Gwi@annpc#5570 | Keelah would note from the deployment patterns that whoever used the three-line symbol made up a significant part of the forces in play and were clearly supporting the Nuhar and First-Born forces. Gwi@annpc#5570: "It seems to cover this sector and several we've already passed through. It has some new information, but mostly just helps us compare what we already have." Keelah@crystyll: "At least the local relevance is there to be pursued if we find anything more. I would like to find out more about this three-lined symbol and those it represents... and of these 'First-Born', do we + Keelah@crystyll: + have any working theory on who they might be?" Gwi@annpc#5570: "There's a few theories we have on that, but nothing conclusive. It might be prudent to bring up this map the next time we encounter a Nuhar construct." Gwi@annpc#5570: "I suppose they might understand these symbols better than we do. Who knows, maybe some of them were part of these deployments." Keelah@crystyll: "Indeed. In the mean time... let Cadet Tierno give it a look over, I recall my husband telling me she quite the penchat for analyzing fleet deployments and strategies" Keelah@crystyll: "And given the nature of the Nuhar, that would not surprise me" Gwi@annpc#5570 FX | The intercomm in the ready room sounds. Keelah@crystyll taps the panel, "Go ahead" Gwi@annpc#5570: <C - Fisher> "Captain, we'll be arriving at the outskirts of the system in five minutes." Keelah@crystyll: <C> Thank you Lieutenant Keelah@crystyll looks across to Gwi, "Well if there is nothing further, it is time for us to start a new exploration" she smiles Gwi@annpc#5570 smiles back and stands, "I don't usually say this, but let's hope this planet's less exciting than the last one." Keelah@crystyll: "A sentiment I am happy to share on this occassion. Come then, let us see what awaits" she gestures to the door, making her way out as well Gwi@annpc#5570 takes over on the science station. Keelah@crystyll takes her seat, "What is our status?" Gwi@annpc#5570 | Fisher: "We're in sensor range of the system." Gwi@annpc#5570 | Kelly: "Long-range sensors are detecting multiple signals indicating ships and orbital facilities, consistent with what the shuttle detected." Keelah@crystyll: "Alright, slow to impulse. Let's take this nice and slow and start with a thorough long range analysis. Gwi, what are we looking at?" Gwi@annpc#5570: "Most of the signatures we've seen before. They're showing as unidentified, but they match other unidentified ship signatures we detected in orbit of Carr. There's also two Carran vessels and... Gwi@annpc#5570 ...what looks like a Lupan ship." Keelah@crystyll | TQ: "Captain, I'm detected a Colonial Fleet transponder amongst it all as well" Gwi@annpc#5570 | Fisher: "I'd say it looks like we found a local hub." Keelah@crystyll: "Indeed... alright Mr. Fisher, take us in" Gwi@annpc#5570 | Fisher: "Aye aye, Captain." Gwi@annpc#5570 | Kelly: "That's a lot of orbital defense facilities. Easily enough to defend this planet against an invasion." Keelah@crystyll: "Let us then hope that they do not perceive us as a threat..." Keelah@crystyll | TQ: "Incoming hail from one of the patrol ships, Captain" Keelah@crystyll: "On screen" she nods Keelah@crystyll | TQ obligies, opening the channel Gwi@annpc#5570 | An alien with rough skin and spikes on their head appears on the screen. Those among the crew who have been to Underworld would recognize them, as there are one of the more visible minorities - Gwi@annpc#5570 - on the Carran homeworld. Gwi@annpc#5570 FX | https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/starwars/images/e/ee/NiktoGuard-FAE.png/revision/latest?cb=20130602051054 Gwi@annpc#5570 | Alien: "Stand by for customs scan." Keelah@crystyll perks a brow, leaning back and folding her arms. She crosses one leg over while she waits 'patiently' Gwi@annpc#5570 | The alien looks to the side, likely at a different console, staring for a good minute before looking back into the camera, "You are clear. Please ensure your weapon systems are powered down for - Gwi@annpc#5570 - the duration of your visit. Do not attempt to force entry into any region where transporters are blocked." Keelah@crystyll: <C> Understood Gwi@annpc#5570 <C - Alien> "If you're here to hire from the Guild, I can direct you to a representative. If you're here for trade, I'll send you the directory." Keelah@crystyll: "Definitely trade, though a guild representative may be worth us speaking to as well, thank you" Gwi@annpc#5570: <C - Alien> "Here is the directory. Wait in orbit to be contacted once a Guild representative is free." Keelah@crystyll: <C> "Acknowledged" Keelah@crystyll | TQ taps her screen, "Directory received. Goddess, that's extensive..." Keelah@crystyll: "Shortlist any potentially worthwhile points of contact, Tee" Keelah@crystyll | TQ: "Unless we want to restock the torpedo bays, I'm not sure there will be much here..." she notes, continuing to check nonetheless Keelah@crystyll | TQ: "There is a contact listed for the Nvarta Corporation here..." Keelah@crystyll: "The group who were just disavowed by the colony... May not be someone we want to speak to, but good to know. Keep searching" Keelah@crystyll | TQ: "A Carran courier service... a few familiar names from Underworld, but little more of consequence that I can see" Keelah@crystyll: "Alright then. Well, let's assume a standard orbit and... await contact from this 'guild' representative. Perhaps that will be a more fruitful avenue to explore" Gwi@annpc#5570 | Kelly: "I'm learning what I can from the ships here. The most numerous use similar technology as the cities on the planet and that patrol ship and probably belong to the locals." Keelah@crystyll: "A... franchise world of Carr, perhaps. Clearly associated at least" Gwi@annpc#5570 | Kelly: "The local ships are definitely built for combat. Reminds me of Klingon design, minus the winged look and cloaks." Keelah@crystyll: "What about the Colonial ship we detected, any confirmed ID from them?" Gwi@annpc#5570 | Kelly: "They're identified as the Colonial Supply Ship Kanedor. It's a refitted Cardassian military freighter." Keelah@crystyll: "Supply ship... not likely one we have previous contact with then" Gwi@annpc#5570 | Kelly: "Technically, Starfleet has. Just not under Colonial Fleet operation." Keelah@crystyll: "Well call me selfish, but I had some small hope of it being a ship that we had encountered previously ourselves and so also worth reaching out to" Gwi@annpc#5570 | Kelly: "I doubt anyone on that ship now would know us. But the CDS Kanedor pops up in records from the time of the Dominion War." Keelah@crystyll: "Well unless we have specific business with them, I see no reason to disrupt them any more than anyone else here" Gwi@annpc#5570 | Kelly nods, "Judging from the ship type, they're probably just here to trade as well." Keliaya@anncarise FX | After ten more minutes of waiting, TQ finally receives a communications request from the surface of the planet. Keelah@crystyll | TQ: "incoming hail from the planet's surface, Captain" Keelah@crystyll sits up a little, "Let's see it" Keliaya@anncarise FX | A video clip plays showing spike-faced aliens arranged in a neat formation, all of them wearing the same armour and holding identical rifles. Keliaya@anncarise | A clear feminine voice narrates the video: "The Spike Guild is one of the galaxy's finest, longest established and most reliable free militaries." Keliaya@anncarise: "Seems like they're playing a pre-recorded message..." Keliaya@anncarise | The video shows a number of starships leaving orbit of a planet recognizable as the one they are currently in orbit of. Keliaya@anncarise | Narrator: "When our people, the Eltreiah, first reached the stars six hundred years ago..." Keliaya@anncarise | The video cuts to a ship being attacked by another, then to a number of Lupan shooting their way through a street bordered by low buildings on both sides. Keliaya@anncarise | Narrator: "We found ourselves in a new frontier fraught with danger." Keliaya@anncarise | The video continues to show the same street and the first line of Lupan are suddenly shot down by red energy bolts. Keliaya@anncarise | Narrator: "But our people were determined and strong, and we faced the danger head on." Keliaya@anncarise | Armoured Eltreiah can now be seen from different camera angles, some firing down at the Lupan from windows and rooftops while others dart from cover to cover, the ones already in cover firing - Keliaya@anncarise - to keep the Lupan at bay so the rest of their team could advance. Even the strictest MACO instructor would be strained to find a flaw with their highly coordinated movements. Keliaya@anncarise | Narrator: "We became the first line of defense for many peoples we encountered, and to them we became known as the 'Spikes.'" Keliaya@anncarise | The video fades to the same street but with no more Lupan; instead the Eltreiah march down while unknown aliens cheer for them from the buildings. Keliaya@anncarise | Narrator: "Soon, many worlds looked to us for protection, and the Spike Guild was formed." Keliaya@anncarise | The video cuts to a shuttle landing in a city, its doors opening for a group of Eltreiah to exit while the shadow of a larger Eltreiah ship is visible in the background hovering above. Keliaya@anncarise | Narrator: "Today, we pride ourselves in producing the best soldiers money can buy." Keliaya@anncarise | A clip of an Eltreiah bullseyeing a target is played. Keliaya@anncarise | Narrator: "They are well trained..." Keliaya@anncarise | The next clip is of a company of Eltreiah marching in perfect sync. Keliaya@anncarise | Narrator: "Highly disciplined..." Keliaya@anncarise | And then a clip of a well-dressed Carran shielded in a force field dome, while Eltreiah fend off unseen attackers around him, some falling dead from enemy fire. Keliaya@anncarise | Narrator: "And fiercely loyal." Keliaya@anncarise | The final clip is of the planet in its modern appearance, surrounded by orbital defense platforms and a fleet of Eltreiah ships. Keliaya@anncarise | The collection of visitors from other civilizations are not shown. Everything is neat and uniform, and it is an obviously constructed shot. Keliaya@anncarise | Narrator: "We have protected our planet without fail for six hundred of our years. Let us protect your home. Your people. Your ventures." Keliaya@anncarise | A stylized depiction of a spiked shield displays on the viewscreen, presumably the symbol of the organization. Keliaya@anncarise | Narrator: "The Spike Guild. Your shield against the dangers of the galaxy." Keelah@crystyll eyerolls at the cheesy corporate slogan Keliaya@anncarise FX | The emblem fades from the screen, and the image of an Eltreiah without facial spikes appears. The voice is different as well, closer to that of the recording and likely a female of the species Keliaya@anncarise | Female Eltreiah: "Hello. How can the Guild help you today?" Keelah@crystyll smiles that well rehearsed smile, "Hello. And that is a very good question, actually. How would one go about learning more regarding the intricacies of guild services & history?" Keliaya@anncarise | Guild Rep: "I am here to explain the various services we provide, if you need more information. As for our history, I can tell you some of the Guild's most well-known and publicized operations. - Keliaya@anncarise: - For the purposes of confidentiality, the majority of our operations require the explicit permission of our clients to disclose." Keelah@crystyll: "Of course. Please, continue" Keliaya@anncarise | Guild