Introduction
Announcements
Nebula's Dawn Story Map
Part I: F.S.S. Salient
Part II: Lance of Liberty
Part III: ???
Circa August 5, 2093 S.C.M. - Nearing the End:
The F.S.S. Salient is the last of its kind, a Neptune Class Battlecruiser, commissioned May 29, 2093 S.C.E. (Solar Cycle Earth.) The ship is crewed with inexperienced members sent to the fringes of the Arcturus System to investigate the recent disruptions in the region. They are expected to arrive at their destination two months after deployment. It departed from the star port in Rust City, Mars on June 2, 2093 S.C.M. (Solar Cycle Mars.)
Synopsis:
The Salient arrived in Callisto, one of the Jovian moons, on June 14, 2093 S.C.J. (Solar Cycle Jupiter,) and docked in the central Callisto star port to resupply. The ship's crew had arrived from various posts and locations throughout the Federation, and were awaiting entrance to the large warship while it was docking in Callisto. The crew boarded the ship and met Admiral Weston, the Captain of the ship, who gave a brief introductory speech to the assembled group of soldiers, crew-members, personnel, scientists, doctors, pilots, and engineers. After which, the Salient departed from Callisto.
Not long after, the Salient entered the Middle Rim region of Federation space, where they came into contact with a pair of Altamus Corporation freighters carrying a highly valued commodity ore known as Duilium. The freighters, escorted by the private security firm, Tartarus Group, were ambushed by two pirate frigates. The two freighters and the security escort, Tartarus Group suffered losses, including two gunships and pilots KIA, and one gunship and pilot MIA. A distress beacon was activated by one of the escort gunships which alerted the Salient of their presence and their situation.
The Salient, being a federal vessel, and therefore responsible for the security and well-being of Federation citizens, intervened. In the ensuing skirmish near the gas planet of Themos V, the Salient managed to cripple both frigates, while destroying a dozen pirate fighters that had been been lying in wait for an ambush. The pirates then withdrew, leaving behind the damaged hulks of their frigates for the Federation to investigate. Meanwhile, the Altamus freighters, received word that another escort, the Queen Gertrude, was en route to their position. The Salient, under the direction of Admiral Weston, decided to put their original destination on hold and await the new escort before resuming their previous course in case more pirates showed up to raid the freighters for their precious Duilium cargo.
After disabling the two frigates, two Marine fire teams coordinated by Commander Atomsk Dunaway, infiltrated the hostile ships hoping to acquire whatever data was available on their networks. It was revealed that an explosive device was armed on the second frigate, prompting immediate evacuation by the team. However, complications arose as a pair of prisoners escaped from the brig and sought the help of the Marines. At the same time, the two Altamus vessels were given word to clear the proximity of the pirate frigate to avoid the damage resulting from an explosive blast.
Bravo Team led by Captain Eli Colter managed to disembark from the bomb strapped frigate, only to come to the realization, similar to that of the Salient's bridge crew, that more pirates were on the horizon. They had to depart without the prisoners, who were pinned in another section of the ship. These pirates, arrived under the direction of former Federation Vice Admiral Atreus Eturrer, who had turned rogue, and had been living by under the alias Silver Eyes.
They arrived precisely at the coordinates given to them by Courtney Reynolds, a pirate, and sister to Private First Class Gary Reynolds, who coincidentally was with Captain Colter. Courtney Reynolds had managed to infiltrate the Salient by unknown means and sabotage several of the generators, before she was apprehended by a team of Federation Marines led personally by Commander Dunaway after he saw her kill three of the ship's personnel on a video feed. Admiral Weston for his part, activated a secret contingency plan called Contingency CA.
Meanwhile, Jessica "Hyena" MacPhearson and a number of crew members were intoxicated in an unofficial social in the Salient's rear decks, leaving the majority of the ship unattended to in the wake of the assault by the pirates. Once Captain Colter had returned to the ship, he received a transmission from Elizabeth Waltz, the heiress of the multi-trillion dollar corporation, Waltz Enterprises. It was revealed that she was one of the two prisoners aboard the frigate he and his team had infiltrated. The pirates began their assault on the lone Federation starship with waves of fighters followed by salvos from their lesser ships.
As for the other prisoner aboard the second frigate, Ulric Kercheskoi, his last transmission was cut short and his status is currently unknown. Captain Colter believes he might attempt to crash the frigate into the pirate ranks and detonate the explosive, thereby destroying a large number of pirate ships. The pirates began to send their lines of lighter ships forth in an assault on the Salient, receiving many casualties, as their scrapped fleets were ripped apart by the state of the art Federation starship. A field of debris began to form as lone pirate ships were annihilated by the Salient.
This seemingly invincible warship held its ground for an hour or two, before Navigator Summer reported that the FTL drives had been activated, and the sequence could not be averted. Admiral Weston in an attempt to stall and gather up his personnel, allowed the Navigator to redirect energy from the FTL drives, thereby stalling its launch. Doctor Bergman, one of the chief doctors, operated on an unconscious, beaten, and battered Elizabeth Waltz who had arrived on board the Salient.
Several pilots, notably, "Ray," "Hyena," and Tiaan went to clear off any stragglers hidden within. "Hyena" had a close call as a pirate frigate barely missed a point blank shot that would have otherwise ended the cocky pilot's life. Captain Jon Dunaway, leader of Alpha Team, began his trip back to the Salient in his suit alone, while the rest of his team are presumed MIA aboard the first pirate frigate. The two A.Is, Max and T.A.U after successfully infiltrating the pirates' data stream began to scour their networks for useful information, as well as wreaking havoc by hacking into ships' control systems, returned to the ship. The Salient's structure began to fracture under the weight of the pirates' line of fire. Thaddeus Jackson remains to be seen, as he is presumed MIA aboard the first pirate frigate.
Silver Eyes, admitting his defeat, began to parley with Admiral Weston for the release of Courtney Reynolds. Admiral Weston, resoundingly, denied Silver Eyes the release, and battle resumed. Unfortunately, by then both sides realized that the jump was imminent, and Silver Eyes lowered his weapons so as to spare the ship from destruction, thus protecting Courtney. Peter "Ray" Davidson in an act of valor, was prepared to lay down his life and equipped his ship with a number of heavy duty armaments to take the battle to the enemy. After he assaulted the pirate ranks, his ship was damaged by multiple homing mines, resulting in the loss of his eye and the entire left side of his body was response-less. Finally, facing an inevitable meltdown in his gunship, "Ray" shut down his systems to power an old radio and send a final message of goodbye before his ship exploded. "Hyena" and Tiaan and other fighters left the field, to rejoin the Salient for the jump.
Silver Eyes for his part, decided that he would continue the chase for Courtney, who by now had become sort of a daughter figure to him. As for the two freighters stacked with Duillium, he ordered his fleets to raid the ships after he had departed after the Salient. Once the Salient made its rip through slipstream, Silver Eyes quickly pursued. As for his pirate armada, they began to inch toward the freighters, only to be ambushed by two Federation battle groups composed of eighty ships total, under Commander Attalon Soters, that had just exited slipstream. The ships went into slipstream after receiving the Contingency CA beacon activated by Admiral Weston. On the other flank, a smaller group of warships numbering twenty vessels centered around the Queen Gertrude finally arrived to relieve the two Altamus freighters and repay the Federation for its part in protecting the two ships. The combined pincer was too much for the pirate fleet, and they were thus forced to retreat.
A mysterious A.I. appears on Silver Eyes ship, one that seems to command Silver Eyes himself, after enveloping his tactician A.I. Miranda. Silver Eyes immediately retreats as the A.I. relays the events that transpired to a secret source.
EXTERIOR:
INTERIOR:
Bridge Crew Members::
Captain/Admiral: Aronimus Weston (VindicatedPurpose)
First Mate/Second in Command {Lieutenant Commander}: Alice Chen (Everscale)
Engineer(s):
- Elizabeth Waltz (Mathew Littlepaw)
Navigator(s):
- Clyde Summer (Uncertainly)
Security Personnel/Marine Detachment::
Planetary Operations Commander: Atomsk Dunaway (TKDJ)
Captain(s):
- Eli Colter (VindicatedPurpose)
- Jon Dunaway (Nekohina)
Pilot(s):
Fighter Pilots:
- Jessica "Hyena" MacPhearson (DustAndEchoes)
- Tiaan Peyton (Rulke)
Gunship Pilots:
- Peter "Ray" Davidson (Colonel_Masters) - Deceased
Marines:
- Reterec Smithy (Mr. Baneling Squishy)
Medical Crew Members::
Chief Medical Director:
- Marcus Bergman (Smokescreen)
Science Corps::
Scientist(s):
- Adriana Stark (Uncertainly)
Extraneous Crew Members::
Android(s):
IRU-6K (Colonel Masters)
Artificial Intelligence(s):
- A.D.A.M. (Nekohina)
- Max (Mr.Baneling Squishy)
- T.A.U. (Gazimu)
Nebula's Dawn Story Map
Part I: F.S.S. Salient
Part II: Lance of Liberty
Part III: ???
Circa August 5, 2093 S.C.M. - Nearing the End:
The F.S.S. Salient is the last of its kind, a Neptune Class Battlecruiser, commissioned May 29, 2093 S.C.E. (Solar Cycle Earth.) The ship is crewed with inexperienced members sent to the fringes of the Arcturus System to investigate the recent disruptions in the region. They are expected to arrive at their destination two months after deployment. It departed from the star port in Rust City, Mars on June 2, 2093 S.C.M. (Solar Cycle Mars.)
Synopsis:
The Salient arrived in Callisto, one of the Jovian moons, on June 14, 2093 S.C.J. (Solar Cycle Jupiter,) and docked in the central Callisto star port to resupply. The ship's crew had arrived from various posts and locations throughout the Federation, and were awaiting entrance to the large warship while it was docking in Callisto. The crew boarded the ship and met Admiral Weston, the Captain of the ship, who gave a brief introductory speech to the assembled group of soldiers, crew-members, personnel, scientists, doctors, pilots, and engineers. After which, the Salient departed from Callisto.
Not long after, the Salient entered the Middle Rim region of Federation space, where they came into contact with a pair of Altamus Corporation freighters carrying a highly valued commodity ore known as Duilium. The freighters, escorted by the private security firm, Tartarus Group, were ambushed by two pirate frigates. The two freighters and the security escort, Tartarus Group suffered losses, including two gunships and pilots KIA, and one gunship and pilot MIA. A distress beacon was activated by one of the escort gunships which alerted the Salient of their presence and their situation.
The Salient, being a federal vessel, and therefore responsible for the security and well-being of Federation citizens, intervened. In the ensuing skirmish near the gas planet of Themos V, the Salient managed to cripple both frigates, while destroying a dozen pirate fighters that had been been lying in wait for an ambush. The pirates then withdrew, leaving behind the damaged hulks of their frigates for the Federation to investigate. Meanwhile, the Altamus freighters, received word that another escort, the Queen Gertrude, was en route to their position. The Salient, under the direction of Admiral Weston, decided to put their original destination on hold and await the new escort before resuming their previous course in case more pirates showed up to raid the freighters for their precious Duilium cargo.
After disabling the two frigates, two Marine fire teams coordinated by Commander Atomsk Dunaway, infiltrated the hostile ships hoping to acquire whatever data was available on their networks. It was revealed that an explosive device was armed on the second frigate, prompting immediate evacuation by the team. However, complications arose as a pair of prisoners escaped from the brig and sought the help of the Marines. At the same time, the two Altamus vessels were given word to clear the proximity of the pirate frigate to avoid the damage resulting from an explosive blast.
Bravo Team led by Captain Eli Colter managed to disembark from the bomb strapped frigate, only to come to the realization, similar to that of the Salient's bridge crew, that more pirates were on the horizon. They had to depart without the prisoners, who were pinned in another section of the ship. These pirates, arrived under the direction of former Federation Vice Admiral Atreus Eturrer, who had turned rogue, and had been living by under the alias Silver Eyes.
They arrived precisely at the coordinates given to them by Courtney Reynolds, a pirate, and sister to Private First Class Gary Reynolds, who coincidentally was with Captain Colter. Courtney Reynolds had managed to infiltrate the Salient by unknown means and sabotage several of the generators, before she was apprehended by a team of Federation Marines led personally by Commander Dunaway after he saw her kill three of the ship's personnel on a video feed. Admiral Weston for his part, activated a secret contingency plan called Contingency CA.
Meanwhile, Jessica "Hyena" MacPhearson and a number of crew members were intoxicated in an unofficial social in the Salient's rear decks, leaving the majority of the ship unattended to in the wake of the assault by the pirates. Once Captain Colter had returned to the ship, he received a transmission from Elizabeth Waltz, the heiress of the multi-trillion dollar corporation, Waltz Enterprises. It was revealed that she was one of the two prisoners aboard the frigate he and his team had infiltrated. The pirates began their assault on the lone Federation starship with waves of fighters followed by salvos from their lesser ships.
As for the other prisoner aboard the second frigate, Ulric Kercheskoi, his last transmission was cut short and his status is currently unknown. Captain Colter believes he might attempt to crash the frigate into the pirate ranks and detonate the explosive, thereby destroying a large number of pirate ships. The pirates began to send their lines of lighter ships forth in an assault on the Salient, receiving many casualties, as their scrapped fleets were ripped apart by the state of the art Federation starship. A field of debris began to form as lone pirate ships were annihilated by the Salient.
This seemingly invincible warship held its ground for an hour or two, before Navigator Summer reported that the FTL drives had been activated, and the sequence could not be averted. Admiral Weston in an attempt to stall and gather up his personnel, allowed the Navigator to redirect energy from the FTL drives, thereby stalling its launch. Doctor Bergman, one of the chief doctors, operated on an unconscious, beaten, and battered Elizabeth Waltz who had arrived on board the Salient.
Several pilots, notably, "Ray," "Hyena," and Tiaan went to clear off any stragglers hidden within. "Hyena" had a close call as a pirate frigate barely missed a point blank shot that would have otherwise ended the cocky pilot's life. Captain Jon Dunaway, leader of Alpha Team, began his trip back to the Salient in his suit alone, while the rest of his team are presumed MIA aboard the first pirate frigate. The two A.Is, Max and T.A.U after successfully infiltrating the pirates' data stream began to scour their networks for useful information, as well as wreaking havoc by hacking into ships' control systems, returned to the ship. The Salient's structure began to fracture under the weight of the pirates' line of fire. Thaddeus Jackson remains to be seen, as he is presumed MIA aboard the first pirate frigate.
Silver Eyes, admitting his defeat, began to parley with Admiral Weston for the release of Courtney Reynolds. Admiral Weston, resoundingly, denied Silver Eyes the release, and battle resumed. Unfortunately, by then both sides realized that the jump was imminent, and Silver Eyes lowered his weapons so as to spare the ship from destruction, thus protecting Courtney. Peter "Ray" Davidson in an act of valor, was prepared to lay down his life and equipped his ship with a number of heavy duty armaments to take the battle to the enemy. After he assaulted the pirate ranks, his ship was damaged by multiple homing mines, resulting in the loss of his eye and the entire left side of his body was response-less. Finally, facing an inevitable meltdown in his gunship, "Ray" shut down his systems to power an old radio and send a final message of goodbye before his ship exploded. "Hyena" and Tiaan and other fighters left the field, to rejoin the Salient for the jump.
Silver Eyes for his part, decided that he would continue the chase for Courtney, who by now had become sort of a daughter figure to him. As for the two freighters stacked with Duillium, he ordered his fleets to raid the ships after he had departed after the Salient. Once the Salient made its rip through slipstream, Silver Eyes quickly pursued. As for his pirate armada, they began to inch toward the freighters, only to be ambushed by two Federation battle groups composed of eighty ships total, under Commander Attalon Soters, that had just exited slipstream. The ships went into slipstream after receiving the Contingency CA beacon activated by Admiral Weston. On the other flank, a smaller group of warships numbering twenty vessels centered around the Queen Gertrude finally arrived to relieve the two Altamus freighters and repay the Federation for its part in protecting the two ships. The combined pincer was too much for the pirate fleet, and they were thus forced to retreat.
A mysterious A.I. appears on Silver Eyes ship, one that seems to command Silver Eyes himself, after enveloping his tactician A.I. Miranda. Silver Eyes immediately retreats as the A.I. relays the events that transpired to a secret source.
EXTERIOR:
- A reinforced hull with thick neo-steel
- Prototype Tile Shielding
- Twelve massive rail guns on both the port and starboard sides of the ship
- Coupled with thirty-six rotating mini-ion cannon nodes on each side
- A massive particle cannon as the main armament
- Twin sub-Hyperdrive Propulsion Systems
- Four supporting FTL Suspension Drive Systems
INTERIOR:
- Reinforced Plexi-Glass view ports
- State of the art data/control/navigation systems
- Two Barracks/Security Quarters
- Central Captain's Quarters
- Two Main Armories
- Two Vehicle Bays- A complement of Light Recon Vehicles, and Medium Armored Personnel Carriers
- Four Auxiliary Armories
- Engineers Quarters/Engine Corridor
- Individual Crew Quarters
- Four Medical Bays/Infirmaries
- Four Hangars- A complement of Fighters, and gunships.
- Three Mess Halls
- Multiple Observation Decks
- Two Recreation Centers
Bridge Crew Members::
Captain/Admiral: Aronimus Weston (VindicatedPurpose)
First Mate/Second in Command {Lieutenant Commander}: Alice Chen (Everscale)
Engineer(s):
- Elizabeth Waltz (Mathew Littlepaw)
Navigator(s):
- Clyde Summer (Uncertainly)
Security Personnel/Marine Detachment::
Planetary Operations Commander: Atomsk Dunaway (TKDJ)
Captain(s):
- Eli Colter (VindicatedPurpose)
- Jon Dunaway (Nekohina)
Pilot(s):
Fighter Pilots:
- Jessica "Hyena" MacPhearson (DustAndEchoes)
- Tiaan Peyton (Rulke)
Gunship Pilots:
- Peter "Ray" Davidson (Colonel_Masters) - Deceased
Marines:
- Reterec Smithy (Mr. Baneling Squishy)
Medical Crew Members::
Chief Medical Director:
- Marcus Bergman (Smokescreen)
Science Corps::
Scientist(s):
- Adriana Stark (Uncertainly)
Extraneous Crew Members::
Android(s):
IRU-6K (Colonel Masters)
Artificial Intelligence(s):
- A.D.A.M. (Nekohina)
- Max (Mr.Baneling Squishy)
- T.A.U. (Gazimu)
Threads
No threads found.
The Story
Prologue:
Date: June 14, 2093 S.C.J. (Solar Cycle Jupiter)
The Federation star ship known as the Salient had departed Rust City approximately two weeks ago. The man at the helm was none other than Admiral Aronimus Weston. The old admiral no longer had fleets at his command, for he relinquished such power near the end of his career in the Federation Navy. He chose to command a single ship, the last of its model. To him, the Salient was his mirror, they were both nearing the end. Aronimus's distinguished career was displayed prominently on the front of his standard Federation service dress grey. From ribbons to medallions, no one could deny his ability nor his position.
Sharp rises were leveled out by crescendos that elevated to a zenith before the string of music slowly and softly drifted from his ears. Aronimus was listening to an old record which he wanted to play once more on the transparent tablet he held in front of him as he sat in his platform in the bridge. While he was listening, he had another transparent screen with text opened to his left. It was a data feed on recent Federation news. As he scrolled through the page, a screen rolled up and a female reporter with red hair began to speak.
"Yesterday at approximately 9:00 A:M Earth time, a bomb was detonated in Verlon City Center, on Avalon. The blast killed 97 people and injured another 300 others."
She continued speaking in a tense business tone.
"Federation Security and Peacekeepers are currently investigating the scene as engineering crews attempt to salvage the wreckage. No leads have been found regarding the origins of the explosive device."
"Relatives of the victims are mourning their loss."
Aronimus looked up to see a man in his early thirties, with a thin beard, fully suited in combat gear standing before in front of the holographic star map wall. The illumination of the star map wall was partially blocked by the contours and outlines of the man. He had a look of solemnity on his face while he held onto a transparent panel. It was a list of sorts, with names, pictures, and profiles.
"Captain Colter...what is it?"
Eli slid the panel onto Aronimus's metallic desk, relaxed his stance, balled his hands into a fist behind him, and awaited the skipper's inspection.
"These are the crew members?" Aronimus used his forefinger to scroll through the list of rejects, greenhorns, and fresh meat. Every time his finger came onto a name, a profile and picture would slide up. Aronimus reached a named listed as Gavin Merrickson. His left eye brow shifted upwards, and he looked up at Colter with a perplexed glance.
"It says here, he's male, but the image makes me think otherwise. Medic?"
"Yes sir." Colter responded with ease.
Aronimus then scrolled down some more until he reached what he saw was a familiar name.
"Alice Chen. Now there's a familiar name." He paused a bit as he looked over her profile. He nodded and then chuckled to himself. Then he looked back at Captain Colter who was standing at ease.
"She was merely a Lieutenant when I last saw her. I actually thought I was getting a ship full of inexperienced recruits."
"Well, sir...they may not be experienced but they're talented." Eli nearly grinned with that comment.
"Excellent point." Aronimus continued scrolling until he reached Jon Dunaway.
"Jon Dunaway, special operations, shock trooper, and perfect record..." Aronimus looked up at Eli with raised eyebrows.
"It says here he was slated to be the commander of this ship's Marine detachment. Now he's just a company commander, like you." Eli titled his head to his side slightly confused.
"The ground commander should be listed..."
"No, it's not on the roster."
"Should I ask command?"
"No that won't be necessary, they'll contact us." Aronimus returned the tablet to Eli and resumed his music session. This was a sign for Eli to return to his quarters to continue preparations.
"Oh and by the way Captain Colter..."
"Sir?" He turned and looked back at the Admiral.
"Be sure to make our guests feel welcomed, I am going to personally meet and brief them in the session later."
"Understood sir."
"Dismissed." Eli saluted the Admiral before he turned away and walked off.
Date: June 14, 2093 S.C.J. (Solar Cycle Jupiter)
The Federation star ship known as the Salient had departed Rust City approximately two weeks ago. The man at the helm was none other than Admiral Aronimus Weston. The old admiral no longer had fleets at his command, for he relinquished such power near the end of his career in the Federation Navy. He chose to command a single ship, the last of its model. To him, the Salient was his mirror, they were both nearing the end. Aronimus's distinguished career was displayed prominently on the front of his standard Federation service dress grey. From ribbons to medallions, no one could deny his ability nor his position.
Sharp rises were leveled out by crescendos that elevated to a zenith before the string of music slowly and softly drifted from his ears. Aronimus was listening to an old record which he wanted to play once more on the transparent tablet he held in front of him as he sat in his platform in the bridge. While he was listening, he had another transparent screen with text opened to his left. It was a data feed on recent Federation news. As he scrolled through the page, a screen rolled up and a female reporter with red hair began to speak.
"Yesterday at approximately 9:00 A:M Earth time, a bomb was detonated in Verlon City Center, on Avalon. The blast killed 97 people and injured another 300 others."
She continued speaking in a tense business tone.
"Federation Security and Peacekeepers are currently investigating the scene as engineering crews attempt to salvage the wreckage. No leads have been found regarding the origins of the explosive device."
"Relatives of the victims are mourning their loss."
Aronimus looked up to see a man in his early thirties, with a thin beard, fully suited in combat gear standing before in front of the holographic star map wall. The illumination of the star map wall was partially blocked by the contours and outlines of the man. He had a look of solemnity on his face while he held onto a transparent panel. It was a list of sorts, with names, pictures, and profiles.
"Captain Colter...what is it?"
Eli slid the panel onto Aronimus's metallic desk, relaxed his stance, balled his hands into a fist behind him, and awaited the skipper's inspection.
"These are the crew members?" Aronimus used his forefinger to scroll through the list of rejects, greenhorns, and fresh meat. Every time his finger came onto a name, a profile and picture would slide up. Aronimus reached a named listed as Gavin Merrickson. His left eye brow shifted upwards, and he looked up at Colter with a perplexed glance.
"It says here, he's male, but the image makes me think otherwise. Medic?"
"Yes sir." Colter responded with ease.
Aronimus then scrolled down some more until he reached what he saw was a familiar name.
"Alice Chen. Now there's a familiar name." He paused a bit as he looked over her profile. He nodded and then chuckled to himself. Then he looked back at Captain Colter who was standing at ease.
"She was merely a Lieutenant when I last saw her. I actually thought I was getting a ship full of inexperienced recruits."
"Well, sir...they may not be experienced but they're talented." Eli nearly grinned with that comment.
"Excellent point." Aronimus continued scrolling until he reached Jon Dunaway.
"Jon Dunaway, special operations, shock trooper, and perfect record..." Aronimus looked up at Eli with raised eyebrows.
"It says here he was slated to be the commander of this ship's Marine detachment. Now he's just a company commander, like you." Eli titled his head to his side slightly confused.
"The ground commander should be listed..."
"No, it's not on the roster."
"Should I ask command?"
"No that won't be necessary, they'll contact us." Aronimus returned the tablet to Eli and resumed his music session. This was a sign for Eli to return to his quarters to continue preparations.
"Oh and by the way Captain Colter..."
"Sir?" He turned and looked back at the Admiral.
"Be sure to make our guests feel welcomed, I am going to personally meet and brief them in the session later."
"Understood sir."
"Dismissed." Eli saluted the Admiral before he turned away and walked off.
The setting changes from Bridge to The Milky Way Universe
The noise of the station was no distraction for Lieutenant Commander Alice Chen. She stood stiff-backed and proper, her uniform freshly ironed, unmoving at the center of an ever-flowing crowd. She was accustomed to the chaos of a docking station, had learned at a very early age how to withstand the current of a thousand warm and restless bodies. Like a rock in the sea, she lived out her existence, still in the chaos. She maintained order. That was her duty - to direct others and ensure that the ship on which she was stationed ran smoothly. It was a job her mother and father had done before her. A job she had been doing since she had left the Academy in her early twenties. Now, at twenty-seven, the young officer found herself in limbo. Too high now in rank for the ship which had jump-started her career, she would be separated from her friends in her old crew, promoted to service aboard the Salient. Alice could not pretend that she grieved over it. She loved her friends, but she lived for the Federation.
For the first time in perhaps half an hour, Alice shifted her weight from one leg to the other. She ran a gloved hand through her dark hair, straightening out the gentle waves and forcing the ponytail to fall straighter down her back. It would not do to have her raven locks getting in the way of her work. Prettiness was all well and good, when it could be afforded, but Alice ran a tight ship. She would not let the fact that she was a women, and men expected her to be beautiful, interfere with her service of the Admiral.
Admiral Aronimus Weston. She had not seen nor heard from him since she was, comparatively, a girl. She had spent her childhood watching his career, dreaming of someday being someone like him. The thought that she might someday serve beneath him... she'd never had that thought. And then two days before she had received her new assignment, with his name in the commanding position. It had been all the young commander could do to stop herself from crying. Dreams coming true, left and right. She only hoped her secrets would not ruin this opportunity for her. No one had found out yet...
Alice intended to keep it that way.
An announcement rang overhead, and a chill ran down Alice's spine. She pulled her heels together, lifted her chin properly. The perfect soldier, just what her parents had trained her to be. She would relax once she was on board the Salient. For now, she had to set an example.
Holding her breath and wondering who would come to meet the new crew members, guide them onto their new ship, Alice made her way forwards through the crowds, to the gate where she had been ordered to wait.
For the first time in perhaps half an hour, Alice shifted her weight from one leg to the other. She ran a gloved hand through her dark hair, straightening out the gentle waves and forcing the ponytail to fall straighter down her back. It would not do to have her raven locks getting in the way of her work. Prettiness was all well and good, when it could be afforded, but Alice ran a tight ship. She would not let the fact that she was a women, and men expected her to be beautiful, interfere with her service of the Admiral.
Admiral Aronimus Weston. She had not seen nor heard from him since she was, comparatively, a girl. She had spent her childhood watching his career, dreaming of someday being someone like him. The thought that she might someday serve beneath him... she'd never had that thought. And then two days before she had received her new assignment, with his name in the commanding position. It had been all the young commander could do to stop herself from crying. Dreams coming true, left and right. She only hoped her secrets would not ruin this opportunity for her. No one had found out yet...
Alice intended to keep it that way.
An announcement rang overhead, and a chill ran down Alice's spine. She pulled her heels together, lifted her chin properly. The perfect soldier, just what her parents had trained her to be. She would relax once she was on board the Salient. For now, she had to set an example.
Holding her breath and wondering who would come to meet the new crew members, guide them onto their new ship, Alice made her way forwards through the crowds, to the gate where she had been ordered to wait.
A.D.A.M.
"All systems green Admiral, Hyperdrives active and synchronized and FTLs coordinated. Environmental systems operating within safe parameters, atmosphere within.084% of Earth's ,artificial gravity at standard 1.03 Gs." Adam flashed into existence on one of the many holopads of the ship.
"If you wish I can send you a full system diagnostic, but I must submit a complaint about the isolated system AI's within the suits of Thaddeus and Commander Dunaway. Besides the occasional run-time link for a data update to primary memory systems they do not follow standard protocol."
He paused, a bit, still not fully accustomed to interactions with humans, "Is there anything else I can do Admiral?"
"All systems green Admiral, Hyperdrives active and synchronized and FTLs coordinated. Environmental systems operating within safe parameters, atmosphere within.084% of Earth's ,artificial gravity at standard 1.03 Gs." Adam flashed into existence on one of the many holopads of the ship.
"If you wish I can send you a full system diagnostic, but I must submit a complaint about the isolated system AI's within the suits of Thaddeus and Commander Dunaway. Besides the occasional run-time link for a data update to primary memory systems they do not follow standard protocol."
He paused, a bit, still not fully accustomed to interactions with humans, "Is there anything else I can do Admiral?"
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Bridge
The Admiral turned off his music and swiveled around to face the digitized artificial intelligence standing before him on his control panel. He had been disturbed by two pieces of news. Firstly, the roster had no Commander Dunaway listed, unless it was referring to Jon Dunaway, however he was merely a captain and not the detachment leader. Secondly, the isolated AIs were not brought up to attention before.
"Isolated AIs? Hmmm..." he rubbed his chin for a bit.
"Adam, remind me to address Mr. Thaddeus Jackson, and uh...Commander Dunaway."
"We'll resolve that issue during the briefing, for now, log off."
Aronimus stood up from his seat, folded his arms behind him, and walked to the general meeting hall. The corridors of the F.S.S. Salient were sterilized before it left the factories on Earth and departed to Mars. Not a soul in sight, he enjoyed this solitude for a moment before it would be swept away. He expected the hordes of recruits and crew members to pour in from the station as the ship docked in place. It brought him back to the old days, when he was once a recruit entering a star ship for the first time. It seemed like yesterday, but felt like eons ago.
"Isolated AIs? Hmmm..." he rubbed his chin for a bit.
"Adam, remind me to address Mr. Thaddeus Jackson, and uh...Commander Dunaway."
"We'll resolve that issue during the briefing, for now, log off."
Aronimus stood up from his seat, folded his arms behind him, and walked to the general meeting hall. The corridors of the F.S.S. Salient were sterilized before it left the factories on Earth and departed to Mars. Not a soul in sight, he enjoyed this solitude for a moment before it would be swept away. He expected the hordes of recruits and crew members to pour in from the station as the ship docked in place. It brought him back to the old days, when he was once a recruit entering a star ship for the first time. It seemed like yesterday, but felt like eons ago.
The setting changes from Bridge to F.S.S. Salient
Ben Owens
With everyone else milling around Ben stood in the middle of the crowd, his fingers twitching slightly as he waited. He did his best to control himself since he knew that he could get into a lot of trouble here, he'd seen the Lieutenant Commander chew men out for random things. Well, they seemed random to him. He noticed more than a few people shooting glances at her but he didn't care, when it came to the ones giving the orders it didn't matter what there private parts were. Just as long as they let him fly.
Ben kept his smile on his face as he made his way through the crowd, the only good thing about the wait was that his fighter was already being loaded and prepped. He couldn't wait to get in her again, she was an amazing thing. Shaking his head to clear his mind he looked around and at the people gathered around, some looked rather young for this job and others looked as though they should be back home with there families waiting to die.
It was then that the announcement started to wring out, with a small frown on his face he made his way forward not sure of what was going on. He flexed his hand again glanced around, ready and eager for what was to happen next.
James Grey
James stood with his eyes closed leaning on the gate, to anyone else it probably looked as though he was dozing off. In his head he had ARCHE going through he systems and pulling up progress reports and status updates. He shouldn't technically be doing this but many of the features on the ship were designed by him and had never really been tested properly. He'd be damned if he was gonna let go of his little projects so easily, at the very least he'd make sure they didn't blow up on them all. As one of the two main engineers on board he would be busy most of the time but he would still have to make sure everything was running properly...and maybe making a few additions here and there.
In his head ARCHE was reading off reports on various systems as he dove in and out of the computer systems as quickly and quietly as he could. ARCHE wasn't exactly standard issue, having been designed by James himself so if he got caught ARCHE might be permanently deleted. James didn't care though, it would just be a few weeks work to create another one. As ARCHE made another run into the system James thought about this job.
It would be the first time he'd ever been out in deep space, most of his time had been spent in labs and on stations. It would be an interesting experience but he couldn't help but wonder why he was here. Now granted he was a genius but still, most people wouldn't be assigned to a ship like this at his age. Something had to be going on.
With everyone else milling around Ben stood in the middle of the crowd, his fingers twitching slightly as he waited. He did his best to control himself since he knew that he could get into a lot of trouble here, he'd seen the Lieutenant Commander chew men out for random things. Well, they seemed random to him. He noticed more than a few people shooting glances at her but he didn't care, when it came to the ones giving the orders it didn't matter what there private parts were. Just as long as they let him fly.
Ben kept his smile on his face as he made his way through the crowd, the only good thing about the wait was that his fighter was already being loaded and prepped. He couldn't wait to get in her again, she was an amazing thing. Shaking his head to clear his mind he looked around and at the people gathered around, some looked rather young for this job and others looked as though they should be back home with there families waiting to die.
It was then that the announcement started to wring out, with a small frown on his face he made his way forward not sure of what was going on. He flexed his hand again glanced around, ready and eager for what was to happen next.
James Grey
James stood with his eyes closed leaning on the gate, to anyone else it probably looked as though he was dozing off. In his head he had ARCHE going through he systems and pulling up progress reports and status updates. He shouldn't technically be doing this but many of the features on the ship were designed by him and had never really been tested properly. He'd be damned if he was gonna let go of his little projects so easily, at the very least he'd make sure they didn't blow up on them all. As one of the two main engineers on board he would be busy most of the time but he would still have to make sure everything was running properly...and maybe making a few additions here and there.
In his head ARCHE was reading off reports on various systems as he dove in and out of the computer systems as quickly and quietly as he could. ARCHE wasn't exactly standard issue, having been designed by James himself so if he got caught ARCHE might be permanently deleted. James didn't care though, it would just be a few weeks work to create another one. As ARCHE made another run into the system James thought about this job.
It would be the first time he'd ever been out in deep space, most of his time had been spent in labs and on stations. It would be an interesting experience but he couldn't help but wonder why he was here. Now granted he was a genius but still, most people wouldn't be assigned to a ship like this at his age. Something had to be going on.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
The docking station proved to be as busy as any other as Ridley made his way through the dense crowds of people going about their business. It wasn't necessarily noisy, simply crowded. Ridley was fine with crowds, in fact he was fine with anything. Throughout the years he had learned one lesson and one lesson only; take everything in stride. Whether it be politics or formalities, he had always enjoyed taking the most comfortable seat. Perhaps his lack of ambition was why he was stuck in a Lieutenant's position, not that he minded. In fact he preferred to be the number two guy, or even the number three, over being the one at the top. After all, the one at the top was the one with all the responsibility. As for who that responsible man would be this time, it turned out to be none other than the great Aronimus Weston, whom he had heard of in more than just a passing reference. The Admiral had commanded fleets in his time, and yet here he was heading a single ship.
Speaking of the ship...
The gate that would take him to the Salient loomed into view as Ridley finally forced his way through the crowd and out into the waiting area. It was almost completely deserted, a few people walking about or chatting, but what really caught Ridley's eye was the woman in the crisp Officer's uniform. Admittedly, Ridley was perhaps the only Lieutenant who didn't bother trying to learn the long list of insignias that designated rank, he usually judged someone's station by how shiny their uniform was, and her's was shiny. Striding forward, he walked up to the disciplined-looking lady, snapping off a casual salute shortly before reaching her; "Good day, Ma'am." He stopped before her and inclined his head in a polite fashion, "Lieutenant DeLovat reporting and at your service."
Speaking of the ship...
The gate that would take him to the Salient loomed into view as Ridley finally forced his way through the crowd and out into the waiting area. It was almost completely deserted, a few people walking about or chatting, but what really caught Ridley's eye was the woman in the crisp Officer's uniform. Admittedly, Ridley was perhaps the only Lieutenant who didn't bother trying to learn the long list of insignias that designated rank, he usually judged someone's station by how shiny their uniform was, and her's was shiny. Striding forward, he walked up to the disciplined-looking lady, snapping off a casual salute shortly before reaching her; "Good day, Ma'am." He stopped before her and inclined his head in a polite fashion, "Lieutenant DeLovat reporting and at your service."
Alice turned at the movement of a rather casual salute, receiving the newcomer's greeting in silence. Chin still tipped with confident pride, she scanned him from head to toe, taking in his rank, his attitude, his specialty. An easy-going man with a loose salute, but polite. Aware of her station, at the very least. Not a troublemaker at first glance. At least, not to Alice.
"Lieutenant Commander Chen," Alice answered flatly, giving him a short nod. "Pleased to make your acquaintance." She spoke in the clipped phrases of a trained military woman. No time to waste on real formality or truly proper grammar. Alice was known for getting her point across in the fastest, most efficient way available. Unfortunately, on her previous command, that had often involved fists. She hoped that the Salient would be a different sort of ship. "Where are you coming from, Lieutenant? Have you served before?"
Alice had been informed that several of the crew members would be, in her father's words, greener than a fresh spring leaf. She hated training rookies. She could only hope they would not panic at the first sign of action.
"Lieutenant Commander Chen," Alice answered flatly, giving him a short nod. "Pleased to make your acquaintance." She spoke in the clipped phrases of a trained military woman. No time to waste on real formality or truly proper grammar. Alice was known for getting her point across in the fastest, most efficient way available. Unfortunately, on her previous command, that had often involved fists. She hoped that the Salient would be a different sort of ship. "Where are you coming from, Lieutenant? Have you served before?"
Alice had been informed that several of the crew members would be, in her father's words, greener than a fresh spring leaf. She hated training rookies. She could only hope they would not panic at the first sign of action.
Jon
Jon strode through the crowd, full gear as usual. The armor was still recording his every move, the AI, an extremely primitive one, balancing out the system so the circuits wouldn't shatter his bones. CO located ID Alice Chen, rank Lt. Commander the cold metallic voice played in his ear. Jon quickly altered his course, steering his way toward the woman, crisply stopping in front of her and snapping a picture perfect salute.
"Commander Jon Dunaway, former spec ops reporting for duty ma'am, currently operating at unknown rank for this voyage," he stated through the communications systems of his suit. He stayed in position, normally he'd outrank her but as his current status on the chain of command she could be his commanding officer.
"Don't suppose you have anything for me to do ma'am?"
Jon strode through the crowd, full gear as usual. The armor was still recording his every move, the AI, an extremely primitive one, balancing out the system so the circuits wouldn't shatter his bones. CO located ID Alice Chen, rank Lt. Commander the cold metallic voice played in his ear. Jon quickly altered his course, steering his way toward the woman, crisply stopping in front of her and snapping a picture perfect salute.
"Commander Jon Dunaway, former spec ops reporting for duty ma'am, currently operating at unknown rank for this voyage," he stated through the communications systems of his suit. He stayed in position, normally he'd outrank her but as his current status on the chain of command she could be his commanding officer.
"Don't suppose you have anything for me to do ma'am?"
Gavin hated docking stations. Hated them. There were just too many people and the chaos was absolutely horrible. Gavin hated chaos. He much preferred a nice, orderly medical bay. Of course, there was rarely such a thing as an 'orderly medical bay', especially during conflict. Still, at least there were designated tasks which everyone had to complete, and a nice order of how to do things. Much better than this docking station that was filled with hoards of people who had absolutely no clue where to go.
Luckily, he knew where he had to go, and was already heading there. Gavin had been told earlier to head to one of the gates where the F.S.S. Salient would dock and report to a woman named Alice Chen. Thankfully, there were very few women here, so Gavin was rather certain that he wouldn't have a particularly difficult time finding this 'Alice Chen', whoever she was. The thin male was rather curious about what sort of ranking she was. Usually he only had to report to the doctor, but, considering this was his first time on a new ship, he wouldn't be surprised if this 'Alice Chen' was a senior officer of some sort.
Arriving at the proper gate, he immediately saw the one woman there, and walked over to her. "Alice Chen, I presume?" he said softly in a manner that was somehow both formal and friendly at the same time. Gavin didn't quite follow the standard codes for conduct when speaking to other officers, even his seniors, which tended to get him in trouble every now and then. "Medic Gavin Merrickson reporting and at your service." Gavin had long since grown into the habit of using his full name in an introduction, purely from the amount of times he had been mistaken as a female. Of course, there was the occasional person who still believed he was a female despite his obviously male name, but most people seemed to realise he was a male after hearing his given name. He hoped this 'Alice Chen' was one of the latter types of people.
Luckily, he knew where he had to go, and was already heading there. Gavin had been told earlier to head to one of the gates where the F.S.S. Salient would dock and report to a woman named Alice Chen. Thankfully, there were very few women here, so Gavin was rather certain that he wouldn't have a particularly difficult time finding this 'Alice Chen', whoever she was. The thin male was rather curious about what sort of ranking she was. Usually he only had to report to the doctor, but, considering this was his first time on a new ship, he wouldn't be surprised if this 'Alice Chen' was a senior officer of some sort.
Arriving at the proper gate, he immediately saw the one woman there, and walked over to her. "Alice Chen, I presume?" he said softly in a manner that was somehow both formal and friendly at the same time. Gavin didn't quite follow the standard codes for conduct when speaking to other officers, even his seniors, which tended to get him in trouble every now and then. "Medic Gavin Merrickson reporting and at your service." Gavin had long since grown into the habit of using his full name in an introduction, purely from the amount of times he had been mistaken as a female. Of course, there was the occasional person who still believed he was a female despite his obviously male name, but most people seemed to realise he was a male after hearing his given name. He hoped this 'Alice Chen' was one of the latter types of people.
ADAM
"Will do sir," Adam did a quick background check on the subjects in question. "It would seem that Commander Dunaway was a Lt. Dunaway until a day ago, while I can't legally access the specifics it would appear there are some political strings behind the 2 rank jump. From what I can access it seems he's involved in a classified project of some sorts."
While he saying this, Adam did some illegal back door browsing anyways. The security was tight, well beyond what a normal AI could sort through, but he still got through, in the limited time he found some interesting data. He didn't find a lot of data but what he could get without blatantly hacking the system was still interesting, if the Admiral asked he'd share but for now he tucked the data away before discreetly backing out.
"Will do sir," Adam did a quick background check on the subjects in question. "It would seem that Commander Dunaway was a Lt. Dunaway until a day ago, while I can't legally access the specifics it would appear there are some political strings behind the 2 rank jump. From what I can access it seems he's involved in a classified project of some sorts."
While he saying this, Adam did some illegal back door browsing anyways. The security was tight, well beyond what a normal AI could sort through, but he still got through, in the limited time he found some interesting data. He didn't find a lot of data but what he could get without blatantly hacking the system was still interesting, if the Admiral asked he'd share but for now he tucked the data away before discreetly backing out.
Atomsk lit up a cigarette. He was always told that they were a hazard to the ship due to the higher quality oxygen that was more easily ignited. He knew it was a load though. He saw the Oxygen levels on ships and knew it was just a lie to keep the bridges "smoke free". He didn't do it out of disrespect. He simply thought that it was a stupid rule if it didn't matter to the safety of the ship or anyone else. He felt the same about ranks. Ranks meant little to him. He went off of reputation. The good you've done. That's what got him here. It's also why he didn't mind being here. He was a Colonel before he got booted to the F.S.S. Salient. The incident that got him here was the blatant insults he threw at Lieutenant General Conway. He disliked the Lieutenant General greatly. He obtained his rank through family and some brown nosing. Aronimus Weston on the other hand was a man that Atomsk highly respected. Decorated for his actions and not his family history. A man that Atomsk admired. He stood on the dock looking at the others. He was surprised when he saw his brother Jon. He was here because of punishment but Jon....why? He'd find out later but for now he was enjoying his cigarette before the long voyage ahead.
Allen spent most of his time in the engineering quarters or the engine corridor just to be by himself. He wasn't totally sure of the crew just yet but he knew that this was going to be the quietest place for him. Of course quiet being a relative term. He was running his normal daily scans of he engines and some of the little side projects he ended up working on. After a little while he deemed that he would need to venture on out of the quarters and attempt to socialize with people. He grabbed a jacket and left his own room on a trip to one of the mess halls. He scratched his head nad he was wondering around the ship. It was beautiful to him. The engineering that had gone into this ship was remarkable. The only hope that he really had was that he would get along with someone otherwise this was going to be the longest trip of his life.
Thaddeus kept at a 20ft distance from Jon when going through the crowd. He always loved the unlawfulness of large crowds for they always provided maximized cover. As he walked around the crowd, he saw Jon address a woman who was obviously Alice Chen. Thaddeus stood to wait and observe any others who may be a potential crew member. "Ghost. Zoom in on targets."
His AI responded and zoomed to an individual smoking a cigarette. The man's eyes took to the direction towards Jon. Nothing too odd about being surprised about a man in a full body suit Thaddeus thought to himself. He zoomed to a character who stopped in front of Alice Chen. In the crowd it was too hard to hear. "Ghost, zoom in on that person's lips." he said. Ghost read the lips and took the words medic ,Gavin, reporting, service from the spoken message.
Satisfied that he had enough information, Thaddeus walked up to Alice Chen and gave a formal salute. "Thaddeus Jackson reporting for duty and station."
His AI responded and zoomed to an individual smoking a cigarette. The man's eyes took to the direction towards Jon. Nothing too odd about being surprised about a man in a full body suit Thaddeus thought to himself. He zoomed to a character who stopped in front of Alice Chen. In the crowd it was too hard to hear. "Ghost, zoom in on that person's lips." he said. Ghost read the lips and took the words medic ,Gavin, reporting, service from the spoken message.
Satisfied that he had enough information, Thaddeus walked up to Alice Chen and gave a formal salute. "Thaddeus Jackson reporting for duty and station."
After Jon, they approached her too quickly for individual acknowledgement. Silently she nodded to each new crew member in turn, waiting for all of them to snap out of their salutes and fall silent.
"At ease, all of you," she commanded. Though some of them had not remained at attention, others had. There was no need to stand quite so stiffly here. They were going to be together for some months now, and if everyone was stiff and stressed the whole time, their voyage would not be a pretty one.
With a light toss of her head, Alice sent her hair back over her shoulder in a black tumble. She clasped her hands behind her hips and turned, long legs twisting, to survey the crew. Her eyes settled on Gavin for a moment. A medic, she thought. Looked like a child. A female one. Alice would have to make sure the rest of the crew was aware. Slowly, she gave each crew member the same quiet scrutiny. This was the Alice Chen of the military news reports. The woman who took in everything tiny detail before she ever made a move.
"We wait until the bridge is joined and we receive a signal from the Salient to come aboard. For now, how many of you have been on assignment before?" she scanned the ranks, wondering whether she was surrounded more by rookies, or by veterans. Some of them she knew must have served on a Federation vessel before. Commander Dunaway, the former spec-ops, for one. She glanced again at Gavin - he was interesting, and judging by his quiet character, it would be good to secure his loyalty.
With a quiet huff, she left that train of thought behind. This was not the same vessel. Alliances between crew members were no longer a matter of life or death. Here, she hoped, they could all be allies. Maybe even friends.
"At ease, all of you," she commanded. Though some of them had not remained at attention, others had. There was no need to stand quite so stiffly here. They were going to be together for some months now, and if everyone was stiff and stressed the whole time, their voyage would not be a pretty one.
With a light toss of her head, Alice sent her hair back over her shoulder in a black tumble. She clasped her hands behind her hips and turned, long legs twisting, to survey the crew. Her eyes settled on Gavin for a moment. A medic, she thought. Looked like a child. A female one. Alice would have to make sure the rest of the crew was aware. Slowly, she gave each crew member the same quiet scrutiny. This was the Alice Chen of the military news reports. The woman who took in everything tiny detail before she ever made a move.
"We wait until the bridge is joined and we receive a signal from the Salient to come aboard. For now, how many of you have been on assignment before?" she scanned the ranks, wondering whether she was surrounded more by rookies, or by veterans. Some of them she knew must have served on a Federation vessel before. Commander Dunaway, the former spec-ops, for one. She glanced again at Gavin - he was interesting, and judging by his quiet character, it would be good to secure his loyalty.
With a quiet huff, she left that train of thought behind. This was not the same vessel. Alliances between crew members were no longer a matter of life or death. Here, she hoped, they could all be allies. Maybe even friends.
Jon dropped back into standard position, stark straight behind back- the ideal image of a soldier.
[b]"...For now, how many of you have been on assignment before?" Alice openly addressed the crew.
"Dutch, open up Chen's service record and that of everyone else on the open roster of the Salient," he ordered the AI, in his suit. He quickly perused the record of everyone on board, he had to suppress a smirk when he saw Thaddeus on the roster, another pet of the super soldier project. Probably a more stealthy model of the same suit he was wearing.
"I have ma'am," he addressed Alice over the suits speakers, she had an impressive record-a bit on the ambitious side- but impressive. He forwarded his on record, detailed all the way up to this morning so it mentioned him partaking in a project for the brass while aboard the ship, and his highly unwanted political bullshit double rank jump of less than twenty-two hours ago.
"If you don't mind I sent you a copy of my record, I'd like you to ignore the last line," he specifically requested she ignore the line pertaining to his rank jump. On the other hand he figured she'd be pleased to have a soldier with no less than 16 orbital drops, 23 infiltration missions, 42 rescues, 4 active deploys, 9 deep behind line deployments, 31 shock missions,5 classifieds and 13 blatantly labeled suicide ops. All of which were executed well within "flawless" parameters.
He didn't know if he could personally get along with this ambitious woman, but no hurt in trying and if nothing else she'll make a splendid CO he was certain of that.
[b]"...For now, how many of you have been on assignment before?" Alice openly addressed the crew.
"Dutch, open up Chen's service record and that of everyone else on the open roster of the Salient," he ordered the AI, in his suit. He quickly perused the record of everyone on board, he had to suppress a smirk when he saw Thaddeus on the roster, another pet of the super soldier project. Probably a more stealthy model of the same suit he was wearing.
"I have ma'am," he addressed Alice over the suits speakers, she had an impressive record-a bit on the ambitious side- but impressive. He forwarded his on record, detailed all the way up to this morning so it mentioned him partaking in a project for the brass while aboard the ship, and his highly unwanted political bullshit double rank jump of less than twenty-two hours ago.
"If you don't mind I sent you a copy of my record, I'd like you to ignore the last line," he specifically requested she ignore the line pertaining to his rank jump. On the other hand he figured she'd be pleased to have a soldier with no less than 16 orbital drops, 23 infiltration missions, 42 rescues, 4 active deploys, 9 deep behind line deployments, 31 shock missions,5 classifieds and 13 blatantly labeled suicide ops. All of which were executed well within "flawless" parameters.
He didn't know if he could personally get along with this ambitious woman, but no hurt in trying and if nothing else she'll make a splendid CO he was certain of that.
The bridge to the ship was cluttered with people although only a small proportion were crew members. The rest were station personnel setting up the ship, going through last checks, and stocking it with supplies and rations for the trip. Large wheeled vehicles rolled through the bridge path to the entrance egresses, these were going to be sent to the vehicle bay for storage.
Aronimus was staring through one of the smaller observation ports located in the upper levels of the ship. He watched the mass of people, vehicles, and drones moving in and out of the ship, but he noted a group of people who were stationary and gathered around a single officer. At once he realized those were the crew members, who were awaiting the signal to board. Aronimus looked at his timekeeper, the signal to board for crew members was synchronized in approximately half an hour. During that time, he would walk towards the general assembly hall and wait for Captain Colter to welcome the recruits on board and lead them to the hall.
He continued walking, inspecting the interior features, from the wiring tubes to the holopads and map terminals, from the data receptors to the telescreens, they were advanced equipment for a ship that was the last of its kind.
Aronimus was staring through one of the smaller observation ports located in the upper levels of the ship. He watched the mass of people, vehicles, and drones moving in and out of the ship, but he noted a group of people who were stationary and gathered around a single officer. At once he realized those were the crew members, who were awaiting the signal to board. Aronimus looked at his timekeeper, the signal to board for crew members was synchronized in approximately half an hour. During that time, he would walk towards the general assembly hall and wait for Captain Colter to welcome the recruits on board and lead them to the hall.
He continued walking, inspecting the interior features, from the wiring tubes to the holopads and map terminals, from the data receptors to the telescreens, they were advanced equipment for a ship that was the last of its kind.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
Out of the four sides of the shower chamber, three were full of black tiles with rotating tubes that shot jets of water at Eli. He was fully immersed in cold water all around. He hung his head low and looked down to the recycling receptacles on the floor of the chamber. The receptacles would gather the water and filter it through the Salient's main filtering system before returning as drinking or showering water. A pair of dog tags were hanging from his neck and dangling before his eyes. He reached for one of the two dog tags which was slightly charred with one end almost melted down. The inscription was barely intelligible for anybody aside from Eli who knew the tag like the back of his hand. The inscription was listed as Solomon Richter P.F.C.. Also known as K.I.A. now. He held the tag in his fist and closed his eyes as the pellets of water rolled along his skin.
After ten minutes in the chamber, Eli stepped out fully dried, not a single drop of moisture was present on his person. He set about gathering his gear and equipment before getting into his suit. He took off the dog tag with Solomon Richter inscribed on it and placed it in a capsule which he proceeded to place in a compartment within his quarters. Following suit up, he left his quarters in the Barracks and proceeded to the lower levels of the ship where the crowd of recruits/crew members would be entering. He shut off his wrist communicator after testing the systems. He strode silently through the corridors, expecting to meet the Admiral somewhere in these areas. He passed the general assembly hall, but not before peering inside to witness several workers setting up the screens for the Admiral's presentation. He continued along silently.
After ten minutes in the chamber, Eli stepped out fully dried, not a single drop of moisture was present on his person. He set about gathering his gear and equipment before getting into his suit. He took off the dog tag with Solomon Richter inscribed on it and placed it in a capsule which he proceeded to place in a compartment within his quarters. Following suit up, he left his quarters in the Barracks and proceeded to the lower levels of the ship where the crowd of recruits/crew members would be entering. He shut off his wrist communicator after testing the systems. He strode silently through the corridors, expecting to meet the Admiral somewhere in these areas. He passed the general assembly hall, but not before peering inside to witness several workers setting up the screens for the Admiral's presentation. He continued along silently.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
Ridley made way as several others approached Chen to introduce themselves. "Starting to get a little crowded in here." He said with a smile. Soon after they were all gathered round, Chen brought up the New to Old question, no doubt to find out what and who she was working with. As was expected, the fully decked commando piped out his reply soon enough. "Well of course we can expect big, strong and bulky armour-lad to have a record, just look at the guy." He waved his hand up and down the armoured figure as if no one else had noticed. "I mean I'm sorry, but who walks around like that? What was your name again? Jen?"
He waved him aside without waiting for a reply, turning to Chen with another polite inclination of his head; "Four tours for me, Ma'am, and I loved every one of them. Well, except for the third one, that was aboard the Cradle, I swear that thing's haunted." He turned his head in the direction of the gate "This will mark lucky number five, I'm sure it will be bundles of fun. Bundles of restrained fun." He added quickly, remembering the LC's rather disciplined nature.
He waved him aside without waiting for a reply, turning to Chen with another polite inclination of his head; "Four tours for me, Ma'am, and I loved every one of them. Well, except for the third one, that was aboard the Cradle, I swear that thing's haunted." He turned his head in the direction of the gate "This will mark lucky number five, I'm sure it will be bundles of fun. Bundles of restrained fun." He added quickly, remembering the LC's rather disciplined nature.
Atomsk eagerly awaited the boarding he desired. The man he admired. A ship of legend. But something still bugged him. His brother. Well they WERE brothers. No harm in going up to ask. He threw the third cigarette to the ground unfinished.
He walked up to his brother casually, unsure if his brother even knew he was on this mission.
"What Officer did you insult to get throw here Jon?" He said with a sarcastic smirk, knowing his brother would never even look funnily at anyone of any higher rank then him.
He walked up to his brother casually, unsure if his brother even knew he was on this mission.
"What Officer did you insult to get throw here Jon?" He said with a sarcastic smirk, knowing his brother would never even look funnily at anyone of any higher rank then him.
Jon ignored the man his AI pegged as Ridley, they'd settle their issues another time, if anything went sour on the mission they'd have to and rather than waste field time it'd be best to get such nonsense out of the way early.
It was at that point his unruly older brother addressed him, while he couldn't condone the man's blatant disregard for standard authority there's no denying he'd rather work with him than anyone else.
"I didn't, I'm here to field test the new toy the Brass made," Jon clasped his brothers arm, the suit compensated to not crush it. "Apparently they're hoping for something nasty to go down cuz they sent not just one of these monsters but two." Jon nodded in Thaddeus' general direction, the guy would make himself known when he wanted.
Figuring he may as well start breaking the ice early Jon turned to Ridley, "yeah I know the suit looks ridiculous and about as subtle as 10 kilos of C-13. But the brass told me to test it and the more data it picked up the better, what's more it's damn useful." He held out his hand, "By the way, the name's Jon and like it or no we'll be shipmates for awhile so it's best to make nice."
A.D.A.M
"About the men in question with the AI's it would appear that they're on a top secret project headed by certain Admiral Chase Michelson. You've met the guy Admiral, any takes on this because based on his psychological profile and service history it seems to me that the likely-hood he is seeking to get the honorary 6th star based on the results of his project exceed 93%." The entire time Adam phased from holopad to holopad keeping just ahead Aronimus.
"If the case stands as is we may be flying blind into a potentially dangerous situation, shall I arrange contingencies for extreme danger parameters?"Adam stopped for the Admiral to answer but quickly received an incoming transmission "Hang on, high security message incoming from Naval Command, unencrypting... finished, it's for you Admiral, Command says you may insert the two men in your chain of command as you will and grants you clearance to all pertinent files, forwarding to your personal communicator."
It was at that point his unruly older brother addressed him, while he couldn't condone the man's blatant disregard for standard authority there's no denying he'd rather work with him than anyone else.
"I didn't, I'm here to field test the new toy the Brass made," Jon clasped his brothers arm, the suit compensated to not crush it. "Apparently they're hoping for something nasty to go down cuz they sent not just one of these monsters but two." Jon nodded in Thaddeus' general direction, the guy would make himself known when he wanted.
Figuring he may as well start breaking the ice early Jon turned to Ridley, "yeah I know the suit looks ridiculous and about as subtle as 10 kilos of C-13. But the brass told me to test it and the more data it picked up the better, what's more it's damn useful." He held out his hand, "By the way, the name's Jon and like it or no we'll be shipmates for awhile so it's best to make nice."
A.D.A.M
"About the men in question with the AI's it would appear that they're on a top secret project headed by certain Admiral Chase Michelson. You've met the guy Admiral, any takes on this because based on his psychological profile and service history it seems to me that the likely-hood he is seeking to get the honorary 6th star based on the results of his project exceed 93%." The entire time Adam phased from holopad to holopad keeping just ahead Aronimus.
"If the case stands as is we may be flying blind into a potentially dangerous situation, shall I arrange contingencies for extreme danger parameters?"Adam stopped for the Admiral to answer but quickly received an incoming transmission "Hang on, high security message incoming from Naval Command, unencrypting... finished, it's for you Admiral, Command says you may insert the two men in your chain of command as you will and grants you clearance to all pertinent files, forwarding to your personal communicator."
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
The Admiral sighed as he continued on towards the assembly hall. He contemplated the current situation and began weighing in certain factors. Admiral Michelson was an ambitious man who was nearly always at the forefront of the Federation military's latest technology. Michelson loved to push the boundaries as far as he could, but Aronimus knew that he did this only to benefit the service men and women of the Federation. As for the honorary 6th star, if this pet project were to come to fruition successfully, Michelson would go down in history for whatever he achieved. At this point, Aronimus knew that his career was over, and he had no need to interfere with Michelson's own.
As for the two men, this was his ship and his jurisdiction, if the two soldiers had other ideas, they would be better off remaining in the station waiting for a dropship to take them back to headquarters. He began going through the neural interface that was installed into nearly every grade O-7 and up officer. The files were highly classified, it was some sort of project revolving around physical augmentations, genetic engineering, and cybernetic enhancements. The project was very similar to the P.C.E. program that was instituted four years ago, of which Captain Colter was apart of. This project, similar to P.C.E., was only for qualified marines with distinguished combat records. Jon Dunaway and Thaddeus Jackson were two such men. The differences from the P.C.E. program was an increased reliance on larger tactical suits, but the portion explaining this information was expunged for reasons unknown. Aronimus could only wonder whether Michelson's activity was being fully observed and regulated by higher up.
The Admiral strolled alongside A.D.A.M. or rather he walked while A.D.A.M. jumped from pad to pad. Jon Dunaway was an experienced soldier with a flawless record as archived in the system. Although he wasn't listed as the ground commander, Aronimus knew it was perhaps for the better. As for Thaddeus Jackson, the admiral decided it was best to relegate him to a non-commanding position simply for the safety of other crew members.
"Adam, I want you to address the AIs during the meeting session so we can get that cleared, I will personally talk to those two gentlemen in my quarters."
Normally his erect stature was never painful, but today it was tenser than usual.
As for the two men, this was his ship and his jurisdiction, if the two soldiers had other ideas, they would be better off remaining in the station waiting for a dropship to take them back to headquarters. He began going through the neural interface that was installed into nearly every grade O-7 and up officer. The files were highly classified, it was some sort of project revolving around physical augmentations, genetic engineering, and cybernetic enhancements. The project was very similar to the P.C.E. program that was instituted four years ago, of which Captain Colter was apart of. This project, similar to P.C.E., was only for qualified marines with distinguished combat records. Jon Dunaway and Thaddeus Jackson were two such men. The differences from the P.C.E. program was an increased reliance on larger tactical suits, but the portion explaining this information was expunged for reasons unknown. Aronimus could only wonder whether Michelson's activity was being fully observed and regulated by higher up.
The Admiral strolled alongside A.D.A.M. or rather he walked while A.D.A.M. jumped from pad to pad. Jon Dunaway was an experienced soldier with a flawless record as archived in the system. Although he wasn't listed as the ground commander, Aronimus knew it was perhaps for the better. As for Thaddeus Jackson, the admiral decided it was best to relegate him to a non-commanding position simply for the safety of other crew members.
"Adam, I want you to address the AIs during the meeting session so we can get that cleared, I will personally talk to those two gentlemen in my quarters."
Normally his erect stature was never painful, but today it was tenser than usual.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
Allen was getting tired of waiting around for something to happen to him. He had a quick thought and then acted on impulse and started to walk towards the bridge of the ship. He passed a man who looked like someone he knew but throw it off his shoulder and continued on his way. The place was a little crowded and almost confusing to him. He then drifted off in thought about earlier that day. He was arguing with a man to let him on the ship a little early so that he may check the engines and give everything a small little test. Allen did not figure out that it was the Chief Engineer until the man had introduced himself. This set a few things in motion for Allen. He knew that showing up early would or should get him in trouble, the man was mad but then the man gave him a small tour of the engine room. He told him to run some more tests because he was so eager to be on board. His tests took far longer than he had expected them to so he knew he was "running" late to the others that were waiting to board. Allen then picked up his pace and rounded a corner to the bridge. A lot of people are in this room was the first observation he made. He noticed a women out of the corner of his eye. He knew her as the second in command, and at a young age too. He then ducked behind some Boxes that had been stacked up and made his way around to look like he just entered the ship for the loading area. He looked around and finally out the window. He approached the group. "This is where we are to meet correct?" he didn't think about it but he accent was a little thinker than normal.
Faith Mackenzie scowled at the people, that happened to get in her way, as she strode forward across the deck towards the sleeping giant resting in its cradle.The F.S.S Salient, the last of its kind, was enormous even at rest and no one who looked at it could doubt it was a warship. Various types of weaponry covered its surface like barnacles on a whale. Faith was not naive enough to believe this would be a peaceful tour, no matter what those in command said, a ship built for war could no more avoid it than a shark could avoid blood. But then that was why she was here after all, to fix those who got hurt whilst on the this tour.
She travelled light, most of her belongings already being transported on board, carrying only a small shoulder bag filled with a few personal belongings she didn't trust to dockworkers. Last time she had done so her favourite antique hairbrush had ended up on a merchant ship heading for the other side of the galaxy. It had taken her months to finally get it back and it now had a couple of nicks to show for the journey. So now she carried those important things with her. In between her lips was her ever present cigarette, and in the pocket of her doctors coat was a new pack, which was her third already that day. She knew smoking was bad for her, she was a doctor after all, yet that had never stopped her and she felt it kept her sane when the world went to hell.
As she approached what was to be her home, for the next who knew how long, she saw people gathering together in a cluster and she changed direction heading towards them. She kept the scowl on her face and most people stopped short of walking into her avoiding her gaze if possible, inwardly Faith was amused. Looking like she wanted to murder someone never failed to clear a path and she had used it many times in the past for just such an effect. As she neared the group and saw a woman garbed in officers clothes she sighed quietly. She stopped short of the group and took a last drag of her cigarette before regretfully stubbing it out with the heel of her shoe.
She walked straight into the group no hesitation in her stride or posture, this wasn't the first time she had been lumped together with strangers and she doubted it would be the last. She met the woman's gaze ignoring the others to begin with, as she knew military protocol well enough to greet the senior officer first. She straightened her posture and nodded once briefly to the Lt Commander.
"I'm Doctor Mackenzie." She said brusquely "and I would like to get started as soon as possible."
She travelled light, most of her belongings already being transported on board, carrying only a small shoulder bag filled with a few personal belongings she didn't trust to dockworkers. Last time she had done so her favourite antique hairbrush had ended up on a merchant ship heading for the other side of the galaxy. It had taken her months to finally get it back and it now had a couple of nicks to show for the journey. So now she carried those important things with her. In between her lips was her ever present cigarette, and in the pocket of her doctors coat was a new pack, which was her third already that day. She knew smoking was bad for her, she was a doctor after all, yet that had never stopped her and she felt it kept her sane when the world went to hell.
As she approached what was to be her home, for the next who knew how long, she saw people gathering together in a cluster and she changed direction heading towards them. She kept the scowl on her face and most people stopped short of walking into her avoiding her gaze if possible, inwardly Faith was amused. Looking like she wanted to murder someone never failed to clear a path and she had used it many times in the past for just such an effect. As she neared the group and saw a woman garbed in officers clothes she sighed quietly. She stopped short of the group and took a last drag of her cigarette before regretfully stubbing it out with the heel of her shoe.
She walked straight into the group no hesitation in her stride or posture, this wasn't the first time she had been lumped together with strangers and she doubted it would be the last. She met the woman's gaze ignoring the others to begin with, as she knew military protocol well enough to greet the senior officer first. She straightened her posture and nodded once briefly to the Lt Commander.
"I'm Doctor Mackenzie." She said brusquely "and I would like to get started as soon as possible."
Ben Owens
Ben blinked more than a few times as the flurry of people rushed past him to the Lt. Commander. It seemed that one of the up sides to being a pretty woman was that everyone wanted to talk to you. Ben had always thought that he was someone who couldn't stop moving and yet he was quickly out paced by all of them. His eyes couldn't help but move to the walked combat suit and give another chuckle, he'd thought his fighter would be the only prototype inboard. His hand gave another little tick as he pushed up to the balls of his feet to look at them all. Glancing from one to the other in quick succession made it so that he registered a lot of information all at once, the medic was a guy was one of the big things that jumped out at him. Glancing at all of them as they introduced themselves made him remember military protocol, he'd been busted more than once for ignoring them. With a sigh he stepped forward into the group and patted the battle suit on the shoulder as he addressed the Lt. Commander. He heard one of them answer the Lt. Commanders question about experience so he thought it would be as good as any place to pop in. "Owens reporting in ma'am. More than a few tours of duty done already as a pilot." Ben casually stepped a little to the side after speaking. He didn't want to get trampled in the rush of them all and if he could stay out of the brass's sight for a while they might not stop him from flying for anything stupid.
James Grey
James couldn't help but hear all the commotion, it was happening only a few feet in front of him. He ignored it as it started and focused on the job at hand, shifting through the tone of information ARCHE had managed to obtain and make sure every system was doing okay. With his eyes closed James could have ARCHE tap into his visual cortex and project it all onto his eyes, basically turning his eyelids into computer screens when needed. James checked everything twice, system status's, energy fluctuations, even the environmental temperature settings. When he was done he couldn't help but smirk a little, all his prototypes were working perfectly even though they hadn't gone through the proper testing yet. He opened his eyes a little and blinked a few times as they adjusted, the sight in front of him almost made him laugh himself to death. They were all gathered around the officer as though they were dogs at a show, trying to make themselves look the best out of them all. The most notable thing though was the suits, he hadn't realized that they would be on the ship. He had accidentally stumbled upon there plans and information while going through various firewalls back on the station. He hadn't made them but he knew the person who had designed them, he couldn't help but be a little impressed. Naturally he could do better but still, not half bad.
While pondering this James attention was drawn back to the single female voice amongst it all. how many of you have been on assignment before?
James couldn't help but give an unconscious shrug at that, his only assignments were research and development. Not the most impressive things. James quickly gave his head a little shake as he remembered what was important, even if he'd never been deployed he had more knowledge about how things worked than anyone else. His brains would make up for whatever lack of experience he had. Even so, he couldn't help but try and make himself a little smaller, never directly acknowledging the Lt. commander
Ben blinked more than a few times as the flurry of people rushed past him to the Lt. Commander. It seemed that one of the up sides to being a pretty woman was that everyone wanted to talk to you. Ben had always thought that he was someone who couldn't stop moving and yet he was quickly out paced by all of them. His eyes couldn't help but move to the walked combat suit and give another chuckle, he'd thought his fighter would be the only prototype inboard. His hand gave another little tick as he pushed up to the balls of his feet to look at them all. Glancing from one to the other in quick succession made it so that he registered a lot of information all at once, the medic was a guy was one of the big things that jumped out at him. Glancing at all of them as they introduced themselves made him remember military protocol, he'd been busted more than once for ignoring them. With a sigh he stepped forward into the group and patted the battle suit on the shoulder as he addressed the Lt. Commander. He heard one of them answer the Lt. Commanders question about experience so he thought it would be as good as any place to pop in. "Owens reporting in ma'am. More than a few tours of duty done already as a pilot." Ben casually stepped a little to the side after speaking. He didn't want to get trampled in the rush of them all and if he could stay out of the brass's sight for a while they might not stop him from flying for anything stupid.
James Grey
James couldn't help but hear all the commotion, it was happening only a few feet in front of him. He ignored it as it started and focused on the job at hand, shifting through the tone of information ARCHE had managed to obtain and make sure every system was doing okay. With his eyes closed James could have ARCHE tap into his visual cortex and project it all onto his eyes, basically turning his eyelids into computer screens when needed. James checked everything twice, system status's, energy fluctuations, even the environmental temperature settings. When he was done he couldn't help but smirk a little, all his prototypes were working perfectly even though they hadn't gone through the proper testing yet. He opened his eyes a little and blinked a few times as they adjusted, the sight in front of him almost made him laugh himself to death. They were all gathered around the officer as though they were dogs at a show, trying to make themselves look the best out of them all. The most notable thing though was the suits, he hadn't realized that they would be on the ship. He had accidentally stumbled upon there plans and information while going through various firewalls back on the station. He hadn't made them but he knew the person who had designed them, he couldn't help but be a little impressed. Naturally he could do better but still, not half bad.
While pondering this James attention was drawn back to the single female voice amongst it all. how many of you have been on assignment before?
James couldn't help but give an unconscious shrug at that, his only assignments were research and development. Not the most impressive things. James quickly gave his head a little shake as he remembered what was important, even if he'd never been deployed he had more knowledge about how things worked than anyone else. His brains would make up for whatever lack of experience he had. Even so, he couldn't help but try and make himself a little smaller, never directly acknowledging the Lt. commander
Alice glanced at Doctor Mackenzie, nodded her greeting.
"Lieutenant Commander Chen," she answered, for the benefit of all those who had arrived post-introductions. Absentmindedly she flicked through the documents that Jon had sent to her, but she did not have time to read them in-depth now. She was in charge of this massive crowd of officers and specialized personnel. She had already looked into each of their records - any further research could be done in her quarters, once the crew was settled.
For now she scanned each of their faces, matching it to one of the files on her personal computer. There was one young man who caught her attention immediately. She knew why, but she was not about to comment on it. A young man who had known only R&D deployment, whose intelligence would more than make up for his lack of experience. She pivoted on her heels, boots snapping against the tile, and approached him, pushing his worrying aside. She could not afford to pay attention to her subordinates' fear. She was not ship's counselor. She was the sub-commander.
"James Grey," she addressed him directly, her tone cold and her eyes hard. The military standard. The only hint that she was nervous... but none of these people knew who she was, and they could not recognize that her formality was her shield against a new situation. "Engineering department, correct?"
"Lieutenant Commander Chen," she answered, for the benefit of all those who had arrived post-introductions. Absentmindedly she flicked through the documents that Jon had sent to her, but she did not have time to read them in-depth now. She was in charge of this massive crowd of officers and specialized personnel. She had already looked into each of their records - any further research could be done in her quarters, once the crew was settled.
For now she scanned each of their faces, matching it to one of the files on her personal computer. There was one young man who caught her attention immediately. She knew why, but she was not about to comment on it. A young man who had known only R&D deployment, whose intelligence would more than make up for his lack of experience. She pivoted on her heels, boots snapping against the tile, and approached him, pushing his worrying aside. She could not afford to pay attention to her subordinates' fear. She was not ship's counselor. She was the sub-commander.
"James Grey," she addressed him directly, her tone cold and her eyes hard. The military standard. The only hint that she was nervous... but none of these people knew who she was, and they could not recognize that her formality was her shield against a new situation. "Engineering department, correct?"
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
After traveling through many telepads and elevator platforms, Eli finally reached the underbelly of the ship. The interior lighting was off, but the artificial sunlight shone through the viewports was more than enough to guide him. He passed the corridors near the supply zones where station crews were loading metallic containers onboard the ship. They worked with diligence, so as not to upset the Admiral, who was a respected and admired man throughout the Federation. Simply botching up deliveries for vital supplies was enough to lose favor with the admiral and those who respected the man. After observing their work, Eli continued to the entrance that was connected to the station.
He paused for a moment before pressing the holo-panel to the side of the large blast door in the ship’s underbelly. The first layer of gigantic doors slid upward, followed by the second layer which slid slowly apart horizontally as he pressed the panel. The crowd to greet him was more than he expected, but nonetheless he was prepared. He treaded down the steps slowly before reaching the bridge that connected the Salient to the station. Then by instinct he reached his wrist communicator and punched in a code he memorized prior. The speakers on the station’s walkway were quickly online and available for his command. Then he projected his voice to the wrist communicator which blasted through the speakers.
“Attention all crew members that will be boarding the Salient. I am Captain Eli Colter.”
He waited for the large multitude of people to turn and give him their attention.
“Boarding will now commence. For those of you who were recruited or assigned to this ship, you were given a special transparent card similar to this one.”
He held up a model for everyone to see, the feed was distributed through cameras throughout the walkway and to the many telescreens located on the path.
“At this point, boarding has synchronized, and that keycard should be lighting up.”
The transparent card glowed green before him, bathing his face in a lime green light. His wasn’t the only face though; there were many others who took out their cards which lit up in a similar hue.
“For those of you whose cards are glowing red, you have been taken off the roster and denied boarding.”
“The rest of you, please enter through here, and then head to the general assembly hall. If you get lost, there are various map terminals located throughout the ship that will follow voice commands and lead you to the hall. Thank you.”
He turned around casually and returned back inside the ship confidently knowing that people were going to follow his instructions. Immediately the host of inexperienced crew members and recruits poured in cautiously. As for those who had been on board a combat vessel before, they led the group.
He paused for a moment before pressing the holo-panel to the side of the large blast door in the ship’s underbelly. The first layer of gigantic doors slid upward, followed by the second layer which slid slowly apart horizontally as he pressed the panel. The crowd to greet him was more than he expected, but nonetheless he was prepared. He treaded down the steps slowly before reaching the bridge that connected the Salient to the station. Then by instinct he reached his wrist communicator and punched in a code he memorized prior. The speakers on the station’s walkway were quickly online and available for his command. Then he projected his voice to the wrist communicator which blasted through the speakers.
“Attention all crew members that will be boarding the Salient. I am Captain Eli Colter.”
He waited for the large multitude of people to turn and give him their attention.
“Boarding will now commence. For those of you who were recruited or assigned to this ship, you were given a special transparent card similar to this one.”
He held up a model for everyone to see, the feed was distributed through cameras throughout the walkway and to the many telescreens located on the path.
“At this point, boarding has synchronized, and that keycard should be lighting up.”
The transparent card glowed green before him, bathing his face in a lime green light. His wasn’t the only face though; there were many others who took out their cards which lit up in a similar hue.
“For those of you whose cards are glowing red, you have been taken off the roster and denied boarding.”
“The rest of you, please enter through here, and then head to the general assembly hall. If you get lost, there are various map terminals located throughout the ship that will follow voice commands and lead you to the hall. Thank you.”
He turned around casually and returned back inside the ship confidently knowing that people were going to follow his instructions. Immediately the host of inexperienced crew members and recruits poured in cautiously. As for those who had been on board a combat vessel before, they led the group.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
After the short conversation with his brother, Atomsk started looking around. Being Planetary Operations Commander meant anytime these people were on the ground they were under his command. A good commander knew his men. He didn't want to walk up to each person individually. He liked the see what he could glean at first glance and then see how close he was later. It was a game to him. He opened up his cigar box and lit one up. Cigars were for thinking.
He saw his brother of course, and growing up and working with him enough gave him an intimacy few soldiers and commanders could achieve. But he also saw another man who was in a suit very similar to Jon's. He seemed to be observing everyone from a distance like him, but more in a combat sense rather then the person as a whole. He looked like the kind of man that lived for battle, but little else.
Alice Chen. He recognized her and knew quite a bit about her. A very skilled commander, but similar to his brother. Rules were everything. He never got people like this. Rules can't cover everything, and trying to seemed futile to him. But people tried. And so did she. He could already see a bumpy relationship.
Next was a girl that had the nasty disposition that he normally only saw in men. Straightforward. Bland. He was guessing Medic or Engineer. Those types of people only seem to like dead (or dying) people or machines.
He also noticed a man who interested him the most. A man who had a careful look on his face saying he was used to living on the run. Observant. A man he knew he'd come to like. Rules meant little to him. He would be helpful.
He didn't get to finish before a man instructed them on board. The others would have to come later. He walked in with the others. Ready to meet the crew.
He saw his brother of course, and growing up and working with him enough gave him an intimacy few soldiers and commanders could achieve. But he also saw another man who was in a suit very similar to Jon's. He seemed to be observing everyone from a distance like him, but more in a combat sense rather then the person as a whole. He looked like the kind of man that lived for battle, but little else.
Alice Chen. He recognized her and knew quite a bit about her. A very skilled commander, but similar to his brother. Rules were everything. He never got people like this. Rules can't cover everything, and trying to seemed futile to him. But people tried. And so did she. He could already see a bumpy relationship.
Next was a girl that had the nasty disposition that he normally only saw in men. Straightforward. Bland. He was guessing Medic or Engineer. Those types of people only seem to like dead (or dying) people or machines.
He also noticed a man who interested him the most. A man who had a careful look on his face saying he was used to living on the run. Observant. A man he knew he'd come to like. Rules meant little to him. He would be helpful.
He didn't get to finish before a man instructed them on board. The others would have to come later. He walked in with the others. Ready to meet the crew.
James Grey
James looked up at the Lt. Commander as she called him out. He silently cursed to himself, he'd wished to go unnoticed and yet he'd done the exact opposite by being one of the few who didn't approach her directly. He stood up strait and gave a quick and informal salute to her, he'd never gotten used to the strictest military ways on stations. When working only on a station were everyone knew each other it was rarely called upon to do the whole salute thing. James did his best though, bringing his feet together and everything as he stood at attention, or at least his sloppy form of it.
He'd never met this Alice Chen before but from the way everyone was acting she was most likely a big deal, it wasn't normal for everyone to crowd around a single person all the time. He glanced at her and didn't see anything too remarkable, she looked like the type of person who was more focused on the job than anything else. ARCHE started to draw up her service record automatically but James cut it off, there was no point in doing things that way when he could do it in a personal way.
He said with a small smile on his face. "That correct. Engineering department, I'll be making sure this hunk of steel actually moves. Your Lt. Commander Chen correct?" It was probably obvious already, his inexperience. Everyone else was using quick and simple speech while he on the other hand couldn't help but add a little flourish to everything. He made a mental note to try and correct that at a later date.
James turned slightly as the announcement came on, he didn't even bother to check his card or anything. Even if they did remove him he would simply put himself back on, his babies were here so he would be also.
Ben Owens
As the announcement rang out Ben pulled out his card quickly, seeing it turn green he spun it lightly on his palm as he looked around. There were a few people in the hold who's cards had turned red but almost everyone who had gathered around the commander was holding a green card. He wasn't worried about it turning red on him, as long as his fighter was here he would be too, there was no way he'd let anyone else pilot that thing. Ben's hand clenched again involuntarily form being on the ground for so long, all this waiting around was pointless in his mind.
With permission to enter Ben didn't see any reason to be holding back, he moved quickly and yet as calmly as he could manage past the gate and into the ship. His eyes took in everything quickly and easily, he strode in the front of the people coming on board, unlike them he had no real interest in the briefing. Every part of him urged to turn away and start toward the hanger but sadly he had no idea where it was yet, it would only get him lost if he did so and there might be important information for him to learn.
James looked up at the Lt. Commander as she called him out. He silently cursed to himself, he'd wished to go unnoticed and yet he'd done the exact opposite by being one of the few who didn't approach her directly. He stood up strait and gave a quick and informal salute to her, he'd never gotten used to the strictest military ways on stations. When working only on a station were everyone knew each other it was rarely called upon to do the whole salute thing. James did his best though, bringing his feet together and everything as he stood at attention, or at least his sloppy form of it.
He'd never met this Alice Chen before but from the way everyone was acting she was most likely a big deal, it wasn't normal for everyone to crowd around a single person all the time. He glanced at her and didn't see anything too remarkable, she looked like the type of person who was more focused on the job than anything else. ARCHE started to draw up her service record automatically but James cut it off, there was no point in doing things that way when he could do it in a personal way.
He said with a small smile on his face. "That correct. Engineering department, I'll be making sure this hunk of steel actually moves. Your Lt. Commander Chen correct?" It was probably obvious already, his inexperience. Everyone else was using quick and simple speech while he on the other hand couldn't help but add a little flourish to everything. He made a mental note to try and correct that at a later date.
James turned slightly as the announcement came on, he didn't even bother to check his card or anything. Even if they did remove him he would simply put himself back on, his babies were here so he would be also.
Ben Owens
As the announcement rang out Ben pulled out his card quickly, seeing it turn green he spun it lightly on his palm as he looked around. There were a few people in the hold who's cards had turned red but almost everyone who had gathered around the commander was holding a green card. He wasn't worried about it turning red on him, as long as his fighter was here he would be too, there was no way he'd let anyone else pilot that thing. Ben's hand clenched again involuntarily form being on the ground for so long, all this waiting around was pointless in his mind.
With permission to enter Ben didn't see any reason to be holding back, he moved quickly and yet as calmly as he could manage past the gate and into the ship. His eyes took in everything quickly and easily, he strode in the front of the people coming on board, unlike them he had no real interest in the briefing. Every part of him urged to turn away and start toward the hanger but sadly he had no idea where it was yet, it would only get him lost if he did so and there might be important information for him to learn.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
Alice flicked out her card, checked its color. Green. Good. She nodded shortly to herself and started her clipped walk, each step punctuated by the snap of heels. The one inconvenience she allowed of the female stereotype. Alice liked her boots to have taller heels than most. She walked with confidence up onto the bridge, moving to the head of the crowd of personnel. She was a leader by nature, a leader by design.
Though she did not slow her step as she strode up to the belly of the Salient, she did snatch her chance to stare. A beautiful ship. Well-built, well-equipped. Nothing like her previous assignment - a prison ship with all its guns pointed inwards instead of out. Not the sort of assignment she had always hoped for, but good for learning leadership and self defense. After the things she had seen on-board the Corrector, there was very little that Alice would be unable to handle. The minds of normal men were simply compared to those of the twisted criminals she had watched over for nearly two years.
Walking among these soldiers was a simple-thinking relief.
As she ascended into the Salient, starting on her way to the hall, Alice turned to continue her conversation with James Grey. She would forge connections with the others later. For now, she had his attention, and of all of them he had seemed the most reluctant to approach her. The faster she gained his trust, the better for them both.
"Grey," she addressed him calmly, caught between formal and informal. No title, but a surname. Such was her upbringing. "I am told that you helped to outfit the Salient?"
Though she did not slow her step as she strode up to the belly of the Salient, she did snatch her chance to stare. A beautiful ship. Well-built, well-equipped. Nothing like her previous assignment - a prison ship with all its guns pointed inwards instead of out. Not the sort of assignment she had always hoped for, but good for learning leadership and self defense. After the things she had seen on-board the Corrector, there was very little that Alice would be unable to handle. The minds of normal men were simply compared to those of the twisted criminals she had watched over for nearly two years.
Walking among these soldiers was a simple-thinking relief.
As she ascended into the Salient, starting on her way to the hall, Alice turned to continue her conversation with James Grey. She would forge connections with the others later. For now, she had his attention, and of all of them he had seemed the most reluctant to approach her. The faster she gained his trust, the better for them both.
"Grey," she addressed him calmly, caught between formal and informal. No title, but a surname. Such was her upbringing. "I am told that you helped to outfit the Salient?"
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
Ridley waited until the Colter fellow had finished his announcement before looking down at his card, which was glowing a bright green. "Guess that means I'm in the clear." He said with a satisfied smile. Looking up, he saw a few others already heading through the gate, and headed in after them. As he walked up the ramp that would take him into the belly of the Salient, the ship itself loomed into view. If he were capable of being impressed, he might have been. Well-built and sturdy, it wasn't quite as grand as the mainstream Naval vessels, but perhaps that's what made it stand out. Eventually the ramp ended and Ridley found himself in the belly of the beast. He noticed Chen and another person heading down one of the hallways. Easy to assume that was the way to the Assembly Hall, Ridley headed down after them.
1200 Hours June 14, 2093 Solar Cycle Jupiter
Rows of soft cushioned seats directly faced the Admiral; or rather he directly faced them. The assembly hall was located near the starboard side of the ship with a large view port behind the presentation screens and the central platform with the speaker's podium. The view port was only for aesthetic appeal, for no crew member would simply wander into the hall full of seats just to stare into bleak space. Today the sunlight shone through the oval view port and exposed the landscape outside of the station. Mesas and plateaus dotted the backdrop as seen through the view port.
Aronimus stood near the platform area as several crew members walked back and forth setting up the stage. One station worker approached him with a tablet which he received.
“Admiral we’ve fully stocked the ship with enough supplies until you reach the Arcturus System. I’m going to need you to sign here.” He pointed with a stylus at the dotted line before handing the utensil to Aronimus. The Admiral quickly brushed his signature onto the line and returned both the tablet and the stylus to the worker, who promptly exited the room leaving Aronimus to himself.
The Admiral then turned back to face the oval viewing window and stared out into the rough landscape. He then pulled back his left dress sleeve and looked at his timekeeper; it was approximately 1200 hours which was boarding time. In minutes the hall of empty seats would slowly fill to the brim as the recruits found their places. The silence surrounding him would soon dissipate completely and would stay so for the remainder of the trip. The only privacy he would have would be his own private quarters, but an experienced admiral like Aronimus knew that interactions between him and the rest of the crew was no less dear to him than the calm that prevailed throughout the assembly hall as of now.
Several beeps originated from his communicator which indicated an incoming call. Aronimus pressed a button on the device, which projected a mini screen. The image on the projection was Captain Colter, who by this time had finished welcoming the recruits.
“Yes...Captain?” the Admiral inquired.
“The recruits are making their way down to the assembly hall, sir.”
“Excellent work Captain, no doubt you gave them a warm welcome?”
Colter rubbed the back of his head, although such behavior was rude especially in front of superiors.
“You could say so sir.” Eli smiled.
Aronimus chuckled at that remark; he had known Eli for a while now since their departure from Mars. The admiral knew his history and went through his profile; it was one of the few surprises that the admiral found interesting, given Eli’s combat record and personal history. Smiling was a rarity for Eli, the Admiral knew this. Some part of him knew that a light may be returning to the marine, but only time will tell. He tapped another key on his communicator, which ended their correspondence, and awaited the personnel as he stood there, with his face turned away from the auditorium, peering through the view port at the station.
Rows of soft cushioned seats directly faced the Admiral; or rather he directly faced them. The assembly hall was located near the starboard side of the ship with a large view port behind the presentation screens and the central platform with the speaker's podium. The view port was only for aesthetic appeal, for no crew member would simply wander into the hall full of seats just to stare into bleak space. Today the sunlight shone through the oval view port and exposed the landscape outside of the station. Mesas and plateaus dotted the backdrop as seen through the view port.
Aronimus stood near the platform area as several crew members walked back and forth setting up the stage. One station worker approached him with a tablet which he received.
“Admiral we’ve fully stocked the ship with enough supplies until you reach the Arcturus System. I’m going to need you to sign here.” He pointed with a stylus at the dotted line before handing the utensil to Aronimus. The Admiral quickly brushed his signature onto the line and returned both the tablet and the stylus to the worker, who promptly exited the room leaving Aronimus to himself.
The Admiral then turned back to face the oval viewing window and stared out into the rough landscape. He then pulled back his left dress sleeve and looked at his timekeeper; it was approximately 1200 hours which was boarding time. In minutes the hall of empty seats would slowly fill to the brim as the recruits found their places. The silence surrounding him would soon dissipate completely and would stay so for the remainder of the trip. The only privacy he would have would be his own private quarters, but an experienced admiral like Aronimus knew that interactions between him and the rest of the crew was no less dear to him than the calm that prevailed throughout the assembly hall as of now.
Several beeps originated from his communicator which indicated an incoming call. Aronimus pressed a button on the device, which projected a mini screen. The image on the projection was Captain Colter, who by this time had finished welcoming the recruits.