Rep: "Which do you wish to learn of first- our services, or our publicized operations?" Keelah@crystyll: "Tell me first of your services. Perhaps then areas of interest will provide focus for associated history and... presumably, testimonials" Keliaya@anncarise | Guild Rep: "We primarily provide military services for a fee in any accepted form of currency or an equivalent of such a fee in items or raw resources. The Guild possesses soldiers and warships - Keliaya@anncarise: - which are at the disposal of our clients. Fees differ depending on the amount of soldiers and ships, of course." Keliaya@anncarise | Guild Rep: "We are hired for a variety of tasks, from private bodyguards to defensive patrols or to supplementing fleet for a particular operation." Keelah@crystyll: "Of course. So the guild only offers military services in that format? What about specialists, solo operatives and the like?" Keliaya@anncarise | Guild Rep: "Our soldiers are trained and best employed in squads. We do occasionally offer a single bodyguard for specific occasions, but we are a free military, not assassins or spies." Keelah@crystyll: "Good to know. What about length of contract periods, is there a limit?" Keliaya@anncarise | Guild Rep: "Long-term contracts are typically reviewed and renewed, if appropriate, every two of our years. There are usually rectifications and new negotiations during these renewals to - Keliaya@anncarise: - account for inflation and changing political states, but if a deal continues to remain favourable, it can be renewed an indefinite number of times." Keelah@crystyll: "Changing political states...?" Keliaya@anncarise | Guild Rep: "One of our ground rules is that a client must not be in confrontation with another client of the guild to ensure that members of the guild will never be put in a position where they - Keliaya@anncarise: - will have to face one another. If the political landscape changes, and two of our clients appear to be nearing a conflict, their differences must be resolved peacefully or both clients will have - Keliaya@anncarise: - to bid for our services." Keliaya@anncarise | Guild Rep: "We train our soldiers to be brothers and sisters in arms. They will never harm one another." Keelah@crystyll: "Understandable. So say someone is potentially interested in utilizing your guild's services, do you have a means of demonstrating the value for money beyond your own PR material?" Keliaya@anncarise | Guild Rep: "Of course. We have the publicized operations showcasing our past successes, and we also offer a tour of our training facilities where you can see how capable our soldiers are." Keelah@crystyll hrms, "A first hand view of things could certainly be... persuasive. I should like to arrange such a tour then" Keliaya@anncarise | Guild Rep: "I will send you a schedule of available timeslots at our facilities. The file should include how our chronometers function so you may convert the times to your own system." Keelah@crystyll: "That is most accomodating of you. I assume we can book our visit from said schedule?" Keliaya@anncarise | The Guild Rep nods, "That is correct. There is one additional service we provide as well, if you are interested." Keelah@crystyll: "Oh? Well that depends on what the service is now, doesn't it" Keliaya@anncarise | Guild Rep: "We have a branch called Spike Surplus. As the name suggests, we sell surplus from the guild on the public market. That includes weapons, armours, ordinance, ship components and - Keliaya@anncarise: - sometimes even entire outdated ships. They are typically not as advanced as the equipment we currently use, but they are significantly higher quality than most market-grade weapons and equipment." Keelah@crystyll: "Now that would certainly be worth perusing, yes. Do you provide a remote catalogue, or is there a front for Spike Surplus that we can visit while there for the tour?" Keliaya@anncarise | Guild Rep: "If you contact Spike Surplus on the trade directory, you should have access to a catalogue. Our surplus equipment are of course, not cheap, but as they are no longer needed, you - Keliaya@anncarise: - will find the price more than fair for the quality of goods you are buying." Keelah@crystyll: "I will make sure to keep that in mind when browsing then, thank you. Well I think we have sufficient information to work from for now. If there is nothing more you feel we should know at this point,+ Keelah@crystyll: + I shall leave you to your work while we look at our options" Keliaya@anncarise | Guild Rep: "Thank you for your visit. We hope our services meet your needs." Keliaya@anncarise FX | The viewscreen returns to the view of the planet from orbit. Keliaya@anncarise: "Well...they appear civilized enough. I suppose their line of work isn't too surprising given the location of their homeworld." Keelah@crystyll: "Alright... Tee, get me Captain Vix. She'll be more interested in this tour I think" Keelah@crystyll: "Kelly; my thinking exactly, too. I would like you to go through their surplus catalogue still though. Even if there are no useful supplies for us, the prospect of a ship that could be purchased with+ Keelah@crystyll: + raw material is a perfect opportunity for our friends back at the colony" Keliaya@anncarise: "Of course! I didn't actually think of that...I was just wondering if this might be the Colonial Fleet ship's business here, since we know they have a penchant for adapting foreign technology." Keelah@crystyll nods, "Also a possibility" Keliaya@anncarise: "We can look into the ships here and see if it might be a good source for the colony." Keliaya@anncarise: "It's possible we might find some useful components and supplies in there as well. The Guild runs entire fleets, so their surplus is probably more than just weaponry." Keelah@crystyll smiles, "Exactly" Keliaya@anncarise FX | As they speak, TQ gets a hail from the Lupan ship. Keelah@crystyll | TQ: "Captain... I've got another incoming hail, only... this one is from the Lupan vessel in orbit" Keelah@crystyll looks over with a perked brow, "Curious... put it through, Tee" looking back to the main screen Keliaya@anncarise FX | A Lupan with thick black fur appears on the screen, "I am Ozaca, First of the Jahaari Pack." Keliaya@anncarise | Ozaca: "We noticed your space-bending systems. I do not suppose you are willing to remove yours, but we will trade for the knowledge of how to build it." Keelah@crystyll smiles, "It is always a pleasure to meet another First, Ozaca. I am afraid then the sharing of our technology is one of the strictest taboos of our government. Though I am always amenable to the + Keelah@crystyll: + exchange of knowledge, that which - at least - I am permitted to share with new friends" Keliaya@anncarise | Ozaca: "I thought you would not share the secrets of your ship with us, but if you never try..." He quirks his head, "What are you willing to share?" Keelah@crystyll: "Well Ozaca, we are explorers from a distant part of this galaxy. As such, we have amassed considerable knowledge about the regions and factions within. There is also plenty of more... cursory + Keelah@crystyll: + knowledge that we may freely share about the Federation. Beyond this, everything is a little more bespoke to circumstances. If there was perhaps some area of interest, we could find some means of + Keelah@crystyll: + mutual benefit" Keliaya@anncarise | Ozaca: "You are new to this region, then?" Keelah@crystyll: "Relatively, yes" Keliaya@anncarise | Ozaca: "Then we can tell you what we know of this region in exchange. The Jahaari Pack has wandered these lands since our founding." Keelah@crystyll smiles, "That would be most helpful. Tell me, what is it your pack seeks? That we might offer in exchange?" Keliaya@anncarise | Ozaca: "If you have knowledge of worlds within our reach that we may trade with or extract resources from, that will be useful to us." Keelah@crystyll: "I might know one or two" she nods, "Tell me, does the Jahaari pack follow the Sisterhood?" Keliaya@anncarise | Ozaca: "All Lupan follow the Sisterhood. It is the way of our people. But we have only Wise Women. We are not important enough to have a Priestess with us." Keliaya@anncarise | Ozaca: "We still know much of this region though, from our experience if not our understanding of all its history." Keelah@crystyll: "I understand, I can offer details of a newly independent mining colony that is eager to establish new trade routes. It is under the protection of another pack, one who travels with a Priestess" Keliaya@anncarise | Ozaca: "We are not currently involved in any feuds, so this colony should be a possible candidate for trade. Where is it?" Keelah@crystyll: "Not far from here, we can send you the coordinates" she nods across to TQ who obliges Keliaya@anncarise | Ozaca takes a moment to examine the information, "Ah. We have known of this colony, but we did not know they have struck a deal with a Lupan Pack." Keliaya@anncarise | Ozaca: "The last time we visited, their guards told us Lupan were not welcome." Keelah@crystyll: "Suffice to say that the colony has recently undergone a shift in their management" Keelah@crystyll: "You will now find that the Priestesses pack readily occupies and protects this colony, but the independent mining settlement there still needs trade to flourish" Keliaya@anncarise | Ozaca: "Very useful information. We will give you what we have learned from our many years of travel." Keelah@crystyll: "That is most gracious of you" Keliaya@anncarise FX | TQ receives a map, structured very similarly to a Preserver starchart though clearly not Preserver in origin. It might take a little bit of translating to Starfleet formats, but it seems to - Keliaya@anncarise: - contain a wide region of space, some way off the VF's course but a few regions lying directly ahead of the ship's path as well. Keelah@crystyll: "This covers a lot of the area we are due to pass into next, very useful indeed. Thank you" Keliaya@anncarise | Ozaca: "It is good that you find our information useful as well. This has been a fruitful exchange." Keliaya@anncarise | Ozaca: "May the stars shine your way." Keelah@crystyll: "And yours" she dips her head respectfully Keliaya@anncarise FX | The image of the Lupan fades as the comm ends. Keliaya@anncarise | Gwi: "That was much friendlier than our previous encounters." Keelah@crystyll: "Indeed. It just goes to show" Keliaya@anncarise: "I can certainly see what he meant by a less important pack from the scans of their ship, too. It's smaller than the carriers we've met so far, and it doesn't seem to have anywhere for escort - Keliaya@anncarise: - vessels to dock. Just two hangars large enough for shuttles and fighters." Keliaya@anncarise: "The ship itself is just as well-armed, though, likely because it has less support it can rely on, but the technology is more dated, and it won't stand up in a battle with any of the carriers." Keelah@crystyll: "Being the amenable sort, perhaps this one will go to the colony and join with the pack there. Seems they could both use the bolstering" Keliaya@anncarise: "At the very least it seems they might have a new location they can trade at." Keliaya@anncarise | Gwi: "I'll start looking into that map they sent us, see what we can learn from it." Keelah@crystyll: "Maybe with this being fully translated, it could even provide further insight into the Preserver starchart symbols" Keliaya@anncarise | Gwi: "I hope so. The language they use looks very different, but the format is surprisingly similar." Keelah@crystyll: "We shall see, for now though I need to confer with Captain Vix"

View Act III - Guild Inspection

T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Lexi beams down into a sizable courtyard. Her surroundings are much more comparable to a Klingon academy than Starfleet ones. There are no fancy green gardens and the buildings around her are - T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: - built sturdy and functional. Armoured troops march in well-practiced sync across the courtyard. On the sides, some people appear to line up for inspection, while a group wearing bulkier gear than - T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: - usual appear to be sprinting laps around the centrepiece- a massive circle depicting the spiked shield symbol of the Guild. Lexi@crystyll: looks to the albino who accompanied her, breathing deeply, "Aah, just like the Academy back on Qo'Nos. Nothing like the smell of blood, sweat and broken spirits to whet the appetite!" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Avita: "They look very disciplined. More like true warriors than mercenaries." T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | One of the armoured figures steps up to them. This one has no facial spikes, and instead wears a helmet adorned with spikes, "You are here to see how we train?" Lexi@crystyll: "That is yet to be seen. From what Keelah showed in their PR video, they rival the Ferengi in their corporate PR. With so much focus on selling, I hold no faith in their true hearts as warriors" Lexi@crystyll: continueed her sentence despite the arrival of the spiked one, making no attempt to hide her pessimism, "We are here to see if they are as worthy as you claim, yes" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | The Eltreiah nods, "We take no shortcuts in training our soldiers. Come and see." She waves them along and begins leading the way into the courtyard. Lexi@crystyll: gives a reserved, "hmm..." as she follows, glancing to Avita T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Eltreiah: "I am Corenthe, one of the instructors here." She pauses to let a group of marching soldiers past. T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Avita examines the group, "Your people can perform, but that does not show their skill in combat." Lexi@crystyll: "Indeed" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Corenthe: "You will see that soon enough. Discipline is one of our most important tenets. Our people are not as strong as a Lupan, nor as fast as a Toroki, nor as perceptive as a Ularen. Our - T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: - strength lies in our discipline. Our skill in working together as a squad or a crew." Lexi@crystyll: "Your opening sales pitch is to admit that your soldiers are second rate in almost every regard? Interesting. But discipline alone is no substitute for the heart of a true warrior. You have much to + Lexi@crystyll: + prove, it seems" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Corenthe: "Overconfidence leads to failure. Only a fool would deny the biological advantages possessed by certain species. We are not known for our individual soldiers, but our skill as a military." Lexi@crystyll smiles a little in acknowledgement of the response, "Good... very good..." T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Corenthe: "That said," she points to the troops running laps, "We hone our soldiers to their physical peak. They run in gear heavier than our standard field armour, so that when they are - T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: - deployed, they will not be weighed down by their gear, but instead feel lighter." Lexi@crystyll: "As it should be" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | The Eltreiah leads them over to another corner of the yard, where another instructor is inspecting a line of trainees. T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | The instructor looks from trainee to trainee until he spots a misstep in one of their uniforms. He spends a good minute yelling at the recruit. Lexi@crystyll: "Trainees are taken from the naturally born population of your people then? Or are these recruits specially bred for this purpose?" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Corenthe: "They are recruited from our population, but those who are unfit to progress are eliminated during training. Many of them join smaller mercenary companies, which is why you may see our - T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: - people working freelance, or for groups other than the Guild. The Guild represents the finest of our soldiers." Lexi@crystyll: "At what age do they commence training, and then how long until they are as capable as you claim?" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Corenthe: "We take recruits from ages twelve to sixteen. Basic training takes three quarters of a year, specialized training longer depending on what they specialize in. Ship crews will of course - T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: - need to learn about the operation of their vessel and other such technical knowledge." T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Avita: "Their years are longer than our own. But I suspect their people also mature quickly, like Klingons." Lexi@crystyll: "You wait so long before starting them? Huh..." T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Corenthe: "Our people have a strong military tradition. Many of them have some private training, and almost all of our people are raised in a highly disciplined environment. When they join for - T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: - training, they are committing to the Guild. It is a decision they must be mentally mature enough to comprehend." T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | After the instructor has finally finished berating the trainee, they all drop and begin performing sit-ups. Lexi@crystyll: "By the time a Klingon child reaches age 12, they already proficient in martial combat and committed to the life of a warrior" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Corenthe: "Our soldiers are what we are known for, but not all of our people are warriors. Our equipment is some of the finest in the region." Lexi@crystyll: "Seeing that we are travelling with the luxury of a Federation starship, you have almost as much to live up to with that claim as with the one for the prowess of your soldiers" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Avita examines the rifle on Corenthe's back, her cybernetic eyes focusing on it, "It is no exaggeration, at least from what I am seeing so far. Antiproton rifles, possibly adapted Iconian - T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: - technology. More efficient than Starfleet phasers." T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Corenthe: "Iconian?" Lexi@crystyll: "Sufficient, perhaps. But we both know a warrior bred to rely too heavily on technology is at a disadvantage" Lexi@crystyll: "Iconians are an ancient and powerful civilization long lost to this galaxy. They returned a few years ago in an attempt to retake the galaxy, but we defeated them" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Corenthe: "Some of our early weapons were based on ancient technology, that of the beings the Lupan worship as gods. We do not know if they are what you know as Iconians." Lexi@crystyll: "No, they are what we call Preservers. They are credited with the creation of intelligent life in this universe as we know it. Bipedal species like yours and mine, mostly" Lexi@crystyll: "The Iconians were the first of their Children" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Corenthe: "Then perhaps the similarity is because the Iconians also based their weapons on the same technology. We have sinced improved the design and tailored it to our own needs." T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Corenthe: "But you are right. We train our soldiers to fight without technology when needed." Lexi@crystyll: "Were I to even consider hiring your people, I would need to know that they can handle themselves as well as my own warriors" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | The Eltreiah leads them into one of the buildings around the courtyard. Inside are various combat rings, some where trainees fight unarmed, some where they spar with sticks of various lengths and - T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: - even one where a knife fight is taking place, though the cuts don't leave any visible damage and the combat knives are likely either holographic or very blunted. T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Avita: "Their form reminds me of Gorn warriors, only more nimble. They are both reptilian, after all." Lexi@crystyll: "True enough" she looks around, studying them to spot the most promising T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | One of the trainees appear quite skilled, easily tripping over his opponent and proceeding to pin them to the ground. Lexi@crystyll: smiles, turning to Avita, "Him" then to Corenthe, "My friend here will test your trainee" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Corenthe nods, "As you wish." T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Avita: "He is hardly a match for me. But I shall go easy on him." Lexi@crystyll is not impressed. Lexi@crystyll: folds her arms, with an entertained grin as she watches, "I trust your judgement as always" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Avita steps up to the trainee, who assumes a ready stance. Lexi@crystyll: fully expects the albino to tear the recruit apart T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Avita doesn't even seem to take a stance, simply circling around the trainee. T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | The trainee tries to close in and throw a punch, but the albino sidesteps it effortlessly. T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Avita: "You can do better than that." T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | The trainee steps back, waits for an opportunity and throws another punch, which Avita again dodges. This time, he uses the punch to lead her into one direction and then raise the other leg to - T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: - kick her, but she easily grabs the leg with one arm and throws the trainee onto his back. T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Avita: "Now you are fighting with your mind. Better. But your leg is long and it makes a wide motion. Not a good choice against a more nimble opponent." T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | The trainee gets up and assumes his ready stance again. The albino merely stands there, waiting for his next try. T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | After a few moments, the trainee closes in and tries to throw several punches. Avita catches both his wrists and he switches strategy to try and trip her over, but the albino sweeps him off his - T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: - feet while he is trying to get her down. She lands on top of him and has little trouble pinning him from that position. T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Corenthe: "Your companion is a very skilled fighter." Lexi@crystyll: "Second only to myself" she assures with full Klingon arrogance, actually meaning that Avita is about the only one she knows who may be able to take her down in a fair fight Lexi@crystyll: moves to a nearby weapon stand. grabbing one of the pole weapons, she tosses it into the ring to land at the trainees feet, "Again" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | The trainee picks up the pole once he stands back up. He holds it much more cautiously now, while Avita continues to just stand there and wait. T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | He steps forward and begins swinging the pole at the albino, who adeptly dodges each strike while stepping back. T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | When Avita reaches the edge of the ring and it looks like she is about to be driven off, she grabs the pole when the trainee swings at her next, throwing him off balance and yanking the pole from - T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: - his grip. In the same fluid motion, she spins the pole around herself, maneuvering it behind her back before catching it with the other hand and swinging it in a wide motion that strikes the back - T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: - of the trainee's legs, knocking him onto his knees. Lexi@crystyll raises a hand, "Enough" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Avita nods and steps off the ring, returning the pole to its rack. Lexi@crystyll: looks to Avita as she steps down, "Your assessment?" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Avita: "They are adept at close quarters combat, but their training is basic. Regimented, but predictable, like a standard Starfleet officer." T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Avita: "He can defend himself against an average opponent, but he is no champion." Lexi@crystyll: "On that we concur. What of their discipline, is it so regimented to preclude more advanced training?" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Avita: "He can certainly still be trained to a more advanced degree, but I believe he needs to use more creativity. That may however be a personal flaw, though from what I've seen, most of the - T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: - close quarters combat training here is very much by the book." Lexi@crystyll: "I recall the same problem with Starfleet's martial training as well. Very presentable, very regimented. But the payoff for that being a lack of creativity" Lexi@crystyll: "Perhaps - as indicated - these soldiers will perform better as part of a disciplined unit" she turns again to their host, "Do you have the means to demonstrate a full unit in action, holodecks or+ Lexi@crystyll: + live trials?" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Corenthe nods, "That is what I intended to show you next. This way." Lexi@crystyll: "Good. Lead on then" she nods T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | The Eltreiah leads them into a larger building and through several halls. Eventually, they reach what appears to be an area filled with holodecks. T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Corenthe taps a button and a door opens to a staircase which she proceeds to climb. T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | When they reach the top of the stairs, they find themselves on what appears to be a control room overlooking a holodeck. T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | The simulation is that of a snowy forest. A team of fully armed and armoured Spike mercenaries are walking through, rifles held at the ready and clearly alert. Lexi@crystyll: "So what is the context of this simulation? Are they hunting a target, or reacting to an ambush?" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Corenthe: "They are hunting for those responsible for a planetside raid, but they do not know what exactly their targets are." T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | One of the mercenary trainees move over to a tree, spotting something and silently pointing it out to the rest of the team. As they observe, Lexi can notice a shape moving through the treetops... Lexi@crystyll: watches with innate interest T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | As some of the leaves rustle, a member of the team spots it as well and points his rifle in that direction. Other members of the team quickly follow suit, but a few keep their rifles covering - T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: - other directions. T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Spike Leader: "It has to be Toroki. Blanket fire, watch the treetops. Don't let them get close." T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | There is another sign of movement in the treetops. T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Spike Merc 1: "Forty-eighty!" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Three of the mercs raise their rifles to almost the exact same angle and begin sweeping the area with antiproton fire. A second later, a large scaled alien with a long tail ending in a stinger - T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: - drops out of the tree, lifeless. Lexi@crystyll: "Is this an accurate depiction of the Toroki?" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | The Corenthe nods, "We have one of the most accurate simulations of Toroki behaviour. Their programming was sold to us by the Colonial Fleet, with whom the majority of Toroki are aligned." T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Spike Merc 2: "More of them at sixty!" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Spike Leader: "Fan out, focus fire! Sixty five!" Lexi@crystyll: "If this is true, then my anticipation of facing them in combat for myself may start to falter..." T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | The team spreads out and takes cover before three squadmates open fire simultaneously on the same position, taking out another Toroki. T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | A third opens fire from the treetops with an energy weapon, forcing the mercs into cover. T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Corenthe: "A single Toroki have been known to take out an entire squad of soldiers, sometimes even slaughter crews of small ships single-handedly. But with teamwork and keen observation, they can - T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: - be defeated." T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Two of the mercs provide covering fire, allowing two others to advance and forcing the Toroki to seek cover of its own. T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Spike Merc 3: "Ten-seventy five!" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | The two mercs use the same coordinated fire once again, but don't seem to get anything this time. T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Spike Merc 2: "Nothing there!" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Spike Leader: "Regroup, stay alert! Cover everyone's flank!" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | The mercs begin to converge in a circle when a tail swings from the treetop and cuts one of them down. T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Spike Merc 1: "Twenty-ninety! Twenty-ninety!" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | The mercs raise their rifles and fire upwards at almost the identical position, and the Toroki drops down in the middle of their half-formed circle. T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | One of the mercs goes to check on the downed squadmate while the rest remain alert in the circle. T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Spike Merc 4: "Is that all of them?" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Spike Leader: "We don't know. We can't trust sensors when it comes to Toroki. Continue sweeping the area." T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Spike Merc 5: "What about the wounded?" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Spike Leader: "Extract him. He can't fight on after a blow like that." T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | One of the mercs taps something on the downed merc's armour and he disappears into a transporter beam. T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Spike Leader: "We keep going, check for signs of more." T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | As the team continues slowly moving through the forest, the simulation comes to a close and their fallen teammate reappears. Lexi@crystyll: "Not bad" she concedes T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Corenthe: "One casualty is very impressive, considering. The Toroki talent for stealth is always difficult to counter." Lexi@crystyll: "That and close quarters prowess" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Avita nods, "A deadly combination, to be certain." Lexi@crystyll: "Not that I feel the need to face one just to prove myself over Captain Keelah or anything..." T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Corenthe: "Most do not usually wish for an encounter with Toroki." Lexi@crystyll grins, "Most would not seek to mount ones head on the wall of their ready room" Lexi@crystyll: "So your fighters are physically capable and with basic training. What about their mental state?" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Corenthe: "We drill into them that they work as a team from the beginning of training. As you observed with the inspection in the yard, one trainee's failure results in the entire squad performing - T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: - more exercises. An individual's failure results in a squad's failure." T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Corenthe: "We also ensure they are willing to lay down their own lives to save either those they are charged with protecting, or another member of their squad." Lexi@crystyll: "And what of their mental resistances? Telepathic influence for example" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Corenthe: "We train them in pushing irrelevant information to the foremost of their mind should someone try to use such techniques to interrogate them, but they do not have full immunity like the - T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: - Lupan. But you will be hard-pressed to find more interrogation resistant soldiers for hire, and few Lupan are willing to work for outsiders." Lexi@crystyll: "Disappointing, but hardly surprising. Such immunities are rare after all" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Corenthe: "Very much so. We've experimented with helmet materials that may protect wearers from such influence, but the results were unfortunately not promising." Lexi@crystyll: "Indeed. Given that our enemy is able to influence countless minds across immeasurable distances, such measures would likely not be reliable anyway" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Corenthe: "And what enemy is that?" Lexi@crystyll: "They are known by many different names to the species we've encountered out here so far; but we have come to know them as the Primevals" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Corenthe: "I am not familiar with such a group, but what you say of their abilities are true, they are a most dangerous foe." Lexi@crystyll: "They are seldom known, existing almost more as a myth. But we have encountered those who have suffered at the hands of their Horde which marches relentlessly coreward" Lexi@crystyll: "and yes, that means that if we do not succeed then they will one day arrive here and absorb all of your people into their Horde as well" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Corenthe: "That is troubling. We may need to perform more research into telepathic defenses after all. But that is not something I can decide." Lexi@crystyll: "I certainly would. As for our mission, it is likely a one-way trip. How would that sit with your soldiers?" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Corenthe: "Death is always on the horizon. You could be struck dead from an orbital blast before you realize what is happening, develop an incurable illness or die from something you ate." T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Corenthe: "As soldiers, we set out to meet death on our own terms. They are always ready to die." Lexi@crystyll: "True words. It is possible then that we can do business" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Corenthe: "Excellent. Should I direct you to a representative, then?" Lexi@crystyll: "Please do" she nods T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | The Eltreiah leads them out and through the building until they reach an office area where a Guild representative, this one with natural facial spikes, awaits them. T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Guild Rep: "Hello. How may I help you?" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Corenthe: "These visitors wish to arrange a contract." T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | The representative nods and looks to Lexi and Avita, "What services are you seeking?" Lexi@crystyll: "I operate a small but elite complement of warriors. A single squad of your most elite troops would be... sufficient. Fresh graduates though, not seasoned fighteres. I need them capable of learning + Lexi@crystyll: + how to fight still" Lexi@crystyll: "They will also need to be capable of fulfilling shipboard roles on board a combat vessel" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Guild Rep: "All our ship crews undergo the same basic training as all other soldiers. But we do possess a special shipboard training program for those who wish to work on ships but focus on - T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: - individual combat. They are called Boarders and specialize in boarding other vessels or defending a vessel from being boarded, but are capable of operating ship systems when needed." T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Guild Rep: "Will they suit your needs?" Lexi@crystyll: "That will be acceptable. Now before we come to negotiations, there is another factor I would like to enquire about" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Guild Rep: "Ask away." Lexi@crystyll: "Given your worlds association with the Carrans, I assume you are able to make use of the subspace corridor network they use?" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Guild Rep: "One of our longest standing contracts is with the Carran Trade Commission, but like everyone else, we must use their Couriers to travel through the corridors, with the exception of - T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: - instances where they come to retrieve soldiers they have hired, of course." Lexi@crystyll: "Perhaps then, you would not be able to offer the additional services I would be interested in..." T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Guild Rep: "I'm afraid not. The Carran Courier Service deals with transportation through the corridors, but they do have representatives here on Esleon." Lexi@crystyll: "Still, perhaps their involvement could be accommodated in any such contract. Tell me, hypothetically, if you received an instructions via subspace comms, how quickly could you deploy one of your + Lexi@crystyll: + ships to a distant location via the subspace network?" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Guild Rep: "We will have to sign a contract with the Carrans first and have one of their couriers guide us to the destination. It can be done, but if you are in immediate trouble, it will be more - T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: - fruitful to call for any nearby Watchers. Rapid response is their primary service." Lexi@crystyll: "From what I've seen, they are less than reliable and likely don't even operate where we are going. Still, immediate backup may not be a complete concern... how long would you estimate?" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Guild Rep: "That would depend on how far you go. There is always at least one Courier ready to serve here, and we can probably have a contract signed and ships ready in an hour." T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Guild Rep: "Travel times, of course, will vary greatly depending on the distance, and as we do not have knowledge of the corridors, you'll have to ask the Couriers for such a prediction." Lexi@crystyll: "Fair enough, depending on the downpayment it may be an acceptable caveat" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Guild Rep: "We can provide you with a method of communication and a basic price estimate if such a need arises." Lexi@crystyll: "Would you require any form of deposit up front in order to reserve a set number of vessels to be available upon summoning?" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Guild Rep: "We always have vessels on reserve in orbit of the planet. But yes, you will need a deposit if you wish for us to answer an immediate call for aid. The deposit will cover the cost for - T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: - the Courier transportation." Lexi@crystyll: "Then let is include that in our negotiations for the moment. Now I assume all our business restocking our armaments from your surplus store are outside of our business here?" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | The Guild Rep nods, "Yes. That will be with the Surplus, or whichever other vendor you bought from. As for the Boarders, they come in squads of nine, but we also provide them in fireteams of four if - T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: - a smaller number is preferred. How any squads would you like?" Lexi@crystyll: "One elite squadron will suffice. The more I take on, the more likely it is to end up with substandard operatives" T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | Guild Rep: "One Boarder squad, preferably fresh out of training or otherwise less experienced." T'Vek of Vulcan@anncarise: | He taps a datapad before handing it over to Lexi, "These are the contract details." Lexi@crystyll takes the datapad to peruse the details and decide if they are worth it