“Yes...Captain?” the Admiral inquired.
“The recruits are making their way down to the assembly hall, sir.”
“Excellent work Captain, no doubt you gave them a warm welcome?”
Colter rubbed the back of his head, although such behavior was rude especially in front of superiors.
“You could say so sir.” Eli smiled.
Aronimus chuckled at that remark; he had known Eli for a while now since their departure from Mars. The admiral knew his history and went through his profile; it was one of the few surprises that the admiral found interesting, given Eli’s combat record and personal history. Smiling was a rarity for Eli, the Admiral knew this. Some part of him knew that a light may be returning to the marine, but only time will tell. He tapped another key on his communicator, which ended their correspondence, and awaited the personnel as he stood there, with his face turned away from the auditorium, peering through the view port at the station.
Clyde's boarding pass glowed green in the pocket of his jacket as the taxi was pulling into the spaceport. He cursed to himself. Of all the things he could be late for, his first launch was NOT one of them. The foot traffic in the terminal was not helping either. Clyde was relieved to see that the Salient was still docked and being boarded, albeit from afar. He told the driver to hurry, but the taxi driver took his sweet time. Clyde had completely missed any greetings by the time he arrived, so he grabbed all his bags and hurried onto the ship. He brushed by all the people with red cards leaving the ship and hurried his pace. He threw all his bags onto his cot in the barracks and ran to the bridge, where he was supposed to be preparing for takeoff. He entered to find the room empty, so he sat at a computer terminal and waited, growing ever more concerned each minute.
"... Where the hell is everybody!?"
"... Where the hell is everybody!?"
A.D.A.M
A.D.A.M was running through the final preps and tunings before flight, it took some work but he got every other system AI to follow full protocol, the two suit AI's barely had the processing power to do much besides running the suit. He also found a delay in the twin Hyperdrive engine, it was small only 1.04E^-12 seconds but considering how much energy the error would cost in a crisis situation, it had to adjusted. Sadly the error was deeply embedded, he was stuck recalibrating from scratch. He began doing so at speeds and precision that would require at least a dozen AI's to to begin to hope to replicate. At that moment one of his sensors detected someone in the bridge, an area that was supposed to be empty at the time. He sent a quick message to the Admiral and Captain to alert them of the situation. He then decided to initiate contact with the individual, hopefully key security measures wouldn't be necessary.
"Greetings, I am A.D.A.M the ship's primary AI, may I be of any assistance," he asked, at the time he was doing a shakedown of the full system power grid, when done overall efficiency would increase by 8%. This would normally require dozens of AI and weeks of time, he would have everything finished by take off but his remaining processing abilities were limited.
Jon
Jon waited for all available personnel boarded the ship before he himself got on, from all appearances he may be able to initiate stage 2 of the project, the direct human augmentation. After getting a go ahead from Admiral Michelson he decided to check with local chain before acting. He even got the minimal requirements and safety concerns: no more than 2.8% bone coverage with a minimum of four-fold strength increase; muscle strength at least doubled but bone would require at least double muscle strengthening, muscle lactic recovery needed at least tripling and neural speed amplified enough to cut reflex time down to 1/5 of normal etc. At any rate if he met the minimum enhancements suit efficiency would increase exponentially, the exact number was still being calculated in terms of exactly by how much.
At any rate, he figured he'd have a lot of explaining to do to the head of the local head of command. He followed the rest of the crowd to where the was to be addressed, after he had dealt with all the finesse of the day a trip to the armories was on his list. If any combat were to occur he wanted to know exactly what was on ship so he could engage accordingly, he didn't believe in leaving things to chance. He pulled up what data he had on the stealth model of his suit, basically the picture. From all appearances it was made of the same stuff as his, neo-steel, currently the best stuff available but it was significantly slimmer. At best it was a full armor grade less than his, the physical performance enhancements were probably less than his as well; the shields were probably of equitable strength to his but he knew for a fact it wouldn't be able to do an orbital drop like his, it was too fragile.
"Not like a stealth suit needs something as loud as orbital drop capability, though I wonder how much better his Stealth System is than mine," he said this entirely to himself, and since external communications were off no one could hear him.
A.D.A.M was running through the final preps and tunings before flight, it took some work but he got every other system AI to follow full protocol, the two suit AI's barely had the processing power to do much besides running the suit. He also found a delay in the twin Hyperdrive engine, it was small only 1.04E^-12 seconds but considering how much energy the error would cost in a crisis situation, it had to adjusted. Sadly the error was deeply embedded, he was stuck recalibrating from scratch. He began doing so at speeds and precision that would require at least a dozen AI's to to begin to hope to replicate. At that moment one of his sensors detected someone in the bridge, an area that was supposed to be empty at the time. He sent a quick message to the Admiral and Captain to alert them of the situation. He then decided to initiate contact with the individual, hopefully key security measures wouldn't be necessary.
"Greetings, I am A.D.A.M the ship's primary AI, may I be of any assistance," he asked, at the time he was doing a shakedown of the full system power grid, when done overall efficiency would increase by 8%. This would normally require dozens of AI and weeks of time, he would have everything finished by take off but his remaining processing abilities were limited.
Jon
Jon waited for all available personnel boarded the ship before he himself got on, from all appearances he may be able to initiate stage 2 of the project, the direct human augmentation. After getting a go ahead from Admiral Michelson he decided to check with local chain before acting. He even got the minimal requirements and safety concerns: no more than 2.8% bone coverage with a minimum of four-fold strength increase; muscle strength at least doubled but bone would require at least double muscle strengthening, muscle lactic recovery needed at least tripling and neural speed amplified enough to cut reflex time down to 1/5 of normal etc. At any rate if he met the minimum enhancements suit efficiency would increase exponentially, the exact number was still being calculated in terms of exactly by how much.
At any rate, he figured he'd have a lot of explaining to do to the head of the local head of command. He followed the rest of the crowd to where the was to be addressed, after he had dealt with all the finesse of the day a trip to the armories was on his list. If any combat were to occur he wanted to know exactly what was on ship so he could engage accordingly, he didn't believe in leaving things to chance. He pulled up what data he had on the stealth model of his suit, basically the picture. From all appearances it was made of the same stuff as his, neo-steel, currently the best stuff available but it was significantly slimmer. At best it was a full armor grade less than his, the physical performance enhancements were probably less than his as well; the shields were probably of equitable strength to his but he knew for a fact it wouldn't be able to do an orbital drop like his, it was too fragile.
"Not like a stealth suit needs something as loud as orbital drop capability, though I wonder how much better his Stealth System is than mine," he said this entirely to himself, and since external communications were off no one could hear him.
The crew seemed suitable enough by appearance, but their real character would show during a hostile threat, Thaddeus thought to himself. The ship was a very well built one and he looked forward to memorizing the ship's interior perfectly over the course of his time on it. Pulling out a slip of paper, he looked over what he needed to check first. The barracks needed to be seen, as well as the armory, the observation port, and the medical bay. As much as he wanted to see what the medical experience here was, Thaddeus knew that good equipment and the knowledge to use it could usually help prevent those unwanted visits, thus his decision was made. The armory it is.
Faith knew without looking that her boarding pass would be glowing green, they wouldn't have had her come all this way otherwise or at least she hoped not. In a moment of uncharacteristic doubt she quickly looked at it and breathed a small sigh of relief when she saw it was indeed green. She would have been seriously pissed if it hadn't been and someone would have known about it pretty damn quick. She saw that most of the others surrounding the Lt Commander had glowing green cards and sighed again. An interesting assortment of people and no doubt she would be seeing them all at some point. She adjusted her shoulder bag and walked onto the ship.
It was impressive, she couldn't deny that, and she was sure it would take her quite a while to learn the run of the place. She turned left, following others to the assembly point, and had to suppress the urge to stop and find out the location to the med centre. She wanted nothing more than to settle in and get started. She was eager to begin studying the crews medical files and inventoring the supplies. But the captain had told them where to go and it wouldn't do to if to ignore orders on her first day.
The assembly room was still quite empty with only a few people already in their seats. The room was still a hive of activity though with various crew members setting up the stage. Faith took a seat on the end of the front row, she wasn't one to hide in the back, and set her bag underneath her seat. She really wished for a smoke then, the only sign of her uncertainty, and hoped this wouldn't go on too long.
It was impressive, she couldn't deny that, and she was sure it would take her quite a while to learn the run of the place. She turned left, following others to the assembly point, and had to suppress the urge to stop and find out the location to the med centre. She wanted nothing more than to settle in and get started. She was eager to begin studying the crews medical files and inventoring the supplies. But the captain had told them where to go and it wouldn't do to if to ignore orders on her first day.
The assembly room was still quite empty with only a few people already in their seats. The room was still a hive of activity though with various crew members setting up the stage. Faith took a seat on the end of the front row, she wasn't one to hide in the back, and set her bag underneath her seat. She really wished for a smoke then, the only sign of her uncertainty, and hoped this wouldn't go on too long.
"Oh. Hello A.D.A.M. My name is Clyde. I'll be the human navigator for the F.S.S. Salient until further notice. I need to make sure that the ship is ready for its journey. And... It would help to know where everyone else is."
Clyde was not, in fact, worried about either of these things. He could be ready for launch in about four second from outside the ship, and if people weren't on the bridge it wasn't time to launch yet. What really interested him was seeing what he had to work with for his duration on the ship. As he spoke to the AI, he set about hacking into it with his neural implant to see what it was capable of, as well as checking in on all of the ship specifications. He had won battles like these before, so he saw no reason why this simple ship AI would be able to stop him.
Clyde was not, in fact, worried about either of these things. He could be ready for launch in about four second from outside the ship, and if people weren't on the bridge it wasn't time to launch yet. What really interested him was seeing what he had to work with for his duration on the ship. As he spoke to the AI, he set about hacking into it with his neural implant to see what it was capable of, as well as checking in on all of the ship specifications. He had won battles like these before, so he saw no reason why this simple ship AI would be able to stop him.
A.D.A.M
The registry checked out, but A.D.A.M felt the hacking approach. Normally he'd be able to crush this level of hacking with no problem but under current circumstances it'd actually require a bit of effort.
"Navigator Clyde I would ask that you report with the rest of the crew and I'd happily show you the way. I'm calibrating the ships power system from scratch to increase efficiency, so I would insist that you cease your hacking attempt so I can focus on my calculations." Sent a code spike through while countering the human's hacking attempt, it'd short him out for a second or too.
"I'm pleased to have a cyber warfare savvy crew member but as you can tell I'm cramming 22 unshackled AIs full week of operating time between now and launch, I do not have time to play at this moment. I will however be pleased to answer any particular questions you'd have about myself and the ship."
As it stood, the human was a great hacker in fact A.D.A.M even sent a request to the Admiral to lift his processing limiter to 3%, with a brief explanation of the situation. With that much power the human wouldn't be able to keep up with him even if he used his entire brain, granted in terms of speed the man never had a hope to begin with, currently the only reason he was keeping ahead. Hopefully Clyde was tech savvy enough to understand that an unshackled AI could easily outstrip a human in terms of processing power.
He couldn't help but wonder if his request had been for too much power, after all he was only at 1.2% at the moment and 99.99946% of that was being used to recalibrate the ship.
The registry checked out, but A.D.A.M felt the hacking approach. Normally he'd be able to crush this level of hacking with no problem but under current circumstances it'd actually require a bit of effort.
"Navigator Clyde I would ask that you report with the rest of the crew and I'd happily show you the way. I'm calibrating the ships power system from scratch to increase efficiency, so I would insist that you cease your hacking attempt so I can focus on my calculations." Sent a code spike through while countering the human's hacking attempt, it'd short him out for a second or too.
"I'm pleased to have a cyber warfare savvy crew member but as you can tell I'm cramming 22 unshackled AIs full week of operating time between now and launch, I do not have time to play at this moment. I will however be pleased to answer any particular questions you'd have about myself and the ship."
As it stood, the human was a great hacker in fact A.D.A.M even sent a request to the Admiral to lift his processing limiter to 3%, with a brief explanation of the situation. With that much power the human wouldn't be able to keep up with him even if he used his entire brain, granted in terms of speed the man never had a hope to begin with, currently the only reason he was keeping ahead. Hopefully Clyde was tech savvy enough to understand that an unshackled AI could easily outstrip a human in terms of processing power.
He couldn't help but wonder if his request had been for too much power, after all he was only at 1.2% at the moment and 99.99946% of that was being used to recalibrate the ship.
Clyde almost gaped at the computer. The implant in his head had been more powerful than all the supercomputers he had come across, when used to its fullest. He had more to give by a lot, but he read the AI's power output. Less than two percent. What kind of computer was this? He pulled out of the attack, barely understanding what just happened. It was going to be quite the interesting tour of duty, he thought to himself standing up to leave.
"If you would be so kind, could you send me a map of the ship, the location I am supposed to be at, and all of the ship specifications including your own capabilities?" Clyde read through the information as he walked to the assembly hall to hear Admiral Weston's opening speech.
"If you would be so kind, could you send me a map of the ship, the location I am supposed to be at, and all of the ship specifications including your own capabilities?" Clyde read through the information as he walked to the assembly hall to hear Admiral Weston's opening speech.
"I am walking backwards for Christmas across the methane sea…."
Ray sang softly as he made his way in the gigantic cruiser; it was the first ship of such size he was assigned to since most of his service in the Saturn system was done on moon bases, a verity of artificial bases and patrol carriers.
As Ray passed the same place for the third time he decided that enough was enough and stopped at a near by terminal.
"Hay Sam can you direct me to church?"
In the academy Sam was a nickname given to computer terminals and Ray was still in the habit of calling computers Sam now and then. In the academy the hall was known as the "Church" because of the tendency of the headmaster to preach to the students for hours about duty before he let them have their dinner.
The terminal began to click meaning it was processing the request before saying in the normal banker like voice
"Please restate the command"
Ray was in a funny mood and barley overcame his desire to play around with the terminal, he had only once seen a puter go nuts and that was when someone in the academy tried to teach a computer Irishman jokes which managed to break the poor computer's logic processors.
"Computer, show me the position of the hall room in screen section 1, my current location on screen section 2 and a line marking the path towards the hall room from my current location on the main screen detailing all necessary map data for a successful transit between the two points"
The computer did not respond vocally and merely executed the command; it was boring and colorless but Ray needed to hurry if he was to arrive to the hall in time.
He wasn't as far away as he expected and calculated the journey would take him a few minutes.
He saw a human being ahead and decided to make the area his port of call before proceeding to the hall; he approached the chap and preformed the federation salute along with the Titan mix which was a longer less "mechanic" version of the salute.
"I am Unit Commander Peter Ray Davidson … don't worry it's not as high up as it seems! It’s a gunship rank:
Because we pack quite a kick with our fire power, armor and our own military detachment we get nice important ranks to go along with our space beauties which basically give us a bit of independence from our mother ships and the ability to get a few fighters to do what we tell them to do. It's a new rank and so far it's only used by the Federation Saturn System independent fighter command but we get to keep the rank in the rest of the service. I apologize if I confused you, To whom do I have the pleasure of addressing? "
Ray offered his hand to the chap and suspected the man was a rookie due to his young age. Ray and others in the Titan academy where sent out to get field experience at a much younger age then other academies because of the already long period of training they got in flight academy and other similar academies. The Titan academy believed in field experience and allowed those who preformed well to gain their commissions and those who didn't to return to the academy.
Ray liked the chap as he did with nearly every new person he met and decided to make conversation. He then noticed the distinct navigator colors on the chap's uniform and smiled; he liked navigators because he knew from his own experiences that navigators rarely let you down even when everything else did.
"Managed to get lost too? I am in the same boat it seems. How about you navigate us out of this predicament? If at all possible before we get our skins turned inside out by the brass." The last few words where meant as a joke but Ray suspected they would not be so much of a joke if they didn't arrive at the hall within the next few minutes.
Ray sang softly as he made his way in the gigantic cruiser; it was the first ship of such size he was assigned to since most of his service in the Saturn system was done on moon bases, a verity of artificial bases and patrol carriers.
As Ray passed the same place for the third time he decided that enough was enough and stopped at a near by terminal.
"Hay Sam can you direct me to church?"
In the academy Sam was a nickname given to computer terminals and Ray was still in the habit of calling computers Sam now and then. In the academy the hall was known as the "Church" because of the tendency of the headmaster to preach to the students for hours about duty before he let them have their dinner.
The terminal began to click meaning it was processing the request before saying in the normal banker like voice
"Please restate the command"
Ray was in a funny mood and barley overcame his desire to play around with the terminal, he had only once seen a puter go nuts and that was when someone in the academy tried to teach a computer Irishman jokes which managed to break the poor computer's logic processors.
"Computer, show me the position of the hall room in screen section 1, my current location on screen section 2 and a line marking the path towards the hall room from my current location on the main screen detailing all necessary map data for a successful transit between the two points"
The computer did not respond vocally and merely executed the command; it was boring and colorless but Ray needed to hurry if he was to arrive to the hall in time.
He wasn't as far away as he expected and calculated the journey would take him a few minutes.
He saw a human being ahead and decided to make the area his port of call before proceeding to the hall; he approached the chap and preformed the federation salute along with the Titan mix which was a longer less "mechanic" version of the salute.
"I am Unit Commander Peter Ray Davidson … don't worry it's not as high up as it seems! It’s a gunship rank:
Because we pack quite a kick with our fire power, armor and our own military detachment we get nice important ranks to go along with our space beauties which basically give us a bit of independence from our mother ships and the ability to get a few fighters to do what we tell them to do. It's a new rank and so far it's only used by the Federation Saturn System independent fighter command but we get to keep the rank in the rest of the service. I apologize if I confused you, To whom do I have the pleasure of addressing? "
Ray offered his hand to the chap and suspected the man was a rookie due to his young age. Ray and others in the Titan academy where sent out to get field experience at a much younger age then other academies because of the already long period of training they got in flight academy and other similar academies. The Titan academy believed in field experience and allowed those who preformed well to gain their commissions and those who didn't to return to the academy.
Ray liked the chap as he did with nearly every new person he met and decided to make conversation. He then noticed the distinct navigator colors on the chap's uniform and smiled; he liked navigators because he knew from his own experiences that navigators rarely let you down even when everything else did.
"Managed to get lost too? I am in the same boat it seems. How about you navigate us out of this predicament? If at all possible before we get our skins turned inside out by the brass." The last few words where meant as a joke but Ray suspected they would not be so much of a joke if they didn't arrive at the hall within the next few minutes.
FO Jessica "Hyena" MacPhearson
Jess had been in amongst the group of people milling near the boarding site; a flash of flightsuit gray at the very fringes of the officer crowd, more often turned towards what enlisted were brave enough to mill close by. As chilly as initial contact with a 'Mustang' officer could be, it didnt take long for the Flight Officer to be more involved bullshitting with the deck crewman then paying attention to the dance of rank and protocol. As numerous as enlisted were, it wasnt hard to find someone that'd also served with so-and-so, or who'd had what's-his-face as an instructor. It made the community seem smaller, and Jess was pleased when several cards in the group lit up green.
Flashing them all a smile that was as much teeth as it was good humor, the pilot spun her own pass between her fingers and scooped up her duffle before heading on board the massive ship, giving a low whistle for the venerable old lady's impressive sights. The stately been-there-done-that atmosphere made her feel much more comfortable then the startched uniforms that made Jess second-guess her decision to go with the much more casual flightsuit and service jacket. Not expressly inappropriate, but definately dressed down. She hated officer dress uniforms. They itched like fury, and always made her feel as if she was wearing a skin she didnt belong in.
"Well, if you've gotta go to the end of the universe, you might as well go in style..."
Entering the assembly hall, Jess picks the first seat she comes to and drops herself without preamble into it, stretching her boots out in front of her. She openly watches the others enter, grinning broadly at them all as if she were in on some joke. Some of these people would disappear into the bowels of the great ship, and she'd never see them again. Some she'd work with every day. Either way, she was eager to get to know them. Never knew where you'd find a buddy to count on.
"Eurgh. Welcome aboard, pride of the Navy, head on a swivel, so on and so forth..." She sighs at the ceiling, speaking to no one in particular, anticipating a speach much like the dozens like it she'd heared before, "Are we taking bets on how many sleepers we get?"
Jess had been in amongst the group of people milling near the boarding site; a flash of flightsuit gray at the very fringes of the officer crowd, more often turned towards what enlisted were brave enough to mill close by. As chilly as initial contact with a 'Mustang' officer could be, it didnt take long for the Flight Officer to be more involved bullshitting with the deck crewman then paying attention to the dance of rank and protocol. As numerous as enlisted were, it wasnt hard to find someone that'd also served with so-and-so, or who'd had what's-his-face as an instructor. It made the community seem smaller, and Jess was pleased when several cards in the group lit up green.
Flashing them all a smile that was as much teeth as it was good humor, the pilot spun her own pass between her fingers and scooped up her duffle before heading on board the massive ship, giving a low whistle for the venerable old lady's impressive sights. The stately been-there-done-that atmosphere made her feel much more comfortable then the startched uniforms that made Jess second-guess her decision to go with the much more casual flightsuit and service jacket. Not expressly inappropriate, but definately dressed down. She hated officer dress uniforms. They itched like fury, and always made her feel as if she was wearing a skin she didnt belong in.
"Well, if you've gotta go to the end of the universe, you might as well go in style..."
Entering the assembly hall, Jess picks the first seat she comes to and drops herself without preamble into it, stretching her boots out in front of her. She openly watches the others enter, grinning broadly at them all as if she were in on some joke. Some of these people would disappear into the bowels of the great ship, and she'd never see them again. Some she'd work with every day. Either way, she was eager to get to know them. Never knew where you'd find a buddy to count on.
"Eurgh. Welcome aboard, pride of the Navy, head on a swivel, so on and so forth..." She sighs at the ceiling, speaking to no one in particular, anticipating a speach much like the dozens like it she'd heared before, "Are we taking bets on how many sleepers we get?"
Clyde snapped himself out of the flow of data as the pilot approached. He returned the federation salute and spoke to the man, relived he wouldn't be arriving alone.
"Clyde Summer. This is my first deployment so... I guess I'm a private," he said with a smile, shaking Ray's hand. "... Lost? Never. Navigators never get lost. Just... delayed... " Clyde trailed off into nothing. "Kind of the problem isn't it... Anyway. This way," he waved down the hall and started walking.
Clyde wasn't quite sure how well he liked Ray, having known him for about a minute and a half, but he was less sure about the other crew members. He decided that Ray would be harmless to him and kept the conversation going. "So. What did you do to get sent here? I don't know if you've noticed yet, but something about this mission is... off. Starting with the crew. You'll see when you get there if you haven't read their profiles yet."
"Clyde Summer. This is my first deployment so... I guess I'm a private," he said with a smile, shaking Ray's hand. "... Lost? Never. Navigators never get lost. Just... delayed... " Clyde trailed off into nothing. "Kind of the problem isn't it... Anyway. This way," he waved down the hall and started walking.
Clyde wasn't quite sure how well he liked Ray, having known him for about a minute and a half, but he was less sure about the other crew members. He decided that Ray would be harmless to him and kept the conversation going. "So. What did you do to get sent here? I don't know if you've noticed yet, but something about this mission is... off. Starting with the crew. You'll see when you get there if you haven't read their profiles yet."
Ray wondered about this new acquaintance of his, Clyde seemed to be a very interesting person for some reason even if he was a bit distant Ray knew there was always something to someone but also knew that it wasn't really his business.
Me? Ray asked surprised at Clyde's question, Ray wondered about how he would answer the question and began to formulate ways in which he could evade lying but not tell the exact truth ether. Ray didn't mind talking about the nature of his mental wounds which he sustained during the conflict but one question would lead to another until one of them reached forbidden territory which Ray didn't like to talk about.
Ray decided to go with his normal answer to such questions; not answering the question and maintaining a seemingly joyful appearance. Ray suddenly stopped, maybe a part of the reason would appease him.
As they neared the hall Ray simply said not knowing if Clyde heard him or not with the growing noise from the hall.
"one straw too many"
Me? Ray asked surprised at Clyde's question, Ray wondered about how he would answer the question and began to formulate ways in which he could evade lying but not tell the exact truth ether. Ray didn't mind talking about the nature of his mental wounds which he sustained during the conflict but one question would lead to another until one of them reached forbidden territory which Ray didn't like to talk about.
Ray decided to go with his normal answer to such questions; not answering the question and maintaining a seemingly joyful appearance. Ray suddenly stopped, maybe a part of the reason would appease him.
As they neared the hall Ray simply said not knowing if Clyde heard him or not with the growing noise from the hall.
"one straw too many"
Clyde stopped a few steps later as the words sank in. "The straw that broke the camel's back you say?" He turned his head back to Ray and flashed him an evil smile. "You too?"
Clyde proceeded alone into the hall and took a look around at everyone inside. The Admiral sitting facing everyone. The marines in their bulky suits. The girl flashing him a wide smile. There's an interesting one...
He jumped over the back of the chair next to Jessica's and smiled back. "Hi. My name's Clyde."
Clyde proceeded alone into the hall and took a look around at everyone inside. The Admiral sitting facing everyone. The marines in their bulky suits. The girl flashing him a wide smile. There's an interesting one...
He jumped over the back of the chair next to Jessica's and smiled back. "Hi. My name's Clyde."
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to General Assembly Hall
Eli had reached the hall first, ahead of the many recruits, but they were quick behind him. Soon the hall was slowly filling as crew mates picked seats in an overwhelmingly vacant hall. Eli approached the admiral, who was still locked in his posture as he stared out the view port. At this point the Admiral turned to meet the oncoming soldier.
“You know, I expected better from recruits…” the admiral shifted his head towards the bare, with the exception of a few crew members, meeting hall.
Eli’s brow furrowed, he was unsure as to what Aronimus meant and how he would reply. To which Aronimus replied,
“The hall should’ve been filled to the brim as of now,” he looked back at the timekeeper on his wrist. It had barely been two minutes since boarding commenced.
Eli realized his meaning and had laughed a bit inside upon discernment.
“I suppose we could wait a little longer…sir?” Eli wondered.
“Perhaps…Captain…perhaps…” The Admiral paused a bit and glanced at Eli.
“An old dog can get tired of this sometimes…” he returned to observing the outside.
“I’m sure you’ve been through many of these, an experienced ship captain and Admiral such as yourself.” Eli reminded him.
“Don’t get me started…” the admiral paused and glanced at Eli again.
“Anyways, the rest of these tenderfeet need to get here immediately. Go look around for stragglers who are lost, Captain.”
“Understood sir.” The captain gave Aronimus a fairly formal salute before heading out through the opened metal blast doors that sealed off the hall.
The Admiral turned around once more to look at the rows of seats lacking people. He noticed a familiar face, one he saw on the roster. Lieutenant Commander Alice Chen, she was seated in the front row. He could see that she was a prompt and sedulous individual. She had gotten to her rank with those qualities, Aronimus could tell. Her position, in his opinion, was well deserved. Then he noted another woman who had a fairly large smile that was shot at almost all the new recruits who came in after her; she was going to be a character no doubt. The admiral’s neural interface registered her as Jessica MacPhearson, also known as “Hyena.” The label was perhaps given to her by fellow crew mates out of affection or otherwise. She had the look of someone awaiting good news, perhaps a last minute re-assignment from this ship. The admiral doubted he had news of any kind to deliver; this was merely going to be an introduction and then straight to the bridge with the command crew to send the Salient to its objective.
By now the hall was halfway full with more recruits pouring in. The admiral went to re-adjusting the see-through screens hovering behind him in mid-air for the presentation. Such technology was a spectacle to the Admiral who knew that innovation was a constant in this day and age. Ingenuity was a prized attribute to the Federation. He wondered beyond his death whether technology would race so fast as to overwhelm man’s capacity to control them for the betterment of his fellow people. Such were the thoughts of an aging Admiral.
“You know, I expected better from recruits…” the admiral shifted his head towards the bare, with the exception of a few crew members, meeting hall.
Eli’s brow furrowed, he was unsure as to what Aronimus meant and how he would reply. To which Aronimus replied,
“The hall should’ve been filled to the brim as of now,” he looked back at the timekeeper on his wrist. It had barely been two minutes since boarding commenced.
Eli realized his meaning and had laughed a bit inside upon discernment.
“I suppose we could wait a little longer…sir?” Eli wondered.
“Perhaps…Captain…perhaps…” The Admiral paused a bit and glanced at Eli.
“An old dog can get tired of this sometimes…” he returned to observing the outside.
“I’m sure you’ve been through many of these, an experienced ship captain and Admiral such as yourself.” Eli reminded him.
“Don’t get me started…” the admiral paused and glanced at Eli again.
“Anyways, the rest of these tenderfeet need to get here immediately. Go look around for stragglers who are lost, Captain.”
“Understood sir.” The captain gave Aronimus a fairly formal salute before heading out through the opened metal blast doors that sealed off the hall.
The Admiral turned around once more to look at the rows of seats lacking people. He noticed a familiar face, one he saw on the roster. Lieutenant Commander Alice Chen, she was seated in the front row. He could see that she was a prompt and sedulous individual. She had gotten to her rank with those qualities, Aronimus could tell. Her position, in his opinion, was well deserved. Then he noted another woman who had a fairly large smile that was shot at almost all the new recruits who came in after her; she was going to be a character no doubt. The admiral’s neural interface registered her as Jessica MacPhearson, also known as “Hyena.” The label was perhaps given to her by fellow crew mates out of affection or otherwise. She had the look of someone awaiting good news, perhaps a last minute re-assignment from this ship. The admiral doubted he had news of any kind to deliver; this was merely going to be an introduction and then straight to the bridge with the command crew to send the Salient to its objective.
By now the hall was halfway full with more recruits pouring in. The admiral went to re-adjusting the see-through screens hovering behind him in mid-air for the presentation. Such technology was a spectacle to the Admiral who knew that innovation was a constant in this day and age. Ingenuity was a prized attribute to the Federation. He wondered beyond his death whether technology would race so fast as to overwhelm man’s capacity to control them for the betterment of his fellow people. Such were the thoughts of an aging Admiral.
The setting changes from General Assembly Hall to The Milky Way Universe
Alice sat quietly, straight-backed and certain, but also remarkably relaxed. She watched the Admiral with calm and unwavering eyes. The young Lieutenant Commander took everything in - the movements of the people, the ship, the emotions of the crewmen around her. She was surrounded by nervous excitement, but also by boredom, frustration, from those who had seen too many of these assignments. Too many boardings. Some of that excitement, she was getting from the Admiral himself. No surprise there. Alice was an ambitious woman, had devoted her life and liberty to the Federation - she still doubted that she would be serving, or even alive, as long as the Admiral.
Nodding to herself, she crossed one leg up over the other and folded her hands comfortably in her lap. She glanced at the timepiece on her wrist, not moving, not giving the glance away. So many of them were late already... she was going to have to whip this crew into shape, if the personnel were meant to be worthy of their famous commander. No need for him to worry himself over it, either. That was why Alice was here. To take care of the crew while he worried about the mission at hand.
And to serve as his right hand and advisor. That, however, would come later. For now, she was as new to this as any of them.
Nodding to herself, she crossed one leg up over the other and folded her hands comfortably in her lap. She glanced at the timepiece on her wrist, not moving, not giving the glance away. So many of them were late already... she was going to have to whip this crew into shape, if the personnel were meant to be worthy of their famous commander. No need for him to worry himself over it, either. That was why Alice was here. To take care of the crew while he worried about the mission at hand.
And to serve as his right hand and advisor. That, however, would come later. For now, she was as new to this as any of them.
Jess' agressive grin only grows as Clyde doesnt hesitate to hop the row of seats and introduce himself. Thank god; she'd have someone to chat with during this briefing. As exciting as it was to be aboard a new ship starting a new mission, a formation was a formation; boredom was a given. Bright blue eyes that dont seem to blink stare straight through both Clyde and Ray, if the other has chosen to follow.
She extends a hand in introduction. If he takes it, her grasp is rough but brief.
"What's up, Clyde? Jessica. I also answer to 'Jess', 'rotten witch', and Hyena." Disengaging her hand from her offer of a shake, she gives an affectionate flick to the leather name patch of her jacket. Along with her rank and name, the telling callsign is emblazoned above a set of pilot's wings. Stick-jock. Worse; a fighter jock. And for the tripple threat? An -enlisted- fighter jock.
She gives an eye to the uniform of the others, kicking her chin in acknowledgement of fellow spacer Ray. By now they can surmise that the broad smile she wore was pretty much a permanent fixture; it'd softened to a casual smirk but never fully disappeared. She flings an elbow over the back of the chair she sits in, proping a boot up on the duffle of her belongings.
"Either of you served with this one yet?" She says, jerking a thumb up at the Admiral on the stage as he dismisses Eli to go round up stragglers.
"I mean, I've heared stories, but that's it. Guy's almost been in the service longer then my -parents- have been alive. Collected more chest candy then I knew they awarded..." The pilot turns that blue-eyed stare onto the distant figure of Aronimus; getting a feel for the officer she'd spend the next stretch of future serving under. Rumors had been decent, as far as she'd heared, but her accounts had never come from people who personally knew the man.
This was the man that was going to lead them into who-knew-what at the edge of god-knew-where. Hopefully he was going to be worth that kind of dedication.
She extends a hand in introduction. If he takes it, her grasp is rough but brief.
"What's up, Clyde? Jessica. I also answer to 'Jess', 'rotten witch', and Hyena." Disengaging her hand from her offer of a shake, she gives an affectionate flick to the leather name patch of her jacket. Along with her rank and name, the telling callsign is emblazoned above a set of pilot's wings. Stick-jock. Worse; a fighter jock. And for the tripple threat? An -enlisted- fighter jock.
She gives an eye to the uniform of the others, kicking her chin in acknowledgement of fellow spacer Ray. By now they can surmise that the broad smile she wore was pretty much a permanent fixture; it'd softened to a casual smirk but never fully disappeared. She flings an elbow over the back of the chair she sits in, proping a boot up on the duffle of her belongings.
"Either of you served with this one yet?" She says, jerking a thumb up at the Admiral on the stage as he dismisses Eli to go round up stragglers.
"I mean, I've heared stories, but that's it. Guy's almost been in the service longer then my -parents- have been alive. Collected more chest candy then I knew they awarded..." The pilot turns that blue-eyed stare onto the distant figure of Aronimus; getting a feel for the officer she'd spend the next stretch of future serving under. Rumors had been decent, as far as she'd heared, but her accounts had never come from people who personally knew the man.
This was the man that was going to lead them into who-knew-what at the edge of god-knew-where. Hopefully he was going to be worth that kind of dedication.
Clyde watched her grin grow wider and mirrored it. This one was going to be interesting, he hoped.
"I think I'll go with Hyena. Nice to meet you." Clyde wondered vaguely why she answered to rotten witch, but didn't dwell on it long. He look up to Admiral Weston when prompted. "Weston. Hardly- this is my first assignment. Under him, no less. This is a man who is introduced as "the man, the myth, the legend". What is he even doing here?"
Clyde was genuinely curious about this. This mission was strange, and it began with Admiral Weston. Such a prestigious man for such a mundane mission. He commands a single ship. But then look at the ship. It has more guns than the gunships it carries, and its AI is the most powerful computer ever built. Then there are marines on board with prototype battle suits, and a pilot who brought a prototype gunship. Half the crew have something weird in their records. They were orphans, or they're crazy, or it's classified, or they got in trouble with the Federation. Clyde was going to get to the bottom of this, and there was no way A.D.A.M. was going to let him into the classified files. He would talk to everyone on board to see what he could learn.
"I think I'll go with Hyena. Nice to meet you." Clyde wondered vaguely why she answered to rotten witch, but didn't dwell on it long. He look up to Admiral Weston when prompted. "Weston. Hardly- this is my first assignment. Under him, no less. This is a man who is introduced as "the man, the myth, the legend". What is he even doing here?"
Clyde was genuinely curious about this. This mission was strange, and it began with Admiral Weston. Such a prestigious man for such a mundane mission. He commands a single ship. But then look at the ship. It has more guns than the gunships it carries, and its AI is the most powerful computer ever built. Then there are marines on board with prototype battle suits, and a pilot who brought a prototype gunship. Half the crew have something weird in their records. They were orphans, or they're crazy, or it's classified, or they got in trouble with the Federation. Clyde was going to get to the bottom of this, and there was no way A.D.A.M. was going to let him into the classified files. He would talk to everyone on board to see what he could learn.
Allen wanted to get some things that he wanted to get done with but he knew that something was suppose to be happening that he needed to be at. He check to see if his card was green and it was. So he entered the ship and continued to the hall. His mind was racing, he wanted to know what kind of things he would be doing and the kinda of people he would meet. He was already in love with this place. To him only one problem remained, and that was that people seemed to just look past him as if he was nothing. The motivation that this was giving him would drive him to do something great. The ideas that ran though his head were interesting to say the least. "Maybe I can improve the vital recognition on the battle suits that the soldiers have." he said to himself as he entered the hall and too a seat in the third row and second from the left. The reason he choose this seat was it seems like a good place to sit. He rarely second guessed himself. The only thing left to do is prove himself to the admiral and some of the crew.
"Him? Nope never had him as my CO; he could not keep up with us in Independent fighter Command any way if he is as old as he seems. Admirals fancy their ships to be as XL as possible and ships like this aren’t much use in the Saturn system; too many little asteroid moon bases where torpedo bombers can sneak up on em and blow out a bit at a time. what about you? (he said to his fellow pilot)"
.
Ray looked at the old admiral; he had heard of the man's exploits but knowing how the federation press worked with the insurgency about didn't count on everything he had heard about him, it would be better to get his own opinion but for now he didn't have a particularly high one of the admiral like all admirals.
Ray didn't like admirals; admirals got small craft pilots killed and normally didn't understand the issues with fighter warfare. Admirals where a carry on form an older era when fleets seemed as the ultimate formation of power because of the habit of Earth's navy's to mass like that. Ray had heard the claim that had the Saturn sector command ship Alexander hadn't been destroyed in the first day of the war the loyalists would have lost it because the independent fighter command would have never been formed; Ray partly agreed with this because the nature of the war was one of fast strikes and ambushes and not of clumsy ships of the line showing off on the target sensors of a bomber and fast attack ships like a god damned red giant.
Oh well, Ray didn't know this admiral yet and decided he would give him a chance; not all of them where egotistic bastards.
Ray sat down near the two he had been chatting to and whistled for a few moments while the brass got some order in the room; he thought he saw an LC meaning CO and wondered if he should stop but decided to quietly whistle and removed his lucky coin from his pocket and began playing with it.
.
Ray looked at the old admiral; he had heard of the man's exploits but knowing how the federation press worked with the insurgency about didn't count on everything he had heard about him, it would be better to get his own opinion but for now he didn't have a particularly high one of the admiral like all admirals.
Ray didn't like admirals; admirals got small craft pilots killed and normally didn't understand the issues with fighter warfare. Admirals where a carry on form an older era when fleets seemed as the ultimate formation of power because of the habit of Earth's navy's to mass like that. Ray had heard the claim that had the Saturn sector command ship Alexander hadn't been destroyed in the first day of the war the loyalists would have lost it because the independent fighter command would have never been formed; Ray partly agreed with this because the nature of the war was one of fast strikes and ambushes and not of clumsy ships of the line showing off on the target sensors of a bomber and fast attack ships like a god damned red giant.
Oh well, Ray didn't know this admiral yet and decided he would give him a chance; not all of them where egotistic bastards.
Ray sat down near the two he had been chatting to and whistled for a few moments while the brass got some order in the room; he thought he saw an LC meaning CO and wondered if he should stop but decided to quietly whistle and removed his lucky coin from his pocket and began playing with it.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to General Assembly Hall
Jon
Jon had stood around in the Assembly Hall while most of the other soldiers grabbed their own seats, he didn't know if his suit was light enough to not break a chair. He shrugged and went to the second row,deliberately forming a bridge between the group on the first row and the young Engineer Allen in the third. Rather than popping open the visor he took off the helmet before addressing them. He arrived just when the first row had hit the end of their conversation on the Admiral.
"Admiral Weston, that old dog's won every award the Federation's got to give, hell he's gotten most of em twice or more," Jon figured he'd butt in on the end of the conversation as an ice breaker. "Haven't worked under him but my first Black Ops deployment involved boarding his ship to clear out some hostiles, by the time I got to the bridge to finish the rescue, the guy had done and rescued the crew for me. After that I had to do a ground mission and it was the cleanest outer atmosphere I ever had, nothing got through him." He looked up at the man he was talking about before finishing, I swear he's like a god of victory on the field."
"The name's Jon Dunaway by the way, but people tend to call me Papa Jon... so think I can sit here, suits damn heavy," that last bit he obviously addressed to Allen, Jon himself didn't feel any weight from the suit. With that in mind he hoped the guy could give him some insight," You're Allen right, from what I hear you're a real wiz kid and if i'm not mistaken you helped big this ship."
Jon had stood around in the Assembly Hall while most of the other soldiers grabbed their own seats, he didn't know if his suit was light enough to not break a chair. He shrugged and went to the second row,deliberately forming a bridge between the group on the first row and the young Engineer Allen in the third. Rather than popping open the visor he took off the helmet before addressing them. He arrived just when the first row had hit the end of their conversation on the Admiral.
"Admiral Weston, that old dog's won every award the Federation's got to give, hell he's gotten most of em twice or more," Jon figured he'd butt in on the end of the conversation as an ice breaker. "Haven't worked under him but my first Black Ops deployment involved boarding his ship to clear out some hostiles, by the time I got to the bridge to finish the rescue, the guy had done and rescued the crew for me. After that I had to do a ground mission and it was the cleanest outer atmosphere I ever had, nothing got through him." He looked up at the man he was talking about before finishing, I swear he's like a god of victory on the field."
"The name's Jon Dunaway by the way, but people tend to call me Papa Jon... so think I can sit here, suits damn heavy," that last bit he obviously addressed to Allen, Jon himself didn't feel any weight from the suit. With that in mind he hoped the guy could give him some insight," You're Allen right, from what I hear you're a real wiz kid and if i'm not mistaken you helped big this ship."
The setting changes from General Assembly Hall to The Milky Way Universe
Clyde had done his reading a while back. It interested him to know who he would be working with. Reading profiles only told so much, however, and he had long ago resolved to meet the people behind the pages before he passed real judgments on them. "Not to steal anyone's thunder here, but you are mistaken. Allen didn't work on the Salient. That was James Grey. I suppose this is a decent time for introductions. Papa Jon, meet Hyena and Ray, seasoned pilots, you already know Allen it seems, and myself, the navigator fresh out of the Academy. I'm Clyde , nice to meet you."
Clyde looked up at the Admiral again, lost in his own musings already. "A god of victory on the field. Maybe you can enlighten us, Papa Jon. Do you know, by chance, what makes this mission so special?"
Clyde looked up at the Admiral again, lost in his own musings already. "A god of victory on the field. Maybe you can enlighten us, Papa Jon. Do you know, by chance, what makes this mission so special?"
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to General Assembly Hall
Jess snorts and grimaces at Ray when he mentions torpedos and sneak attacks, "Oh, I know all about it. I was on the Defiance, buddy; I'm that Hyena."
The incident would've made its rounds quickly around the ward rooms and hangar decks; a Federation patrol ship sent after pirates into the asteroid belt with no immediate support, the subsequent ambush, and the outlaws' sucess in getting in a torpedo that eradicated the crew quarters and a full 1/3rd of her fighting crew - including most of her pilots who had still been scrambling out of their bunks. And then the mad-as-hell maintainer that'd jumped into a spare bird and gotten her 5 Ace kills as a goddamn 3rd class crewman. Opinions after that were mixed, wether or not she'd truly 'earned' her sudden promotion to what was essentially an Officer's rank, and wether or not they should've just given her an award instead of a cockpit. Damn dirty enlisted and all of that. Her attitude hardly helped endear her to the upper eschelons.
Jon makes his appearance behind them - it was hard to miss the approach of all that hardware. That toothy smile makes its reappearance, mischevous light clear in the pilot's eyes.
"Aaaw, hell; Bullet-sponges in the house. Holy crap, is there a guy in there or is it just Tank?? I dont even want to know about bathroom breaks.."
Discipline and tact; two things of which Hyena will never be accused of... But between the Space side and the Ground side, how could she NOT stir the familiar pot of rivalry? It was too easy when her target showed up wearing his own personal pillbox. Too bad her tongue is lightyears ahead of the thought to check that armor for rank.
"And he can wear all the medals he wants, good on him. I just want to know if he's going to be a hardass or what? This is going to be a looooong ride with a spit-and-polish Skipper, you know? Last thing I need is inspections every week, or dry port calls..." Oh, tragedy!
The incident would've made its rounds quickly around the ward rooms and hangar decks; a Federation patrol ship sent after pirates into the asteroid belt with no immediate support, the subsequent ambush, and the outlaws' sucess in getting in a torpedo that eradicated the crew quarters and a full 1/3rd of her fighting crew - including most of her pilots who had still been scrambling out of their bunks. And then the mad-as-hell maintainer that'd jumped into a spare bird and gotten her 5 Ace kills as a goddamn 3rd class crewman. Opinions after that were mixed, wether or not she'd truly 'earned' her sudden promotion to what was essentially an Officer's rank, and wether or not they should've just given her an award instead of a cockpit. Damn dirty enlisted and all of that. Her attitude hardly helped endear her to the upper eschelons.
Jon makes his appearance behind them - it was hard to miss the approach of all that hardware. That toothy smile makes its reappearance, mischevous light clear in the pilot's eyes.
"Aaaw, hell; Bullet-sponges in the house. Holy crap, is there a guy in there or is it just Tank?? I dont even want to know about bathroom breaks.."