View Act IV - Tiah's Trials

Luthril@annpc#5570 rings the doorbell to Sin's quarters. Sin@crystyll: "Come in" Sin@crystyll is sat lazily playing card games at the table in her relatively barren quarters Luthril@annpc#5570 steps inside, "Hello Sin." She looks to the cards. "Playing a game with yourself?" Sin@crystyll: "And losing..." she huffs jokingly, tossing the cards aside Luthril@annpc#5570: "Losing...against yourself?" Sin@crystyll: "Yep. Sucks to be me, I know. So whats up?" Luthril@annpc#5570: "Do you remember the being that was brought on board from the planet where she was hunted?" Luthril@annpc#5570: "Tiah is her name. And the name for her people as well, it seems." Sin@crystyll shakes her head, "Another lost sheep for our eclectic little family I take it? Sorry, but I'm kind of out of the loop now..." Luthril@annpc#5570: "Well, she apparently displays abilities the scientists here cannot understand, and the Captain wishes for me to take a look." Sin@crystyll: "There you go, see. A shiny new protege for you to play with. But seriously, you deserve it" Luthril@annpc#5570: "Sin, I am here to help you control your abilities. The Captain merely wants me to try and understand this being. She is not from our realm of existence, and I doubt there is much I can do to teach - Luthril@annpc#5570: - her concerning her abilities." Sin@crystyll: "So you're... still going to work with me too?" Luthril@annpc#5570 nods, "Of course. Why don't you come with me? Perhaps you can learn a thing or two from Tiah." Sin@crystyll shrugs, "Well now, let's just see if I have room in my schedule for it..." Sin@crystyll stands, picks up and looks at an empty bottle before tossing it to the couch, "Yep, seems I'm clear. Who knew..." Sin@crystyll follows Luthril out, "So where are we heading?" Luthril@annpc#5570: "I believe she is normally in Chief T'Quila's quarters. We should check there." Luthril@annpc#5570 leads the way over to TQ's quarters and rings the doorbell. Sin@crystyll slinks along behind her, generally avoiding eye contact and scrutinizing stares from passing officers Sin@crystyll FX | No response Luthril@annpc#5570: "Tiah? Are you in there?" Sin@crystyll FX | No response Luthril@annpc#5570: "Hm. This may be a good opportunity to try something you have not yet learned." Sin@crystyll: "What exactly do you have in mind?" Luthril@annpc#5570 beckons Sin along. Luthril@annpc#5570 leads Sin into a smaller conference room than the one frequented by the senior staff. From the Starfleet Science Division logo on the wall, it is clear that this room is normally used to hold - Luthril@annpc#5570 - meetings among the Science department. Sin@crystyll looks around, "Well, she's not here either. Go figure..." Luthril@annpc#5570 chuckles, "I was hoping for an empty room, actually." She steps over to the window and takes a seat on the ground. Luthril@annpc#5570 motions Sin along, "Join me." Sin@crystyll: "Ok..." she sounds dubious as ever as she sits Sin@crystyll sits down. Luthril@annpc#5570: "Every single being in this universe is unique. A product of very specific genetics, circumstances, and experiences. Even identical twins or clones are individual beings, and thus different from one - Luthril@annpc#5570: - another, sometimes in ways that your sensors cannot tell. But every being resonates with a unique signature of their own, a music comprised of their memories, their thoughts and their feelings." Luthril@annpc#5570: "Close your eyes and open your mind, not just to the mind of one individual like I have taught you to read, but the entire ship. Let in as much as you can take." Luthril@annpc#5570: "You will be overwhelmed at first. That is to be expected." Sin@crystyll closes her eyes and breathes deeply. Despite the downtrodden attidue displayed up to this point, she seems to actually hold great focus on their work... Luthril@annpc#5570 smiles as she observes, "You hear a great cacophony, do you not. The minds of everyone across the ship, ringing at once." Sin@crystyll frowns a little as she struggles with it, "It's... too much... I can't..." Luthril@annpc#5570: "Try to focus. Look for something that stands out. Something vastly different from the others. It should not be difficult to spot the outliers." Luthril@annpc#5570: "They will be like a music of a vastly different instrument. A drumbeat in a chorus of strings. Find that beat and focus on it." Sin@crystyll refocuses, "It's... yes. I sense the Analyst, Vulture. Her beat is different..." tilts her head, "...and yours, I think...?" Luthril@annpc#5570: "Yes, very good. Now keep trying, see if you can find Tiah." Sin@crystyll: "It is harder because I don't know what I-..." tilts her head with a frown, "Is that... flowers?" Luthril@annpc#5570: "Flowers?" Sin@crystyll: "I sense flowers. Lots of them. It feels like another outside presence, surrounded by... flowers" Luthril@annpc#5570: "And where on the ship would you find so many flowers?" Sin@crystyll 's eyes ping open, "The arboretum!" Luthril@annpc#5570 nods and smiles again, "Then that is where we go." Sin@crystyll exhales deeply, leaning back on her palms, "That was... hard work" Luthril@annpc#5570: "With so many people packed into one ship, yes. But it is useful when you need to locate someone, or distinguish between an individual and an impostor." Luthril@annpc#5570 stands, waiting for Sin to recover and join her. Sin@crystyll: "You know we could have just asked the computer where she was, right...?" she asks semi-sarcastically as she stands Luthril@annpc#5570: "Ah, yes. I keep forgetting the various functions of the ship's computer. I have been spending my recent years on an island, after all," she smirks slightly as she leads the way out of the - Luthril@annpc#5570: - conference room and towards the arboretum. "Still, it was a good opportunity to show you something new. You never know when it will be of use." Sin@crystyll: "What a conveniently forgetful moment..." she notes with an appreciative smirk Luthril@annpc#5570 steps through the arboretum's doors with Sin. Sin@crystyll FX | The vast arboretum is as quiet and peaceful as ever Luthril@annpc#5570 looks around for signs of Tiah as she begins walking through the large area. Sin@crystyll FX | They have to walk quite a way through the area before the sound of voices become clearly audible. Turning a corner, they would find Mei Lang sat on bench next to Tiah, talking away Luthril@annpc#5570 smiles at Sin, "Well done." Luthril@annpc#5570 steps up to Tiah and the botanist, "Hello. We're not interrupting, I hope?" Sin@crystyll | Tiah peers up at the pair, bright eyed and (literally) bushy tailed, "Have you come to learn about the living world too?!" Sin@crystyll mutters under her breath, "Stars, this one will give Mia a run for her money in the cheeriness ratings..." Luthril@annpc#5570 chuckles, "In a manner of speaking, yes. You must be Tiah." Sin@crystyll Tiah nods, "Tiah welcomes new friends!" Sin@crystyll | Tiah then turns to Mei as an afterthought, "...New friends are allowed to join... yes?" Luthril@annpc#5570 smiles, "My name is Luthril of Wenya. This is Sin." Sin@crystyll waves casually, "Hey" Luthril@annpc#5570 | Mei nods, "Of course! Have you come to enjoy the Arboretum, or are you looking for something in particular?"" Luthril@annpc#5570 looks to Tiah, "For her, actually." Sin@crystyll | Tiah recoils a little nervously, tails wrapping around herself, "Did Tiah do something wrong...?" Luthril@annpc#5570: "Not at all. Some people are interested in certain abilities you have displayed. Don't worry, I'm not here to perform any tests or anything. Just to understand you." Sin@crystyll | Tiah relaxes a little, "Abilities...?" Luthril@annpc#5570: "This energy you are capable of summoning." Sin@crystyll | Tiah thinks a moment, "You mean Tiah's claws?" Luthril@annpc#5570: "is that what you call it? Or are you referring to physical claws?" Sin@crystyll | Tiah shakes her head, giggling, "Tiah does not have physical claws since evolving" she flexes her fingertips, "Only these... nails?" Luthril@annpc#5570 chuckles, "Yes, they are nails. I assume then, that the energy is a form of defense?" Sin@crystyll | Tiah nods, "When Tiah feels threatened, she uses her claws to defend herself and Quila" Luthril@annpc#5570 nods, "But how do you call upon it? Is it something you focus on, something that comes naturally?" Sin@crystyll | Tiah, "...yes!" Luthril@annpc#5570: "A natural defensive instinct then? Do you know the process you go through to summon it, or is it as instinctive as, say, coughing when your throat itches?" Luthril@annpc#5570 | Mei stands from her bench, "I'll leave you to your discussion. I have to check on some pH level readings, anyways. Let me know if you want to learn more, Tiah." Sin@crystyll | Tiah smiles happily, "Thank you Mei for sharing everything with Tiah!" Luthril@annpc#5570 | Mei smiles back, "My pleasure. I'm always happy to show you more whenever you like." Sin@crystyll | Tiah's tails swish happily as she watches Mei depart before she looks to Luthril & Sin with a curious glance, blinking innocently Luthril@annpc#5570 nods to Mei as she heads off to a different part of the Arboretum and turns her attention back to Tiah, "So...do you have any idea how you are able to use your claws?" Sin@crystyll | Tiah shrugs as she stands, idling around the flora, "Tiah does know how to explain. How does one know to duck away from a flying predator, or reach for a branch when jumping?" Luthril@annpc#5570: "I suspected as much. Are you able to summon the energy only when you're threatened, or can you choose to do it for any reason?" Sin@crystyll: | Tiah: "Tiah controls her own reflexes" Luthril@annpc#5570: "So if you wanted to, you could summon it now, even if you are not in danger." Sin@crystyll | Tiah nods, "It is more difficult to make a reflex happen, but Tiah is capable" Luthril@annpc#5570: "And does doing so wear you out? I imagine calling upon such energy takes some toll on your body or mind." Sin@crystyll | Tiah nods, "Oh yes, it is exhausting!" Sin@crystyll: "I know the feeling..." Luthril@annpc#5570: "Indeed. It is only expected. But you do not know where this energy comes from, or how you are able to tap into it?" Sin@crystyll | Tiah thinks for a moment, twirling a tail with one hand, "It is part of Tiah" Luthril@annpc#5570: "It's something you generate, then? Like static electricity." Sin@crystyll | Tiah shrugs lightly, "Tiah does not know this thing" Luthril@annpc#5570 nods and looks to Sin, "We can try and locate where it comes from...if you will allow us, Tiah?" Sin@crystyll | Tiah smiles and nods, "Tiah is curious to learn too!" Luthril@annpc#5570 smiles back, "Let us see what we can learn, then." Luthril@annpc#5570 closes her eyes, trying to see if she can read anything in Tiah now without the energy being used. Luthril@annpc#5570: "Interesting," she opens her eyes and looks to Sin. "Can you sense her as well?" Sin@crystyll nods, "She feels more like you or the Captain, than like the Humans on board, say" Luthril@annpc#5570 turns back to Tiah, "You have telepathic capability, I presume?" Sin@crystyll: | Tiah: "Quila says that too! But Tiah is just for Quila, no other..." Luthril@annpc#5570 tilts her head, "Just for Quila?" Sin@crystyll | Tiah nods, "Tiah is bonded with Quila. Once a bond is made it can not be broken" Sin@crystyll: "I think... she is saying that her telepathy, or whatever it is, is somehow tied to her connection with T'Quila?" Luthril@annpc#5570: "It would seem so. Can you speak to T'Quila through your mind, then? Or sense her feelings?" Sin@crystyll | Tiah smiles fondly, "Tiah can feel Quila, yes. And Quila can feel Tiah now too! Tiah' can only bond with one capable of being bonded, this is why" Luthril@annpc#5570: "But you cannot bond again now even if one is capable of being bonded, hence being just for Quila?" Sin@crystyll | Tiah nods, "Exactly, yes!" Sin@crystyll: "So a telepathically capable mind, but limited to a single association? Well that's new" Luthril@annpc#5570: "Very interesting. I suppose the rest of your species are like that as well?" Sin@crystyll | Tiah nods again, "Yes, this is the nature of Tiah's existence!" Luthril@annpc#5570: "How do you normally use these bonds? If you are among your own people and did not meet T'Quila, that is." Sin@crystyll | Tiah idles around some more, enjoying the flora as she speaks, "Tiah would bond no differently. The bond is made from... empathic(?) connection? That is the word Quila used, yes!" Sin@crystyll: | Tiah: "Tiah exist in juvenile state until such a bond is forged with another. Then Tiah evolve to reflect that form when they bond" Luthril@annpc#5570: "Ahh, so that's why you look like us now?" Luthril@annpc#5570: "Or like T'Quila perhaps, I should say." Sin@crystyll | Tiah smiles, giving a fanciful twirl, "Yes, Tiah evolved to be compatible with Quila! But some things are too natural to Tiah, like tails - Tiah still doesn't know how humanoids balance without + Sin@crystyll: + them!" she laughs Luthril@annpc#5570 chuckles, "That would explain why you have them." Sin@crystyll: "Now I kind of want my own too..." she notes, idly patting her lower back as she imagines what it must be like Luthril@annpc#5570: "They do have a certain...flair to them." Luthril@annpc#5570: "Anyways, we should see what we can learn about your claw ability, but the arboretum is probably not a good place to see it..." Sin@crystyll: | Tiah: "Yes, Tiah should not hurt that which is alive!" Luthril@annpc#5570 looks to Sin, "What about these holographic simulation rooms on the ship?" Sin@crystyll: "Sounds good to me" Luthril@annpc#5570 smiles, "Come with us, Tiah." Luthril@annpc#5570 heads out of the Arboretum and to one of the ship's holodecks. Sin@crystyll & Tiah follow along Luthril@annpc#5570 steps inside the holodeck, "Do we need to set anything up in here? A setting, fields around the room so the energy doesn't damage the equipment?" Sin@crystyll hrms, "That might be prudent, yes. Computer; establish a level 9 forcefield around the holodeck" Sin@crystyll FX | An affirmative beep and a blue flicker across the walls Sin@crystyll: "Now... something simple maybe? Computer: single training target. Fixed. Medium range" Sin@crystyll FX | the appropriate dummy appears 2/3 down the length of the room Sin@crystyll: "How's that?" Luthril@annpc#5570: "I think that should do. Thank you, Sin." Luthril@annpc#5570 stands aside and turns her gaze to Tiah, "Do you think you can use your claws on that?" Sin@crystyll | Tiah looks between the two and steps forward to just ahead of them Sin@crystyll | Tiah remains still for a moment, head bowed slightly as she concentrates. Soon the red flickers of energy spark between the tips of her tails, and grow in intensity. When apparently sufficient, + Sin@crystyll: + she jumps in the air, tails fanned out, and the energy erupts forwards in a sparking red ball which hits and obliterates the target Sin@crystyll | Tiah lands gracefully and turns back to Luthril, tails swishing eagerly, "Like that?" she asks with an optimistic tone Luthril@annpc#5570 smiles and nods, "Yes, exactly like that! Well done." Luthril@annpc#5570 looks back to Sin, "There are internal sensors all over the ship, correct? Including this room?" Sin@crystyll | Tiah beams proudly Sin@crystyll: "Yes there are" Luthril@annpc#5570 steps over, "Let's see what it registered of Tiah and her energy." Sin@crystyll taps on the console, "I'm no expert but if I remember right from what you had me studying before; it looks like a telekenetic manifestation" Luthril@annpc#5570: "Let's compare it with our telekinetic ability. Generate an object, a child's playing-ball or something." Sin@crystyll: "Computer: One toy ball" Sin@crystyll FX | A simple red ball appears in the middle of the room. Tiah jumps a little at the appearance but watches it curiously Luthril@annpc#5570 steps over to the ball and raises her hand, lifting it with telekinetic force and throwing it across the room. Luthril@annpc#5570 turns to Sin once she finishes, "How does that compare on the sensors to Tiah's energy?" Sin@crystyll hrms, "Similar, though barely comparable. I think the actual manifestation is different to manipulation... computer, run a comparative analysis between these internal sensor readings and the library+ Sin@crystyll: + data. List comparable records" Sin@crystyll | The screen shifts and scrolls out a list Sin@crystyll: "Ok... display library file 9-Delta-2 side by side with base readings" Luthril@annpc#5570 steps over to check out the readings. Sin@crystyll turns to Luthril, "Look at this. This file has the highest percentile match, over 90% similarity. It is recorded as a burst of telekenetic energy summoned by a Vorta" Luthril@annpc#5570: "A Vorta?" Sin@crystyll doubletakes looking downwards as she is suddenly distracted by a fluffy tail tickling her leg. Glancing back to see Tiah peering over their shoulders curiously too Sin@crystyll: "They are species from the Gamma quadrant" Sin@crystyll tries to gently brush the tail away without being overly distracted, just to find it right back where it started Sin@crystyll eyerolls and tries to ignore it... Luthril@annpc#5570 notices Tiah and chuckles at the fluffy tail before looking back to the readings, "Do we know how the Vorta generate their telekinetic energy?" Sin@crystyll checks the file and shakes her head, "Starfleet's interaction with the species has been fairly limited, and accounts of this ability are almost non-existent" Luthril@annpc#5570: "What else does Starfleet know of the species?" Sin@crystyll: "Genetically engineered... high natural tolerances to poisons and such. Nothing else particularly pertinent here I think" Luthril@annpc#5570 nods and looks to Tiah, "Do all of your people have this ability, or just you? You mentioned you don't have claws in this form, which would mean other forms taken by your people often have other - Luthril@annpc#5570: - means of defense." Sin@crystyll | Tiah nods, "Tiah's natural mature state is not of the physical world like this. But Tiah's grow up in it, so evolved claws as a natural defense" Luthril@annpc#5570: "So it's not a result of genetic change or anything related to taking this form?" Sin@crystyll | Tiah thinks on this a moment before shaking her head, "No, it is a natural part of Tiah" she finally says with a definitive nod Luthril@annpc#5570: "Do you think you have the strength to try it one more time? We will see what we can detect with our minds this time instead of sensors." Sin@crystyll | Tiah smiles, "Of course! Tiah can summon many claws, even when happy and relaxed! It is tiring, but no different to running through the forest!" Sin@crystyll: "Computer, renew training target" Luthril@annpc#5570 steps closer to Tiah this time, trying to sense any changes in her when she uses the energy. Sin@crystyll | Tiah repeats the previous action, launching a similarly powered projectile with the same results Luthril@annpc#5570 tries to detect if she is using any special mental capability to draw upon the energy. Luthril@annpc#5570: "I don't sense any particularly strong mental signals. And