Discipline and tact; two things of which Hyena will never be accused of... But between the Space side and the Ground side, how could she NOT stir the familiar pot of rivalry? It was too easy when her target showed up wearing his own personal pillbox. Too bad her tongue is lightyears ahead of the thought to check that armor for rank.
"And he can wear all the medals he wants, good on him. I just want to know if he's going to be a hardass or what? This is going to be a looooong ride with a spit-and-polish Skipper, you know? Last thing I need is inspections every week, or dry port calls..." Oh, tragedy!
The setting changes from General Assembly Hall to The Milky Way Universe
Jon screwed up his face while racking his brain," I don't know of anything of the top of my head... but with 2 crazy high-tech suits, a prototype ship, a new generation of AI, the Admiral and a crew of elite if potentially dangerous personnel there's a lot more to this than we'll ever know." He shrugged, something very hard to do due to the armor amplifying his body movements.
"In truth I doubt even Weston of the damn AI know what's going on, if anything I'd say we're flying blind but with this much heat something big is definitely going down. Sorry about getting you mixed up Allen, if you aren't the wiz kid you must be that Irish engineering ace. Having trouble matching faces to files, it's never been my strong suit, I'm more of a face-to-face type of guy."
Deciding he'd go for it Jon sat down, the chair gave a lot under his weight but held,"Nice chairs, eh? But in all seriousness, call it paranoia call it experience but my guts telling me that whatever we're dealing with won't be at all pretty. On the plus side it means that we'll be given more freedom of operation of a judgement call on the field, I might be able to test this baby's atmosphere insertion systems, can you believe it orbital personnel airdrop. The people in R&D are either crazy, or genius...probably both."
He looked at Jessica,"Best Bullet Sponge in the business and believe it or not bathroom breaks aren't that bad." He flashed a smile before he answered the last question, "No room for clothes in the suit sweetheart so man or tank is your call. I don't know about him being a hard ass but I've yet to have a CO that had the heart to enforce a dry port call."
"In truth I doubt even Weston of the damn AI know what's going on, if anything I'd say we're flying blind but with this much heat something big is definitely going down. Sorry about getting you mixed up Allen, if you aren't the wiz kid you must be that Irish engineering ace. Having trouble matching faces to files, it's never been my strong suit, I'm more of a face-to-face type of guy."
Deciding he'd go for it Jon sat down, the chair gave a lot under his weight but held,"Nice chairs, eh? But in all seriousness, call it paranoia call it experience but my guts telling me that whatever we're dealing with won't be at all pretty. On the plus side it means that we'll be given more freedom of operation of a judgement call on the field, I might be able to test this baby's atmosphere insertion systems, can you believe it orbital personnel airdrop. The people in R&D are either crazy, or genius...probably both."
He looked at Jessica,"Best Bullet Sponge in the business and believe it or not bathroom breaks aren't that bad." He flashed a smile before he answered the last question, "No room for clothes in the suit sweetheart so man or tank is your call. I don't know about him being a hard ass but I've yet to have a CO that had the heart to enforce a dry port call."
Clyde sat back and listened to the others talk for a while. Maybe it was because he didn't feel like poking fun at the man wearing two tons of metal. Maybe he didn't have too many stories to tell, this being his first deployment. Maybe he was playing a video game. Who knows.
"I don't think it matters how hardass our CO is going to be. From what I'm seeing by just looking around, most of the crew aren't going to give a shit about orders. Maybe it's just this relaxed atmosphere talking, but I think I need to wish the Admiral good luck keeping a lid on this place."
"I don't think it matters how hardass our CO is going to be. From what I'm seeing by just looking around, most of the crew aren't going to give a shit about orders. Maybe it's just this relaxed atmosphere talking, but I think I need to wish the Admiral good luck keeping a lid on this place."
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to General Assembly Hall
The Admiral had sent him out to round up any lost rookies, which seemed like an easy job until Eli realized that any recruit could have and should have found their way to the hall by relying on the many map terminals that were literally everywhere. The engineers and architects of the Salient obviously realized that its massive size would have made it difficult for crew members to find their way around. That was the exact reason for the map terminals, and even Eli knew that every recruit from whichever station they came from whether they were ship cadets, marine recruits, or pilot recruits were told of map terminals during their training. He distinctly remembered that he instructed the massive crowd that gathered outside the ship that there were various terminals for crewmen to access.
Eli came upon a group of three crew members and two marines scratching their heads at a map terminal located in the lower corridors of the ship. He was surprised and slightly irritated, but he reminded himself that these crew members were inexperienced, a fact that was more than evident. They ran over to him, after recognizing him from earlier, and addressed him in full attention and salute.
“Sir, Private First Class Gary Reynolds reporting!” the eagerness in his voice was very much expected by Eli.
“Lance Corporal Shane Weifert reporting, Sir!” These two marines had the nerve to approach him where the other three crew personnel did not as they came behind these two and gave their salutations.
“At ease marines ladies and gentlemen.” They relaxed their stances.
“I can tell you’re lost.” Eli walked over to the terminal and pressed several keys on the transparent visual screen, immediately blue prints of the ship, their location, the location of the hall, and the immediate directions from the former point to the latter point were displayed. He looked back at the group of five who were slightly embarrassed. Eli felt he had insulted their intelligences a bit, and he felt a little guilty for doing so.
“Just follow that path; the briefing is just about to begin. Try making a better impression next time when you’re serving on board another vessel, but start by doing so on this vessel.” Eli dismissed them. As they walked off, Eli lingered a bit waiting for any other personnel coming through this area, before he went back to the hall.
Eli came upon a group of three crew members and two marines scratching their heads at a map terminal located in the lower corridors of the ship. He was surprised and slightly irritated, but he reminded himself that these crew members were inexperienced, a fact that was more than evident. They ran over to him, after recognizing him from earlier, and addressed him in full attention and salute.
“Sir, Private First Class Gary Reynolds reporting!” the eagerness in his voice was very much expected by Eli.
“Lance Corporal Shane Weifert reporting, Sir!” These two marines had the nerve to approach him where the other three crew personnel did not as they came behind these two and gave their salutations.
“At ease marines ladies and gentlemen.” They relaxed their stances.
“I can tell you’re lost.” Eli walked over to the terminal and pressed several keys on the transparent visual screen, immediately blue prints of the ship, their location, the location of the hall, and the immediate directions from the former point to the latter point were displayed. He looked back at the group of five who were slightly embarrassed. Eli felt he had insulted their intelligences a bit, and he felt a little guilty for doing so.
“Just follow that path; the briefing is just about to begin. Try making a better impression next time when you’re serving on board another vessel, but start by doing so on this vessel.” Eli dismissed them. As they walked off, Eli lingered a bit waiting for any other personnel coming through this area, before he went back to the hall.
The Admiral noticed the growing group in the center section; it was a variety of different personnel when compared to other sections which had been subdivided into different cliques of soldiers, technicians, pilots, engineers, etc. This group was different however; the large encased marine trying to sit down was Jon Dunaway. His bulky suit risked crushing one of the seats, or even a fellow crew member. Then there were two pilots, one of which was the woman with the constant grin, and other with dirty blond hair. Those were the main features that he could point out in order to tell them apart from other pilots. Then a younger lad who seemed to be a very quiet individual sitting on the edge entered the conversation that was started between the woman and a fellow crew mate who had dropped by. The crew mate was wearing full formal navigator’s uniform; a fellow whom the Admiral believed would be serving on the Bridge with him for the duration of the trip.
MacPhearson, Davidson, Ryker, and Summer were their listed names. They were all gathered together and talking with intense interest about a certain topic. The Admiral could only guess as to what post-pubescent subject they were discussing. Then he shifted his attention over to the number of crew members swelling the room to full capacity. Aronimus was interested in leaving port immediately, so he'd strike down the key details he wanted to address which included the rogue contained AIs. After all had been said and done, he would leave immediately for the Bridge. He had no time to look back and wait for the crews to disband and separate into their particular stations.
MacPhearson, Davidson, Ryker, and Summer were their listed names. They were all gathered together and talking with intense interest about a certain topic. The Admiral could only guess as to what post-pubescent subject they were discussing. Then he shifted his attention over to the number of crew members swelling the room to full capacity. Aronimus was interested in leaving port immediately, so he'd strike down the key details he wanted to address which included the rogue contained AIs. After all had been said and done, he would leave immediately for the Bridge. He had no time to look back and wait for the crews to disband and separate into their particular stations.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to General Assembly Hall
"Oh, I know all about it. I was on the Defiance, buddy; I'm that Hyena."
Ray chuckled; he should have noticed who she was as she was the talk of fighter tactics for a number of years even in the Titan academy which admittedly had a mighty high opinion of itself.
"Great to meat you!, I should have realized it was you but things happened since I got the report about what you did out there. Bloody good job too, even my gunship would have been in for a real buggering in that situation; I might have missiles, canons, plasma, armor and my very own marine force in my locker but I could never take off in time or doge those bandits without a fighter playing mama and an interceptor playing papa for me."
Ray smiled; he liked meeting a fellow vet and wondered if they could have a test flight at some point. When some one talked about his own record Ray didn't mention his own; as far as he was concerned he was happy if people just saw him as a nobody and was lucky in that respect since the news coverage he had reported him under his old name "Peter Raymond Davidson; if people had a look at his files they would know the truth about him but the average Joe didn't see them and normally didn't make the 1+1 about his history.
Ray could not help but pass a remark however on the matter of torpedos:
"I saw the Alexander get reduced to Coffee powder; bloody freaking oversized fully manned, fully crewed behemoth of destruction which was the living and berthing spirit of Federation ass kicking in the Saturn system gone in twelve minutes along with its crew and its bogey busters in a swarm of Torpedo bombers and there wasn't a thing any one could do to stop them because the torpedo disruptors decided to take a day off and we where busy shooting down the missiles coming out of their Corvettes. At least now the federation knows that it should not hand out its disruptor codes to any Tom Dick or Harry with a shiny uniform and rank"
Ray became temporarily internally focused as he relieved the memory; he did not mean to bring it up but flash backs like that happened to him now and then. What he did not mention was that he knew exactly who gave away the codes and his own failure to stop him. Alexander was a mighty fine ship with nearly all the none local federation fleet in it or near it; it didn't matter where the rest of the ships where because they all got torched as the Alexander got ripped to shreds by debris and the torpedo's that missed the Alexander and hit them instead. This was the reason why a war that should have ended in a week of asteroid demolition by the Alexander's heavy guns became a year of dog fighting because the federation was not willing to risk another cruiser while the asteroid bases where still up and running not to mention the infamous Independence canon which sent the Napoleon panicked right back to its Mars port for a fix.
The federation later claimed that the conquerors class had a number of faults in its design but Ray knew that was just BS; while the anti fighter guns where not great that was true the real reason for the fiasco's was the way the admirals who where in charge of the operation handled their tactics and lousy security of information. It was another ploy by the federation to improve moral just like the act of calling the rebellion an act of insurgence when it was clearly much more then that at the time.
Ray noticed he had held his hand in the shape of a fist and bore the expression of some one who had just seen a ghost for at least a few seconds by now, he relaxed himself and forced a grin on his face and said cheerfully:
"Sorry I got carried away, sorry for spoiling the mood. Now I really must have a look around this ship, so much to see!"
Ray got up and pretended to inspect the hall, he felt awkward at his sudden loss of control and was reminded of how different he was now then he once was, even when fighting the rebels he at least had something to keep his mind off the fact that all his friends had ether died fighting for the federation or died fighting for the rebellion apart from the one on whom the entire responsibility for it all lay.
"Take it easy Ray; one day at a time" he told himself and felt a little better as he passed near by to a fella in a as heavy as Olympus piece of armor"
Ray chuckled; he should have noticed who she was as she was the talk of fighter tactics for a number of years even in the Titan academy which admittedly had a mighty high opinion of itself.
"Great to meat you!, I should have realized it was you but things happened since I got the report about what you did out there. Bloody good job too, even my gunship would have been in for a real buggering in that situation; I might have missiles, canons, plasma, armor and my very own marine force in my locker but I could never take off in time or doge those bandits without a fighter playing mama and an interceptor playing papa for me."
Ray smiled; he liked meeting a fellow vet and wondered if they could have a test flight at some point. When some one talked about his own record Ray didn't mention his own; as far as he was concerned he was happy if people just saw him as a nobody and was lucky in that respect since the news coverage he had reported him under his old name "Peter Raymond Davidson; if people had a look at his files they would know the truth about him but the average Joe didn't see them and normally didn't make the 1+1 about his history.
Ray could not help but pass a remark however on the matter of torpedos:
"I saw the Alexander get reduced to Coffee powder; bloody freaking oversized fully manned, fully crewed behemoth of destruction which was the living and berthing spirit of Federation ass kicking in the Saturn system gone in twelve minutes along with its crew and its bogey busters in a swarm of Torpedo bombers and there wasn't a thing any one could do to stop them because the torpedo disruptors decided to take a day off and we where busy shooting down the missiles coming out of their Corvettes. At least now the federation knows that it should not hand out its disruptor codes to any Tom Dick or Harry with a shiny uniform and rank"
Ray became temporarily internally focused as he relieved the memory; he did not mean to bring it up but flash backs like that happened to him now and then. What he did not mention was that he knew exactly who gave away the codes and his own failure to stop him. Alexander was a mighty fine ship with nearly all the none local federation fleet in it or near it; it didn't matter where the rest of the ships where because they all got torched as the Alexander got ripped to shreds by debris and the torpedo's that missed the Alexander and hit them instead. This was the reason why a war that should have ended in a week of asteroid demolition by the Alexander's heavy guns became a year of dog fighting because the federation was not willing to risk another cruiser while the asteroid bases where still up and running not to mention the infamous Independence canon which sent the Napoleon panicked right back to its Mars port for a fix.
The federation later claimed that the conquerors class had a number of faults in its design but Ray knew that was just BS; while the anti fighter guns where not great that was true the real reason for the fiasco's was the way the admirals who where in charge of the operation handled their tactics and lousy security of information. It was another ploy by the federation to improve moral just like the act of calling the rebellion an act of insurgence when it was clearly much more then that at the time.
Ray noticed he had held his hand in the shape of a fist and bore the expression of some one who had just seen a ghost for at least a few seconds by now, he relaxed himself and forced a grin on his face and said cheerfully:
"Sorry I got carried away, sorry for spoiling the mood. Now I really must have a look around this ship, so much to see!"
Ray got up and pretended to inspect the hall, he felt awkward at his sudden loss of control and was reminded of how different he was now then he once was, even when fighting the rebels he at least had something to keep his mind off the fact that all his friends had ether died fighting for the federation or died fighting for the rebellion apart from the one on whom the entire responsibility for it all lay.
"Take it easy Ray; one day at a time" he told himself and felt a little better as he passed near by to a fella in a as heavy as Olympus piece of armor"
The setting changes from General Assembly Hall to The Milky Way Universe
Walking into the Assembly hall was chaos. He knew it would be, but it still surprised him. He saw his brother down front and decided to go stand with him. He wanted to see if he could get his brothers opinion on the others.
"So Jon?" he said in a low voice so that no one else could hear. "What's your take on the others?"
"So Jon?" he said in a low voice so that no one else could hear. "What's your take on the others?"
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Faith sat tapping her fingers and wondering not for the first time how long it would take for this intro thing to get started. Admittedly this was her first actual tour on board a battleship rather than being planetside but she doubted that healing people changed whether you were on a ship or planet. They still got messed up and she still put them back together or at least that was what she figured. If she was wrong then she decided someone had better tell her now before they wasted any more of her time. She sighed again in irritation and glanced up at the stage where the admiral stood clearly waiting for everyone to arrive. At least she wasn't the only one impatient to get started from the expression on his face, but then she figured a man in his position was probably used to others waiting on him and not the other way around.
She heard voices nearby and turned her head to see a group of the crew already becoming acquainted and she watched them for a few moments, she liked to watch people sometimes before speaking to them as she had found you could learn a lot from someone's body language. From what she saw it was a pretty standard bunch with your typical brash extrovert pilots, hardly surprising given their line of work, your quieter studious types and then those in the middle. She made a mental note to find out more about the suit one of them was wearing and what, if any, stresses it caused on the body as she was nothing if not prepared.
Deciding it probably wouldn't hurt to at least greet those she would be working with, she turned around in her seat and looked at the group. She smiled slightly though perhaps a smile was not the right word. It was somewhere between a mocking smile and a grimace as Faith generally didn't do chirpy, dry and sarcastic yes but chirpy no.
"Hi I'm Faith." She said. "I'm the one that is going to be doing those awful unpleasant things called health checks to you people." Her British accent was still strong even after time spent off world.
She heard voices nearby and turned her head to see a group of the crew already becoming acquainted and she watched them for a few moments, she liked to watch people sometimes before speaking to them as she had found you could learn a lot from someone's body language. From what she saw it was a pretty standard bunch with your typical brash extrovert pilots, hardly surprising given their line of work, your quieter studious types and then those in the middle. She made a mental note to find out more about the suit one of them was wearing and what, if any, stresses it caused on the body as she was nothing if not prepared.
Deciding it probably wouldn't hurt to at least greet those she would be working with, she turned around in her seat and looked at the group. She smiled slightly though perhaps a smile was not the right word. It was somewhere between a mocking smile and a grimace as Faith generally didn't do chirpy, dry and sarcastic yes but chirpy no.
"Hi I'm Faith." She said. "I'm the one that is going to be doing those awful unpleasant things called health checks to you people." Her British accent was still strong even after time spent off world.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to General Assembly Hall
Clyde watched Ray walk away, and filed away that his past was traumatic enough to cause flashbacks. He didn't really care what Ray had done on his old ship. This was a new day, a new crew, and a new mission. He would make new mistakes this time. He would tell Ray later that there was no use dwelling in the past: it would only make him screw up in the present. In the mean time he watched the group grow larger even as it lost a member. The other Dunaway brother approached, smoking in sullen silence. Then the doctor turned to face the group.
Clyde didn't bother doing introductions this time- there were too many people that he really had no connections with. He let everyone introduce themselves. Again. "Hey. I'm Clyde. I drive the ship." He paused.
"Isn't this a merry group we have here? Who's missing? Nobody? It should be about time to head out. I for one am rather interested in hearing what such a famous Admiral has to say to us. And a little tired of waiting."
Clyde didn't bother doing introductions this time- there were too many people that he really had no connections with. He let everyone introduce themselves. Again. "Hey. I'm Clyde. I drive the ship." He paused.
"Isn't this a merry group we have here? Who's missing? Nobody? It should be about time to head out. I for one am rather interested in hearing what such a famous Admiral has to say to us. And a little tired of waiting."
The setting changes from General Assembly Hall to The Milky Way Universe
Jon looked to his brother and mouthed, nothing but elites, some active some on last ditch tours... this is fishy. He knew his brother could read lips and no reason to spoil the mood. It was then one of the medicals gave them her attention, "Hi I'm Faith. I'm the one that is going to be doing those awful unpleasant things call health checks to you people." She had a strong British accent, Jon would be lying if he didn't find it attractive he considered using some accents he'd had to perfect for undercover jobs and decided no.
"Great to hear Dr. Faith, if it's all right with you I'd like to get mine out of the way ASAP. Local chain of command pending I also have a file or two you may find interesting," he stated. "By the way name's Jon Dunaway,some people call me 'Papa Jon' call me whichever you prefer." He pointed at his brother, not letting the guy ignore the crowd.
"This guy's my brother Atomsk, might not be your uptight military man like myself but you won't find a more effective ground commander. Come on Atty introduce yourself."
"Great to hear Dr. Faith, if it's all right with you I'd like to get mine out of the way ASAP. Local chain of command pending I also have a file or two you may find interesting," he stated. "By the way name's Jon Dunaway,some people call me 'Papa Jon' call me whichever you prefer." He pointed at his brother, not letting the guy ignore the crowd.
"This guy's my brother Atomsk, might not be your uptight military man like myself but you won't find a more effective ground commander. Come on Atty introduce yourself."
Allen was a little out of it. He had heard his nae and a lot of people talking around him. When he snapped back into focus he saw a very large man in a very large suit. "Huh? Oh yea I am Allen. Sorry I was lost in some thought about how to improve the Med read out on the combat suits." When Allen too a look around at tall the people gathered he was a little curious as to why they had sat near him. But he didn't care anymore he was finally happy that someone was talking to him. He was used to being alone for long periods of time that this was almost new to him. "And yea I did a few things for the ship but not a whole lot." He said addressing Jon. "Plus one of my main goals is to get a new and improved Med system in these suits so we are better at seeing vital signs and wont lose any men." He took a look at Jons suit. 'High tech that is for sure.' he thought to himself he leaned forward "Good to meet you Clyde, I'm Allen, Oh and good to meet you to Faith." He stopped for a second "And Its nice to meet you Jon." Allen had so many things he wanted to talk about with the soldier even though he might not know what he is saying he though he would like the tachno babble about keeping him alive. He was excited when talking to these people and his accent was a little thicker than normal but hey he was Irish. Allen stood up and looked at all the people near him "Well I guess I should just say, Hello you all I am Allen, I'll be the one fixing things and checking the engines. And I hope that we can all be drinking buddies by the time this is over."
Ray saw that their grandfather clock admiral was waiting dear old man that he was for every one to shut down, stay put and wait for rescue.
Ray flipped the coin one last time and took the time to look at the picture of the long dead king which was on the coin ,in one fast maneuver slipped the coin back into his pocket and jumped back into a near by seat which was in the area the group he had unofficially joined and sat just in the outskirts of its territory as marked by the area in which a few people did not take the hint and went on talking as if it was a high school lecture which in many respects it was one.
He heard the British voice and learned who he would be cursing and praying for depending on his situation on this journey; Titans no longer had the once British accents they had at one time and had now a very thick and heavy accent of many sources which could be understood by most people but was highly confusing to British people who could hear the British origin but could not get their minds on the extreme variations in the English Titans spoke unless they spent time around Titans for a few days. A British relative who visited Ray's family when Ray was 11 described this as expecting a sweetie and getting it but under a few layers of sand, spit and shit not to mention the sweetie itself is actually Japanese made.
Ray faced the doctor and grinned
"God bless! At least we have an old girl as our Doc! I would not want a shaky hand entertaining my body with some off jokes"
It was an old Titan joke made during the nation wars more then half a century ago when earth was still split by nationality and when Fighter's first developed proper armor which instead of killing the pilots buggered up their bodies which was admittedly a vast improvement but did see the introduction of many raw incompletely trained doctors to deal with the new influx of some what living bodies upon whom the joke was made on due to their chop chop medical philosophy.
"Sorry about that doc, can't help myself maybe you have a pill for that? I am unit commander Peter Ray Davidson or just Ray, I tried getting rid of the Peter part but its illegal for me to do so caz of the Titan naming laws or some other Tory thing and the UC rank isn't as high as it sounds actually"
Ray would have to discuss the naming of his rank with the captain or even the admiral; what was accepted in the Saturn local defense fleet wasn't widely known in the rest of the federation and explaining his rank every time was becoming tedious.
Upon hearing the engineer Ray did what was always done to rookies; teasing.
"If you flamingo up my engines I will strap you to a table and pour molten toffee into your throat.
He then jumped again to the near by seat thus getting quite a few threatening looks from a few people to sit down and stay put.
Ray froze for a few moments as if he was a chameleon evading a predator by taking upon itself the background and then silently sat down near to the engineering lad.
"Don't worry about it al, I am Ray and I fly the prettiest jazz packed hornet in this corner of the galaxy. If you ever find yourself working on her there is a Jukebox I had put in from my old heavy escort hidden in a large "supplies" locker i had extended to house the extra machine; brass dosn't know about it so keep mum. if you want to you can enter the pass key "King Kong" and push a button to enjoy some old fashion style rokenanrolling or some swing that will make the ship dance along with ya"
Ray flipped the coin one last time and took the time to look at the picture of the long dead king which was on the coin ,in one fast maneuver slipped the coin back into his pocket and jumped back into a near by seat which was in the area the group he had unofficially joined and sat just in the outskirts of its territory as marked by the area in which a few people did not take the hint and went on talking as if it was a high school lecture which in many respects it was one.
He heard the British voice and learned who he would be cursing and praying for depending on his situation on this journey; Titans no longer had the once British accents they had at one time and had now a very thick and heavy accent of many sources which could be understood by most people but was highly confusing to British people who could hear the British origin but could not get their minds on the extreme variations in the English Titans spoke unless they spent time around Titans for a few days. A British relative who visited Ray's family when Ray was 11 described this as expecting a sweetie and getting it but under a few layers of sand, spit and shit not to mention the sweetie itself is actually Japanese made.
Ray faced the doctor and grinned
"God bless! At least we have an old girl as our Doc! I would not want a shaky hand entertaining my body with some off jokes"
It was an old Titan joke made during the nation wars more then half a century ago when earth was still split by nationality and when Fighter's first developed proper armor which instead of killing the pilots buggered up their bodies which was admittedly a vast improvement but did see the introduction of many raw incompletely trained doctors to deal with the new influx of some what living bodies upon whom the joke was made on due to their chop chop medical philosophy.
"Sorry about that doc, can't help myself maybe you have a pill for that? I am unit commander Peter Ray Davidson or just Ray, I tried getting rid of the Peter part but its illegal for me to do so caz of the Titan naming laws or some other Tory thing and the UC rank isn't as high as it sounds actually"
Ray would have to discuss the naming of his rank with the captain or even the admiral; what was accepted in the Saturn local defense fleet wasn't widely known in the rest of the federation and explaining his rank every time was becoming tedious.
Upon hearing the engineer Ray did what was always done to rookies; teasing.
"If you flamingo up my engines I will strap you to a table and pour molten toffee into your throat.
He then jumped again to the near by seat thus getting quite a few threatening looks from a few people to sit down and stay put.
Ray froze for a few moments as if he was a chameleon evading a predator by taking upon itself the background and then silently sat down near to the engineering lad.
"Don't worry about it al, I am Ray and I fly the prettiest jazz packed hornet in this corner of the galaxy. If you ever find yourself working on her there is a Jukebox I had put in from my old heavy escort hidden in a large "supplies" locker i had extended to house the extra machine; brass dosn't know about it so keep mum. if you want to you can enter the pass key "King Kong" and push a button to enjoy some old fashion style rokenanrolling or some swing that will make the ship dance along with ya"
Jess grimaces again briefly. The Alexander had been a rough peice of work; a lot of people had lost friends aboard her and Jess was no different. Being a grease monkey on a hangar deck seemed a lot less safe when you really absorbed the fact that the hangar could be blown out from underneath you. She doesnt pry further when Ray - clearly disturbed by it - detatches himself from the group to collect his thoughts. Give the guy his space, but hopefully he wouldnt spend the whole trip brooding. Otherwise good ol' Hyena might have to get creative.
Two more join their erstwhile group, and she smiles broadly at Atomsk and Faith equal parts cheer and casual evaluation. If she's blinked even once, it was gone too fast to notice.
"Now we're talking. Couple of Marines, couple of pilots, a Nav, an Eng, and now the Doc.... Hell, find me the cook and we've collected the whole set." She still lounges lazily across her chair and most of the one next to it, boots up on her duffle and arm slung over the back of the chair to keep the whole group in her view.
"Call me Hyena. I'm pretty much the ultimate badass in anything with an engine." And yes, Jess does casually assume an arms-outstretched 'Lord of the Dance' pose momentarily, as if basking in the light of adoring fans. It was all in good fun, of course; she was mocking classic pilot ego as much as she was extolling her own virtues.
"A group like this is lighting up to be a pretty lively cruise, innit? Who's betting Aliens? Anyone? How about Space Zombies?" The lopsided, canine-exposing smile on her face remains in place as she makes the joke, but she'd hardly missed the little signs that had some of the others antsy. She'd be a piss-poor fighter if she missed the little tells, after all, and an experimental starcraft being loaded had been a red flag the size of a small moon.
At this stage in the game, however, all she could do was wait for the word of the Admiral, still standing stoicly up on the stage as he waiting for everyone to finish finding their seats...
Two more join their erstwhile group, and she smiles broadly at Atomsk and Faith equal parts cheer and casual evaluation. If she's blinked even once, it was gone too fast to notice.
"Now we're talking. Couple of Marines, couple of pilots, a Nav, an Eng, and now the Doc.... Hell, find me the cook and we've collected the whole set." She still lounges lazily across her chair and most of the one next to it, boots up on her duffle and arm slung over the back of the chair to keep the whole group in her view.
"Call me Hyena. I'm pretty much the ultimate badass in anything with an engine." And yes, Jess does casually assume an arms-outstretched 'Lord of the Dance' pose momentarily, as if basking in the light of adoring fans. It was all in good fun, of course; she was mocking classic pilot ego as much as she was extolling her own virtues.
"A group like this is lighting up to be a pretty lively cruise, innit? Who's betting Aliens? Anyone? How about Space Zombies?" The lopsided, canine-exposing smile on her face remains in place as she makes the joke, but she'd hardly missed the little signs that had some of the others antsy. She'd be a piss-poor fighter if she missed the little tells, after all, and an experimental starcraft being loaded had been a red flag the size of a small moon.
At this stage in the game, however, all she could do was wait for the word of the Admiral, still standing stoicly up on the stage as he waiting for everyone to finish finding their seats...
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to General Assembly Hall
Some new faces. He got back to his favorite game. A man who seemed scattered. Book smart. Probably a genius. He'd tear him apart soon enough.
Another man who seemed to have a twinkle in his eye. A pilot but that's all he could tell.
He was moving on to another woman when his Brother forced him into an introduction. Jon knew how to get under his skin. He looked at the woman called Faith and held out his hand. "Atomsk if you would. My brother knows i hate Atty."
Another man who seemed to have a twinkle in his eye. A pilot but that's all he could tell.
He was moving on to another woman when his Brother forced him into an introduction. Jon knew how to get under his skin. He looked at the woman called Faith and held out his hand. "Atomsk if you would. My brother knows i hate Atty."
The setting changes from General Assembly Hall to The Milky Way Universe
Once the hall had filled, and Captain Colter being the last person to step in the auditorium, the Admiral finally began to speak. His voice over the speakers quickly quelled all digressing conversations and attention from the parts of the hall that were not present before soon faced the Admiral. It was resounding, firm, courteous, and resolute, aspects of an Admiral’s voice, specifically Aronimus’ voice. Yet there were subtle undertones which took on a different nature, one that was an overtly paternal voice, one with experience that was no less marked by the vicissitudes of life than any other person of his age.
“Welcome to the Salient, I am Admiral Aronimus Weston,” he paused and awaited the crew’s appropriate response which was a round of applause.
Then he continued.
“I will make this briefing…brief. First off, all of you who were assigned to this ship vary in past field experience, but that does not make you any more or less privileged than your fellow servicemen on board this ship for the duration of this mission.”
The Admiral then called upon Alice Chen and Atomsk Dunaway to platform. As he said this, their profile images and names appeared on the viewing screens, as if on cue, for all the hall to see.
“Lieutenant Commander Alice Chen is my second-in-command, should I be busy and unable to fulfill my duties then Commander Chen will address them for me under her own initiative. All ship crews, pilots, technicians, medical crews, and Science corps personnel will answer directly to her. As for Mr. Dunaway, he will be the Commander for all marines and security personnel; you will directly answer to him. These two will be my top subordinates for the duration of the mission lest some incident prevents either of them from fulfilling their duties.”
The Admiral then told the two officers to return to their seats.
Then he paused to regroup his thoughts, at this point he was at a juncture. He could tell them a truth, which would scare some to the point of requesting re-assignment, or he could leave the matter alone, believing the old saying “what you don’t know can’t hurt you.” However, he decided to err on the side of truth, simply because that was who he was.
“I will not lie to you. In this mission, like all missions, there is a chance that you will die. I address this to each individual on board, right here, right now, in this room. I must present to you then, a decision. You can choose to stay and complete the mission, or you can choose to re-assign yourself elsewhere. Should you elect the latter, we will gather your personal belongings and transport you back to the station via drop ship.”
He paused, awaiting reactions. Some began to look startled and scared. Others accepted the news as nothing new.
“For the rest of you, we are departing immediately, command crews head to the bridge. I trust you will be able to find directions for yourself. Marines please follow Captain Colter to the Barracks section of the ship and set up your belongings. After which command will revert fully to Commander Atomsk Dunaway for the remainder of the trip. Thank you all for coming to the briefing...so...promptly.” The last bit was a touch of sarcasm that Admiral amused himself with.
The Admiral left the platform immediately, heading through a smaller corridor that led directly to the bridge. He had said all that was needed to be said.
“Welcome to the Salient, I am Admiral Aronimus Weston,” he paused and awaited the crew’s appropriate response which was a round of applause.
Then he continued.
“I will make this briefing…brief. First off, all of you who were assigned to this ship vary in past field experience, but that does not make you any more or less privileged than your fellow servicemen on board this ship for the duration of this mission.”
The Admiral then called upon Alice Chen and Atomsk Dunaway to platform. As he said this, their profile images and names appeared on the viewing screens, as if on cue, for all the hall to see.
“Lieutenant Commander Alice Chen is my second-in-command, should I be busy and unable to fulfill my duties then Commander Chen will address them for me under her own initiative. All ship crews, pilots, technicians, medical crews, and Science corps personnel will answer directly to her. As for Mr. Dunaway, he will be the Commander for all marines and security personnel; you will directly answer to him. These two will be my top subordinates for the duration of the mission lest some incident prevents either of them from fulfilling their duties.”
The Admiral then told the two officers to return to their seats.
Then he paused to regroup his thoughts, at this point he was at a juncture. He could tell them a truth, which would scare some to the point of requesting re-assignment, or he could leave the matter alone, believing the old saying “what you don’t know can’t hurt you.” However, he decided to err on the side of truth, simply because that was who he was.
“I will not lie to you. In this mission, like all missions, there is a chance that you will die. I address this to each individual on board, right here, right now, in this room. I must present to you then, a decision. You can choose to stay and complete the mission, or you can choose to re-assign yourself elsewhere. Should you elect the latter, we will gather your personal belongings and transport you back to the station via drop ship.”
He paused, awaiting reactions. Some began to look startled and scared. Others accepted the news as nothing new.
“For the rest of you, we are departing immediately, command crews head to the bridge. I trust you will be able to find directions for yourself. Marines please follow Captain Colter to the Barracks section of the ship and set up your belongings. After which command will revert fully to Commander Atomsk Dunaway for the remainder of the trip. Thank you all for coming to the briefing...so...promptly.” The last bit was a touch of sarcasm that Admiral amused himself with.
The Admiral left the platform immediately, heading through a smaller corridor that led directly to the bridge. He had said all that was needed to be said.
Clyde pounded his fist on the arm of his chair as he stood up. "On the upside that was surprisingly brief. On the downside, I know nothing i did not know when I got here. Let's go everyone!" Clyde was mildly disappointed by the Admiral's "speech", but he didn't really know what he expected of Weston. Perhaps even he didn't have a clue what we would find. He was just a tired old man, it seemed.
Clyde hopped over the back of his chair (the same way he got into it) and took a brisk stride to the bridge. He went over some system checks in his head with a little help from A.D.A.M. and his job for the foreseeable voyage was done before he made it to his seat. The only thing left to do was wait, watch, and try not to fall asleep at the wheel. He settled into his chair and waited for the command to launch. Should it take a while, he logged back into a game of his own design, and feigned taking a nap.
Clyde hopped over the back of his chair (the same way he got into it) and took a brisk stride to the bridge. He went over some system checks in his head with a little help from A.D.A.M. and his job for the foreseeable voyage was done before he made it to his seat. The only thing left to do was wait, watch, and try not to fall asleep at the wheel. He settled into his chair and waited for the command to launch. Should it take a while, he logged back into a game of his own design, and feigned taking a nap.
He was cut short by the voice of the booming Aronimus Weston. His heart jumped at the sudden loud voice. He was excited, but hid it as well as he could. He was maybe the only one silent out of the whole hall. Not out of disrespect, but awe. He sat and began to listen to the man he admired. He was so entranced he almost missed the queue to step on stage. He stood up to walk on stage. He noticed the other woman get up. Alice Chen. He walked up as casually as he could without breaking his very upright stride.
He stopped politely to let Alice up first. As he walked up on stage he saw the man he had so long admired. He remained as calm as he could, but he was in awe of this man. He hoped that no one would notice his excitement. He hid emotion if he could for the sake of authority. Hid was a bad word. "Disguised" was a better word. He would show an emotion different from the one he felt at the moment.
Aronimus clearly stated Atomsk's place in the crew. He controlled the military portion of the crew. Granted he did answer to Aronimus, but he wouldn't meddle with him too much.....he hoped. That's the biggest reason he hid. To seem strong in front of his men.
After his brief introduction Atomsk was "shooed" off stage, for lack of a better word. He sat down again. After the speech was over he promptly got up. He hadn't had a chance to talk with Aronimus personally yet. He quickly ran to catch up to Aronimus. He knew he wouldn't be stopped by any security. Considering he WAS the head of security. He prepared to talk to his hero.
He stopped politely to let Alice up first. As he walked up on stage he saw the man he had so long admired. He remained as calm as he could, but he was in awe of this man. He hoped that no one would notice his excitement. He hid emotion if he could for the sake of authority. Hid was a bad word. "Disguised" was a better word. He would show an emotion different from the one he felt at the moment.
Aronimus clearly stated Atomsk's place in the crew. He controlled the military portion of the crew. Granted he did answer to Aronimus, but he wouldn't meddle with him too much.....he hoped. That's the biggest reason he hid. To seem strong in front of his men.
After his brief introduction Atomsk was "shooed" off stage, for lack of a better word. He sat down again. After the speech was over he promptly got up. He hadn't had a chance to talk with Aronimus personally yet. He quickly ran to catch up to Aronimus. He knew he wouldn't be stopped by any security. Considering he WAS the head of security. He prepared to talk to his hero.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
Heading down the narrow corridor, he heard several footsteps outpacing his own behind him. Aronimus turned around, expecting Captain Colter or perhaps Lieutenant Chen. He was fairly surprised, to see the face of a scarred veteran of war, that of Atomsk Dunaway, who minutes earlier he called onto the platform. Aronimus did not know what to expect, he was fairly certain that the commander would have been heading to the Barracks under the direction of Captain Colter in order to set up his own quarters and begin organizing the security teams.
This seemed a bit out of the ordinary, even for the Admiral who has seen much. It was perhaps some important news that the Commander wanted to relay personally to him. That seemed to be the only logical explanation for Dunaway's quick approach after the dispersal of the ship personnel to their various stations. The admiral had not known much of Atomsk, only that he was Jon Dunaway's elder brother, and he was nonetheless a seasoned soldier in his own right. He was just as qualified as his younger brother for the ranking, but some things among his record...most notably his retorts against superiors kept him from reaching his full potential. The Admiral could gloss that much from his profile instantly. He was unsure whether all of this was falsified, but he would have to see for himself.
This seemed a bit out of the ordinary, even for the Admiral who has seen much. It was perhaps some important news that the Commander wanted to relay personally to him. That seemed to be the only logical explanation for Dunaway's quick approach after the dispersal of the ship personnel to their various stations. The admiral had not known much of Atomsk, only that he was Jon Dunaway's elder brother, and he was nonetheless a seasoned soldier in his own right. He was just as qualified as his younger brother for the ranking, but some things among his record...most notably his retorts against superiors kept him from reaching his full potential. The Admiral could gloss that much from his profile instantly. He was unsure whether all of this was falsified, but he would have to see for himself.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
He walked briskly behind the captain unsure of how to address him to initiate this conversation. As the captain turned around he stopped. Frozen, Atomsk saluted, something that he rarely did despite being an officer. He quickly realized that the Admiral was sizing him up, which caused him to snap out of his salute as fast as he snapped into it. He didn't mind this, but at the same time was worried. He admired this man and a bad impression could cause problems.
"Sir! Atomsk Dunway. Altough i'm sure you already...." He was stumbling, making a fool of himself already. "I just wanted to talk to you. Being my superior I was just wondering a few things when it comes to my command." He was lying. To a point. He respected this man, but he was still going to run things his way. He was looking for an excuse to talk.
"Sir! Atomsk Dunway. Altough i'm sure you already...." He was stumbling, making a fool of himself already. "I just wanted to talk to you. Being my superior I was just wondering a few things when it comes to my command." He was lying. To a point. He respected this man, but he was still going to run things his way. He was looking for an excuse to talk.
Thaddeus had his back against a wall listening. He had decided to test some of the aspects of his suit and the abilities of Ghost. He told Ghost to hack into Jon's hearing system while he zoomed his sight to see the faces he was talking to. Now he knew more of the crew without having to even having to speak to them, he couldn't wait to try the suit in battle.
Thaddeus couldn't believe that Jon even accepted a commanding rank, he thought the man would rather be on the field like himself. He personally didn't like the thought of deciding the fate of other soldiers. Thaddeus continued to stare at the members of the crew and Jon's suit until Ghost interrupted. "Is it time to say hello yet?" the A.I asked. With that Thaddeus said "Ya", Ghost switched the external communications back as Thaddeus approached Jon.
Thaddeus couldn't believe that Jon even accepted a commanding rank, he thought the man would rather be on the field like himself. He personally didn't like the thought of deciding the fate of other soldiers. Thaddeus continued to stare at the members of the crew and Jon's suit until Ghost interrupted. "Is it time to say hello yet?" the A.I asked. With that Thaddeus said "Ya", Ghost switched the external communications back as Thaddeus approached Jon.
Throwing both hands up into the air, Hyena is mildly bemused at the nature of the speach, given the large gathering to hear it.
"Halleluja and Amen! 'you might die, now get the fek to work'. I hope -all- command briefs are that short." She laughs, standing out of her seat to scoop up her duffle, "Could've gone for a little more on the 'what's our mission', but hey. I can wait for the flight schedual. Speaking of, someone point my ass to the hangar, I want to see my birds."
Smiling broadly at the remaining members of the erstwhile group in the seats around her, the pilot shrugs, "I guess this is s'long, folks. If you're ever down on the flight deck, look me up, we'll crack out the cards and contraband." Teeth flashing under a blue-eyed wink, it's hard to tell wether the pilot is joking about the whole contraband thing...
Threading her way out of the seats, she can only grin at Thaddeus as he bee-lines for Jon and remark as he passes, "Jesus it's like a convention for you guys, where do I pick up -my- spook suit?"
"Halleluja and Amen! 'you might die, now get the fek to work'. I hope -all- command briefs are that short." She laughs, standing out of her seat to scoop up her duffle, "Could've gone for a little more on the 'what's our mission', but hey. I can wait for the flight schedual. Speaking of, someone point my ass to the hangar, I want to see my birds."
Smiling broadly at the remaining members of the erstwhile group in the seats around her, the pilot shrugs, "I guess this is s'long, folks. If you're ever down on the flight deck, look me up, we'll crack out the cards and contraband." Teeth flashing under a blue-eyed wink, it's hard to tell wether the pilot is joking about the whole contraband thing...
Threading her way out of the seats, she can only grin at Thaddeus as he bee-lines for Jon and remark as he passes, "Jesus it's like a convention for you guys, where do I pick up -my- spook suit?"
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to General Assembly Hall
Without looking up at Thaddues, Jon states," You really should be using a system link instead of hacking into my system, if you disrupt AI functions while I try to move it'd shatter the limb after which the human body's own inadvertent pain spasms would be amplified resulting in the death of the suit operator. I believe that was the 5th precautionary statement we were given on these things."
Jon stood up, his left arm hanging funny, "Luckily you shut down the suits amplifiers before it did any more than a minor fracture and dislocated my shoulder, guess we can confirm the tech's suspicion on increasing cyber-ware and compliment them on the effectiveness of the quick patch medical system, barely feel a thing."
"Guys this is Thaddeus, spec ops infiltration and stealth. He may be the coldest SOB you'll ever meet but he's the best in his field. We served together once, we were pinned for 72 hours in a bunker with nothing but 4 sidearms, a sniper, two rifles and one old fashioned chainsaw...damn I miss that thing, but you shoulda seen the faces when we walked outta that." Knowing Thaddeus would address him at his own speed Jon turned to the other guys and continued talking.
"Don't suppose we can all head over to the med wing and get this patched up can we doc, and I may need help getting this thing off."
Jon stood up, his left arm hanging funny, "Luckily you shut down the suits amplifiers before it did any more than a minor fracture and dislocated my shoulder, guess we can confirm the tech's suspicion on increasing cyber-ware and compliment them on the effectiveness of the quick patch medical system, barely feel a thing."
"Guys this is Thaddeus, spec ops infiltration and stealth. He may be the coldest SOB you'll ever meet but he's the best in his field. We served together once, we were pinned for 72 hours in a bunker with nothing but 4 sidearms, a sniper, two rifles and one old fashioned chainsaw...damn I miss that thing, but you shoulda seen the faces when we walked outta that." Knowing Thaddeus would address him at his own speed Jon turned to the other guys and continued talking.
"Don't suppose we can all head over to the med wing and get this patched up can we doc, and I may need help getting this thing off."
The setting changes from General Assembly Hall to The Milky Way Universe
Tiaan Peyton
Why had she thought it was a good idea, she knew she had been reassigned and after being on the Demeter; one of the oldest battleships, practically a relic. Being reassigned finally was something to celebrate, have fun let loose and live like you were going to die tomorrow. In retrospect this idea seem stupid, no moronic. Everything had started grand, she was drinking, dancing and having a laugh -- then she appeared, a girl wearing a gorgeous blue dress leaving nothing to the imagination. Honestly she should have ignored her, but the girl kept trying to get her attention. Somehow or another they got dancing and just as night couldn't seem to get better, she leaned in to kiss her. When their lips were almost touching she screamed. The girl's face been bothering constantly, now she knew why, she was almost twin to Stephanie. In horror and humiliation she ran out dragging her picture out and weeping.
She couldn't go home like this, but where could she go, not like she had anywhere else.
Tiaan then remembered the card, she was near the port, and could probably sneak into the ship, and get over this depression, wake up and leave. No one would be aware.
Fast forward to now, the card was flashing green incessantly and she had a major hang over. It didn't help she had fallen on an actual bed, and her tears had soaked the mattress. This wasn't good, not good at all.
Leaping up she tried to straighten herself up. Maybe she could still rush home to get her uniform, maybe it was still night. Hopefully it was, once more trying to stand, she felt the hum of the engines and sighed heavily.
Well fuck...
"Tiaan what have you done now, are you trying to get yourself killed?"
Glancing around she tried to see or guess where she was, it was a pretty spacious room with a chest of drawers, wardrobe and full sized window looking out into space. This was certainly not a room she should be in.
Just then she heard a footsteps and voices, "I tell you Frank there is someone here. I don't care what Captain says, not everyone arrived."
Oh shit... shitshitshit.
Looking herself over she grimace, her hair was an utter bedraggled mess and her dress wasn't sensible at all.
The door opened and she smiled sheepishly, "Uh... hi... I'm Peyton, Tiaan Peyton... don't suppose you guys know where my room is."
They merely glared.
Well this was great way to begin a new career...
Worse day of my life she thought, worse day ever.
Why had she thought it was a good idea, she knew she had been reassigned and after being on the Demeter; one of the oldest battleships, practically a relic. Being reassigned finally was something to celebrate, have fun let loose and live like you were going to die tomorrow. In retrospect this idea seem stupid, no moronic. Everything had started grand, she was drinking, dancing and having a laugh -- then she appeared, a girl wearing a gorgeous blue dress leaving nothing to the imagination. Honestly she should have ignored her, but the girl kept trying to get her attention. Somehow or another they got dancing and just as night couldn't seem to get better, she leaned in to kiss her. When their lips were almost touching she screamed. The girl's face been bothering constantly, now she knew why, she was almost twin to Stephanie. In horror and humiliation she ran out dragging her picture out and weeping.
She couldn't go home like this, but where could she go, not like she had anywhere else.
Tiaan then remembered the card, she was near the port, and could probably sneak into the ship, and get over this depression, wake up and leave. No one would be aware.
Fast forward to now, the card was flashing green incessantly and she had a major hang over. It didn't help she had fallen on an actual bed, and her tears had soaked the mattress. This wasn't good, not good at all.
Leaping up she tried to straighten herself up. Maybe she could still rush home to get her uniform, maybe it was still night. Hopefully it was, once more trying to stand, she felt the hum of the engines and sighed heavily.
Well fuck...
"Tiaan what have you done now, are you trying to get yourself killed?"
Glancing around she tried to see or guess where she was, it was a pretty spacious room with a chest of drawers, wardrobe and full sized window looking out into space. This was certainly not a room she should be in.
Just then she heard a footsteps and voices, "I tell you Frank there is someone here. I don't care what Captain says, not everyone arrived."
Oh shit... shitshitshit.
Looking herself over she grimace, her hair was an utter bedraggled mess and her dress wasn't sensible at all.
The door opened and she smiled sheepishly, "Uh... hi... I'm Peyton, Tiaan Peyton... don't suppose you guys know where my room is."
They merely glared.
Well this was great way to begin a new career...
Worse day of my life she thought, worse day ever.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
Ridley could hardly contain his laughter throughout the Captain's speech. It was all to clear that he was avoiding telling them some of their journey's finer qualities, but that just added to the excitement, he was looking forward to seeing how people reacted to the unexpected. A broad smile split his face; "A chance you will die." He muttered to himself. "Life's full of chances, isn't it?" Standing from his seat, he gave a quick look around the Assembly Hall before heading out into the hallway. As Lieutenant, he would be expected on the bridge, and so started down the long hall in that direction. One hardly needed a map to locate the bridge, regardless of what ship you were on, as long as you had able to pick out the 'important' looking areas. Nevertheless, he stopped by a map that had been posted to get a quick readout. Sure enough, to reach the bridge, all he had to do was climb. He continued heading down the hallway toward what would be his station for quite a while to come, that is unless life decided to play his 'chances'.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
Ray knew he was going to love this admiral from this point on; short speeches and no lectures was a way by which a CO could become from an inconvenience to a godsend.
As everyone remembered they had the fleshy things called legs and decided to stand up and go have a sniff around the ship and get comfortable Ray could not help but be nervous by the admiral's clear lack of any kind of "voyage blessing" in his speech.
Ray wasn't really a religious man even if Titan law decreed that people had to go to church on Sunday as part of their civic duty. There where quite a few people who where religious on Titan including Ray's family but Ray never liked the idea so much.
Even so making a speech without a voyage blessing was a rotten start for a voyage and could be seen as a bad omen; Ray knew this was a load of nonsense and that any misfortune which occurred in the voyage was ether because of coincidence or the mental state of seeing every bit of misfortune as the omen coming true. Ray tried to dismiss his feeling but could not and hoped the admiral would make the appropriate blessing once the journey began.
Ray decided he would pay a visit to his beauty, many wondered why he called her butcher pete and addressed her as female; the reason for this was that butcher pete was the name of her type and registration in the swing class. As far as the brass where concerned the ship had no other official name apart from its designation and crew names didn't matter in the name list.
Ray still hadn't decided on a name for her and decided to think about one later, he journeyed into the depths of the ship still marveling at the workmanship and the fantastic artificial gravity the ship had; Titan's colonies never developed beyond 71% earth gravity because of the effect the rain had on the generators and also the conservative party which was very popular on Titan believed that to extend the gravity would be a breach of tradition.
And so Ray wasn't used to this kind of gravity and found it rather tedious especially since he had spent most of the past few years in a gunship with barley 20% earth gravity at best and asteroid bases and space stations with barley 30% earth gravity.
As Ray managed to get himself lost again in the vast corridors and halls the ship possessed he decided to make a guess and took a left turn. As he marched on he saw a small commotion ahead of him and decided to investigate; it seemed that two crew personal where investigating a badly dressed but good looking chick.
Ray decided he would enjoy himself a bit by meddling In affairs he had no business with and stepped into the setuation holding his hands behind his back and mimicking the "officers stance" which every CO showed off.
With a sharp voice designed to make people jump in surprise and by copying the average Titan policeman Ray said:
"Allo allo allo; what's happening here then?"
As everyone remembered they had the fleshy things called legs and decided to stand up and go have a sniff around the ship and get comfortable Ray could not help but be nervous by the admiral's clear lack of any kind of "voyage blessing" in his speech.
Ray wasn't really a religious man even if Titan law decreed that people had to go to church on Sunday as part of their civic duty. There where quite a few people who where religious on Titan including Ray's family but Ray never liked the idea so much.
Even so making a speech without a voyage blessing was a rotten start for a voyage and could be seen as a bad omen; Ray knew this was a load of nonsense and that any misfortune which occurred in the voyage was ether because of coincidence or the mental state of seeing every bit of misfortune as the omen coming true. Ray tried to dismiss his feeling but could not and hoped the admiral would make the appropriate blessing once the journey began.
Ray decided he would pay a visit to his beauty, many wondered why he called her butcher pete and addressed her as female; the reason for this was that butcher pete was the name of her type and registration in the swing class. As far as the brass where concerned the ship had no other official name apart from its designation and crew names didn't matter in the name list.
Ray still hadn't decided on a name for her and decided to think about one later, he journeyed into the depths of the ship still marveling at the workmanship and the fantastic artificial gravity the ship had; Titan's colonies never developed beyond 71% earth gravity because of the effect the rain had on the generators and also the conservative party which was very popular on Titan believed that to extend the gravity would be a breach of tradition.
And so Ray wasn't used to this kind of gravity and found it rather tedious especially since he had spent most of the past few years in a gunship with barley 20% earth gravity at best and asteroid bases and space stations with barley 30% earth gravity.
As Ray managed to get himself lost again in the vast corridors and halls the ship possessed he decided to make a guess and took a left turn. As he marched on he saw a small commotion ahead of him and decided to investigate; it seemed that two crew personal where investigating a badly dressed but good looking chick.
Ray decided he would enjoy himself a bit by meddling In affairs he had no business with and stepped into the setuation holding his hands behind his back and mimicking the "officers stance" which every CO showed off.
With a sharp voice designed to make people jump in surprise and by copying the average Titan policeman Ray said:
"Allo allo allo; what's happening here then?"
Tiaan Peyton
Seeing another person arrive she blanched and saluted instinctively driving through her mind for her rank and details, "I'm Tiann Peyton Fighter Pilot 1st Class--- of um.... um... oh year of the SS Demeter... number... oh um..." think Tiaan think!, "36789." Phew.
The guy she guessed called Frank replied in sharp tone, "How did you get on board."
Tentatively she pulled out her pass, "This..."
Catching the eye of the third person she swore she saw a wink, great, not only was she being humiliated but now she was being sexualised, "I understand this isn't my uniform, but I promise my stuff is already on board, it was sent earlier on. If you could just get the Captain---."
"He's busy!"
Looking desperately around she at this moment wished the earth would open up.
Seeing another person arrive she blanched and saluted instinctively driving through her mind for her rank and details, "I'm Tiann Peyton Fighter Pilot 1st Class--- of um.... um... oh year of the SS Demeter... number... oh um..." think Tiaan think!, "36789." Phew.
The guy she guessed called Frank replied in sharp tone, "How did you get on board."
Tentatively she pulled out her pass, "This..."
Catching the eye of the third person she swore she saw a wink, great, not only was she being humiliated but now she was being sexualised, "I understand this isn't my uniform, but I promise my stuff is already on board, it was sent earlier on. If you could just get the Captain---."
"He's busy!"
Looking desperately around she at this moment wished the earth would open up.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to General Assembly Hall
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Faith was not really surprised at the mix of personalities she had come into contact with, each person dealt with this sort of assignment in his or her own way. The woman calling herself 'Hyena' was a typical example of a fighter pilot, all bravado and cockiness, and Faith could not help but grin back at the other woman. She couldn't help herself, she liked the over confident brash woman already and figured they would end up drinking together in the bar at some point. Faith did not get much of a chance to respond to any of them before the admiral begun his welcoming speech, Faith settled back in her seat and watched the admiral. Her first thoughts were finally he was getting on with it and secondly that he wasn't doing too bad in terms of health for a man of his age. She would bet twenty Royals, her favourite brand of cigarette, that his medical file said he was in perfect shape as men like him usually were. It seemed something about the career military that they were disciplined and most hated medicals of any kind. She would be surprised if he were any different but he would soon learn that she would expect the same from him as the other crew in that regard.
The admirals speech was short and to the point, exactly how Faith liked it, and within minutes it was over. She now knew his immediate subordinates were and was not overly worried. She doubted she would have much to do with the elder Dunway except perhaps when she fixed up he or any of his men during this tour. Chen she would almost certainly deal with but the woman seemed reasonable enough in that she was hard but fair. As Chief Medical Director she had no doubt that she and Chen would be working closely together. She decided at a later date that it might be worth she and Chen having a quiet drink and getting to know each other a little better. Her job running the medical staff on board would go a lot smoother if she and the Lt Commander understood each other.
She was interrupted from her thoughts by one of the men in suits addressing her, she glanced at him and noticed immediately that one of his arms hung at an odd angle. She sighed and nodded. "Come on then, might as well test out the equipment. Hope you enjoy being my lab rat." She commented.
She walked out of the hall and stopped for a moment to get her bearings, she had no idea where any of the medical centres were. She stopped at a terminal on the wall and requested directions to the nearest med bay. The terminal displayed the corridors between here and the med bay and she took a moment to remember the route. She then walked confidently down the corridor and in short order arrived at the medical bay closest to the Assembly Hall.
Staff were already in here hurrying to and fro ensuring everything was as it should be before they left. Faith nodded to those in acknowledgement before walking to the nearest bed.
"Well lets get on with this then." She said to Jon.
The admirals speech was short and to the point, exactly how Faith liked it, and within minutes it was over. She now knew his immediate subordinates were and was not overly worried. She doubted she would have much to do with the elder Dunway except perhaps when she fixed up he or any of his men during this tour. Chen she would almost certainly deal with but the woman seemed reasonable enough in that she was hard but fair. As Chief Medical Director she had no doubt that she and Chen would be working closely together. She decided at a later date that it might be worth she and Chen having a quiet drink and getting to know each other a little better. Her job running the medical staff on board would go a lot smoother if she and the Lt Commander understood each other.
She was interrupted from her thoughts by one of the men in suits addressing her, she glanced at him and noticed immediately that one of his arms hung at an odd angle. She sighed and nodded. "Come on then, might as well test out the equipment. Hope you enjoy being my lab rat." She commented.
She walked out of the hall and stopped for a moment to get her bearings, she had no idea where any of the medical centres were. She stopped at a terminal on the wall and requested directions to the nearest med bay. The terminal displayed the corridors between here and the med bay and she took a moment to remember the route. She then walked confidently down the corridor and in short order arrived at the medical bay closest to the Assembly Hall.
Staff were already in here hurrying to and fro ensuring everything was as it should be before they left. Faith nodded to those in acknowledgement before walking to the nearest bed.
"Well lets get on with this then." She said to Jon.
The setting changes from General Assembly Hall to F.S.S. Salient
Aronimus noted some tension in Atomsk's reaction, which was anything but calm. The admiral, however, did not detect a hint of anxiety or nervousness, mainly because he did not expect it from someone such as the commander. His hurried salute meant there was perhaps some vital news that he needed to bring to Aronimus' attention. Even the admiral was surprised, the ship had barely departed yet, the crew members were still disbanding, and the marines were still setting up their quarters. Perhaps this could be some urgent message relayed personally to Atomsk, whom they wanted to bring the news directly to him.
Nonetheless, the commander asked about his position and duties, which was fairly odd even for Aronimus. A man like Atomsk surely should have been told or learned of his priorities on board the Salient beforehand. Although, Atomsk would be the unlikeliest of ground commanders given his past record of insubordination to superiors. A man who did not respect his superiors, surely would be unable to command the respect of his subordinates. Yet, that was merely speculation on the Admiral's part. Despite all this, the Admiral knew though that Atomsk was experienced in the field, and perhaps there was some unique aspect regarding this stubborn veteran that made him the suitable candidate to be assigned to this ship. However, the unique aspect or quality remained to be seen.
"At ease, Commander, what exactly did you want to talk to me about?"
The admiral continued his stride, expecting that commander Dunaway would follow him to the bridge if necessary.
Nonetheless, the commander asked about his position and duties, which was fairly odd even for Aronimus. A man like Atomsk surely should have been told or learned of his priorities on board the Salient beforehand. Although, Atomsk would be the unlikeliest of ground commanders given his past record of insubordination to superiors. A man who did not respect his superiors, surely would be unable to command the respect of his subordinates. Yet, that was merely speculation on the Admiral's part. Despite all this, the Admiral knew though that Atomsk was experienced in the field, and perhaps there was some unique aspect regarding this stubborn veteran that made him the suitable candidate to be assigned to this ship. However, the unique aspect or quality remained to be seen.
"At ease, Commander, what exactly did you want to talk to me about?"
The admiral continued his stride, expecting that commander Dunaway would follow him to the bridge if necessary.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
"Thank you sir." He began to walk along side Aronimus. "I apologize. I know your busy and my question is a stupid one to ask considering my position." He was loosening up.
"I hope we can find a time in the future to talk more casually. But for now I just wanted to make sure you were aware of how I run things. I'm assuming you've read my profile. I was just making sure I wouldn't be controlled too much. That will hinder my ability to command." He was sounding arrogant now, but he couldn't think of another way to put it.
"I hope we can find a time in the future to talk more casually. But for now I just wanted to make sure you were aware of how I run things. I'm assuming you've read my profile. I was just making sure I wouldn't be controlled too much. That will hinder my ability to command." He was sounding arrogant now, but he couldn't think of another way to put it.
Allen sat and listened to the speech that the admiral had given. It was nice to hear some of the things, he almost trusted that nothing would happen to anyone. Yet he somehow knew better to think like that. After the speech was over and people started to mil about he turned to those remaining near him. "Well, i'm off to go and get a drink." He stated as he stood up and started to walk off. He knew the way for the most part from being allowed on just a tad bit early but he still got lost. He touched two fingers to his forehead out of frustration, then began to search for a map. Once he found one Allen place his finger where he was and then traced where he wanted to go. "There we are." he said as he turned a corner to find his way. He had to be honest with himself he was tired not just from lack of sleep but all the emotional things that he never wanted to talk about. As for this moment the only thing left in his mind was wanting a good drink.
Ray found the entire situation outrageously amusing and wondered to whom the room belonged to and secretly hoped it turned out to belong to miss china town the CO and thus expand the drama.
Ray however wasn't so cruel to show his amusement and decided to help his fellow pilot, he wanted at least one of his guardian angles to owe him a favor and not leave him to fend for himself as they went after targets in their never ending quest for glory.
"Hay Fred, what's up mate?" he said to the man called Frank and began his normal procedure of confusing people to oblivion until they gave up.
"Who are you? My name's Frank and this matter Is under my authority" said Frank who was as Ray saw it a very frank person.
Ray made himself look even more official and saluted back to the damsel in distress and then turned to Frank the frank and said with his "I outrank you so piss off before I piss on your career kind of tone"
"Well Frodo I am Unit Commander Peter Raymond Davidson stand too when talking to a superior!"
Frank took his time and looked at the crew manifesto and then with a grin of triumph said savagely
" I can't see your name on the list princess so explain yourself before I turn you in"
Ray snatched the data pad and looked down on his profile; since he changed his name his full name was further down on his profile and he assumed Frank the frank ignoramus didn't read it all.
Ray then marked that part of the profile and gave it back to him and presented himself as an even nastier figure; Ray assumed the man didn't know that unit commander wasn't actually a high rank but he wasn't about to tell him that.
"Well then general Franco I belleive you where about to do something?"
Frank the Frank ignoramus Kaputtus looked at the data pad and went into attention, his fellow womanizer who acted the part of long Jones parrot during the conversation also saluted and both seemed rather pale apart from some very red cheeks.
"Sorry sir I didn't know sir, we where just doin our job sir"
Ray looked at Frank the Frank ignoramus Kaputtus pussyfootus and broke into a smile; a cruel smile of seemingly sadistic pleasure.
"Yes you do have a job Mr. François, your job is to inspect the ship is that correct?"
"Yes… sir"
"Well then Francis go to it! if your job is inspection have you inspected our waste disposal drains yet?
'No… sir" he said now knowing where the conversation was going
Ray enjoying every moment came closer to him and smiled again
"Well the drains do not inspect themselves; go to it bullet!"
And with that Frank the Frank ignoramus Kaputtus pussyfootus Idiotus and his parrot ran off, Ray wondered how long it would take for them to realize that Ray had no authority over them and how would they react to that knowledge.
He then turned to the lassie and saluted again and said at last with his friendly natured voice barley containing his will to laugh out loud.
"I wonder how long it will take for them to figure out I had no authority to give them that order" Ray then laughed unable to contain his amusement any longer, after regaining himself he offered his hand and said still chuckling from the bizarre event.
"Sorry about that, I can't help it. The names Ray by the way and don't worry about them. They won't recall your name as they will be to busy cursing mine.
I can see you had a bit of fun before our mission so I suggest we get rid of the evidence in the room you used and get you in a presentable state of affairs"
Ray entered the room and took out a jar of coffee and took out a few cups and pressed the hot water option on the tap.
"How many do you think you need?"
Ray however wasn't so cruel to show his amusement and decided to help his fellow pilot, he wanted at least one of his guardian angles to owe him a favor and not leave him to fend for himself as they went after targets in their never ending quest for glory.
"Hay Fred, what's up mate?" he said to the man called Frank and began his normal procedure of confusing people to oblivion until they gave up.
"Who are you? My name's Frank and this matter Is under my authority" said Frank who was as Ray saw it a very frank person.
Ray made himself look even more official and saluted back to the damsel in distress and then turned to Frank the frank and said with his "I outrank you so piss off before I piss on your career kind of tone"
"Well Frodo I am Unit Commander Peter Raymond Davidson stand too when talking to a superior!"
Frank took his time and looked at the crew manifesto and then with a grin of triumph said savagely
" I can't see your name on the list princess so explain yourself before I turn you in"
Ray snatched the data pad and looked down on his profile; since he changed his name his full name was further down on his profile and he assumed Frank the frank ignoramus didn't read it all.
Ray then marked that part of the profile and gave it back to him and presented himself as an even nastier figure; Ray assumed the man didn't know that unit commander wasn't actually a high rank but he wasn't about to tell him that.
"Well then general Franco I belleive you where about to do something?"
Frank the Frank ignoramus Kaputtus looked at the data pad and went into attention, his fellow womanizer who acted the part of long Jones parrot during the conversation also saluted and both seemed rather pale apart from some very red cheeks.
"Sorry sir I didn't know sir, we where just doin our job sir"
Ray looked at Frank the Frank ignoramus Kaputtus pussyfootus and broke into a smile; a cruel smile of seemingly sadistic pleasure.
"Yes you do have a job Mr. François, your job is to inspect the ship is that correct?"
"Yes… sir"
"Well then Francis go to it! if your job is inspection have you inspected our waste disposal drains yet?
'No… sir" he said now knowing where the conversation was going
Ray enjoying every moment came closer to him and smiled again
"Well the drains do not inspect themselves; go to it bullet!"
And with that Frank the Frank ignoramus Kaputtus pussyfootus Idiotus and his parrot ran off, Ray wondered how long it would take for them to realize that Ray had no authority over them and how would they react to that knowledge.
He then turned to the lassie and saluted again and said at last with his friendly natured voice barley containing his will to laugh out loud.
"I wonder how long it will take for them to figure out I had no authority to give them that order" Ray then laughed unable to contain his amusement any longer, after regaining himself he offered his hand and said still chuckling from the bizarre event.
"Sorry about that, I can't help it. The names Ray by the way and don't worry about them. They won't recall your name as they will be to busy cursing mine.
I can see you had a bit of fun before our mission so I suggest we get rid of the evidence in the room you used and get you in a presentable state of affairs"
Ray entered the room and took out a jar of coffee and took out a few cups and pressed the hot water option on the tap.
"How many do you think you need?"
Tiaan Peyton
Watching all that happened in morbid curiosity she almost didn't hear him, but after he repeated she replied, "Oh um, four should be enough, I didn't drink too much, but did drink hard, if ya catch my drift. This is rather embarrassing I normally better prepared than this." grinning sheepishly she continued, "Thank you though for getting rid of them, I can defend myself, but in state I am right now, doubt could win any fight. I'm Tiaan by the way, you might have heard of my family Clarice Peyton, I'm his daughter, his progeny. I know it doesn't seem likely, but last night was kinda of distressing, I just couldn't go home.
Seeing him fling over a uniform she stripped out her dress and threw on uniform hurriedly, relaxing a little as the cotton and polyester touch her skin. Although the insignia was wrong, she was now officially part of the crew, which was great -- she hoped her fighter had made the transfer since much like ship's, she could never have another Blue Tit (Mercury Class Fighter Customized out the wazoo).
"I'm rather ashamed can't truly thank you in anyway. I've got nothing really to give and what items do have, are considered priceless." she breathed sadly, "I hope you understand." she doubted he would mind, despite her misgiving about him, first impressions could be a bitch and in this case, she looked likely wrong.
"You look familiar, I swear my Father has a photo with ya in it, it's him and his whole fighter crew." He really did look like the guy, but surely he would have retired by now.
"Clarice (Vulture) Peyton ring any bells?"
Of course her name from Demeter would need to change since new ship changed the whole dynamic, to be honest she never liked Birdy anyway.
Watching all that happened in morbid curiosity she almost didn't hear him, but after he repeated she replied, "Oh um, four should be enough, I didn't drink too much, but did drink hard, if ya catch my drift. This is rather embarrassing I normally better prepared than this." grinning sheepishly she continued, "Thank you though for getting rid of them, I can defend myself, but in state I am right now, doubt could win any fight. I'm Tiaan by the way, you might have heard of my family Clarice Peyton, I'm his daughter, his progeny. I know it doesn't seem likely, but last night was kinda of distressing, I just couldn't go home.
Seeing him fling over a uniform she stripped out her dress and threw on uniform hurriedly, relaxing a little as the cotton and polyester touch her skin. Although the insignia was wrong, she was now officially part of the crew, which was great -- she hoped her fighter had made the transfer since much like ship's, she could never have another Blue Tit (Mercury Class Fighter Customized out the wazoo).
"I'm rather ashamed can't truly thank you in anyway. I've got nothing really to give and what items do have, are considered priceless." she breathed sadly, "I hope you understand." she doubted he would mind, despite her misgiving about him, first impressions could be a bitch and in this case, she looked likely wrong.
"You look familiar, I swear my Father has a photo with ya in it, it's him and his whole fighter crew." He really did look like the guy, but surely he would have retired by now.
"Clarice (Vulture) Peyton ring any bells?"
Of course her name from Demeter would need to change since new ship changed the whole dynamic, to be honest she never liked Birdy anyway.
Thaddeus enjoyed the results of his little experiment. They said to test out the suits and he did just that by bending a few rules in order to do it. "About that arm Jon," Thaddeus began to say "I know we weren't supposed to attempt it but I just couldn't pass up a chance to give it a whirl. It may be a little unethical to say it in that way, but you of all people should know of how different my line of work can be than that of a traditional soldier.
Thaddeus turned to the medic treating Jon. "So madam, how experienced of a field medic are you? How well can you perform a surgery during the heat of battle? Thaddeus asked. He was interested in the crew, especially Atomsk, who looked as if he might try to strangle Thaddeus in any moment. Though he usually over planned things, Thaddeus favored a straight diagonal kick to the knee cap and a jab to the elbow was a nice touch for such events. Never the less he had prepared himself for such movements earlier. He continued to watch the medic handle Jon's arm.
Thaddeus turned to the medic treating Jon. "So madam, how experienced of a field medic are you? How well can you perform a surgery during the heat of battle? Thaddeus asked. He was interested in the crew, especially Atomsk, who looked as if he might try to strangle Thaddeus in any moment. Though he usually over planned things, Thaddeus favored a straight diagonal kick to the knee cap and a jab to the elbow was a nice touch for such events. Never the less he had prepared himself for such movements earlier. He continued to watch the medic handle Jon's arm.
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Alice walked calmly from the briefing room, letting the tide of crewmen carry her away down the hall, in no hurry to be anywhere. It would take some time for the ship to be ready to sail. She could wait to meet the Admiral - he would be swamped now, she was sure, by more experienced officers eager to put their names up to him. Alice doubted that she needed to put in a good word for herself. She trusted that the Admiral had read his personnel's service records, just as she had, and her own record was more than enough to explain the sort of officer she was. She would take care of her duties, and anything beyond she felt necessary to keep the ship running under the Admiral's command. She would serve the Admiral loyally - so long as his decisions were logical and did not put unnecessary danger to crew or vessel. The prodigal officer. The perfect military woman.
Sometimes, Alice wished there was someone else in the Federation who knew her secret, just so she could have a black mark on that shining reputation of hers. Glittering records drew attention, weighed heavily on the shoulders of their owners. Attention and extra worry were two things that Alice did not need. Nevertheless, she accepted both. Comfort was a simple thing to trade for this dream life. She wanted nothing more than to be an officer.
Alice turned a sharp corner, spinning on the heel of her boot, prepared to enter her room. And found it occupied. She stopped in the door, staring around, stunned but showing none of it on her fiercely military face.
The room was a wreck. At least, compared to what it should have been. Alcohol bottles - her bottles, naturally - strewn everywhere, bed mussed and obviously damp. Someone had spent the night here, on the ship before it was approved. Drunk. Very drunk.
That someone was still inside the room.
At first, Alice thought it might be the wayward Peter Davidson. But no, she had already seen him at the briefing, and he looked much too well tended to be suffering from the hangover Alice knew would be caused by this much spirit. No, there was another here. The offending officer...
Her eyes fell on a woman. Of course, the spitfire pilot, Tiaan Peyton. A loyal fighter and a trouble-maker, like many pilots Alice had met in her time. This was the sort of person she was expected to deal with... but Tiaan did not need to be dealt with. Not now. Grief filled the woman's face and thoughts. Alice nodded silently to herself. This offense, considering its causes, could be allowed to slide...
"Rough night?" she asked evenly, striding into the room. Her heels snapped against the floor, accentuating her every movement. Alice was not an ugly woman - the precise opposite, in fact. Tall and slender and very strong, wearing the flattering officer's uniform, she had received many propositions from men aboard the prison ship she had commanded until recently. She expected to receive many more. She expected to turn down every one. Her lustrous black here was beautiful, her face perfectly kept, her eyes made-up and her teeth white and perfect not because she wished to attract a mate. Her body was marvelously fit not because she wanted it played with. Alice maintained her appearance for only one reason.
To uphold the image of the Federation.
Striding across to the bed, Alice shrugged off the sharp officer's jacket and tossed it to one side, baring the crisp whites underneath. She turned then to face Ray and Tiaan, tugging her dark hair out of its stiff ponytail and letting it relax into curls which lapped at her mid-back. She was a formal, military woman.
But these were her quarters. She had the right to relax here... and being as stiff as she usually was would help her make no friends with this pair. She could tell.
Sometimes, Alice wished there was someone else in the Federation who knew her secret, just so she could have a black mark on that shining reputation of hers. Glittering records drew attention, weighed heavily on the shoulders of their owners. Attention and extra worry were two things that Alice did not need. Nevertheless, she accepted both. Comfort was a simple thing to trade for this dream life. She wanted nothing more than to be an officer.
Alice turned a sharp corner, spinning on the heel of her boot, prepared to enter her room. And found it occupied. She stopped in the door, staring around, stunned but showing none of it on her fiercely military face.
The room was a wreck. At least, compared to what it should have been. Alcohol bottles - her bottles, naturally - strewn everywhere, bed mussed and obviously damp. Someone had spent the night here, on the ship before it was approved. Drunk. Very drunk.
That someone was still inside the room.
At first, Alice thought it might be the wayward Peter Davidson. But no, she had already seen him at the briefing, and he looked much too well tended to be suffering from the hangover Alice knew would be caused by this much spirit. No, there was another here. The offending officer...
Her eyes fell on a woman. Of course, the spitfire pilot, Tiaan Peyton. A loyal fighter and a trouble-maker, like many pilots Alice had met in her time. This was the sort of person she was expected to deal with... but Tiaan did not need to be dealt with. Not now. Grief filled the woman's face and thoughts. Alice nodded silently to herself. This offense, considering its causes, could be allowed to slide...
"Rough night?" she asked evenly, striding into the room. Her heels snapped against the floor, accentuating her every movement. Alice was not an ugly woman - the precise opposite, in fact. Tall and slender and very strong, wearing the flattering officer's uniform, she had received many propositions from men aboard the prison ship she had commanded until recently. She expected to receive many more. She expected to turn down every one. Her lustrous black here was beautiful, her face perfectly kept, her eyes made-up and her teeth white and perfect not because she wished to attract a mate. Her body was marvelously fit not because she wanted it played with. Alice maintained her appearance for only one reason.
To uphold the image of the Federation.
Striding across to the bed, Alice shrugged off the sharp officer's jacket and tossed it to one side, baring the crisp whites underneath. She turned then to face Ray and Tiaan, tugging her dark hair out of its stiff ponytail and letting it relax into curls which lapped at her mid-back. She was a formal, military woman.
But these were her quarters. She had the right to relax here... and being as stiff as she usually was would help her make no friends with this pair. She could tell.
"I hope we can find a time in the future to talk more casually. But for now I just wanted to make sure you were aware of how I run things. I'm assuming you've read my profile. I was just making sure I wouldn't be controlled too much. That will hinder my ability to command." Atomsk now assumed a position beside the Admiral as they walked to the bridge.
Aronimus detected a twinge of bravado, perhaps even arrogance coming from the commander. He wondered whether this was the distinctive trait that got Atomsk assigned to this post. However, the admiral welcomed it, which might have come as a surprise to fellow acquaintances. Aronimus knew that arrogance was a sign of youth, but he knew that sooner or later it should be tempered otherwise it could be disastrous. At this point he was reminded of Captain Colter and his tragic exploits. It was psychologically shattering to a leader; even he himself had lost fellow crew members before. Aronimus decided he would have to deal with this now before it placed any crew members in danger. Although Atomsk had gotten this far without any relatively large incidents, sooner or later it was bound to happen. He was resolute in his decision to prevent history from repeating itself. After all, the point of history was to learn from it in order to better the present and guide the future.
"Certainly, I don't wish to converse with fellow crew members in a rigid manner all the time," he said this while maintaining his upright stature during his gait.
"And, yes I've read your profile...five tours, eighty-nine active deployments, seven classified missions, twenty three decorations...and then..." he paused for effect. He was astutely aware of Dunaway’s past record, and he was more than ready to bring it up. He was just surprised that the commander had brought it to his attention this early on.
"Sixty-seven counts of military insubordination and three court martials…" the Admiral turned to face Atomsk, who was trying to hide a smirk with a formal and serious front. Atomsk was decorated for his performance, yet at the same time he was incorrigible for his attitude.
"I honestly hope that you won't treat me with the same respect you treated Lieutenant General Conway..." the admiral turned away.
“But…remember, arrogance is an unbecoming trait, Commander Dunaway, see to it that you mend it, for it can jeopardize the lives of fellow soldiers and crewmen alike.” The admiral paused before continuing.
"Glad to have you on board…Commander." The admiral now walked ahead of Atomsk, leaving him to dwell on his words.
Aronimus detected a twinge of bravado, perhaps even arrogance coming from the commander. He wondered whether this was the distinctive trait that got Atomsk assigned to this post. However, the admiral welcomed it, which might have come as a surprise to fellow acquaintances. Aronimus knew that arrogance was a sign of youth, but he knew that sooner or later it should be tempered otherwise it could be disastrous. At this point he was reminded of Captain Colter and his tragic exploits. It was psychologically shattering to a leader; even he himself had lost fellow crew members before. Aronimus decided he would have to deal with this now before it placed any crew members in danger. Although Atomsk had gotten this far without any relatively large incidents, sooner or later it was bound to happen. He was resolute in his decision to prevent history from repeating itself. After all, the point of history was to learn from it in order to better the present and guide the future.
"Certainly, I don't wish to converse with fellow crew members in a rigid manner all the time," he said this while maintaining his upright stature during his gait.
"And, yes I've read your profile...five tours, eighty-nine active deployments, seven classified missions, twenty three decorations...and then..." he paused for effect. He was astutely aware of Dunaway’s past record, and he was more than ready to bring it up. He was just surprised that the commander had brought it to his attention this early on.
"Sixty-seven counts of military insubordination and three court martials…" the Admiral turned to face Atomsk, who was trying to hide a smirk with a formal and serious front. Atomsk was decorated for his performance, yet at the same time he was incorrigible for his attitude.
"I honestly hope that you won't treat me with the same respect you treated Lieutenant General Conway..." the admiral turned away.
“But…remember, arrogance is an unbecoming trait, Commander Dunaway, see to it that you mend it, for it can jeopardize the lives of fellow soldiers and crewmen alike.” The admiral paused before continuing.
"Glad to have you on board…Commander." The admiral now walked ahead of Atomsk, leaving him to dwell on his words.
He stood as he took the Admirals words very seriously. He thought he had made a decent impression. He also looked forward to talking again in the future. He disagreed with the arrogance though. He didn't believe he was arrogant. He simply didn't like rules. Or people undeserving of their ranks. He smirked when the Admiral brought up the insubordination and attempted court marshals. He loved the failed attempts at his post. To him it meant that the rules he broke weren't as important as the good he did.
As the Admiral turned to walk away Atomsk said a very respectful "Thank you. sir" with a slight bow, even though the Admiral had turned away. He was excited to talk again in the future. At this point he walked to a comm terminal close-by. He input a code that would give him the intercom for a minute. After he had control he stated a message for his portion of the crew. "Attention all military personnel. This is Commander Atomsk Dunaway Meet in Barracks 1 in 45 minutes. We will be performing a mission brief along with a few evaluations as well as forming our squads. Captain Eli Colter please meet me at Barracks 1 immediately for per-brief." He was aware of Captain Colter's position on the ship and wanted to size him up. He was sure they would be working together closely and wanted to start building a relationship fast. He began a brisk walk to the Barracks. He wanted to get as much talk time as he could.
As the Admiral turned to walk away Atomsk said a very respectful "Thank you. sir" with a slight bow, even though the Admiral had turned away. He was excited to talk again in the future. At this point he walked to a comm terminal close-by. He input a code that would give him the intercom for a minute. After he had control he stated a message for his portion of the crew. "Attention all military personnel. This is Commander Atomsk Dunaway Meet in Barracks 1 in 45 minutes. We will be performing a mission brief along with a few evaluations as well as forming our squads. Captain Eli Colter please meet me at Barracks 1 immediately for per-brief." He was aware of Captain Colter's position on the ship and wanted to size him up. He was sure they would be working together closely and wanted to start building a relationship fast. He began a brisk walk to the Barracks. He wanted to get as much talk time as he could.
The hangar was easy to find. It had to be in the rush of an attack when half-asleep pilots and crewman were stumbling to the scramble. Once a map terminal had put her boots on the right path, Jessica had just followed the broadest passageways and the smell. Yes, the smell. Void-touched metal, feul and hydraulic fluid, the sickly sweet-smoke smell of engine exhaust... all of it a fragrance that'd been ground into her memory of service. When she first stepped out into the huge open space, she stopped and smiled, staring out over the activity and the looming shapes of the various craft that were being nestled into their berths.
She belonged here, more so then anywhere else on the ship. Officer country still felt strange and alien to a career wrench-turner, so it was a welcome change of pace to step back into the beating heart of a fighter wing. Cold pricked the skin and the deck was too hard beneath the boots, acrid hazmat smells assaulted the nose, the lights were too bright, tools dropped and maintainers shouted and equipment whined. It was beautifully overwhelming, and it was hers.
The mechanics were cursing the shape and condition of other birds; those 'special' aircraft that belonged to some of the other pilots. While the ones in the cockpit swore by their performance and special modifications, the ground crew were the ones that had to deal with the constant headache of unpredictable maintainence and specialized tie-downs for non-standard hull shapes. And the officers that insisted on their own maintainence were the worst. If it took a whole maintainence department to divy up spaceframe, powerplants, electrical, electronics, lifesupport, and ordinance; one stick-jock claiming to know all of the necessary systems could cause migranes up and down a whole chain of command and put himself - and his bird - in some serious jeapordy. Before she ever picked up a wrench on her own craft, Hyena would have to do some serrious trust work with the shops she'd once had qualifications for back when she wore stripes instead of bars.
"How you doin, Chief?" You want in good with maintainence? Get in good with the Maintainence Chief. He was one of the group that Hyena had been bullshitting with out in airlock before boarding, and meets her handshake on equal terms, "I'm looking for a bird."
"I guessed that, ma'am." He snorts. The deal wasnt all one way; it never hurt for a crewman to have an ear that had rank, even if that rank was just a Flight Officer, and she'd already promised him a pack of Earth-made cigarettes for first pick of the proverbial litter, "You're going to want 338. Her book isnt the cleanest, but she's been up-and-up for just about every sortie they've thrown at her. Just make sure those smokes find their way to my desk later. Mars tabacco tastes like shit."
"It's the dirt, Chief. Gets into everything. Eventually anything you eat tastes the same." She laughs, being native to the Red Planet, herself, and gives him a reassuring wave prior to making her way back out onto the bay.
'Her' aircraft was already good to go. Its class had been a backbone of space superiority combat for years, and the berths were already configured for it. Huge, engine-heavy, dirty, and so ugly she was a work of art. This beater may not be RnD's new toy, but at least she could count on it when it mattered. Hyena reaches her hands out to lay them, palms flat, on the cold skin below where her name would be stenciled, smiling up at the craft. It was nasty-looking in every good way, a bare-bones bloody warbird.
"Hello, beautiful."
She belonged here, more so then anywhere else on the ship. Officer country still felt strange and alien to a career wrench-turner, so it was a welcome change of pace to step back into the beating heart of a fighter wing. Cold pricked the skin and the deck was too hard beneath the boots, acrid hazmat smells assaulted the nose, the lights were too bright, tools dropped and maintainers shouted and equipment whined. It was beautifully overwhelming, and it was hers.
The mechanics were cursing the shape and condition of other birds; those 'special' aircraft that belonged to some of the other pilots. While the ones in the cockpit swore by their performance and special modifications, the ground crew were the ones that had to deal with the constant headache of unpredictable maintainence and specialized tie-downs for non-standard hull shapes. And the officers that insisted on their own maintainence were the worst. If it took a whole maintainence department to divy up spaceframe, powerplants, electrical, electronics, lifesupport, and ordinance; one stick-jock claiming to know all of the necessary systems could cause migranes up and down a whole chain of command and put himself - and his bird - in some serious jeapordy. Before she ever picked up a wrench on her own craft, Hyena would have to do some serrious trust work with the shops she'd once had qualifications for back when she wore stripes instead of bars.
"How you doin, Chief?" You want in good with maintainence? Get in good with the Maintainence Chief. He was one of the group that Hyena had been bullshitting with out in airlock before boarding, and meets her handshake on equal terms, "I'm looking for a bird."
"I guessed that, ma'am." He snorts. The deal wasnt all one way; it never hurt for a crewman to have an ear that had rank, even if that rank was just a Flight Officer, and she'd already promised him a pack of Earth-made cigarettes for first pick of the proverbial litter, "You're going to want 338. Her book isnt the cleanest, but she's been up-and-up for just about every sortie they've thrown at her. Just make sure those smokes find their way to my desk later. Mars tabacco tastes like shit."
"It's the dirt, Chief. Gets into everything. Eventually anything you eat tastes the same." She laughs, being native to the Red Planet, herself, and gives him a reassuring wave prior to making her way back out onto the bay.
'Her' aircraft was already good to go. Its class had been a backbone of space superiority combat for years, and the berths were already configured for it. Huge, engine-heavy, dirty, and so ugly she was a work of art. This beater may not be RnD's new toy, but at least she could count on it when it mattered. Hyena reaches her hands out to lay them, palms flat, on the cold skin below where her name would be stenciled, smiling up at the craft. It was nasty-looking in every good way, a bare-bones bloody warbird.
"Hello, beautiful."
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
Clyde - Bridge
It didn't take Clyde long to realize that the ship was not, in fact, taking off. Quite the opposite- the crew had decided to absently wander the ship for a while. It was going to be a long nap. ... Or was it? No, there were more interesting things to do than twiddle one's thumbs on a ship full of extraordinary strangers. But who to take an interest in? There were quite a few characters.
But Clyde was not a normal person. He didn't have to choose. He would simply watch all of them from his perch at the bridge. There were computer terminals every few feet along the ship, each one capable of receiving input from people nearby. Clyde sat back, hooked into the computer system, and watched everyone on the ship mill about at the same time.
Adriana - Research Lab
"Attention all military personnel. This is Commander Atomsk Dunaway. Meet in Barracks one in forty-five minutes."
Adriana jumped at the sudden interruption of her concentration. Her latest project rolled off of her work table and shattered on the floor. She didn't know which annoyed her more- that some idiot was calling a meeting two days before boarding, or that her project laid in pieces on the floor. She began to sweep up the broken glass and wondered how long it would be before completion now. It was a mirror ball. Not the normal sort of mirror ball- it wasn't for parties. It was ammunition for Stanley, her laser rifle. It was designed so that light could pass into the ball, but not out of it. It would be charged in the chamber of the gun and then fired. It would shatter on impact and let out all of the energy stored inside of it... provided it made it that far. Adriana sighed and poured the garbage into the incinerator.
She was tired, disheveled, hungry, and disappointed. There would be time to work on the shells later. Someone named Dunaway had called a meeting, and she was curious to know who she owed the destruction of her pet project to. She swung Stanley across her back and headed out into the halls. Adriana wove between crew members going about their business, doing some calculations in her head about the time it would take her to redo what she had lost. Minus all the blunders she had made, all the calculations, the occasional break... Eight hours. Eight hours? How long had she taken the first time?
Adriana stopped in the middle of the hallway, and grabbed the nearest crew member by the arm. "What day is it?" She asked, without even looking at him.
"It's the fifth. We're heading out in a few hours. Where have YOU been?" He answered.
Then everything fell into place. "... Right... here..." Adriana had been in the lab for three days. She didn't even notice, she was so focused on her work. She remembered the name Dunaway now. But not Atomsk. Something closer to... John? She had worked on a few suits a while back, she didn't know how long. Adriana stopped at a computer terminal and pulled up Commander Dunaway's file. The new ground commander. That's who it was. She closed off the files and started walking to the barracks again. There was a lot of work to do after this meeting, starting with reading all the crew files to find out who she was going to be working with, assuming she ever saw them. It was going to be a busy voyage.
It didn't take Clyde long to realize that the ship was not, in fact, taking off. Quite the opposite- the crew had decided to absently wander the ship for a while. It was going to be a long nap. ... Or was it? No, there were more interesting things to do than twiddle one's thumbs on a ship full of extraordinary strangers. But who to take an interest in? There were quite a few characters.
But Clyde was not a normal person. He didn't have to choose. He would simply watch all of them from his perch at the bridge. There were computer terminals every few feet along the ship, each one capable of receiving input from people nearby. Clyde sat back, hooked into the computer system, and watched everyone on the ship mill about at the same time.
Adriana - Research Lab
"Attention all military personnel. This is Commander Atomsk Dunaway. Meet in Barracks one in forty-five minutes."