given what you said of it being no different from running...I think it is a physical capability of your species." Luthril@annpc#5570: "I don't suppose you can use the energy for any other purpose other than defense, like altering it to lift that ball like I did?" Sin@crystyll | Tiah looks from Luthril to the ball and back, "Tiah does not know. It has never been necessary to try" Luthril@annpc#5570 looks over to the ball as well, "Why don't we give it a try? See if you can...summon the ball to where you are instead of destroying it." Luthril@annpc#5570 smiles, "Don't worry if you accidentally destroy it, it's simulated anyways." Sin@crystyll | Tiah turns to the ball and stares intently at it for a long while. Nothing seems to happen though... Luthril@annpc#5570 nods, "As I suspected. It's more of a specific defense mechanism than telekinetic or even telepathic capability, which can be used in a variety of ways, for defense and other purposes." Luthril@annpc#5570: "Much like how your telepathy exists purely for forming a bond, actually. Your abilities are all strangely specific." Sin@crystyll: "Perhaps because they are all they have needed to be? Just as I am learning to expand my capability, perhaps this latent ability means she is capable too?" Luthril@annpc#5570 nods, "Possible, yes..." Luthril@annpc#5570: "Or maybe they are evolved to be specific and used only for this manner." Sin@crystyll: "Is there any way to assess such capability?" Luthril@annpc#5570: "If it is a specific physical trait like I suspect, a medical evaluation should be able to understand it." Sin@crystyll | Tiah, "Does Tiah have to do more tests?" she pouts Luthril@annpc#5570: "I think that will be up to the doctors. Have you already done some with them?" Sin@crystyll | Tiah nods, "Lots of them when Tiah first came here" Luthril@annpc#5570: "Perhaps they will be enough now that we know what we are looking for. I'm afraid I'm no expert in anatomy myself, though." Luthril@annpc#5570: "I'll let the Captain know of our findings here and see if she wishes doctors to follow up on this." Sin@crystyll: | Tiah: "So Tiah doesn't have to do more tests...?" Luthril@annpc#5570: "Only if they want to check out something specifically, but if they already have so much information, I think you'll be fine," she smiles reassuringly. Sin@crystyll | Tiah beams happily, "Yay!" and dances around Luthril@annpc#5570 chuckles, "That'll be all the demonstrations we need from you for now as well." Luthril@annpc#5570: "Do you wish to return to the arboretum?" Sin@crystyll | Tiah hrms, "Tiah doesn't have anywhere else to go while she waits for Quila..." Luthril@annpc#5570: "We could simulate something for you in here." Sin@crystyll | Tiah gives a curious head tilt, "Like what?" Luthril@annpc#5570 looks to Sin, "Any ideas?" Luthril@annpc#5570: "You know what simulations are available better than I do." Sin@crystyll: "Umm... well she seems pretty energetic, maybe something for her to burn up some energy with lots of running and jumping around?" Sin@crystyll | Tiah's ears pick up Sin@crystyll: "I'll take that as a yes then" she smirks, "Computer; beach landscape. Midday setting - tropical" Sin@crystyll FX | The appropriate paradise island renders around them and Tiah is soon exploring, albeit tentatively Luthril@annpc#5570: "How is this, Tiah?" Sin@crystyll | Tiah cautiously sniffs the air, "It is strange. It looks alive, but feels dead" Luthril@annpc#5570: "You can tell that it is simulated, then?" Sin@crystyll | Tiah nods, "It feels dead like this ship" Luthril@annpc#5570: "So you do have some latent ability to sense life..." Luthril@annpc#5570: "Most people, as I understand it, cannot tell these simulations from reality." Sin@crystyll: | Tiah: "Yes, that is what Quila said too! But she said people rely on limited sensory input for this, that they do not feel life around them. Is this true?" Luthril@annpc#5570 nods, "It is. I suspect your sensory abilities are a part of the telepathic capability we sensed in you, in addition to your bond with T'Quila." Sin@crystyll: "Stands to reason. Maybe some sort of latent empathy, like a pool of energy that the bond with T'Quila draws from or something?" Luthril@annpc#5570: "I suspect so. Strong enough to use as a sense, but not to actively reach the minds of others." Sin@crystyll: "But what is with this definitive dead or alive stuff?" Luthril@annpc#5570: "I'm not sure. As you've seen earlier, minds can be sensed and give off unique voices, but there are many people on the ship..." Luthril@annpc#5570: "I think it is a lack of other natural surroundings she can sense, which would explain why she enjoys the Arboretum." Sin@crystyll | Tiah nods, "Yes! That place is beautiful and alive!" Sin@crystyll: "Some... connection to some fundamental part of the natural world perhaps?" Luthril@annpc#5570: "So it would seem. Whether this is telepathic or something else, I cannot say." Sin@crystyll: "Whatever it is, if there is capability there beyond what is now know; then I can see why the Captain wanted to find out" Luthril@annpc#5570: "Indeed. There is likely much more to learn with her." Sin@crystyll: "And from the sounds of it; much for Tiah to learn about herself too" Sin@crystyll | Tiah, quietly watching the pair talk about her smiles at this, "Tiah likes this plan!" Luthril@annpc#5570 smiles back, "Come, let's return to the Arboretum. You seem to like it much better than here." Sin@crystyll: | Tiah: "Ok!" Sin@crystyll can't help but chuckle at the innocent charm Luthril@annpc#5570 steps out of the holodeck to lead Tiah back. Luthril@annpc#5570 enters back into the Arboretum, "Better here, Tiah?" Sin@crystyll | Tiah smiles and bounds into the room, disappearing among the trees Sin@crystyll smirks, "Ok, that's definitely a yes!" Luthril@annpc#5570 chuckles, "Indeed. She appears so much more at home here." Sin@crystyll: "She said something about... evolving into a humanoid. What was she before?" Luthril@annpc#5570: "I haven't seen her prior to her transformation, nor met another of her people. But I would assume something with a tail, with what she said about needing one for balance." Sin@crystyll: "Makes sense. If it was some of... wild animal that might explain the affinity for this environment" Luthril@annpc#5570 nods, "Though there are few wild creatures sophisticated enough to create telepathic bonds." Sin@crystyll: "Well she also said their natural state was outside of they physical universe. Perhaps the juvenile form, as she put it, was an avatar of sorts?" Luthril@annpc#5570: "Coming from outside the physical universe could also explain these abilities...they may not have evolved similar to anything we are familiar with." Sin@crystyll: "Sounds about right. So what's next for her?" Luthril@annpc#5570: "I'm not certain if her abilities can be expanded beyond what they currently are, but she shows no sign of lacking control over them. They are instinctive, which means she may use them on something - Luthril@annpc#5570: - or someone that simply appears threatening but is not actually trying to hurt her...but the same can be said of any instinctive reaction." Sin@crystyll: "True enough. So... more training on restraint on control, like mine?" Luthril@annpc#5570: "Not training like yours, unless we have a reason to believe her abilities can be furthered. It would be more like the training of the security personnel here, to hone reflexes, and try not to react - Luthril@annpc#5570: - to everything by instinct to everything so they do not harm something they should not." Luthril@annpc#5570: "She can control her abilities perfectly fine, it is the instincts, possibly honed by growing up in the wild, that must be toned down to ensure she doesn't use her abilities at inappropriate times." Sin@crystyll nods, "Hopefully she will be able to take it in. I'd hate to see her end up like me" Luthril@annpc#5570: "Do not sell yourself short, Sin. You are managing your abilities quite well. You managed to locate her here, not I." Sin@crystyll: "Yeah, but I still betrayed the Captain and ended up living under lock and key..." Luthril@annpc#5570: "That is not a result of your control. Besides, if it weren't for you taking that mission, you would not be here in the first place, would you?" Luthril@annpc#5570: "The Lonesome One knew who you were and knew that events would play out so we would meet. If he believes you will be essential in what is to come, I see no reason to doubt him." Sin@crystyll: "True. I just fear that she could end up acting on instinct and doing something bad. That would land her in incarceration like me" Luthril@annpc#5570: "That is why we should teach her to control her instincts, but there are many who can instruct her on that here." Luthril@annpc#5570: "Her abilities themselves do not need my guidance." Luthril@annpc#5570 smiles, "You need worry not, my focus will still be on teaching you." Sin@crystyll: "I do not worry for losing your attention. I worry for her future..." Luthril@annpc#5570: "We will have to wait and see. I will advise the Captain on what should be done for her, but I cannot ensure she will not find trouble. I can only promise to do what I can to guide her in the areas - Luthril@annpc#5570: - where she does need guidance." Sin@crystyll: "I'd like to help too, if there's any way I can of course" Luthril@annpc#5570: "I will bring you along when I come to see her again, then." Sin@crystyll smiles, "Thanks" Luthril@annpc#5570 smiles back, "And if we do not find her in the Arboretum next time, we can practice your searching ability again."