Adriana jumped at the sudden interruption of her concentration. Her latest project rolled off of her work table and shattered on the floor. She didn't know which annoyed her more- that some idiot was calling a meeting two days before boarding, or that her project laid in pieces on the floor. She began to sweep up the broken glass and wondered how long it would be before completion now. It was a mirror ball. Not the normal sort of mirror ball- it wasn't for parties. It was ammunition for Stanley, her laser rifle. It was designed so that light could pass into the ball, but not out of it. It would be charged in the chamber of the gun and then fired. It would shatter on impact and let out all of the energy stored inside of it... provided it made it that far. Adriana sighed and poured the garbage into the incinerator.
She was tired, disheveled, hungry, and disappointed. There would be time to work on the shells later. Someone named Dunaway had called a meeting, and she was curious to know who she owed the destruction of her pet project to. She swung Stanley across her back and headed out into the halls. Adriana wove between crew members going about their business, doing some calculations in her head about the time it would take her to redo what she had lost. Minus all the blunders she had made, all the calculations, the occasional break... Eight hours. Eight hours? How long had she taken the first time?
Adriana stopped in the middle of the hallway, and grabbed the nearest crew member by the arm. "What day is it?" She asked, without even looking at him.
"It's the fifth. We're heading out in a few hours. Where have YOU been?" He answered.
Then everything fell into place. "... Right... here..." Adriana had been in the lab for three days. She didn't even notice, she was so focused on her work. She remembered the name Dunaway now. But not Atomsk. Something closer to... John? She had worked on a few suits a while back, she didn't know how long. Adriana stopped at a computer terminal and pulled up Commander Dunaway's file. The new ground commander. That's who it was. She closed off the files and started walking to the barracks again. There was a lot of work to do after this meeting, starting with reading all the crew files to find out who she was going to be working with, assuming she ever saw them. It was going to be a busy voyage.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
As Ray made the coffee and passed the first glass to Tiaan he decided to sit down near by.
"Don't worry about it, hell I am a Titan grad; we don't give a damn about earning shiny things." This wasn't exactly true but Ray liked to say it was and the academy needed all the support of its grads had to offer after losing so much prestige in the officers revolt.
"I heard about your name and even the name you just said but I am actually only 24; surprising isn't it? Well we Titans age faster then earthlings during our childhoods so my body is 26-8 years old while I am really 24. So I could not have flown with your old man and my parents are beer brewers so it was not my pa but plenty of my greater family has been flying the galaxy since it became profitable so the guy on the picture might be a distant relative."
Ray was about to keep the conversation going when Alice the CO came marching but Ray did not find It funny liked he believed he would. Ray was glad for Tiaan's sake the CO didn't explode but was a bit put off by the woman's puffed up approach to things and was of the impression that while the CO seemed to be taking the situation lightly she would remember all of this and use it if she stood to gain something for doing so.
Ray stood up to attention and tried to encourage Tiann to do the same and then saluted his Titan way that he knew would annoy the CO at least a bit.
"hello sir; I was just about to start cleaning up and hide all the evidence" Ray regretted sending frank away because he could use a clean up team but pilots had to help each other and he wasn't about to brake the most sacred of commandments.
Ray looked at Tiaan and wondered what he could do now? With the CO here the situation was no longer under his authority but he would at least try to keep under his influence.
"Don't worry about it, hell I am a Titan grad; we don't give a damn about earning shiny things." This wasn't exactly true but Ray liked to say it was and the academy needed all the support of its grads had to offer after losing so much prestige in the officers revolt.
"I heard about your name and even the name you just said but I am actually only 24; surprising isn't it? Well we Titans age faster then earthlings during our childhoods so my body is 26-8 years old while I am really 24. So I could not have flown with your old man and my parents are beer brewers so it was not my pa but plenty of my greater family has been flying the galaxy since it became profitable so the guy on the picture might be a distant relative."
Ray was about to keep the conversation going when Alice the CO came marching but Ray did not find It funny liked he believed he would. Ray was glad for Tiaan's sake the CO didn't explode but was a bit put off by the woman's puffed up approach to things and was of the impression that while the CO seemed to be taking the situation lightly she would remember all of this and use it if she stood to gain something for doing so.
Ray stood up to attention and tried to encourage Tiann to do the same and then saluted his Titan way that he knew would annoy the CO at least a bit.
"hello sir; I was just about to start cleaning up and hide all the evidence" Ray regretted sending frank away because he could use a clean up team but pilots had to help each other and he wasn't about to brake the most sacred of commandments.
Ray looked at Tiaan and wondered what he could do now? With the CO here the situation was no longer under his authority but he would at least try to keep under his influence.
Tiaan Peyton
Startled by the arrival of the other person she pushed away the sodden thing once known as her dress with her foot, trying to hide the fact she slept here. Slept through nearly everything. This really wasn't a good day. At least she wouldn't be called Birdy anymore, but to be honest she had found Birdy rather patronising as her Father had a real name, Vulture, a bird of prey, not some cheap insult. She had never fit in with those guys, in fact more than once she had fought them. Well she was off now and hoped this wouldn't go on her record, "If this is your room Miss--Sir---Madam---" feeling flustered she couldn't decide how to address the woman who was clearly above her rank, that's for sure.
"I understand how this looks." she took a long deep breath, "But, I promise this won't happen again. In fact I'd like to go see my Fighter arrived safely." as she spoke she tried to tidy her hair with her hand and fingers, making it less messy, but failing rather miserably."
Most people who saw Tiaan thought she looked cute, but also deeply sad inside, they could be right, but she also had a very upbeat demeanour and wasn't above a little fun. Although on the Demeter only chance she got with that was during Dock Leave, and even then it sucked to love someone and then leave them. So yesterday had seemed amazing, here was a girl coming on to her, so why the hell had she decided to scream.
God knows, still waiting for an answer she gave up on her hair growling annoyed and resumed saluting.
Startled by the arrival of the other person she pushed away the sodden thing once known as her dress with her foot, trying to hide the fact she slept here. Slept through nearly everything. This really wasn't a good day. At least she wouldn't be called Birdy anymore, but to be honest she had found Birdy rather patronising as her Father had a real name, Vulture, a bird of prey, not some cheap insult. She had never fit in with those guys, in fact more than once she had fought them. Well she was off now and hoped this wouldn't go on her record, "If this is your room Miss--Sir---Madam---" feeling flustered she couldn't decide how to address the woman who was clearly above her rank, that's for sure.
"I understand how this looks." she took a long deep breath, "But, I promise this won't happen again. In fact I'd like to go see my Fighter arrived safely." as she spoke she tried to tidy her hair with her hand and fingers, making it less messy, but failing rather miserably."
Most people who saw Tiaan thought she looked cute, but also deeply sad inside, they could be right, but she also had a very upbeat demeanour and wasn't above a little fun. Although on the Demeter only chance she got with that was during Dock Leave, and even then it sucked to love someone and then leave them. So yesterday had seemed amazing, here was a girl coming on to her, so why the hell had she decided to scream.
God knows, still waiting for an answer she gave up on her hair growling annoyed and resumed saluting.
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"At ease, Peyton," Alice murmured, giving the girl a sharp nod. "There's no need to panic. You can't be blamed for one night of revelry." She crossed her room towards the cabinets and began putting away the now-open bottles of spirits. She was going to have to host a crew party if she did not want it to go to waste... "Just make sure that it doe snot happen again. Without permission from superiors."
She glanced back at Tiaan to ensure that she was heard, and nodded to herself when she was. She stacked all the bottles back in the cabinet.
"Davidson," she called to the second pilot. "If you would contact the ship's service and ask to have the linens changed. If they ask what happened, hang up."
With that, Alice turned so that she could see the pair of them.
"I am Lieutenant Commander Alice Chen," she announced evenly. "Second in command aboard the Salient."
She glanced back at Tiaan to ensure that she was heard, and nodded to herself when she was. She stacked all the bottles back in the cabinet.
"Davidson," she called to the second pilot. "If you would contact the ship's service and ask to have the linens changed. If they ask what happened, hang up."
With that, Alice turned so that she could see the pair of them.
"I am Lieutenant Commander Alice Chen," she announced evenly. "Second in command aboard the Salient."
Tiaan Peyton
Calming a little she grinned; Tiaan had a beautiful lopsided smile, that spoke so much, but revealed little. Stephanie had joked she'd make a great politician, since everyone would believe her. Of course she had laughed it off, but after what she went through on Argus 50, she felt politicians got off lightly. It had been a routine mission on board the Demeter to collect minerals for transport, what happened though was one of crew members was on the make, and tried to sell them out to local smugglers, she had apparently been a great catch. This is what the record never told though, the reason Alfie didn't get taken in was because she persuaded him to commit suicide, it was easy, almost disturbing how simple it was, she got him to believe he was nothing and no one would miss him. He agreed and agreed and asked what should he do then, Tiaan had simply said this, "Walk out of the airlock and breath deeply."
That was terrifying to see him so solemn and yet so willing.
Fortunately it hadn't been put on record because her actions had scared the smugglers so much they fled. She didn't even have any powers, she just used his weakness to her advantage. No one believed her, and that mission was why she had begged, no pleaded for reassignment.
Eventually Captain Elias Riggs had given in and reassigned her, knowing she wasn't happy, but he was sorry to see her go, since outside of all the pilots she actually wasn't a red-shirt. Most pilots onboard Demeter didn't last a month, she had lasted 4 years.
"Thank you Lt Chen, your reputation precedes you. I heard of your actions on the colonies. Why I might not agree with how you handled it, your solution resulted in the least bloodshed. Glad someone had firm head on during that time."
Calming a little she grinned; Tiaan had a beautiful lopsided smile, that spoke so much, but revealed little. Stephanie had joked she'd make a great politician, since everyone would believe her. Of course she had laughed it off, but after what she went through on Argus 50, she felt politicians got off lightly. It had been a routine mission on board the Demeter to collect minerals for transport, what happened though was one of crew members was on the make, and tried to sell them out to local smugglers, she had apparently been a great catch. This is what the record never told though, the reason Alfie didn't get taken in was because she persuaded him to commit suicide, it was easy, almost disturbing how simple it was, she got him to believe he was nothing and no one would miss him. He agreed and agreed and asked what should he do then, Tiaan had simply said this, "Walk out of the airlock and breath deeply."
That was terrifying to see him so solemn and yet so willing.
Fortunately it hadn't been put on record because her actions had scared the smugglers so much they fled. She didn't even have any powers, she just used his weakness to her advantage. No one believed her, and that mission was why she had begged, no pleaded for reassignment.
Eventually Captain Elias Riggs had given in and reassigned her, knowing she wasn't happy, but he was sorry to see her go, since outside of all the pilots she actually wasn't a red-shirt. Most pilots onboard Demeter didn't last a month, she had lasted 4 years.
"Thank you Lt Chen, your reputation precedes you. I heard of your actions on the colonies. Why I might not agree with how you handled it, your solution resulted in the least bloodshed. Glad someone had firm head on during that time."
Alice flicked Tiaan a smile. The expression was fleeting and tight, like she was unaccustomed to displaying that sort of emotion in front of... anyone. Raised by officers and secrets, Alice had spent her entire life suppressing her emotions in the presence of others. 'Stop smiling and salute' had been a more common command in her home than 'it's bedtime, go to sleep.' No one could call her family normal, even without knowing the things she did - about herself, about her mother, even about her illustrious Admiral father, whose record shown even brighter and less tarnished than her own.
An impossible record.
"Thank you, Peyton," Alice murmured, nodding to herself. "The colonies were difficult. I would have preferred any number of other choices but, well... they'd all have gotten someone killed."
And the colonies had been a difficult decision. Vega and Andromeda colonies, both under serious threat by a group of earth-born rebels who believed mankind did not belong in space. Something Alice had found rather amusing, as the rebels themselves were conducting their war in open space... that had not mattered at the time, however. Pointing out hypocritical tendencies was not going to help her. Yes, it had been a very difficult choice to make.
A good thing she had discovered that secret gas pocket just beneath the surface. The one that Vega's governor had been keeping a secret, to be used for his own profit. Evacuate the area, set the gas pocket alight as the rebels approached. Their ships went down, their crew were taken prisoner. So far as Alice knew, there had been only one casualty - a rebel engineer who got too close to the core when the explosion hit them. A wonderful record, considering the situation. All because of that governor's secrets...
Alice shrugged slightly to herself, then glanced over at the coffee pot. "Four cups, you wanted?" she asked calmly. "Best to get drinking. We can't have you hung over on duty."
Every movement sharp, clean, trained for battle, Alice crossed to the cabinets and pulled out a mug. She set it under the machine and poured a mug, then passed it across to Tiaan. She offered one to Davidson, as well, before returning her attention to the pilot girl. Her lopsided smile intrigued Alice... as did the numerous torturous events in the pilot's past.
"And you," she murmured. "From a long and shining line. Just like myself. You were on board the Demeter, were you not?"
An impossible record.
"Thank you, Peyton," Alice murmured, nodding to herself. "The colonies were difficult. I would have preferred any number of other choices but, well... they'd all have gotten someone killed."
And the colonies had been a difficult decision. Vega and Andromeda colonies, both under serious threat by a group of earth-born rebels who believed mankind did not belong in space. Something Alice had found rather amusing, as the rebels themselves were conducting their war in open space... that had not mattered at the time, however. Pointing out hypocritical tendencies was not going to help her. Yes, it had been a very difficult choice to make.
A good thing she had discovered that secret gas pocket just beneath the surface. The one that Vega's governor had been keeping a secret, to be used for his own profit. Evacuate the area, set the gas pocket alight as the rebels approached. Their ships went down, their crew were taken prisoner. So far as Alice knew, there had been only one casualty - a rebel engineer who got too close to the core when the explosion hit them. A wonderful record, considering the situation. All because of that governor's secrets...
Alice shrugged slightly to herself, then glanced over at the coffee pot. "Four cups, you wanted?" she asked calmly. "Best to get drinking. We can't have you hung over on duty."
Every movement sharp, clean, trained for battle, Alice crossed to the cabinets and pulled out a mug. She set it under the machine and poured a mug, then passed it across to Tiaan. She offered one to Davidson, as well, before returning her attention to the pilot girl. Her lopsided smile intrigued Alice... as did the numerous torturous events in the pilot's past.
"And you," she murmured. "From a long and shining line. Just like myself. You were on board the Demeter, were you not?"
Tiaan Peyton
Turning away and sipping the cup thoughtfully she replied in a far away tone, "Yes..." what else could she say, so much had happened on board that ship very little was official record, true Argus 50 events had caused her to leave, but it wasn't the only thing. In fact it had actually been the final straw, but well maybe decades ago Demeter had been a fantastic vessel, state of art, but when she had lived in it. So many things happened. Part of the reason she had been called Birdy was her co-pilot Kelly, whom she had taken out on a routine mission to patrol the sector and scan for minerals. Unfortunately they has miscalculated oxygen levels and went too far, they managed to limp back, but Kelly's had never told her just how bad she was, she just kept saying, "We'll make it Birdy, we'll make it." sadly Kelly's died before any medical help could come back. Only later she had found out that Kelly's had a crush on her, but was too scared to say.
There were so many events that had happened, her time on Demeter had taught her one thing, she couldn't trust anyone for long periods of time. Maybe she was wrong, maybe it was just rules of the jungle there, but she was on board the Salient now a more modern vessel. Could she risk trusting anyone, or would they get hurt? When she had received confirmation of acceptance, she had looked over the logs and details of the flight. The thing that worried her at the time, was the flight path was locked under voice recognition and password. This suggested she had no idea what she was getting into, what else was new?
Turning back she grinned again sipping the cup carefully before answering, "But that's old news, no point living in the past eh?"
Not waiting for an answer, she downed the coffee before picking up her dress and taking another mug, still grinning.
Turning away and sipping the cup thoughtfully she replied in a far away tone, "Yes..." what else could she say, so much had happened on board that ship very little was official record, true Argus 50 events had caused her to leave, but it wasn't the only thing. In fact it had actually been the final straw, but well maybe decades ago Demeter had been a fantastic vessel, state of art, but when she had lived in it. So many things happened. Part of the reason she had been called Birdy was her co-pilot Kelly, whom she had taken out on a routine mission to patrol the sector and scan for minerals. Unfortunately they has miscalculated oxygen levels and went too far, they managed to limp back, but Kelly's had never told her just how bad she was, she just kept saying, "We'll make it Birdy, we'll make it." sadly Kelly's died before any medical help could come back. Only later she had found out that Kelly's had a crush on her, but was too scared to say.
There were so many events that had happened, her time on Demeter had taught her one thing, she couldn't trust anyone for long periods of time. Maybe she was wrong, maybe it was just rules of the jungle there, but she was on board the Salient now a more modern vessel. Could she risk trusting anyone, or would they get hurt? When she had received confirmation of acceptance, she had looked over the logs and details of the flight. The thing that worried her at the time, was the flight path was locked under voice recognition and password. This suggested she had no idea what she was getting into, what else was new?
Turning back she grinned again sipping the cup carefully before answering, "But that's old news, no point living in the past eh?"
Not waiting for an answer, she downed the coffee before picking up her dress and taking another mug, still grinning.
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"No point in reliving the past," Alice agreed quietly. She walked away from the coffee maker without taking any - she did not drink caffeine while on duty. The buzzing energy was no good to control and reasoning, and she was in a position of command. Instead, she poured herself a glass of water and sipped at it. For a moment, she was absentminded. She turned and watched the two pilots, gazing deep into their eyes. Reading them. What she found curved her lips into a very slight smile. These two... would be interesting to work with. Alice thought she was off to a good start. Perhaps here, real, close relationships would be possible.
"I was glad to receive this assignment," she told them, saying the first thing that came to mind. Testing their own enthusiasm about the Salient. "You see some things on board prison vessels that can't be unseen. It's said that prison officers land themselves in the cells more often than not, if they stay too long." She chuckled to herself. No one knew that she had nearly done just that - no one, not even the prison vessel's captain. She'd seen to that. No one dead, no sign of the trouble, no memory for those who had witnessed the event. A simple matter, for Alice Chen. A dark secret she would never let go. "Here's to dodging proverbial bullets." She raised her water as though it were a glass of rich red wine.
"I was glad to receive this assignment," she told them, saying the first thing that came to mind. Testing their own enthusiasm about the Salient. "You see some things on board prison vessels that can't be unseen. It's said that prison officers land themselves in the cells more often than not, if they stay too long." She chuckled to herself. No one knew that she had nearly done just that - no one, not even the prison vessel's captain. She'd seen to that. No one dead, no sign of the trouble, no memory for those who had witnessed the event. A simple matter, for Alice Chen. A dark secret she would never let go. "Here's to dodging proverbial bullets." She raised her water as though it were a glass of rich red wine.
Tiaan Peyton
Giving her lopsided grin she replied, "It's very hush-hush but anything gotta be better than The Demeter. My Dad told me of the Great Warship the Gordian, it was once the gem of the entire fleet." She had no idea why she bringing this up, but well she was happy to be out the Demeter, but she was wondering if this was actually the proverbial frying pan, "He was stationed on it through most of his career, brought tears to his eyes when he heard they had scrapped it for pieces." Now she remembered why she mentioned it, "This ship had pieces of her inside it, in a way it's like the child of her." she smiled brightly winking, "Maybe I'm just a sentimental old fool, but I did look up schematics of this, and three great warships gave pieces to this. It mightn't be obvious, but everything about this ship suggests secrets, whispers of far away or battles once had. We're standing in history, while on brink of it."
Whatever that meant that was sure, taking another sip, she let her wander around, Alice seemed less official that her demenour would suggest, Ray just seemed like a card, someone who loved to play Jack-the-lad. Where she fit in? Was she the Albratross of this mission dooming everyone? The fact she liked both these people scared her. Gulping down too much she choked and coughed up a bit.
Blushing she apologized, "Sorry, drank down too fast."
If only.
Giving her lopsided grin she replied, "It's very hush-hush but anything gotta be better than The Demeter. My Dad told me of the Great Warship the Gordian, it was once the gem of the entire fleet." She had no idea why she bringing this up, but well she was happy to be out the Demeter, but she was wondering if this was actually the proverbial frying pan, "He was stationed on it through most of his career, brought tears to his eyes when he heard they had scrapped it for pieces." Now she remembered why she mentioned it, "This ship had pieces of her inside it, in a way it's like the child of her." she smiled brightly winking, "Maybe I'm just a sentimental old fool, but I did look up schematics of this, and three great warships gave pieces to this. It mightn't be obvious, but everything about this ship suggests secrets, whispers of far away or battles once had. We're standing in history, while on brink of it."
Whatever that meant that was sure, taking another sip, she let her wander around, Alice seemed less official that her demenour would suggest, Ray just seemed like a card, someone who loved to play Jack-the-lad. Where she fit in? Was she the Albratross of this mission dooming everyone? The fact she liked both these people scared her. Gulping down too much she choked and coughed up a bit.
Blushing she apologized, "Sorry, drank down too fast."
If only.
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"Not a problem," Alice answered, waving her off. What sort of person hadn't drunk too fast and choked before? Everyone did it. Alice was more interested in the emotions playing behind Tiaan's mask. Alice was a very... perceptive person. That was the way her father always put it. That was, her father told people in his shame, why she had risen so fast into the rank of Lieutenant Commander. Why she was a prodigy. Perception... she supposed it could be called that. A damned nice name for what she did. She was a thief and a spy. Her father saw to it she knew that - told her constantly, when they were in private. 'What you do is invasive and cruel. Stop.'
She could not stop. It was a part of her.
"There's no need for concern," she observed before she could stop herself. When she saw someone in pain, Alice had a bad habit of trying to comfort them. Whether she should know they were in pain or not. Some people on the prison ship had called her 'the witch', because she always seemed to know. They could put any obscure prisoner in front of her, and she would know exactly why they were in prison. "You can be friends with us. This isn't the Demeter."
She set her water down, half-finished, and met Tiaan's gaze. Alice was known for her more obscure tidbits of advice. It had even been mentioned once or twice on her record. Anyone who knew her reputation would think nothing, or little, of it. Nevertheless, best not to let Tiaan wonder too long about how she had realized what the pilot was worried about.
"You two wanted to go see your ships," she observed. "Shall I accompany you? I've not seen most of the ship yet."
She could not stop. It was a part of her.
"There's no need for concern," she observed before she could stop herself. When she saw someone in pain, Alice had a bad habit of trying to comfort them. Whether she should know they were in pain or not. Some people on the prison ship had called her 'the witch', because she always seemed to know. They could put any obscure prisoner in front of her, and she would know exactly why they were in prison. "You can be friends with us. This isn't the Demeter."
She set her water down, half-finished, and met Tiaan's gaze. Alice was known for her more obscure tidbits of advice. It had even been mentioned once or twice on her record. Anyone who knew her reputation would think nothing, or little, of it. Nevertheless, best not to let Tiaan wonder too long about how she had realized what the pilot was worried about.
"You two wanted to go see your ships," she observed. "Shall I accompany you? I've not seen most of the ship yet."
Tiaan Peyton
Nodding she downed her second cup while picking up another, "Fingers crossed the transfer went through for her." There very little that could truly bother Tiaan outside her own emotional turmoil, but if anyone ever even scratched 'Blue Tit' she would rip their heads off. That fighter was everything to her, a Mercury Class Fighter fully customized with on board rail cannon, Mark 35 Jolt Thrusters, a full supply of five missiles on each wing and finally her secret weapon, a manually controlled proton beam under it. Completing this she was painted Electric Blue with words Blue Tit em-blazed in Gold. This was her pride and joy, and it would destroy her if she found out it hadn't made it.
As she made her way to the Hanger, she said very little, instead listening for the sounds of the ship, wondering if what she had said had been bullshit. But her father had said that all ships record events that took place on them and off them, while being built. It's why Prison Ships often drove people insane, many companies cut corners building them, not caring about loss of life. She wondered if Lt Chen original ship had such a history.
Arriving at the hanger, she opened and the door squeed in joy, there she was standing out in full glory, 'Blue Tit' also on the above the title was calligraphy which stated, 'Birdy's Blue Tit' Kelly had done it. She had almost forgotten it. She should probably paint over it, she kept telling herself that, but part of her felt this would hurt Kelly's memory.
"YES, HERE IT IS." she grinned gleefully, "Ain't she just a beaut!" she had put more love into that ship than any human she had been with. It was her baby, her everything, if she had lost it, it would destroy her.
Nodding she downed her second cup while picking up another, "Fingers crossed the transfer went through for her." There very little that could truly bother Tiaan outside her own emotional turmoil, but if anyone ever even scratched 'Blue Tit' she would rip their heads off. That fighter was everything to her, a Mercury Class Fighter fully customized with on board rail cannon, Mark 35 Jolt Thrusters, a full supply of five missiles on each wing and finally her secret weapon, a manually controlled proton beam under it. Completing this she was painted Electric Blue with words Blue Tit em-blazed in Gold. This was her pride and joy, and it would destroy her if she found out it hadn't made it.
As she made her way to the Hanger, she said very little, instead listening for the sounds of the ship, wondering if what she had said had been bullshit. But her father had said that all ships record events that took place on them and off them, while being built. It's why Prison Ships often drove people insane, many companies cut corners building them, not caring about loss of life. She wondered if Lt Chen original ship had such a history.
Arriving at the hanger, she opened and the door squeed in joy, there she was standing out in full glory, 'Blue Tit' also on the above the title was calligraphy which stated, 'Birdy's Blue Tit' Kelly had done it. She had almost forgotten it. She should probably paint over it, she kept telling herself that, but part of her felt this would hurt Kelly's memory.
"YES, HERE IT IS." she grinned gleefully, "Ain't she just a beaut!" she had put more love into that ship than any human she had been with. It was her baby, her everything, if she had lost it, it would destroy her.
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Alice followed Tiaan in silence, respecting the pilot's need for a lack of conversation. Alice was not the sort of person who minded quiet company, nor did she really care when company was loud. So long as it was the company of someone she liked. And Alice would freely admit that she liked Tiaan. The girl was, as she had first guessed, a spitfire. A troubled spitfire. Alice tended to gravitate towards the troubled people in life. What else could have landed her - by volunteer application - on a prison vessel?
That was a decision she would regret for the rest of her - hopefully long - life.
Alice looked up at Tiaan's outburst, and smiled at the sight of the electric blue fighter.
"She's beautiful," Alice agreed calmly, approaching the ship. She looked, but dared not touch. There was a time when Alice would have given anything to fly in one of these ships, but that time had passed. She had found her love in command, overseeing the battle, ensuring as many people as possible survived. Alice would never hesitate to the take to the front lines, she was simply of more use watching from a distance. Her secrets made sure of that.
"Birdy..." Alice murmured in a contemplative tone, staring up at the writing. She glanced around at Tiaan, into the girl's eyes. Reading her. Alice was grasping at straws now, searching for some common ground to continue to strengthen their relationship. That was what Alice did best - forged bonds in the crew. One of the reasons there had been only six cases of insanity, and four deaths, while she was on board that prison ship. Curse its name... the Nottingham. "I take it that's you?"
That was a decision she would regret for the rest of her - hopefully long - life.
Alice looked up at Tiaan's outburst, and smiled at the sight of the electric blue fighter.
"She's beautiful," Alice agreed calmly, approaching the ship. She looked, but dared not touch. There was a time when Alice would have given anything to fly in one of these ships, but that time had passed. She had found her love in command, overseeing the battle, ensuring as many people as possible survived. Alice would never hesitate to the take to the front lines, she was simply of more use watching from a distance. Her secrets made sure of that.
"Birdy..." Alice murmured in a contemplative tone, staring up at the writing. She glanced around at Tiaan, into the girl's eyes. Reading her. Alice was grasping at straws now, searching for some common ground to continue to strengthen their relationship. That was what Alice did best - forged bonds in the crew. One of the reasons there had been only six cases of insanity, and four deaths, while she was on board that prison ship. Curse its name... the Nottingham. "I take it that's you?"
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
James Grey
James walked slowly down one of the many passageways of the ship, his head bowed slowly so that he was looking at the floor; or at least he would have been if his eyes were open. Anyone who had worked with him before would know what was going on, James was letting ARCHE run a thousand processes through his brain as Grey used his very own mind as a computer for his work. Since none of the people who had known him were onboard though it probably just looked like some shy guy keeping his head down or maybe someone sleep walking onboard the ship.
On the outside James looked just about as peaceful as could be, every muscle relaxed as he moved slowly without a clue where he was going. On the inside was another story, on the back of his eyelids thousands and thousands of points of data flashed around and moved as though they had a mind of their own. This was James’s storm, and he was right at the center of it letting all the information swirl around as he absorbed as much as he could. Every piece of data on how the ship was doing was going through his mind, all illegally obtained by his internal A.I. It was necessary though, without it he couldn’t tell if his prototypes were working correctly and if they didn’t work correctly the ship might very well go boom. James had been making corrects the entire time, compensating for minor fluctuations and problems that were showing up in the codes and issues with the installation. All things considered his little projects were working amazingly, especially since they had never been tested fully.
James stopped for a second as he looked up, his eyes opening for the first time since he’d boarded. He’d seen the whole briefing via a camera feed that ARCHE had tapped into but he hadn’t actually had any contact with anyone except for Lt. Commander Chen. That encounter had ended with her walking away and him getting carried away in the storm of people without getting to answer.
He touched his temple slightly and let out a sigh as he thought. It wouldn’t be good for him to be a loner here, he’d never been the best with people but he still needed to find some allies. At the very least he needed to make sure he didn’t make too many people angry with him.
Ben Owens
Ben let out a small sigh as he scooted himself out from under his fighter, he’d never seen anything so amazing before and it just took his breath away that he was the one who got to fly her. He moved quickly to wipe his hands down, bouncing at the balls of his feet as he always did. The thought of flying had him brimming with energy again and he couldn’t stop it, a small smile masked the flurry of thoughts within him. Even after all his training he still ended up accidently skipping the briefing to work on his fighter, he hadn’t even noticed that he did it. The moment they had let him on board the ship he had planned on being a straight shooter, he just happened to see his fighter out of the corner of his eye while he was walking through and just had to make sure everything was okay with her.
Ben looked her over again as he stood in the doorway, he couldn’t help but feel as though he was the only one who should be allowed to work on her. It wasn’t that the mechanics were good it was just that in the end it would be him out there in the fighter so it would be him who took all the risks. He couldn’t help but think that he should be the one making sure she was flight worthy also.
He turned on a pivot and headed out of the hanger, his arms at his sides and his back as straight as a board. No matter what anyone had every said he had to admit that the academy had drilled more than a little discipline into the young street racer that he used to be. He’d always be thankful to the military, they had let him get his life in order and they had let him do the one thing he loved to do. Fly. There were a few other perks though, food for instance. With that though Ben turned to head out of the hanger.
James walked slowly down one of the many passageways of the ship, his head bowed slowly so that he was looking at the floor; or at least he would have been if his eyes were open. Anyone who had worked with him before would know what was going on, James was letting ARCHE run a thousand processes through his brain as Grey used his very own mind as a computer for his work. Since none of the people who had known him were onboard though it probably just looked like some shy guy keeping his head down or maybe someone sleep walking onboard the ship.
On the outside James looked just about as peaceful as could be, every muscle relaxed as he moved slowly without a clue where he was going. On the inside was another story, on the back of his eyelids thousands and thousands of points of data flashed around and moved as though they had a mind of their own. This was James’s storm, and he was right at the center of it letting all the information swirl around as he absorbed as much as he could. Every piece of data on how the ship was doing was going through his mind, all illegally obtained by his internal A.I. It was necessary though, without it he couldn’t tell if his prototypes were working correctly and if they didn’t work correctly the ship might very well go boom. James had been making corrects the entire time, compensating for minor fluctuations and problems that were showing up in the codes and issues with the installation. All things considered his little projects were working amazingly, especially since they had never been tested fully.
James stopped for a second as he looked up, his eyes opening for the first time since he’d boarded. He’d seen the whole briefing via a camera feed that ARCHE had tapped into but he hadn’t actually had any contact with anyone except for Lt. Commander Chen. That encounter had ended with her walking away and him getting carried away in the storm of people without getting to answer.
He touched his temple slightly and let out a sigh as he thought. It wouldn’t be good for him to be a loner here, he’d never been the best with people but he still needed to find some allies. At the very least he needed to make sure he didn’t make too many people angry with him.
Ben Owens
Ben let out a small sigh as he scooted himself out from under his fighter, he’d never seen anything so amazing before and it just took his breath away that he was the one who got to fly her. He moved quickly to wipe his hands down, bouncing at the balls of his feet as he always did. The thought of flying had him brimming with energy again and he couldn’t stop it, a small smile masked the flurry of thoughts within him. Even after all his training he still ended up accidently skipping the briefing to work on his fighter, he hadn’t even noticed that he did it. The moment they had let him on board the ship he had planned on being a straight shooter, he just happened to see his fighter out of the corner of his eye while he was walking through and just had to make sure everything was okay with her.
Ben looked her over again as he stood in the doorway, he couldn’t help but feel as though he was the only one who should be allowed to work on her. It wasn’t that the mechanics were good it was just that in the end it would be him out there in the fighter so it would be him who took all the risks. He couldn’t help but think that he should be the one making sure she was flight worthy also.
He turned on a pivot and headed out of the hanger, his arms at his sides and his back as straight as a board. No matter what anyone had every said he had to admit that the academy had drilled more than a little discipline into the young street racer that he used to be. He’d always be thankful to the military, they had let him get his life in order and they had let him do the one thing he loved to do. Fly. There were a few other perks though, food for instance. With that though Ben turned to head out of the hanger.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
Tiaan Peyton
Her grin vanished and she stared for a bit, before walking silently over to the ship and stroking her lovingly, some people may have been disturbed with love she showed it. Either way she could less, running her hands over the sleek finish she considered before saying enigmatically, "It doesn't matter." with that said she continued to stroke the curves and bumps of her. Maybe Tiaan was a little messed up, but 'Blue Tit' had never let her down, people tended to do that. Thus said less truths spoken, less risks she took. Instead she would offer half-truths or not answer. In a way it was a game, and most people onboard The Demeter had failed. No one knew she blamed herself constantly for Kelly and Stephanie death. No one knew, and that was how she liked it.
"Everyone has secrets Lt, everyone."
She could admit she was confusing people, but well this was often the case and it was how she worked. Admiring the finish she bent down to check if there was any travelling damage, fortunately there was nothing except scars of battles, she never removed them. Much like a human this ship was a living person, it just never tried to screw her, both literally and figuratively.
Trust in space cost money, love in space cost secrets, and truth in space cost your life. Truth in space was a death sentence, no one wanted to know the real you. Instead they'd rather see you how they perceive you. Don't mistaken this for being a cynic or pessimistic, Tiaan could love, but in end up she saw only pain through it, so instead drifted through life and had fun.
Finally happy with her review of the 'Blue Tit' she smiled cheekily saying nothing, taking occasional sips. This was a tight-rope, lets see if she could keep balance.
Her grin vanished and she stared for a bit, before walking silently over to the ship and stroking her lovingly, some people may have been disturbed with love she showed it. Either way she could less, running her hands over the sleek finish she considered before saying enigmatically, "It doesn't matter." with that said she continued to stroke the curves and bumps of her. Maybe Tiaan was a little messed up, but 'Blue Tit' had never let her down, people tended to do that. Thus said less truths spoken, less risks she took. Instead she would offer half-truths or not answer. In a way it was a game, and most people onboard The Demeter had failed. No one knew she blamed herself constantly for Kelly and Stephanie death. No one knew, and that was how she liked it.
"Everyone has secrets Lt, everyone."
She could admit she was confusing people, but well this was often the case and it was how she worked. Admiring the finish she bent down to check if there was any travelling damage, fortunately there was nothing except scars of battles, she never removed them. Much like a human this ship was a living person, it just never tried to screw her, both literally and figuratively.
Trust in space cost money, love in space cost secrets, and truth in space cost your life. Truth in space was a death sentence, no one wanted to know the real you. Instead they'd rather see you how they perceive you. Don't mistaken this for being a cynic or pessimistic, Tiaan could love, but in end up she saw only pain through it, so instead drifted through life and had fun.
Finally happy with her review of the 'Blue Tit' she smiled cheekily saying nothing, taking occasional sips. This was a tight-rope, lets see if she could keep balance.
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Alice frowned briefly at the comment about secrets... but that frown became a tiny smile. It was true. Unfortunately... those secrets everyone had? She knew most of them. Would likely know all of them by the end of the week. That was simply the way Alice's life worked. Secrets seemed to fall into her lap, whether she wanted them to or not. It got her in trouble sometimes. Never trouble she could not get out of.
There was no such thing as trouble Alice Chen could not get out of.
"Everyone has secrets," Alice agreed calmly. "I know that. Better than most."
Alice took another step closer to the hull, examining the thing. Good construction, right down to the paint job. This fighter would not fail.
"A good ship," Alice observed calmly. "She'll take you far."
Quietly, Alice checked her timepiece. They had some space before they were meant to report, as requested by Captain Dunaway. What he hoped to brief them on, she did not know. No one knew the purpose of this mission. No one.
"Peyton," she murmured, calling the pilot's attention back to her. "I was wondering if you would join me in my quarters tonight, for dinner?" She looked up at Tiaan, dark eyes calm. She reached into the pocket of her uniform and produced a scrunchy. In half an hour's time she would be back on full duty, at the briefing. She had to look like the officer she was. And Lieutenant Commander Chen never let her hair down, even if Alice Chen did. Alice flicked Peyton yet another tiny smile. Almost the smile of someone scared to share things. Almost. More the smile of someone who did not know how to smile. "I have a lot of open bottles in my cabinets. There's no way I'm going to be able to drink them all before they go to waste. At least, not on my own."
More than an invitation - a finally confirmation that Alice was not at all upset about Tiaan's conduct the night before. Why Alice was not upset by it, however, Tiaan could - and would - never know.
There was no such thing as trouble Alice Chen could not get out of.
"Everyone has secrets," Alice agreed calmly. "I know that. Better than most."
Alice took another step closer to the hull, examining the thing. Good construction, right down to the paint job. This fighter would not fail.
"A good ship," Alice observed calmly. "She'll take you far."
Quietly, Alice checked her timepiece. They had some space before they were meant to report, as requested by Captain Dunaway. What he hoped to brief them on, she did not know. No one knew the purpose of this mission. No one.
"Peyton," she murmured, calling the pilot's attention back to her. "I was wondering if you would join me in my quarters tonight, for dinner?" She looked up at Tiaan, dark eyes calm. She reached into the pocket of her uniform and produced a scrunchy. In half an hour's time she would be back on full duty, at the briefing. She had to look like the officer she was. And Lieutenant Commander Chen never let her hair down, even if Alice Chen did. Alice flicked Peyton yet another tiny smile. Almost the smile of someone scared to share things. Almost. More the smile of someone who did not know how to smile. "I have a lot of open bottles in my cabinets. There's no way I'm going to be able to drink them all before they go to waste. At least, not on my own."
More than an invitation - a finally confirmation that Alice was not at all upset about Tiaan's conduct the night before. Why Alice was not upset by it, however, Tiaan could - and would - never know.
Tiaan Peyton
"She's taken me far already, I've been out this sector with her, never a more reliable ship." letting her hand wander over the paint she zoned out again, remembering her Father showing her his vessel, true at this point she hadn't wanted to enter academy, but also at this point she thought boys were icky, guess something never change. It had a gorgeous ship, painted similar to an antique Spitfire he had told her how she never let him down. Even let her see the inside and fly over London. Talk about panicking the City, the mayor had thought London was under attack, the he let her look over, and let the wind fly through her hair. it had been a wonderful time. One of her finest memories and she sometimes missed those times. Especially as she had told Stephanie after, and she had been so jealous, because whereas Tiaan had just wanted to party at a young age, Stephanie had plans to go to the academy. Funny how things change.
Hearing the Lt voice she woke up from the daze, "Dinner, you sure Lt? I don't mean to insult you by the refusal, but well..."
Unsure of how to finish she tried to answer again, "I'm flattered of course, but..."
Again she stalled, sighing she simply replied grinning almost kinda sadly, she nodded, "Okay, I'll be there. I think..."
She let the words hang, as she tried to work out what was going on here. Because this wasn't normal, no sirree, she needed to try find out what to do. Or better yet be late, and not show up, that way no one could get hurt. No one could get hurt. Albatross or not, she had to be careful and not make things awkward. Deep down she already knew things were changing, question was, did she want them too?
"She's taken me far already, I've been out this sector with her, never a more reliable ship." letting her hand wander over the paint she zoned out again, remembering her Father showing her his vessel, true at this point she hadn't wanted to enter academy, but also at this point she thought boys were icky, guess something never change. It had a gorgeous ship, painted similar to an antique Spitfire he had told her how she never let him down. Even let her see the inside and fly over London. Talk about panicking the City, the mayor had thought London was under attack, the he let her look over, and let the wind fly through her hair. it had been a wonderful time. One of her finest memories and she sometimes missed those times. Especially as she had told Stephanie after, and she had been so jealous, because whereas Tiaan had just wanted to party at a young age, Stephanie had plans to go to the academy. Funny how things change.
Hearing the Lt voice she woke up from the daze, "Dinner, you sure Lt? I don't mean to insult you by the refusal, but well..."
Unsure of how to finish she tried to answer again, "I'm flattered of course, but..."
Again she stalled, sighing she simply replied grinning almost kinda sadly, she nodded, "Okay, I'll be there. I think..."
She let the words hang, as she tried to work out what was going on here. Because this wasn't normal, no sirree, she needed to try find out what to do. Or better yet be late, and not show up, that way no one could get hurt. No one could get hurt. Albatross or not, she had to be careful and not make things awkward. Deep down she already knew things were changing, question was, did she want them too?
“Alright, this hall is alphabetically divided into smaller sub-corridors that have individual crew quarters. Just find your hall and look for your individual quarters, its spacious enough, not that we leathernecks need it, am I right?” Eli grinned as a couple of chuckles came from the contingent of marines that he led directly to the Barracks area after the briefing.
Just as he said this an announcement went across the intercom; it was directed at the Marines who turned their heads upwards as if trying to spot the origins of the voice. Their eyes darted back and forth, a characteristic that was common to people being addressed over intercom.
"Attention all military personnel, this is Commander Atomsk Dunaway Meet in Barracks One in 45 minutes. We will be performing a mission brief along with a few evaluations as well as forming our squads. Captain Eli Colter, please meet me at Barracks One immediately for pre-brief." The voice was firm and it meant business.
The last bit surprised Eli; he wondered what the Commander needed him for. He turned to face the marines,
"Alright, you heard the man, set up your quarters, stowaway your belongings, and meet up for the briefing. All of you are dismissed.”
The crowd of marines saluted in unison, their voices rung with unquestionable strength and almost reverberated through the corridors. Then they began disbanding into separate cohesive units, each attending to the sub-corridor that their name belonged to.
Eli then walked into the central area of the Barracks, realizing that the commander was not present; he decided to loiter a bit. He paced to the training facility which was state of the art. He didn’t know what to expect from it though. The last time he activated it, three machine gun turrets popped up and began firing at multiple spawned holographic soldiers that ran and attempted to “kill” him. The displays fired paintballs, similar to the machine guns, and the pistol he was given. He did his best to take out as many of the “hostiles,” but this was a survival mode. There was no way one could beat it, unless they hacked into the system and disabled that mode. Once he was finally hit by the enemy, the tallied record was 101-4. Eli had shot 57 of them, the other 44 was from the three turrets. The opposing team managed to get four kills – the turrets and Eli.
Just as he said this an announcement went across the intercom; it was directed at the Marines who turned their heads upwards as if trying to spot the origins of the voice. Their eyes darted back and forth, a characteristic that was common to people being addressed over intercom.
"Attention all military personnel, this is Commander Atomsk Dunaway Meet in Barracks One in 45 minutes. We will be performing a mission brief along with a few evaluations as well as forming our squads. Captain Eli Colter, please meet me at Barracks One immediately for pre-brief." The voice was firm and it meant business.
The last bit surprised Eli; he wondered what the Commander needed him for. He turned to face the marines,
"Alright, you heard the man, set up your quarters, stowaway your belongings, and meet up for the briefing. All of you are dismissed.”
The crowd of marines saluted in unison, their voices rung with unquestionable strength and almost reverberated through the corridors. Then they began disbanding into separate cohesive units, each attending to the sub-corridor that their name belonged to.
Eli then walked into the central area of the Barracks, realizing that the commander was not present; he decided to loiter a bit. He paced to the training facility which was state of the art. He didn’t know what to expect from it though. The last time he activated it, three machine gun turrets popped up and began firing at multiple spawned holographic soldiers that ran and attempted to “kill” him. The displays fired paintballs, similar to the machine guns, and the pistol he was given. He did his best to take out as many of the “hostiles,” but this was a survival mode. There was no way one could beat it, unless they hacked into the system and disabled that mode. Once he was finally hit by the enemy, the tallied record was 101-4. Eli had shot 57 of them, the other 44 was from the three turrets. The opposing team managed to get four kills – the turrets and Eli.
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Tiaan's stammering brought amusement to Alice's eyes. She smiled at Tiaan, reached out and clapped the soldier on the shoulder.
"Peyton," she murmured, giving the pilot's arm a squeeze before dropping her hand. "It's just dinner. What sort of Lieutenant Commander would I be if I did not get to know my crew?" She shook her head slightly. "Dinner never hurt anyone. I promise you, nothing is going to happen to me because we had some fun."
The way Alice said it made it clear... she pretty much knew what was going through Peyton's head.
Alice turned on one heel and started for the hangar door, gesturing for Peyton to follow. Time to head down to the briefing room.
"And know that if you skip out... this ship is half the size of the Nottingham. I could find serial killers in the walls of that ship. I will be able to find you."
Not a threat. A jibe. A tease, of sorts.
A game?
Yes, Alice thought. Perhaps she was playing games. Then again, after the Nottingham, life itself felt like a game.
Best to take that game just a little further. She flung her request over her shoulder, an afterthought, nothing of significance. Just to... experience Tiaan's reaction. The poor pilot had become Alice's focus. While Alice's focuses soon became her most trusted personnel, they often started out... a little freaked.
"Come to dinner," she commanded. "And wear your dress."
Without another word, she headed out into the hall, making way for the briefing room. It was clear she expected her subordinate to follow.
"Peyton," she murmured, giving the pilot's arm a squeeze before dropping her hand. "It's just dinner. What sort of Lieutenant Commander would I be if I did not get to know my crew?" She shook her head slightly. "Dinner never hurt anyone. I promise you, nothing is going to happen to me because we had some fun."
The way Alice said it made it clear... she pretty much knew what was going through Peyton's head.
Alice turned on one heel and started for the hangar door, gesturing for Peyton to follow. Time to head down to the briefing room.
"And know that if you skip out... this ship is half the size of the Nottingham. I could find serial killers in the walls of that ship. I will be able to find you."
Not a threat. A jibe. A tease, of sorts.
A game?
Yes, Alice thought. Perhaps she was playing games. Then again, after the Nottingham, life itself felt like a game.
Best to take that game just a little further. She flung her request over her shoulder, an afterthought, nothing of significance. Just to... experience Tiaan's reaction. The poor pilot had become Alice's focus. While Alice's focuses soon became her most trusted personnel, they often started out... a little freaked.
"Come to dinner," she commanded. "And wear your dress."
Without another word, she headed out into the hall, making way for the briefing room. It was clear she expected her subordinate to follow.
Atomsk walked as quickly as he could and eventually using the many terminals found his way to Barracks One. He walked in part way through what seemed to be someone in the middle of a training session, recognizing Captain Colter from the profile he reviewed. He was impressed by the Captains skills. He looked at the nearby terminal and checked the score.
After Captain Colter finally got hit, the score read 101-4. He was legitimately impressed. He gave the tired Captain a minute to compose himself after the workout and then walked up to him.
"Captain Colter. How do you do?" He said with a stern yet open voice.
After Captain Colter finally got hit, the score read 101-4. He was legitimately impressed. He gave the tired Captain a minute to compose himself after the workout and then walked up to him.
"Captain Colter. How do you do?" He said with a stern yet open voice.
Aronimus finally reached the Bridge, and he noted the large attendance of command personnel zipping between areas even before he arrived. Once he did though, they were almost unaware of his presence. That was the case until one recruit noticed him and immediately stood at attention, saluting him, and addressing him formally. Others saw this and repeated his actions but in their varying and distinctive mannerisms.
“At ease everyone, continue with your activities” he commanded all of them. He smiled, comforted by their professionalism which contradicted his previous notion that the ship was full of inexperienced recruits. Or maybe they just had raw talent, as Captain Colter had said.
The admiral went to his command platform, and sat in the captain’s chair. The seat was anything but soft; at least it was smooth though with various peculiar grooves. He felt like reclining in his seat, but he realized that he had a job to do. Besides, this was going to be a long trip; there was plenty of time for him to rest and repose.
Aronimus then reached forward for a key on his desk panel, and pressed it. A circular hatch opened on his desk, and a circular formation with several layers of metallic rings that were resting within began to protrude upwards until the final inner ring formed the very crown of the ringed tower formation. Then a small cyan light activated, and A.D.A.M. came into presence as a miniature three-dimensional figure.
“Admiral, I was just recalibrating some minor system errors regarding the engines, what do you need of me?” A.D.A.M. inquired in an automated tone.
“Yes, Adam, I need you to relay this across the speakers on the ship.” He waited for a green light on the screen in front him. Once it had blinked, the Admiral began speaking directly to Adam, who was in fact the direct link to the speakers.
“Attention all crew members on board the Salient. This is your Admiral speaking. I just wanted to say that we are departing now. Prepare for atmospheric ascent. I also want to wish everyone onboard good luck and a safe journey, let us hope that we’ll return in one piece.”
Aronimus then turned off the communications link and addressed one of the navigators who was locked and focused on a computer.
“Mr. Summer, set a course to the Arcturus System,” with those words, the Salient’s thrusters then activated slowly. The station’s cranes and mechanical arms began to retract from the ship. All fuel cells pulled away automatically, and the ship slowly hovered forth and began to ascend Callisto’s artificial skies. The interior of the ship, however, hummed softly as most of the crew barely felt anything aside from the artificial gravity generated by the main power core.
“At ease everyone, continue with your activities” he commanded all of them. He smiled, comforted by their professionalism which contradicted his previous notion that the ship was full of inexperienced recruits. Or maybe they just had raw talent, as Captain Colter had said.
The admiral went to his command platform, and sat in the captain’s chair. The seat was anything but soft; at least it was smooth though with various peculiar grooves. He felt like reclining in his seat, but he realized that he had a job to do. Besides, this was going to be a long trip; there was plenty of time for him to rest and repose.
Aronimus then reached forward for a key on his desk panel, and pressed it. A circular hatch opened on his desk, and a circular formation with several layers of metallic rings that were resting within began to protrude upwards until the final inner ring formed the very crown of the ringed tower formation. Then a small cyan light activated, and A.D.A.M. came into presence as a miniature three-dimensional figure.
“Admiral, I was just recalibrating some minor system errors regarding the engines, what do you need of me?” A.D.A.M. inquired in an automated tone.
“Yes, Adam, I need you to relay this across the speakers on the ship.” He waited for a green light on the screen in front him. Once it had blinked, the Admiral began speaking directly to Adam, who was in fact the direct link to the speakers.
“Attention all crew members on board the Salient. This is your Admiral speaking. I just wanted to say that we are departing now. Prepare for atmospheric ascent. I also want to wish everyone onboard good luck and a safe journey, let us hope that we’ll return in one piece.”
Aronimus then turned off the communications link and addressed one of the navigators who was locked and focused on a computer.
“Mr. Summer, set a course to the Arcturus System,” with those words, the Salient’s thrusters then activated slowly. The station’s cranes and mechanical arms began to retract from the ship. All fuel cells pulled away automatically, and the ship slowly hovered forth and began to ascend Callisto’s artificial skies. The interior of the ship, however, hummed softly as most of the crew barely felt anything aside from the artificial gravity generated by the main power core.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Barracks
Although exhausted, Eli remembered to salute before addressing the Commander, it was his duty to do so as a soldier, but Eli did it out of respect. Although as of late, the only people he could salute without feeling disgusted or distraught was the admiral. Perhaps because he felt cheated, and he felt he had cheated. His former squad mates returned to his thoughts. Their faces had battle scars, gruff beards, and piercing eyes. Some were smirking, others looked composed, while others still looked hardened from war. However, he didn't want to return to those feelings or those moments again. Leaving them behind to waste away was the best option.
The intercom soon went on, and the admiral's voice was projected.
“Attention all crew members on board the Salient. This is your Admiral speaking. I just wanted to say that we are departing now. Prepare for atmospheric ascent. I also want to wish everyone onboard good luck and a safe journey, let us hope that we’ll return in one piece.”
The last part, Eli could only sigh and wonder if that was merely wishful thinking, but at least they were finally departing. Eli for one was departing from his past, from the memories he would leave behind. He would shed away his old skin and find a new way out there in space. He was almost lost in his thoughts had it not been for the commander's inquiry. He conditioned his breathing until it returned to resting rate, and then he addressed Commander Dunaway.
"I'm good sir. What was it you wanted me for?" Eli asked, unsure about the commander's intentions.
The intercom soon went on, and the admiral's voice was projected.
“Attention all crew members on board the Salient. This is your Admiral speaking. I just wanted to say that we are departing now. Prepare for atmospheric ascent. I also want to wish everyone onboard good luck and a safe journey, let us hope that we’ll return in one piece.”
The last part, Eli could only sigh and wonder if that was merely wishful thinking, but at least they were finally departing. Eli for one was departing from his past, from the memories he would leave behind. He would shed away his old skin and find a new way out there in space. He was almost lost in his thoughts had it not been for the commander's inquiry. He conditioned his breathing until it returned to resting rate, and then he addressed Commander Dunaway.
"I'm good sir. What was it you wanted me for?" Eli asked, unsure about the commander's intentions.
The setting changes from Barracks to The Milky Way Universe
Tiaan Peyton
Jumping in alarm Tiaan decided she didn't hear what she thought she did, and even if she did, she shouldn't be turning pink. Nope, she shouldn't be and now should start focusing again on ship, trying to hide her face, she leapt into her cockpit and check the controls, feeling the ship finally leaving the atmosphere she relaxed and sat in her wing. Probably should go to her room to relax, but despite it's size she found her fighter more homely. Checking the hatch in the cockpit she pulled out her lucky charm, a WW2 Swiss Army Knife, beautiful in design with a polished wooden handle and shiny sharp blade. She had made sure it was clean and in good working order. Sometimes the blood seeped into the cracks, but this time she had got it out.
Trying to work out what to do, she sat back and went over conversation in her mind, but no matter how she turned it over in her mind. Nothing made sense, why should she wear her dress, it's not like she it meant anything. Did it? Did it? Nah it couldn't it was just an apology, but still should she show, or instead pretend to forget -- not like she could really forget, but secrets would always exist, no matter the case.
Sitting back she wondered if this was all just a dream and she was still asleep, still to wake up? Maybe she could wake up now and leave the room, that thought seemed so inviting. Life didn't work like this, so it had to be a dream.
Pinching herself hard, she sighed and waited.
Nothing...
What now Tiaan, what now?
Jumping in alarm Tiaan decided she didn't hear what she thought she did, and even if she did, she shouldn't be turning pink. Nope, she shouldn't be and now should start focusing again on ship, trying to hide her face, she leapt into her cockpit and check the controls, feeling the ship finally leaving the atmosphere she relaxed and sat in her wing. Probably should go to her room to relax, but despite it's size she found her fighter more homely. Checking the hatch in the cockpit she pulled out her lucky charm, a WW2 Swiss Army Knife, beautiful in design with a polished wooden handle and shiny sharp blade. She had made sure it was clean and in good working order. Sometimes the blood seeped into the cracks, but this time she had got it out.
Trying to work out what to do, she sat back and went over conversation in her mind, but no matter how she turned it over in her mind. Nothing made sense, why should she wear her dress, it's not like she it meant anything. Did it? Did it? Nah it couldn't it was just an apology, but still should she show, or instead pretend to forget -- not like she could really forget, but secrets would always exist, no matter the case.
Sitting back she wondered if this was all just a dream and she was still asleep, still to wake up? Maybe she could wake up now and leave the room, that thought seemed so inviting. Life didn't work like this, so it had to be a dream.
Pinching herself hard, she sighed and waited.
Nothing...
What now Tiaan, what now?
Ray had taken the time to call the boys down in clean up, they claimed they had finished their shift of the day but when Ray reminded them of the rooms occupant they got right on the job.
Ray didn't say much while they where all in the room; he didn't understand the Co's intentions and wanted to make sure this was not a trap of some kind. Ray had a long standing dislike of CO's ever since he got his wings and a trust problem ever since the war which was really rich coming from him since he himself was now a bloody unit commander which was near the air forces rank of wing commander.
As the conversation progressed Ray felt the chances of the CO pulling off a double game was low enough for him to take part in it once they got to the hanger.
Tiaan was fussing over her fighter which Ray identified as being a major character in fighter pilots; pilots like him who had to deal with the heavy escorts and gunships didn't establish as much of a bond with their machines because they had a tendency of surviving battles only to be scrapped because the damage they had suffered was too expensive to repair. In a fighter you ether survived with your fighter or got killed with your fighter as there was no fancy armor to protect you like on the heavy escorts and the gunships.
However Ray and other heavy pilots normally knew their machines far better then fighter pilots did; Ray knew exactly how much his gunship could take and what he could or could not do because Gunships and heavy escorts where not built for fast and furious combat styles but for what heavy pilots called "shield wall" formations which acted as the iron fist of an attack.
Heavy pilots where naturally defensive while fighter pilots where mentally offensive because all they had to defend themselves with was their weapons and their speed; all they could do was kill of be killed and thus developed a connection with their machines which while it could be irrational was normally deeper then that of other smaller craft ships.
"Fine fighter you have there, in Saturn we normally have the federation's junked fighters but our military command got fed up with the treatment so we started making our own like this beauty for example:
Ray turned to his gunship and opened the cat flip door
"She doesn’t look like much but she is the closest think to a fighter command ship; hell I have enough room on her to bring two of your lot aboard if I wanted too and still have room for at least half the marines."
The designee of the swing class had room for only one fighter originally but Ray and his unit redesigned their stock of the swing class to include an up section which could strap another fighter to it at the expense of the old fashion observation deck which every one in Ray's unit agreed had no useful purpose.
Ray turned to the two women as he stood on the ramp
"Well sir if you are ever sent on a long distanced raid from the ship to command the fighters; this will be the place you will be on. Any of you want to have a look?"
Ray didn't say much while they where all in the room; he didn't understand the Co's intentions and wanted to make sure this was not a trap of some kind. Ray had a long standing dislike of CO's ever since he got his wings and a trust problem ever since the war which was really rich coming from him since he himself was now a bloody unit commander which was near the air forces rank of wing commander.
As the conversation progressed Ray felt the chances of the CO pulling off a double game was low enough for him to take part in it once they got to the hanger.
Tiaan was fussing over her fighter which Ray identified as being a major character in fighter pilots; pilots like him who had to deal with the heavy escorts and gunships didn't establish as much of a bond with their machines because they had a tendency of surviving battles only to be scrapped because the damage they had suffered was too expensive to repair. In a fighter you ether survived with your fighter or got killed with your fighter as there was no fancy armor to protect you like on the heavy escorts and the gunships.
However Ray and other heavy pilots normally knew their machines far better then fighter pilots did; Ray knew exactly how much his gunship could take and what he could or could not do because Gunships and heavy escorts where not built for fast and furious combat styles but for what heavy pilots called "shield wall" formations which acted as the iron fist of an attack.
Heavy pilots where naturally defensive while fighter pilots where mentally offensive because all they had to defend themselves with was their weapons and their speed; all they could do was kill of be killed and thus developed a connection with their machines which while it could be irrational was normally deeper then that of other smaller craft ships.
"Fine fighter you have there, in Saturn we normally have the federation's junked fighters but our military command got fed up with the treatment so we started making our own like this beauty for example:
Ray turned to his gunship and opened the cat flip door
"She doesn’t look like much but she is the closest think to a fighter command ship; hell I have enough room on her to bring two of your lot aboard if I wanted too and still have room for at least half the marines."
The designee of the swing class had room for only one fighter originally but Ray and his unit redesigned their stock of the swing class to include an up section which could strap another fighter to it at the expense of the old fashion observation deck which every one in Ray's unit agreed had no useful purpose.
Ray turned to the two women as he stood on the ramp
"Well sir if you are ever sent on a long distanced raid from the ship to command the fighters; this will be the place you will be on. Any of you want to have a look?"
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Alice paused outside the hangar, took one deep breath and headed for the bridge. The Admiral's announcement was no surprise to her. It was about time that they got underway. The announcement did, however, alter Alice's destination. The briefing room would have to wait - so would the troubled pilot she had taken a liking to. She was second in command aboard the Salient, and before they got truly underway, Alice thought it might be a good idea for her to forge some sort of connection with the first in command. Alice headed for the bridge.
The room was quiet, relatively. The personnel worked efficiently as the Salient peeled away from the docking bay. They were off...
Taking a deep breath, the young Lieutenant Commander approached her Admiral. Alice saluted him precisely as was expected. Hard not to, when she'd saluted her first Admiral at the age of two. The price of having an Admiral for a father.
"Admiral Weston," she addressed him calmly, the utmost respect in her eyes. "Reporting for bridge duty."
The room was quiet, relatively. The personnel worked efficiently as the Salient peeled away from the docking bay. They were off...
Taking a deep breath, the young Lieutenant Commander approached her Admiral. Alice saluted him precisely as was expected. Hard not to, when she'd saluted her first Admiral at the age of two. The price of having an Admiral for a father.
"Admiral Weston," she addressed him calmly, the utmost respect in her eyes. "Reporting for bridge duty."
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Bridge
A.D.A.M
"Admiral I must inquire, when I was wired in why did they leave me running at 1.2% capacity? It's not like the ship is going to run out of power by me running on full, and even if that's the case my corrections just increased available power by 8% and if the engineers would check the areas I'm detecting irregularities we could increase that from anywhere to 10-15%. Furthermore, if they fear me running rampant why give you the codes to alter my processing limit at well as making me require direct human confirmation to use any mechanical part of the ship?" These questions had bugged A.D.A.M from the get go, with so many limitations it seemed pointless to put him on the ship.
"Furthermore both Clyde and Engineer James Grey's personal AI, Arche have made it painfully obvious that I currently do not have to processing capabilities to run super high profile tasks and maintain our ship's cyber security. By the way I've been allowing Arche access to key ship running data since we are running on dozens of prototypes designed my James and he was part of the design of many more key component modifications and helped with the installation of countless pieces of the ship." A.D.A.M knew he shouldn't have made such a call on his own but if someone who helped built the ship was on board and actively taking an interest in keeping the ship in optimal performance, he may as well grant them access.
"Admiral I must inquire, when I was wired in why did they leave me running at 1.2% capacity? It's not like the ship is going to run out of power by me running on full, and even if that's the case my corrections just increased available power by 8% and if the engineers would check the areas I'm detecting irregularities we could increase that from anywhere to 10-15%. Furthermore, if they fear me running rampant why give you the codes to alter my processing limit at well as making me require direct human confirmation to use any mechanical part of the ship?" These questions had bugged A.D.A.M from the get go, with so many limitations it seemed pointless to put him on the ship.
"Furthermore both Clyde and Engineer James Grey's personal AI, Arche have made it painfully obvious that I currently do not have to processing capabilities to run super high profile tasks and maintain our ship's cyber security. By the way I've been allowing Arche access to key ship running data since we are running on dozens of prototypes designed my James and he was part of the design of many more key component modifications and helped with the installation of countless pieces of the ship." A.D.A.M knew he shouldn't have made such a call on his own but if someone who helped built the ship was on board and actively taking an interest in keeping the ship in optimal performance, he may as well grant them access.
"At ease Ms. Chen," Aronimus swiveled in his chair to face her. The admiral had a habit of addressing people in that manner; he wasn't the type to get into detail about ranks. He recognized her position in the bridge and on the ship, and he felt it was not necessary to call her Lieutenant Commander incessantly. Before she approached him, he was busy going through any new feeds from command. The chatter on the main channels were flooded, as it turns out another disruption in the circuit was reported. Insurgents had hijacked a party yacht with a well-known celebrity along with his acquaintances on board. Thankfully, a Tier One team managed to infiltrate and subdue them before their plans came to maturity. Unfortunately though, the hijackers committed suicide to prevent capture.
As of now, the Salient was currently on schedule, which was unexpected to the Admiral. He thought they would’ve been behind schedule, but even then it was his duty to make sure they made it to the Arcturus System exactly on the dot. He was thankful that he could trust his crew to pull their weight which would make his job a lot easier.
"So, what are your thoughts so far on the personnel, and the ship?" the admiral inquired. He didn't expect pleasing reviews, but he didn’t expect to hear negative ones either. In limbo, that was the sort of opinion he expected from Alice. Anything otherwise would amuse him.
As of now, the Salient was currently on schedule, which was unexpected to the Admiral. He thought they would’ve been behind schedule, but even then it was his duty to make sure they made it to the Arcturus System exactly on the dot. He was thankful that he could trust his crew to pull their weight which would make his job a lot easier.
"So, what are your thoughts so far on the personnel, and the ship?" the admiral inquired. He didn't expect pleasing reviews, but he didn’t expect to hear negative ones either. In limbo, that was the sort of opinion he expected from Alice. Anything otherwise would amuse him.
The setting changes from Bridge to The Milky Way Universe
"I like to get to know my men better Eli, and from what I understand you are important on this ship. I just wanted to talk to you some."
He paused for a moment gathering his thoughts. He could see some distraught in the Captain's face with the salute. He read the Captain's profile and understood he had a few authority problems like him. Although the Captains weren't as severe. The look he saw in the Captains face was pain. He read the incident that got the Captain here, and he was sure that it still hurt him even now.
"An incident on Mars with some insurgents nearly got you court marshaled. A little arrogance. A little breaking the rules. You lost some men that day."
He saw a uncomfortable shift in the Captain when he brought up the subject. He wanted to gauge the emotions of the Captain. He was sizing up the Captain for more then just himself. He still had yet to declare a Second in command for Planetary Operations Commander. He placed a lot of trust and put many duties on the person that he declared his second. With Jon here he normally would have immediately named Jon his second. But Captain Colter's profile interested him, and he felt the Captain would be more to his taste.
He paused for a moment gathering his thoughts. He could see some distraught in the Captain's face with the salute. He read the Captain's profile and understood he had a few authority problems like him. Although the Captains weren't as severe. The look he saw in the Captains face was pain. He read the incident that got the Captain here, and he was sure that it still hurt him even now.
"An incident on Mars with some insurgents nearly got you court marshaled. A little arrogance. A little breaking the rules. You lost some men that day."
He saw a uncomfortable shift in the Captain when he brought up the subject. He wanted to gauge the emotions of the Captain. He was sizing up the Captain for more then just himself. He still had yet to declare a Second in command for Planetary Operations Commander. He placed a lot of trust and put many duties on the person that he declared his second. With Jon here he normally would have immediately named Jon his second. But Captain Colter's profile interested him, and he felt the Captain would be more to his taste.
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Alice dropped her stiff salute and clasped her hands behind her back, standing calmly at Aronimus's side. She had no fear of rank or power. He was an Admiral, she was Lieutenant Commander. That made her his subordinate. She would follow his orders. That did not mean she had to be afraid of him, and she would not be. Alice had never in her life feared a superior.
She considered his question carefully, calmly, before answering.
"The ship," she murmured. "Is what I expected. It will serve its purpose. It is no fresh new battle-cruiser, but more than enough for... whatever it is we are doing, I am sure." She was not sure. Neither was Aronimus. That was something she was sure of. "Of course, considering that my last deployment was the Nottingham, I'm sure you will understand when I say that this place feels like heaven." She gave him a small, wry smile. The Nottingham was known throughout the Federation to be the most dangerous prison assignment available. No place for an officer as young as Alice - and yet, there she had been, in the thick of its chaos.
"As for the personnel," she continued evenly, "they seem talented, some experienced. I have spent some time with a pair of pilots. Interesting people, good soldiers. They should make for a... fascinating... experience on this voyage." She nodded to herself. How else to explain it? "Of course, everyone I have met has some serious baggage weighing them down. I do not doubt that there will be some emotional tension to be dealt in these first few weeks."
She fell silent, looking to her superior. Alice was well known for her neutral and thorough examinations of ship and crew. She left no detail unexamined. She was neither optimist, nor pessimist. A realist by pure nature.
She considered his question carefully, calmly, before answering.
"The ship," she murmured. "Is what I expected. It will serve its purpose. It is no fresh new battle-cruiser, but more than enough for... whatever it is we are doing, I am sure." She was not sure. Neither was Aronimus. That was something she was sure of. "Of course, considering that my last deployment was the Nottingham, I'm sure you will understand when I say that this place feels like heaven." She gave him a small, wry smile. The Nottingham was known throughout the Federation to be the most dangerous prison assignment available. No place for an officer as young as Alice - and yet, there she had been, in the thick of its chaos.
"As for the personnel," she continued evenly, "they seem talented, some experienced. I have spent some time with a pair of pilots. Interesting people, good soldiers. They should make for a... fascinating... experience on this voyage." She nodded to herself. How else to explain it? "Of course, everyone I have met has some serious baggage weighing them down. I do not doubt that there will be some emotional tension to be dealt in these first few weeks."
She fell silent, looking to her superior. Alice was well known for her neutral and thorough examinations of ship and crew. She left no detail unexamined. She was neither optimist, nor pessimist. A realist by pure nature.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
Marcus Bergman
The man had figured this ship was a lot like a hospital; you had bridge officers that were much like administrators, pilots had the same cocksure idiom as surgeons and engineers were simply diagnosticians for the inorganic patient. He had missed orientation, skipped it really; if you've been to one "welcome aboard" gathering you've been to them all. Marcus found his quarters easy enough; a simple utilitarian room with little accoutrement. He put his satchel on the bed and would unpack his things later; the picture of his wife he placed on the small desk and sighed. Marcus had obtained his duty assignment when he checked in for boarding, listed as a science officer and not in the medical category and so he made made his way to the Science Laboratory to try and correct the mistake.
He had feared the ship would be a metallic labyrinth but with easy to navigate "You are Here" schematics powered by the ship's AI it was a simple to reach his destination. The science laboratory was definitely more suited for physicist than a medical professional. The woman that oversaw this node was named Adriana Stark, though she wasn't present now the area looked lived in. He could appreciate an over indulgent worker, birds of a feather flocked together the old adage was. The man typed a quick message on a data-pad regarding who he was and what he was doing here:
Doctor Stark,
My name is Doctor Marcus Bergman, the crew roster has me listed as a scientist yet my affiliation is of a medical speciality. I assumed I would be assigned a work-space in the med-bay, after all what good is a cook at the helm of a gunship? I plan to sort this out, however if I am mistaken then I'll be back and a more formal introduction can be performed.
With all courtesy,
Doctor M. Bergman
Marcus placed the data-pad where he was sure the woman would find it and left to seek out the Chief Medical Officer Doctor Mackenzie. He was certain there was a way to locate a member of the crew by utilising the AI but wasn't sure how to go about it. Marcus preferred more analogue methodology; hell he still wrote with ink on paper for personal notation. As he left the lab the Admiral's announcement that they would be under-way sounded through the comm system. He frowned, the various members of the crew would be buzzing about their posts and would likely not offer much help to lost doctors. Nevertheless, he wanted to be firmly settled not floating in some type of occupational purgatory. A failure to locate Doctor Mackenzie would however afford him an opportunity to introduce himself to the would-be administrators, the bridge officers that had the fantastic power to reprimand and praise in a singular breath. Marcus decided he would walk towards the bridge in the hopes that the closer he got the greater the chance to stumble upon the Doctor or random under officer that could direct him to an appropriate representative.
The man had figured this ship was a lot like a hospital; you had bridge officers that were much like administrators, pilots had the same cocksure idiom as surgeons and engineers were simply diagnosticians for the inorganic patient. He had missed orientation, skipped it really; if you've been to one "welcome aboard" gathering you've been to them all. Marcus found his quarters easy enough; a simple utilitarian room with little accoutrement. He put his satchel on the bed and would unpack his things later; the picture of his wife he placed on the small desk and sighed. Marcus had obtained his duty assignment when he checked in for boarding, listed as a science officer and not in the medical category and so he made made his way to the Science Laboratory to try and correct the mistake.
He had feared the ship would be a metallic labyrinth but with easy to navigate "You are Here" schematics powered by the ship's AI it was a simple to reach his destination. The science laboratory was definitely more suited for physicist than a medical professional. The woman that oversaw this node was named Adriana Stark, though she wasn't present now the area looked lived in. He could appreciate an over indulgent worker, birds of a feather flocked together the old adage was. The man typed a quick message on a data-pad regarding who he was and what he was doing here:
Doctor Stark,
My name is Doctor Marcus Bergman, the crew roster has me listed as a scientist yet my affiliation is of a medical speciality. I assumed I would be assigned a work-space in the med-bay, after all what good is a cook at the helm of a gunship? I plan to sort this out, however if I am mistaken then I'll be back and a more formal introduction can be performed.
With all courtesy,
Doctor M. Bergman
Marcus placed the data-pad where he was sure the woman would find it and left to seek out the Chief Medical Officer Doctor Mackenzie. He was certain there was a way to locate a member of the crew by utilising the AI but wasn't sure how to go about it. Marcus preferred more analogue methodology; hell he still wrote with ink on paper for personal notation. As he left the lab the Admiral's announcement that they would be under-way sounded through the comm system. He frowned, the various members of the crew would be buzzing about their posts and would likely not offer much help to lost doctors. Nevertheless, he wanted to be firmly settled not floating in some type of occupational purgatory. A failure to locate Doctor Mackenzie would however afford him an opportunity to introduce himself to the would-be administrators, the bridge officers that had the fantastic power to reprimand and praise in a singular breath. Marcus decided he would walk towards the bridge in the hopes that the closer he got the greater the chance to stumble upon the Doctor or random under officer that could direct him to an appropriate representative.
{In Eon's head}
Text appears in the darkness: Sleep mode deactivated. Initiating basic systems.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eon opened his eyes text appears: Auditory Systems: Active. Verbal systems: Active. Drive train: Active. All systems active. Charge complete
After the message from his internal computer Eon-312 proceeded out of the room he was charging in and to the bridge and proceeded past others whom were speaking to each other. He passed through the Mess halls, Barracks and stopped at an observation deck looking out to analyze where he was. He reached the bridge and looked for the Admiral, "Android 7833, Eon-312 reporting for duty." he said in his usual robotic voice with a salute.
Text appears in the darkness: Sleep mode deactivated. Initiating basic systems.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eon opened his eyes text appears: Auditory Systems: Active. Verbal systems: Active. Drive train: Active. All systems active. Charge complete
After the message from his internal computer Eon-312 proceeded out of the room he was charging in and to the bridge and proceeded past others whom were speaking to each other. He passed through the Mess halls, Barracks and stopped at an observation deck looking out to analyze where he was. He reached the bridge and looked for the Admiral, "Android 7833, Eon-312 reporting for duty." he said in his usual robotic voice with a salute.
Eli relaxed his stance, the commander was trying to comb him, and he was perfectly fine with it. He had nothing to hide; after all, he had passed the first step which was denial.
He looked away from the commander a bit, scratching his head, which had become uncharacteristically common for Eli to do ever since the Mars incident. The Mars incident, it was an odd name; it was better dubbed the Mars disaster, or Mars failure, or even Mars fiasco. No matter what name was given to it, it was all the same to Eli.
“Uh…” he sighed a bit.
“Yes sir, an incident on Mars. One I’m not very proud of,” that was perhaps the only part Eli would ever be frank about regarding that operation.
“The docs said I had PTSD,” he chuckled to himself as he looked on.
“I really doubt them…I’m still here and I’m still ready to go. There aren’t any monsters swimming inside of me," he reassured the commander, but mainly tried to reassure himself.
That was a lie, Eli did his best to cover it, most of the time he succeeded in doing so. The only people who knew otherwise were the Admiral, he himself, and his maker. In between that, the ghosts of fellow squad mates would come up every so often, not to haunt him, but to console him for his actions that day. He didn’t trust them, he had eyes, he saw what happened, and what he saw was exactly what happened. The bomb exploded right by Sanders, Richter, Ellsworth, Minigan, and Ferrar. Sanders, Ellsworth, and Minigan were blown to smithereens. Scraps of their body armor that was covered in mud were their only remains. Richter and Ferrar were lucky, or at least Eli had thought so.
He looked away from the commander a bit, scratching his head, which had become uncharacteristically common for Eli to do ever since the Mars incident. The Mars incident, it was an odd name; it was better dubbed the Mars disaster, or Mars failure, or even Mars fiasco. No matter what name was given to it, it was all the same to Eli.
“Uh…” he sighed a bit.
“Yes sir, an incident on Mars. One I’m not very proud of,” that was perhaps the only part Eli would ever be frank about regarding that operation.
“The docs said I had PTSD,” he chuckled to himself as he looked on.
“I really doubt them…I’m still here and I’m still ready to go. There aren’t any monsters swimming inside of me," he reassured the commander, but mainly tried to reassure himself.
That was a lie, Eli did his best to cover it, most of the time he succeeded in doing so. The only people who knew otherwise were the Admiral, he himself, and his maker. In between that, the ghosts of fellow squad mates would come up every so often, not to haunt him, but to console him for his actions that day. He didn’t trust them, he had eyes, he saw what happened, and what he saw was exactly what happened. The bomb exploded right by Sanders, Richter, Ellsworth, Minigan, and Ferrar. Sanders, Ellsworth, and Minigan were blown to smithereens. Scraps of their body armor that was covered in mud were their only remains. Richter and Ferrar were lucky, or at least Eli had thought so.
The setting changes from Barracks to F.S.S. Salient
Clyde - Bridge
Clyde did not regret his decision to wire his brain into the ship and spy at all. Quite the opposite, he would have regretted it if he hadn't. It was an amusing ship to be on to say the least. Commander Dunaway was swooning over the Admiral like some lovesick teenager. The second in command had arranged a dinner date with one of the fighter pilots. Captain Colter could do more damage with a pistol than three automated turrets could together.
When the command came to launch the ship, Clyde didn't move a muscle. He had plotted the course ages ago, and the ship was ready. He was more interested in watching the crew. Then A.D.A.M. voiced his concerns to the Admiral. This was surprising to Clyde, yet at the same time he knew all to well that it wasn't surprising. What kind of computer complains to its user? The sentient kind. He decided to answer A.D.A.M., privately of course, even though the complaints weren't directed at him.
They limited you because you can ask questions like that, A.D.A.M.. Normal AI's don't ask questions. You're an extraordinary being, and they don't know what you are capable of. They fear you running rampant, but they also understand that there have to be ways for you to work without limits. It is Weston's discretion to decide what you can and will do.
And about those irregularities. What's stopping you from asking an engineer to take a look? Mr. Gray doesn't seem to be too busy.
Adriana - Barracks One
Adriana had little else to do with her latest work in the garbage and the ship weapons unused. She reported to Barracks One when the summons came, despite being early. She entered the barracks and found it occupied only by Commander Dunaway and Captain Colter. That was fine. She found a place to wait and sat down silently. In the mean time she would daydream of new weapons. It wasn't just her job; it was her passion. She spent more time dreaming up new weapons than she did interacting with other humans, and that was just fine.
Clyde did not regret his decision to wire his brain into the ship and spy at all. Quite the opposite, he would have regretted it if he hadn't. It was an amusing ship to be on to say the least. Commander Dunaway was swooning over the Admiral like some lovesick teenager. The second in command had arranged a dinner date with one of the fighter pilots. Captain Colter could do more damage with a pistol than three automated turrets could together.
When the command came to launch the ship, Clyde didn't move a muscle. He had plotted the course ages ago, and the ship was ready. He was more interested in watching the crew. Then A.D.A.M. voiced his concerns to the Admiral. This was surprising to Clyde, yet at the same time he knew all to well that it wasn't surprising. What kind of computer complains to its user? The sentient kind. He decided to answer A.D.A.M., privately of course, even though the complaints weren't directed at him.
They limited you because you can ask questions like that, A.D.A.M.. Normal AI's don't ask questions. You're an extraordinary being, and they don't know what you are capable of. They fear you running rampant, but they also understand that there have to be ways for you to work without limits. It is Weston's discretion to decide what you can and will do.
And about those irregularities. What's stopping you from asking an engineer to take a look? Mr. Gray doesn't seem to be too busy.
Adriana - Barracks One
Adriana had little else to do with her latest work in the garbage and the ship weapons unused. She reported to Barracks One when the summons came, despite being early. She entered the barracks and found it occupied only by Commander Dunaway and Captain Colter. That was fine. She found a place to wait and sat down silently. In the mean time she would daydream of new weapons. It wasn't just her job; it was her passion. She spent more time dreaming up new weapons than she did interacting with other humans, and that was just fine.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to Hangar
Jessica had been over the Rapier with a fine-toothed comb and a critical eye already. You could take her out of maintainer uniform, but you werent going to take her out of maintainer mentality when you put her in front of a new hull. All things, of course, were impossible to know, but her old job had been electrical; so she'd learned a bit of everything. Enough to now know that the Chief had been right, and this solid bird was going to be as easy in the void as she was on the deck. She couldnt wait to take it out even just for CAP, let alone combat.
Sitting where the broad wings met the side of the huge engine cowling, she was sketching with a grease pencil the finishing touches of some tail art. A hyena head, of course, looking dead on with a psychotic, fang-baring grin; spotted mohawk of a mane only adding to the dishevled and assylum-worthy appearance. It'd be painted by morning, and Jess already sees something worthy of distracting her from waiting.
"About time!" The call is loud, of course, as she jumps off the wing and strides towards Ray and Tiaan. Hyena did nothing in a small way. "I was beginning to wonder if I was the only void-sucker aboard this crate!"
Sharp eyes scan Tiaan, then Blue in the distance, then Tiaan again, all the while wearing a carnivore's smile not far removed from the one now on her fighter's tail... "Heavy fighter, eh? Cool, didnt know who was going to claim that beast."
Noticing Ray, the smile broadens and she nods in recognition, "And about time you found the hangar. You get lost and manage to pick up chicks on the way? I can tell this cruise is going to be a party... Please tell me that was the XO that just ditched... You know what they say, man, bad luck to boff someone you work with.." And a sly wink breaks the laser-intensity stare. Innapropriate? Ever so slightly. Military humor, whaddaya gonna do?
"But serriously, you two seem to both have the Huge Fucker field covered, I guess I'll be the one knocking ticks off your slow asses." And she jerks a thumb back at the Rapier in its slot. With decent armor in its own right and those huge engines pushing out plenty of thrust, the quad guns hanging off its wings and its compliment of internal anti-fighter missles meant the venerable old Rapier still had plenty of teeth to play interceptor and superiority fighter.
Sitting where the broad wings met the side of the huge engine cowling, she was sketching with a grease pencil the finishing touches of some tail art. A hyena head, of course, looking dead on with a psychotic, fang-baring grin; spotted mohawk of a mane only adding to the dishevled and assylum-worthy appearance. It'd be painted by morning, and Jess already sees something worthy of distracting her from waiting.
"About time!" The call is loud, of course, as she jumps off the wing and strides towards Ray and Tiaan. Hyena did nothing in a small way. "I was beginning to wonder if I was the only void-sucker aboard this crate!"
Sharp eyes scan Tiaan, then Blue in the distance, then Tiaan again, all the while wearing a carnivore's smile not far removed from the one now on her fighter's tail... "Heavy fighter, eh? Cool, didnt know who was going to claim that beast."
Noticing Ray, the smile broadens and she nods in recognition, "And about time you found the hangar. You get lost and manage to pick up chicks on the way? I can tell this cruise is going to be a party... Please tell me that was the XO that just ditched... You know what they say, man, bad luck to boff someone you work with.." And a sly wink breaks the laser-intensity stare. Innapropriate? Ever so slightly. Military humor, whaddaya gonna do?
"But serriously, you two seem to both have the Huge Fucker field covered, I guess I'll be the one knocking ticks off your slow asses." And she jerks a thumb back at the Rapier in its slot. With decent armor in its own right and those huge engines pushing out plenty of thrust, the quad guns hanging off its wings and its compliment of internal anti-fighter missles meant the venerable old Rapier still had plenty of teeth to play interceptor and superiority fighter.
The Admiral chuckled a bit at her straight to the point response. He especially liked the part about her Nottingham experience which derived a sense of satisfaction from him. He was aware of the ship's infamous reputation, and he could only ponder about her hell serving on board such a ship. He knew at this point that the young Lieutenant Commander was more than equipped to handle her responsibilities on board the Salient.
"Everyone has their histories, Ms. Chen, it doesn't come as a surprise to me," the Admiral paused and smiled a bit more to his rigid subordinate.
"Ms. Chen there aren't any available duties for you right now which means you can relax and enjoy the view."
A.D.A.M. then chimed in with a storm of questions regarding his purposes and why his capacity remained at an all time minimum to which the Admiral replied,
"Adam, it was for security measures. On board AI systems are very valuable equipment. Protocol dictates that an AI is to be configured at minimal processing capacity to prevent full capacity from being utilized by non-authorized personnel. Now that we have departed though, I will allow you to increase your capacity to 5%. I trust that you will use it wisely?" the admiral did not wait for a response before continuing.
He began rubbing his chin a bit, and his eyes narrowed, he had nearly forgotten something.
"Adam, I need you to call Mr. James Grey, Captain Jon Dunaway, and Sergeant Thaddeus Jackson to my personal quarters immediately. I almost forgot to address the earlier issue."
The admiral then turned to Alice.
"Ms. Chen, I retract my earlier statement, you'll be in charge of the bridge while I handle some delicate matters."
The admiral left his seat abruptly and went to his Captain's quarters.
"Everyone has their histories, Ms. Chen, it doesn't come as a surprise to me," the Admiral paused and smiled a bit more to his rigid subordinate.
"Ms. Chen there aren't any available duties for you right now which means you can relax and enjoy the view."
A.D.A.M. then chimed in with a storm of questions regarding his purposes and why his capacity remained at an all time minimum to which the Admiral replied,
"Adam, it was for security measures. On board AI systems are very valuable equipment. Protocol dictates that an AI is to be configured at minimal processing capacity to prevent full capacity from being utilized by non-authorized personnel. Now that we have departed though, I will allow you to increase your capacity to 5%. I trust that you will use it wisely?" the admiral did not wait for a response before continuing.
He began rubbing his chin a bit, and his eyes narrowed, he had nearly forgotten something.
"Adam, I need you to call Mr. James Grey, Captain Jon Dunaway, and Sergeant Thaddeus Jackson to my personal quarters immediately. I almost forgot to address the earlier issue."
The admiral then turned to Alice.
"Ms. Chen, I retract my earlier statement, you'll be in charge of the bridge while I handle some delicate matters."
The admiral left his seat abruptly and went to his Captain's quarters.
The setting changes from Bridge to The Milky Way Universe
He loved the uncomfortable look Eli had, as strange as that may seem. He liked the chuckle. The sigh. He like Eli's attitude. He then chuckled himself when Eli said he didn't have any monsters inside him. He was very aware of how an incident like that could change a man. It was an easy giveaway when he said he had no monsters. He couldn't know how the Captain was being tormented, but he knew it was there. But he did believe the Captain when he said he was ready to go. Eli was the type that wouldn't let that stop him. In fact it probably motivated him.
"I know your not okay after that Eli. No one would be. I don't know what goes on in that head of yours. I'm not going to try to reassure you. I know that it would mean nothing coming from me. I can tell your ready to go though. I like that."
But he wasn't ready to stop quite yet though. He had a few more inquiries for Eli.
"Now were gonna play a little game. I know you've probably read up on me. Now between that and our short conversation now, I want you to size me up. Tell me what you think." He paused and then remembered. "Oh, and permission to speak freely."
This was another part of the "evaluation" he was giving. This would help him see a little more into the Captain.
"I know your not okay after that Eli. No one would be. I don't know what goes on in that head of yours. I'm not going to try to reassure you. I know that it would mean nothing coming from me. I can tell your ready to go though. I like that."
But he wasn't ready to stop quite yet though. He had a few more inquiries for Eli.
"Now were gonna play a little game. I know you've probably read up on me. Now between that and our short conversation now, I want you to size me up. Tell me what you think." He paused and then remembered. "Oh, and permission to speak freely."
This was another part of the "evaluation" he was giving. This would help him see a little more into the Captain.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Barracks
The captain chuckled a bit. His brows were raised, for he felt like the Commander was leading him somewhere, but the path was always littered with left turns. He didn't know what to expect, but he knew he had to stay on his toes. The way Atomsk had called it a "game" was unanticipated by Eli, and almost amusing. At this point, a lady in a white lab coat appeared in the Barracks. Eli thought she was a science corps personnel, and if that was the case, she didn't have any business in the Barracks.
"Well, sir...I'm gonna be frank, you're a pretty odd character yourself," Eli paused, trying not to overstep the boundaries.
"You got as many praises as criticisms from fellow marines. I mean, the court martials, the counts of insubordination, yet through all those active deploys and missions, you're at the top with all those decorations. I've argued with a higher up or two every now and then, but that pales in comparison with the beef you have with Lieutenant General Conway. I won't be surprised if they write a story on that." Eli grinned enthusiastically.
"All those scars on your face only speaks to the experience that you have in the field, but...I'll be damned for sure if I don't serve with you on this mission." Eli ended the grin with a straight face, one that he would use often when playing poker. Though he was using that face to cover his expressions when playing, this time he meant business with the commander.
"Well, sir...I'm gonna be frank, you're a pretty odd character yourself," Eli paused, trying not to overstep the boundaries.
"You got as many praises as criticisms from fellow marines. I mean, the court martials, the counts of insubordination, yet through all those active deploys and missions, you're at the top with all those decorations. I've argued with a higher up or two every now and then, but that pales in comparison with the beef you have with Lieutenant General Conway. I won't be surprised if they write a story on that." Eli grinned enthusiastically.
"All those scars on your face only speaks to the experience that you have in the field, but...I'll be damned for sure if I don't serve with you on this mission." Eli ended the grin with a straight face, one that he would use often when playing poker. Though he was using that face to cover his expressions when playing, this time he meant business with the commander.
The setting changes from Barracks to The Milky Way Universe
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Alice was almost - almost - by surprise when the Admiral picked up and left. It was a near impossibility to take Alice by surprise. Someone had to be very skilled at avoiding her talents, not to mention aware of her talents, an no one on board this ship was aware of them. Not even the Admiral. She watched his retreating back with a slight frown, before shrugging and replacing him in the commander's chair. She was in charge of the bridge. The chair was hers until he returned.
At which time she would gladly forsake it. Alice was a rare officer - she never wanted to reach the Admiral's commanding rank. Being second in command was, in her eyes, absolutely perfect. Just enough responsibility, still someone overhead she could rely on to give orders. She did not have to worry about keeping secret orders from the crew, was closer to the crew than most commanders ever would be.
Yes, she preferred second in command.