View AAR

AFTER ACTION REPORT STARFLEET SECURITY CLEARANCE LEVEL 2 | Confidential

FILED BY

PO1 Nishaa Sethi

ON STARDATE

97080.6

LOCATION

KEY PERSONNEL

Sector V-013: Deep Space

CPO T'Quila

PO1 Sethi

CRW Trac

MISSION PARAMETERSOUTCOME SUMMARYInvestigate disturbance in Chief T'Quila's quarters. Tiah calmed by T'Quila's presence. Potential long-term solution also found in allowing Tiah to spend time in the arboretum.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Have the Science department integrate Tiah into a role in the arboretum where she can work among nature.

NARRATIVE

Security received an alert about a disturbance in CPO T'Quila's quarters and I was dispatched alongside CRW Trac to respond. Upon arriving on the deck, we were instructed by LT Silvestrie to hold and wait for the Chief to arrive before proceeding. In the meantime, we noted loud noises coming from within the quarters.

T'Quila soon joined us and asked to approach the quarters first, as we were pretty sure Tiah was having some troubles within. I raised concerns about the Chief's safety, but we decided to let T'Quila go ahead as we did not wish to startle Tiah. When the door was opened, we saw that Tiah was indeed pacing frantically and had damaged the room using some form of energy blasts generated by her body. She was charging up another ball of energy but paused upon seeing T'Quila, who was able to speak with her and calm her down. We learned that Tiah apparently felt the ship to be too lifeless and was having difficulty coping on her own when T'Quila was not around to accompany her.

I suggested finding some sort of hobby for Tiah to spend her time with, perhaps botany or something that deals with managing life. T'Quila brought Tiah to the arboretum, where she was instantly thrilled by the natural environment within. As Tiah was now completely calm and content, the Chief affirmed that she no longer needed us to accompany them and we returned to regular duties.