Calmly, she leaned back in the seat and gazed around the bridge. Nothing that needed her... immediate attention. She would sit here, keep an eye on things. Wait. Alice had always been good at waiting.
At which time she would gladly forsake it. Alice was a rare officer - she never wanted to reach the Admiral's commanding rank. Being second in command was, in her eyes, absolutely perfect. Just enough responsibility, still someone overhead she could rely on to give orders. She did not have to worry about keeping secret orders from the crew, was closer to the crew than most commanders ever would be.
Yes, she preferred second in command.
Calmly, she leaned back in the seat and gazed around the bridge. Nothing that needed her... immediate attention. She would sit here, keep an eye on things. Wait. Alice had always been good at waiting.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Barracks
He listened very intently to Eli. He was still tense but he was loosening up, which pleased Atomsk. He expected to be called odd. He usually was. He loved the comment about Lieutenant General Conway. He disliked the man and thought the comments made by Eli were amusing.
After Eli ended mentioning the scars he laughed very loudly. He grinned and decided to loosen up himself.
"Some of these scars are from battle. But to be honest most of them come from when superiors took punishments into their own hands."
He smiled from ear to ear at this point. He had grown to love his scars. He liked the way they looked and thought they gave him some character.
"You understand then that i take some liberties when it comes to command. I understand that it will seem hypocritical of me to ask you to listen to me when I myself don't listen to my superiors. My tactics will seem strange. Insane. Suicidal. But I value everyone of you. Remember that."
He pulled out his cigar box and put one in his mouth, after which he offered one to Eli, unsure if Eli liked cigars.
After Eli ended mentioning the scars he laughed very loudly. He grinned and decided to loosen up himself.
"Some of these scars are from battle. But to be honest most of them come from when superiors took punishments into their own hands."
He smiled from ear to ear at this point. He had grown to love his scars. He liked the way they looked and thought they gave him some character.
"You understand then that i take some liberties when it comes to command. I understand that it will seem hypocritical of me to ask you to listen to me when I myself don't listen to my superiors. My tactics will seem strange. Insane. Suicidal. But I value everyone of you. Remember that."
He pulled out his cigar box and put one in his mouth, after which he offered one to Eli, unsure if Eli liked cigars.
Tiaan Peyton
Back in her welcome area, she grinned her usual lop-sided way before answering the new person, "Blue Tit here could outgun your craft any day of the week sister. I customized her myself and she not got anything but the best. You can hardly tell she was a Mercury Class Fighter, hell do they even make those anymore?"
Feeling much safer she continued, "Also you, gunner boy, it's not the size of your craft darlin' but how you use it?" winking she grinned again. This was much better and she was happy to be out her craft now, just bantering and flinging bullshit, although that girl wasn't the first underestimate Blue Tit, many thought just because of the obvious design, that they could out fly her. Let's just say boys didn't like losing, much as it was Tiaan's experience in this matter. Whatever happened after this she could worry about it later, for now she was in her colour, her climate.
"Also sister, the name Peyton, you recognize the name you should? My Father was flying before you were out of nappies. My Grandfather was flying before you were twinkle in the milkman's eye."
Smirking she waited for an answer, feeling much more in her element and relaxing completely.
Drama could wait.
Back in her welcome area, she grinned her usual lop-sided way before answering the new person, "Blue Tit here could outgun your craft any day of the week sister. I customized her myself and she not got anything but the best. You can hardly tell she was a Mercury Class Fighter, hell do they even make those anymore?"
Feeling much safer she continued, "Also you, gunner boy, it's not the size of your craft darlin' but how you use it?" winking she grinned again. This was much better and she was happy to be out her craft now, just bantering and flinging bullshit, although that girl wasn't the first underestimate Blue Tit, many thought just because of the obvious design, that they could out fly her. Let's just say boys didn't like losing, much as it was Tiaan's experience in this matter. Whatever happened after this she could worry about it later, for now she was in her colour, her climate.
"Also sister, the name Peyton, you recognize the name you should? My Father was flying before you were out of nappies. My Grandfather was flying before you were twinkle in the milkman's eye."
Smirking she waited for an answer, feeling much more in her element and relaxing completely.
Drama could wait.
Yet another fateful aspect that had fled from Eli ever since Mars. Smoking cigars were a past time for Eli, lost long ago a midst fields of rust. Maybe he could accept the offer from the commander, after all it was given to him out of respect or perhaps casually. Since it came from the commander though, he could politely accept it and hopefully make amends with himself. As with all steps, he would take them in stride, with his head up and facing forward not looking backward.
"Thank you, sir, I'll save this for later," he took the offered cigar and stashed it away in one of his suit's compartments. He decided that the first day they would hit planet side, he would pull out that cigar and smoke it. He made a mental note to remember that.
"Sir, I've never commanded any more than a handful of marines, so I wouldn't know anything about being a commander at your level. The fact that you're in charge here speaks volumes in itself," Eli continued.
"Although I've never seen you command first hand, I trust in your abilities and leadership, and I will make a note of that sir." he paused.
"I can only hope though, that no one will be left behind."
Eli began to feel a certain respect for Atomsk, who was not unlike himself. He would admit that few could command his respect, but that was only boastfulness coming from Eli. Even if it was true though, Atomsk would be one of a few, and that made him stand apart from the many commanders that Eli had been rotated around through.
"Thank you, sir, I'll save this for later," he took the offered cigar and stashed it away in one of his suit's compartments. He decided that the first day they would hit planet side, he would pull out that cigar and smoke it. He made a mental note to remember that.
"Sir, I've never commanded any more than a handful of marines, so I wouldn't know anything about being a commander at your level. The fact that you're in charge here speaks volumes in itself," Eli continued.
"Although I've never seen you command first hand, I trust in your abilities and leadership, and I will make a note of that sir." he paused.
"I can only hope though, that no one will be left behind."
Eli began to feel a certain respect for Atomsk, who was not unlike himself. He would admit that few could command his respect, but that was only boastfulness coming from Eli. Even if it was true though, Atomsk would be one of a few, and that made him stand apart from the many commanders that Eli had been rotated around through.
The setting changes from Barracks to F.S.S. Salient
Seeing the bridge had no tasks for Eon, he just walked out to look about the ship he walked into a barracks and saw nothing there. he then walked over to the observation deck to just look out into space for a bit. Scanning out at stars and galaxies getting every detail about them. The android stood up and walked out to somewhere else. Eon walked about once again until finding himself in a hangar. Eon walked over to the ships, looking at them he thought of simulations that could happen to it and scanned it for more information about the drop ship. Eon finally noticed the loud woman boast about her fighter. Eon analyzed Mercury Class Fighters for a bit reading the data of how many were shot down and where they were hit. He then scanned the ship she was boasting about, as far as the scanner could tell him, no noticeable weakness at the range he was at. He went back to scanning the other ships.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
Turned out glancing at the map didn't quite work out as he had planned, Ridley had gotten himself lost down corridors no less than five times before finally finding the correct route to the bridge, and even then only after asking for directions. Luckily his rank made asking for directions possible without getting chewed out. As he climbed another ladder he tried to memorize the route he was taking, the layout of the Salient was certainly different from other military vessels, though he didn't realize just how much so until now. Sure enough the constant backtracking cost him time, the ship was already underway and he was expected on the bridge. He picked up his pace as he headed down the corridor to the bridge. When he finally arrived, he noted the personnel all bustling about their duties, but most notable was the Lieutenant Commander in the Captain's chair. He walked up to her; "Lieutenant Ridley DeLovat reporting for bridge duty, Ma'am." He said with a quick salute, his eyes flashed over her nameplate before returning their gaze to her. "You taking the comfy chair, Lieutenant Commander Chen?"
Alice blinked slowly at Ridley, taking in every inch of him, before her lips curved into a slight smile. She laughed and sat forwards in the Admiral's chair, resting her elbows on her knees. She was unshaken by his comment - what did she care what he thought? She was in charge here. There was no questioning that. She would not have been caught dead in the Admiral's chair without the express granting of command from the Admiral himself.
"Admiral Weston had to step out for a bit," she answered calmly. "I have the bridge until he returns. Was there something you wanted, DeLovat? I see you got lost on your way here."
There was no hostility in her voice, nor any real disapproval. One officer making small-talk to another. Alice knew how to take command, and did so. When she needed to. Otherwise, what reason was there to make enemies by pushing people around?
"Admiral Weston had to step out for a bit," she answered calmly. "I have the bridge until he returns. Was there something you wanted, DeLovat? I see you got lost on your way here."
There was no hostility in her voice, nor any real disapproval. One officer making small-talk to another. Alice knew how to take command, and did so. When she needed to. Otherwise, what reason was there to make enemies by pushing people around?
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
Counselor's Office
Paulina walked down the ship's hall steadily, four massive travel bags with her, one pair held between her upper arm and rib and the other pair squeezed in her palms. She let the bags drop to the ground when she reached her door. Counselor's Office, the holographic title plate in it's centre read, and below it read Ship's Counselor Paulina Allard. Paulina smiled wildly at her name glowing a dim blue. The first time her name had been on anything. From her pocket she pulled out a card key and swiped it. She took her bags in hand once again and kicked open the now unlocked door, revealing inside her new office. Pale green walls surrounded the carpeted room. Square lights lined the upper walls and the room was empty save for the couch pushed against the wall and the desk in the room's corner.
"Right," Paulina sighed as she dropped the bags again and closed the door behind her. "Time to get to work." She unzipped the bags and began to prepare the room. The couch was covered in soft quilts, covers and pillows, all freshly washed, the lights were covered with blinds to make the room slightly darker and the light more natural, and plants in massive pots were littered across the floor. By the time she had finished the small room had been transformed into a small, soft place. A giant, nice smelling pillow, she was going for, where hopeful the freaks onboard would feel comfortable.
Paulina kicked her bags into the small gap behind the couch before moving toward the exit. Before she left she checked her coloured hair in the mirror, which she had made sure to place behind the couch, people seeing their own physical flaws often made them less open, worried, nervous. Emotions that made her job hard to do properly. Paulina exited into the hall and walked down toward the lift. As she did she pulled out a long, wooden pipe and lit it. She wasn't sure if smoking was forbidden in the halls but she was alone here. It couldn't hurt anyone...
Paulina walked down the ship's hall steadily, four massive travel bags with her, one pair held between her upper arm and rib and the other pair squeezed in her palms. She let the bags drop to the ground when she reached her door. Counselor's Office, the holographic title plate in it's centre read, and below it read Ship's Counselor Paulina Allard. Paulina smiled wildly at her name glowing a dim blue. The first time her name had been on anything. From her pocket she pulled out a card key and swiped it. She took her bags in hand once again and kicked open the now unlocked door, revealing inside her new office. Pale green walls surrounded the carpeted room. Square lights lined the upper walls and the room was empty save for the couch pushed against the wall and the desk in the room's corner.
"Right," Paulina sighed as she dropped the bags again and closed the door behind her. "Time to get to work." She unzipped the bags and began to prepare the room. The couch was covered in soft quilts, covers and pillows, all freshly washed, the lights were covered with blinds to make the room slightly darker and the light more natural, and plants in massive pots were littered across the floor. By the time she had finished the small room had been transformed into a small, soft place. A giant, nice smelling pillow, she was going for, where hopeful the freaks onboard would feel comfortable.
Paulina kicked her bags into the small gap behind the couch before moving toward the exit. Before she left she checked her coloured hair in the mirror, which she had made sure to place behind the couch, people seeing their own physical flaws often made them less open, worried, nervous. Emotions that made her job hard to do properly. Paulina exited into the hall and walked down toward the lift. As she did she pulled out a long, wooden pipe and lit it. She wasn't sure if smoking was forbidden in the halls but she was alone here. It couldn't hurt anyone...
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
"Beep, Beep, Beep... I think that damned cooking appliance tricked me again" Grenadine complained. Nokia started laughing hysterically "You're in on it to!" Grenadine complained. The phone kept laughing "No but you look ridiculous!" Grenadine sat up an insulted face "HEY! That's not nice!" She then cracked up laughing. She did look ridiculous. She was running around in the hallways between the crew quarters looking for Rover, her vacuum cleaner. Somehow the bugger had escaped, and her kitchen machine Bob had told her that she needed to Beep, instead of calling out like she would a normal dog... Not that she knew that you could call a dog...
She straightened up, her today light green sweater with blue lady bugs, that looked more like blue tangles of yarn falling down to it's total length, reaching below her knees. Under it she wore purple rubber boots, the kind kids wore at the playground. She adjusted her scanning goggles, looking down and her twinkling cellphone "found anything" she asked. No reply... She rounded a corner, seeing another crew member "have you seen Rover?" she asked enthusiastically, but before having time to wait for an answer, she saw the little, round, flat vacuum cleaner round the next corner. "ROVER!" she squealed, setting after it as fast as her boots would chomp clomp her there. As she rounded the corner, she tripped, and fell flat on her stomach, throwing her arm up to protect Nokia from the fall. She crawled the last feet over to Rover, and grabbed the little machine in both her arms "Don't scare me like that" she whispered, setting it on her lap and hugging it tight. Her nose was bleeding slightly, and she could feel a hefty bruise coming on on her stomach, but other than that, she was fine. She happily got on her feet "Don't ever run away like that! You could have gotten lost!" she petted Rover.
She straightened up, her today light green sweater with blue lady bugs, that looked more like blue tangles of yarn falling down to it's total length, reaching below her knees. Under it she wore purple rubber boots, the kind kids wore at the playground. She adjusted her scanning goggles, looking down and her twinkling cellphone "found anything" she asked. No reply... She rounded a corner, seeing another crew member "have you seen Rover?" she asked enthusiastically, but before having time to wait for an answer, she saw the little, round, flat vacuum cleaner round the next corner. "ROVER!" she squealed, setting after it as fast as her boots would chomp clomp her there. As she rounded the corner, she tripped, and fell flat on her stomach, throwing her arm up to protect Nokia from the fall. She crawled the last feet over to Rover, and grabbed the little machine in both her arms "Don't scare me like that" she whispered, setting it on her lap and hugging it tight. Her nose was bleeding slightly, and she could feel a hefty bruise coming on on her stomach, but other than that, she was fine. She happily got on her feet "Don't ever run away like that! You could have gotten lost!" she petted Rover.
And so it was that time again; pilot boasting.
Gunship pilots like Ray where normally not as boastful because they needed fighters to keep them safe from other fighters while the gunships did all the jobs a fighter could not do and a few things a fighter could do. The only real weaknesses of a gunship where: the sizes, the lack of maneuverability, take off time, inferior speed to fighters and the cost.
Ray jumped off the ramp but as he did so he pressed a button which extended a basket ball hoop from the Gunships interior and dropped a ball right into Ray's hands.
As he reached the ground he jumped up and issued a voice command to the ship to play hound dog as he stood up.
"I bet your fighters can't do that can they?" He said with a grin; gunships had so much spare room after you got rid of all the regulation crap no body needed.
He then tossed the ball back to the gunship's door and issued a voice command to close up the basketball set. The ship had belonged to his unit and was given to him since its last owners decision to retire early; they had both collaborated along with the rest of the unit and added a few things to spice up the shallow asteroid bases they where stationed in.
"Just don't leave me alone to go glory grabbing all the time, I might be able to hack and slash at anything and everything in my sights but I can't move my chunk of metal in a fighters speed. I am not complaining, at least if I get hit I have my armor.
You will do well to remember to keep my girl safe because if you ever get buggered out there I am the only angle who can get you out"
Ray sighed and moved to join the area the other two where standing at
"Pity I need to remove the basketball contraption, it just doesn’t work right with the rest of the ship"
Gunship pilots like Ray where normally not as boastful because they needed fighters to keep them safe from other fighters while the gunships did all the jobs a fighter could not do and a few things a fighter could do. The only real weaknesses of a gunship where: the sizes, the lack of maneuverability, take off time, inferior speed to fighters and the cost.
Ray jumped off the ramp but as he did so he pressed a button which extended a basket ball hoop from the Gunships interior and dropped a ball right into Ray's hands.
As he reached the ground he jumped up and issued a voice command to the ship to play hound dog as he stood up.
"I bet your fighters can't do that can they?" He said with a grin; gunships had so much spare room after you got rid of all the regulation crap no body needed.
He then tossed the ball back to the gunship's door and issued a voice command to close up the basketball set. The ship had belonged to his unit and was given to him since its last owners decision to retire early; they had both collaborated along with the rest of the unit and added a few things to spice up the shallow asteroid bases they where stationed in.
"Just don't leave me alone to go glory grabbing all the time, I might be able to hack and slash at anything and everything in my sights but I can't move my chunk of metal in a fighters speed. I am not complaining, at least if I get hit I have my armor.
You will do well to remember to keep my girl safe because if you ever get buggered out there I am the only angle who can get you out"
Ray sighed and moved to join the area the other two where standing at
"Pity I need to remove the basketball contraption, it just doesn’t work right with the rest of the ship"
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Barracks
He lit his own cigar after he gave one to Eli. He was being flattered which he didn't dislike, but he didn't like the uprightness of the military. He walked to a nearby wall at this point and leaned up against it, enjoying the cigar.
"I'd prefer a more casual relationship. I find it hard to get to know someone when your as uptight as the military requires you to be. No sirs, especially considering your older then me. Atomsk if you would. Dunaway even. Just not sir or Commander."
He smirked at his own cliche. Casual in the military. He'd seen it in movies and countless books. It still always gave him a chuckle.
"You'd better not smoke that without me." He said, referring to the cigar Eli had stowed away. "First chance we get i expect us to enjoy that together." He got a grin so big he had to pull his cigar out.
Now it was time to get to the point.
"Eli, I like you. You ain't no stick in the mud. I need an imaginative Second. We've got a lot of people here and I'm not going to be on the ground with you most of the time. I like having a man on the ground i can trust. Normally i would have named my brother, Jon, my second the moment we got here. But he's a military dog. Normally I wouldn't mind it but he's on someones leash this time. I'm not sure who's either. Your someone I liked right off the bat. And someone i can tell I can trust in the future." He paused. Unsure if Eli even wanted the position.
"If I'm unavailable, communications can't reach me, or something happens too fast that puts you in charge. I won't force this on you but I'd enjoy you greatly as someone to work with." He hoped he would.
"I'd prefer a more casual relationship. I find it hard to get to know someone when your as uptight as the military requires you to be. No sirs, especially considering your older then me. Atomsk if you would. Dunaway even. Just not sir or Commander."
He smirked at his own cliche. Casual in the military. He'd seen it in movies and countless books. It still always gave him a chuckle.
"You'd better not smoke that without me." He said, referring to the cigar Eli had stowed away. "First chance we get i expect us to enjoy that together." He got a grin so big he had to pull his cigar out.
Now it was time to get to the point.
"Eli, I like you. You ain't no stick in the mud. I need an imaginative Second. We've got a lot of people here and I'm not going to be on the ground with you most of the time. I like having a man on the ground i can trust. Normally i would have named my brother, Jon, my second the moment we got here. But he's a military dog. Normally I wouldn't mind it but he's on someones leash this time. I'm not sure who's either. Your someone I liked right off the bat. And someone i can tell I can trust in the future." He paused. Unsure if Eli even wanted the position.
"If I'm unavailable, communications can't reach me, or something happens too fast that puts you in charge. I won't force this on you but I'd enjoy you greatly as someone to work with." He hoped he would.
The setting changes from Barracks to The Milky Way Universe
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"You're going to get out of that suit if you want me to take a look at your arm." She said briskly after doing a quick visual examination of his suit and how it fit together. "I'm going to assume you are wearing clothes under that thing, if not then I hope you're not shy."
She stepped back slightly and waved her hands in a hurry up gesture. "If you need a hand I'm sure I can manage although surely you've been dressing and undressing yourself for long enough." She said dryly.
She then turned to Thaddeus and gave him her full attention, she arched her brow at him in query. "You want to know if I'm a rookie or an old hand is that it?"
She wasn't really surprised as she had expected those sort of questions sooner or later but it still irked her that the question needed to be asked. Why assign someone as Chief Medical Officer if they had no experience field or otherwise? She sighed slightly and still wished she could go and smoke but she forced the urge down reminding herself she could visit the bar later and smoke then.
"If you must know." She said impatiently, not deliberately being offensive and unaware it might come across so. "I have four years field experience in various war zones. I am also a qualified surgeon and fully qualified and experienced in disease control. I could patch up a bullet wound, with bombs over head, with my eyes closed."
"I can only assume that some of what I just said is why I am Chief Medical Officer." She finished dryly
She then glanced back at her patient not so patiently waiting for him to remove the suit or request assistance to do so. She had work to do and wanted to get on with it. She wanted to tour the medical centres and ensure they were ship shape, read over the crew files for the medical staff, brief staff and generally introduce herself and also start looking at the command crews medical history. If it was anything like other roles she had done the command crews health checks were generally done by the chief doc and she wanted to be prepared.
She stepped back slightly and waved her hands in a hurry up gesture. "If you need a hand I'm sure I can manage although surely you've been dressing and undressing yourself for long enough." She said dryly.
She then turned to Thaddeus and gave him her full attention, she arched her brow at him in query. "You want to know if I'm a rookie or an old hand is that it?"
She wasn't really surprised as she had expected those sort of questions sooner or later but it still irked her that the question needed to be asked. Why assign someone as Chief Medical Officer if they had no experience field or otherwise? She sighed slightly and still wished she could go and smoke but she forced the urge down reminding herself she could visit the bar later and smoke then.
"If you must know." She said impatiently, not deliberately being offensive and unaware it might come across so. "I have four years field experience in various war zones. I am also a qualified surgeon and fully qualified and experienced in disease control. I could patch up a bullet wound, with bombs over head, with my eyes closed."
"I can only assume that some of what I just said is why I am Chief Medical Officer." She finished dryly
She then glanced back at her patient not so patiently waiting for him to remove the suit or request assistance to do so. She had work to do and wanted to get on with it. She wanted to tour the medical centres and ensure they were ship shape, read over the crew files for the medical staff, brief staff and generally introduce herself and also start looking at the command crews medical history. If it was anything like other roles she had done the command crews health checks were generally done by the chief doc and she wanted to be prepared.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Bridge
Chen surprised him with that, he had assumed she would be the up-tight kind that thought being a soldier meant being overly strict. Yet here she was fully willing to engage in idle prattle. Sure enough she had noticed he had gotten lost, no doubt due to how long it took him to reach the bridge.
"I may have misplaced myself once or twice." Ridley replied, scratching his chin. "As for what I want, I desire nothing more than to see this ship through it's journey." He said with an added hint of exaggeration. "It is my duty to wait on hand and foot for the Captain's every need. Or the Captain's fill-in's every need." He added with a smile and a bow. "Therefore, my business on the bridge is strictly business. At least until the Captain returns, or unless you have something that needs doing." He looked around at the bustling, yet quiet, activity of the bridge. He always preferred it here, there was less chance of being charged with some menial labour when you were in the administrative zone. "Of course, I'd be more than happy to test out the food in the mess hall, if that needs doing."
"I may have misplaced myself once or twice." Ridley replied, scratching his chin. "As for what I want, I desire nothing more than to see this ship through it's journey." He said with an added hint of exaggeration. "It is my duty to wait on hand and foot for the Captain's every need. Or the Captain's fill-in's every need." He added with a smile and a bow. "Therefore, my business on the bridge is strictly business. At least until the Captain returns, or unless you have something that needs doing." He looked around at the bustling, yet quiet, activity of the bridge. He always preferred it here, there was less chance of being charged with some menial labour when you were in the administrative zone. "Of course, I'd be more than happy to test out the food in the mess hall, if that needs doing."
The setting changes from Bridge to The Milky Way Universe
Alice, too, glanced around at the bridge. Everything was running smoothly, every man knew his job, they were flying at high speeds through space going who-knew-where? Because Alice certainly did not.
And that meant it was likely that nobody on the ship did.
She shook her head slightly.
"So far as I am aware, there is nothing to be done until the Captain returns," Alice answered calmly. "Unless you have duties elsewhere, I do believe the official taste-tester skipped ship." She smirked slightly at Ridley. "There is no need to worry, DeLovat. While I may pay attention to protocol, I have served the Federation long enough to realize that if a commander is stiff all the time, it tends to make voyages much less fun. We're all going to be stuck with each other for several months, at least. Let's all try to get along."
Uncrossing her legs, Alice came to her feet. She offered a hand to Ridley. Alice had always believed that first impressions could be wrong. She hoped that the personnel could overcome her initial professionalism, as the crew of the Nottingham had done. If she'd managed to find friendship on that living hell, surely she could find it here as well.
And that meant it was likely that nobody on the ship did.
She shook her head slightly.
"So far as I am aware, there is nothing to be done until the Captain returns," Alice answered calmly. "Unless you have duties elsewhere, I do believe the official taste-tester skipped ship." She smirked slightly at Ridley. "There is no need to worry, DeLovat. While I may pay attention to protocol, I have served the Federation long enough to realize that if a commander is stiff all the time, it tends to make voyages much less fun. We're all going to be stuck with each other for several months, at least. Let's all try to get along."
Uncrossing her legs, Alice came to her feet. She offered a hand to Ridley. Alice had always believed that first impressions could be wrong. She hoped that the personnel could overcome her initial professionalism, as the crew of the Nottingham had done. If she'd managed to find friendship on that living hell, surely she could find it here as well.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Barracks
Paulina paused outside the barracks. Soldiers and the commanding officers were the ones she was most expecting to deal with, they generally had most psychological instability, she thought as she bit the end of her pipe. And they also tended to be the most stubborn. It was her job to be known, to be open to all. People were always more open to their friends. After quickly cracking her knuckles Paulina opened the door and entered the barracks, where a trio of what she could only assume were security were gathered, most likely getting to know each other. "Hello all, I just thought I'd drop by..." Paulina called out, pausing her words to look over them. They were all soldiers, military, and they looked it. Gruff, muscular, hardened like a rock. And in contrast, with her makeup and colored hair, she looked like a lollipop.
"My names Paulina Allard, I'm the ship's counselor," She continued with a large smile as she played with the pipe in her hand. "My office is just a floor down for anyone who wants to visit. I'm going around and acquainting myself with the crew."
"My names Paulina Allard, I'm the ship's counselor," She continued with a large smile as she played with the pipe in her hand. "My office is just a floor down for anyone who wants to visit. I'm going around and acquainting myself with the crew."
Adriana
Adriana looked up from her musings at the colorful character at the door. She then immediately looked down again.
These were the only notable actions she had taken for the past thirty minutes. She had sat quietly through the officer's talking waiting for the meeting to start. She wasn't listening very carefully but she did gather that Captain Colter would be the second in command. When the talking lollipop introduced herself, Adriana resolved never to go to the counselor. She would never find any help there.
Adriana looked up from her musings at the colorful character at the door. She then immediately looked down again.
These were the only notable actions she had taken for the past thirty minutes. She had sat quietly through the officer's talking waiting for the meeting to start. She wasn't listening very carefully but she did gather that Captain Colter would be the second in command. When the talking lollipop introduced herself, Adriana resolved never to go to the counselor. She would never find any help there.
Ridley shook the hand with a smile; "Gotta admit, I admire a bit of levity." He released her hand and clasped his behind his back in a casual manner. Oddly enough it was a military posture, yet he'd always been quite comfortable with it. "I've had more or less a few CO's who got a bit on the power-trip side, liked to flex their authority muscles. Sure they had the right to, but it wasn't exactly a very efficient atmosphere." He glanced toward the bridge entrance to see if the Captain had returned yet before returning his gaze to Chen; "Certainly the Admiral isn't like that, right?" He took a few steps away from the chair to look out at the view as the Salient moved onward. "Admiral Weston... That's a pretty well-known name, though I've never met the legend himself." He turned to Chen; "I find it kind of odd that someone so powerful would give up so much for... this." He said, indicating the bridge; "Though I suppose I've no right to judge, maybe he prefers the quieter life of Captaincy than the hectic administration of commanding fleets." He returned to his position beside the chair; "You've met him already, am I right? Any personality quirks I should brace myself for?"
The setting changes from Bridge to The Milky Way Universe
Eon seeing the obnoxious man dunk a basketball in a hoop from his gunship Eon soon just walked out. There was nothing there that concerned the android. Soon the android found himself at the observation deck... Again, This time he just walked back up to the bridge again to see if the Admiral was there. Walking back there he walked by more people and got to the bridge. As far as he knew, he didn't see him... But he saw the first mate and A.D.A.M. he just seemed to noticed A.D.A.M. Eon walked over to the First mate and saluted, "Android Unit 7833, Eon-312 reporting Ma'am" he said with a robotic sound.
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"I've not had much time to speak with him," Alice answered. "The last time I saw him, I was just a lieutenant. My ship Captain was a little busy with his superior. Didn't give the little ones much time to talk to Admiral Weston," she nodded to herself, remembering the short time when the Admiral's ship had docked beside her first assignment. "He strikes me as a good man. A strong leader. And no, I do not think he will be much for the 'power-trip', as you put it. Though I've only had a few moments with him. I can not really be called an expert on the Admiral."
She, too, turned her gaze to the view beyond the Salient. So dark out there... almost lonely. But quiet. This was how Alice preferred it - the few hundred on board the Salient were far better than the billions back home on earth. That was far too crowded for her tastes. Ever farming colonies like Andromeda and Vega were too much. Alice was made for shipside travel.
"This should be an interesting voyage," she observed quietly. "The talent they've pulled in... even putting an Admiral on ship's command. It seems as though there's a lot expected out of the Salient, this time."
She, too, turned her gaze to the view beyond the Salient. So dark out there... almost lonely. But quiet. This was how Alice preferred it - the few hundred on board the Salient were far better than the billions back home on earth. That was far too crowded for her tastes. Ever farming colonies like Andromeda and Vega were too much. Alice was made for shipside travel.
"This should be an interesting voyage," she observed quietly. "The talent they've pulled in... even putting an Admiral on ship's command. It seems as though there's a lot expected out of the Salient, this time."
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Infirmary/Medical Bay
He walked with even metre and tried his best to act like he knew where he was going. If there was one thing he disliked more than being out of place it was looking like he was out of place. The five minute ambling promenade was cut short by a helpful crew member seeing through his ruse. After a brief exchange and admission Marcus was lost; the man said he had saw Doctor Mackenzie going to a medical bay leading two soldier-types. The doctor thanked the man and getting his bearings, headed to the med-bay. The sooner he reported to the Chief Medical Officer and straightened this foible out the sooner he could retreat to the isolation of work; away from more social crew members with arsenals of questions and nonsensical stories of their childhood.
Sure enough the was a doctor there assessing what he would definitely deem a "soldier type". He smoothed his greying hair to a relaxed neatness and wished he had a chance to shave. Female doctors had a reputation; one of stern, humourless management and a first impression was always a lasting one. Marcus sighed and rapped twice on the bulkhead before entering the bay.
"Doctor Mackenzie, I have a matter I would like to discuss with you. I'm Doctor Marcus Bergman and I believe I have been assigned to the incorrect area." He paused and looked towards the two men, here for care not to wait while administrative matters were debated. "Forgive the intrusion, I can wait until these men are cared for. I'm not really going anywhere." He nodded to the woman and folded his hand behind his back.
Sure enough the was a doctor there assessing what he would definitely deem a "soldier type". He smoothed his greying hair to a relaxed neatness and wished he had a chance to shave. Female doctors had a reputation; one of stern, humourless management and a first impression was always a lasting one. Marcus sighed and rapped twice on the bulkhead before entering the bay.
"Doctor Mackenzie, I have a matter I would like to discuss with you. I'm Doctor Marcus Bergman and I believe I have been assigned to the incorrect area." He paused and looked towards the two men, here for care not to wait while administrative matters were debated. "Forgive the intrusion, I can wait until these men are cared for. I'm not really going anywhere." He nodded to the woman and folded his hand behind his back.
The setting changes from Infirmary/Medical Bay to F.S.S. Salient
Being how Eon was ignored he lost interest and walked out towards the observation deck... Once again... He decided thanks to how long he was charging, he might need an update for newer equipment, especially some that could work in space. He decided to go to the engineering bay to see where he can find something like that. He proceeded down the corridors and throughout the ship to the Engine corridor. He heard the hum of the engines propelling the ship throughout space. Eon stopped and saw what he could tell... Nobody. They were probably doing something important and thought it was best not to bother them. Eon then went to the armory, they could have something that could help him. Or at least... That he guessed.
"Where am I now!" NS-9 said to herself. She get's...'mad' when she doesn't know where she is. Even though shes an android, she has minor emotions, she thinks for herself, and she likes knowing where she is. "They could have programmed a map of the ship into my hardware. But know! If they did that I wouldn't be the little, lost, robot I am right now!" She also tends to...'think' out loud. "Is there anybody here!?" She asked loudly.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to Hangar
Jessica laughs at Tiaan, folding her arms in a 'challenge accepted' way.
"Your Grand-daddy could be Santa Claus and your Daddy can turn tricks on the corner for all it counts towards what -you- can do." Her grin gains an edge, "Hell, my -boots- have more deck time then you do, ring-knocker." The term was a derogatory one; a term mechanics applied to academy officers (they liked to wear their graduation rings) who beleived they were inherrently and genetically better then the ill-bred enlisted commoners.
Her eyes slide off of Tiaan to Ray as he demonstrates the advantages to extra room on a gunboat.
"A basketball hoop, really? Dammit, man, I thought you were about to unveil the kegerrator. Dont get my hopes up like that."
Chuckling, she spreads her hands out wide again, "And I said I'd be there, didnt I? No worries, I'll make sure no big, scary insurgeants scratch your paintjob just as long as you make sure to remember my hard work and dedication when we hit a planet with a bar."
She cocks her head to the side as the Salient's engines come to life in a deep, quiet thrum that sung through the ship and would become a constant background song for the next few months. There was no sensation of movement, of course, given the huge ship's artificial gravity. A quick, familiar thrill for Jessica as, again, she left the red Martian dirt behind. There was a whole lot of unknown ahead of them, and it all had the potential to be one badass adventure. She'd have to remember to talk to the Chief again, see if she could get her name on the flight schedual for an early patrol as soon as they hit open space.
"Your Grand-daddy could be Santa Claus and your Daddy can turn tricks on the corner for all it counts towards what -you- can do." Her grin gains an edge, "Hell, my -boots- have more deck time then you do, ring-knocker." The term was a derogatory one; a term mechanics applied to academy officers (they liked to wear their graduation rings) who beleived they were inherrently and genetically better then the ill-bred enlisted commoners.
Her eyes slide off of Tiaan to Ray as he demonstrates the advantages to extra room on a gunboat.
"A basketball hoop, really? Dammit, man, I thought you were about to unveil the kegerrator. Dont get my hopes up like that."
Chuckling, she spreads her hands out wide again, "And I said I'd be there, didnt I? No worries, I'll make sure no big, scary insurgeants scratch your paintjob just as long as you make sure to remember my hard work and dedication when we hit a planet with a bar."
She cocks her head to the side as the Salient's engines come to life in a deep, quiet thrum that sung through the ship and would become a constant background song for the next few months. There was no sensation of movement, of course, given the huge ship's artificial gravity. A quick, familiar thrill for Jessica as, again, she left the red Martian dirt behind. There was a whole lot of unknown ahead of them, and it all had the potential to be one badass adventure. She'd have to remember to talk to the Chief again, see if she could get her name on the flight schedual for an early patrol as soon as they hit open space.
The setting changes from Hangar to The Milky Way Universe
The ship was large and had so many people on it, yet Allen still felt alone in this place. He wondered around for a little while. With no where in mind he walked to the mess hall and grabbed something to drink. He didn't care if the drink was alcoholic or just some non-alcoholic beer. He always debated the reason for even making non-alcoholic beer but he ended up just drinking it away regardless. After a few drinks he started to walk about the ship alone with his thoughts. He found himself at the observation deck just staring out. He smiled as he placed his hands on rails and spun around to look at the inside of the ship. Allen then rubbed his eyes and went to the engineering wing to run some of tests that he had already done. With the scanner in his hands he entered the wing.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Barracks
Eli took in all Atomsk had to say, and he doubted his capabilities. A stick in the mud, that was fairly accurate, Eli had always enjoyed being a ground
"pounder". He didn't know whether he would be able to answer Atomsk's call, he hadn't been in charge for awhile now. If anything, he'd be pretty rusty. The matter regarding his brother, Jon, was interesting though. He mentioned a leash of sorts, referring to some sort of secret conspiracy, but Eli didn't really care. He would deal with the problem when it arose, but not now though. There was a decision to be made at hand, one that Eli had never been asked ever since the incident.
"I agree with you sir, er..." he stopped himself.
"Atomsk," Eli resumed on a more casual note.
"But um, can you keep a secret, uh Atomsk? My profile may say 34, but I lied about that to get into the Marine Corps early. I'm actually only 30, not much of a secret, but...still."
He felt he had let go of some weight, but barely any though. Eli still wondered why he kept such a secret so long and waited until now to let go of it. Maybe because he was going somewhere far now, perhaps he was going to leave everything behind and never come back. He still had his duties as a Marine though, although technically he was already discharged in Federation records. There was still a part of him though that felt as if he owed something to his fellow marines.
"But um, Atomsk, I'd be honored be your second," he said this as he lit up the very cigar Atomsk had given him out of good intention. The tip began to glow orange as the ember burned away softly. He took a puff, as they waited for the rest of the marines to come to the Barracks. Hopefully they had not wandered off to the mess hall, despite the fact that it was already lunch time.
"pounder". He didn't know whether he would be able to answer Atomsk's call, he hadn't been in charge for awhile now. If anything, he'd be pretty rusty. The matter regarding his brother, Jon, was interesting though. He mentioned a leash of sorts, referring to some sort of secret conspiracy, but Eli didn't really care. He would deal with the problem when it arose, but not now though. There was a decision to be made at hand, one that Eli had never been asked ever since the incident.
"I agree with you sir, er..." he stopped himself.
"Atomsk," Eli resumed on a more casual note.
"But um, can you keep a secret, uh Atomsk? My profile may say 34, but I lied about that to get into the Marine Corps early. I'm actually only 30, not much of a secret, but...still."
He felt he had let go of some weight, but barely any though. Eli still wondered why he kept such a secret so long and waited until now to let go of it. Maybe because he was going somewhere far now, perhaps he was going to leave everything behind and never come back. He still had his duties as a Marine though, although technically he was already discharged in Federation records. There was still a part of him though that felt as if he owed something to his fellow marines.
"But um, Atomsk, I'd be honored be your second," he said this as he lit up the very cigar Atomsk had given him out of good intention. The tip began to glow orange as the ember burned away softly. He took a puff, as they waited for the rest of the marines to come to the Barracks. Hopefully they had not wandered off to the mess hall, despite the fact that it was already lunch time.
The setting changes from Barracks to The Milky Way Universe
Tiaan Peyton
This was what it meant to be a fighter pilot, well if she wanted proof of how well she flew, time to bring up an event that wasn't declassified, "You probably remember a while ago a certain Merchant's Convoy went missing near Pluto, many figured it for lost. my old ship The Demeter was stationed nearby, this you probably heard as you did no doubt hear the Merchant Convoy's survived. Here's the classified bit, it took five fighter to defeat the pirates hijacking them, only one survived." she paused for dramatic moment before continuing, "Blue Tit survived and shot down the main ship by blowing up the fuselage. I survived as ya can see, but the four others got caught in the explosion or were shot down earlier on."
It wasn't proudest moment but proved she knew her flying and besides bragging wasn't really her forte. May as well be honest, turning towards Ray she grinned, "I'm a football girl dude -- also by football I mean European, not the pussified garbage America has."
It was often said she was way too blunt, but really she had to establish she wasn't no push-about, and that she had every right to pecking order as other.
"Although Jessie, I may have something you like, check under my fighter, trust me you don't see these on any fighter mostly, I got it for really as a last stand sorta device, proton cannon, manually controlled that can pack a powerful punch. Does that make you wet your panties." she winked, not in flirty way, more to be cheeky and to show she wasn't what she first appeared. Besides she was too confused to think about 'that' for now.
This was what it meant to be a fighter pilot, well if she wanted proof of how well she flew, time to bring up an event that wasn't declassified, "You probably remember a while ago a certain Merchant's Convoy went missing near Pluto, many figured it for lost. my old ship The Demeter was stationed nearby, this you probably heard as you did no doubt hear the Merchant Convoy's survived. Here's the classified bit, it took five fighter to defeat the pirates hijacking them, only one survived." she paused for dramatic moment before continuing, "Blue Tit survived and shot down the main ship by blowing up the fuselage. I survived as ya can see, but the four others got caught in the explosion or were shot down earlier on."
It wasn't proudest moment but proved she knew her flying and besides bragging wasn't really her forte. May as well be honest, turning towards Ray she grinned, "I'm a football girl dude -- also by football I mean European, not the pussified garbage America has."
It was often said she was way too blunt, but really she had to establish she wasn't no push-about, and that she had every right to pecking order as other.
"Although Jessie, I may have something you like, check under my fighter, trust me you don't see these on any fighter mostly, I got it for really as a last stand sorta device, proton cannon, manually controlled that can pack a powerful punch. Does that make you wet your panties." she winked, not in flirty way, more to be cheeky and to show she wasn't what she first appeared. Besides she was too confused to think about 'that' for now.
"Well thank you for telling me that...personal matter." He was referring to Eli's age. "I guess calling me sir isn't that out there now is it? But I'd still prefer Atomsk."
He was happy at the fact the offer was accepted. He would enjoy this. He could tell. Eli would do well on the ground. The past experience would just make him more able and careful.
He enjoyed the cigar longer, with a large grin on his face. Now all that was left to do was wait another 10 minutes for the rest of the crew. He really hoped he wouldn't have to call them all again. He had faith though.
He was happy at the fact the offer was accepted. He would enjoy this. He could tell. Eli would do well on the ground. The past experience would just make him more able and careful.
He enjoyed the cigar longer, with a large grin on his face. Now all that was left to do was wait another 10 minutes for the rest of the crew. He really hoped he wouldn't have to call them all again. He had faith though.
Paulina frowned slightly at her cold, and somewhat silent, reception. From the corner of her eye she spotted a blonde girl with slightly unruly hair alone, and in Paulina's eyes in need of a friend. "Hello there!" Paulina chirped as she popped up beside Adriana and extended a hand. "Paulina Allard, ship's counselor. I'm trying to... well, meet as much of the crew as possible early on before they all start grouping up with out me."
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Barracks
Garrison ran down the hall; boots thudding as he stopped and slid across the floor a couple feet and nearly fell over. Barely balancing himself he stood and collected himself before walking in at attention with a salute. "Sergeant Major Carter reporting ." He snapped off and stood at attention. Arms placed neatly behind his back as he waited. He was panting still, he had ran half the way when he heard the call. He hoped he hadn't broken any protocol by doing. He was in his full uniform, unstained and clean, he didn't get the chance to make it to the mess hall before called up. So he stood at attention.
Hmm.... I wonder what this is all about. Please.... Nothing bad. He thought over and over, mind running ninety to nothing due to the ADHD. He really needed to ask the suits down in the medical bay about something to help calm him down a bit.
Hmm.... I wonder what this is all about. Please.... Nothing bad. He thought over and over, mind running ninety to nothing due to the ADHD. He really needed to ask the suits down in the medical bay about something to help calm him down a bit.
Adriana gave a mental sigh. The freak show had come to talk to her.
She gave the compulsory smile and hand shake, and answered the counselor. "I'm Adriana Stark. I like to blow things up." At this point, she patted the strange looking rifle strapped across her back. "If you're looking for a group, you should probably stay away from me. I'm not good with people." After the smile that didn't reach her eyes, the words were delivered with no expression and a voice with little variance. Adriana wasn't here to make small talk and showed it- the Commander had summoned the fighters. She would hear his lecture and then get back to work. It was her way.
She gave the compulsory smile and hand shake, and answered the counselor. "I'm Adriana Stark. I like to blow things up." At this point, she patted the strange looking rifle strapped across her back. "If you're looking for a group, you should probably stay away from me. I'm not good with people." After the smile that didn't reach her eyes, the words were delivered with no expression and a voice with little variance. Adriana wasn't here to make small talk and showed it- the Commander had summoned the fighters. She would hear his lecture and then get back to work. It was her way.
"I'm assuming you're not very eager to make friends on board then? Have you ever had many friends?" Paulina asked. She would of added that Adriana was a bit hostile but that wasn't the best way to make a positive impression, no the best way was smile and agree with things. Paulina fiddled with her pipe again as she glanced around and noticed the other fighters. "Are you waiting for something?" She added as she turned back to Adriana. "Or are you just relaxing?"
The setting changes from Barracks to The Milky Way Universe
The counselor was exactly correct. "No, no, yes, and no. I'm not looking for friends, I never really had any, I'm waiting for Commander Dunaway's "briefing", and I'm not relaxed at all." Adriana gave the counselor more of the same. In a hostile fashion. She didn't look at the person she was speaking to, but rather at the gathering of marines and officers filing into the barracks. Adriana felt alone in seas of people. Just the way she liked it.
"Do you mind if I join you?" Paulina asked as she pulled a chair up from the side for herself, not waiting for a reply. Paulina sat down and assumed the forward stance that Adriana had, and looked out into the distance, as she did. "I've never heard a military briefing before," Paulina commented as she stared. "I know how you feel, by the way. That feeling of being alone, of being unable to relate to those around you. That's why I dress like this, it's not something weird or anything. Well I suppose it is, but we're all a bit weird inside..." She said, picking her words carefully. "I like your hair, by the way," She added as she glanced toward Adriana. "What do you think of your shipmates so far? I'm still a bit undecided on most I've met so far, thought most have only been for a moment..."
Adriana knew where this was going. And she was going to put a stop to it. She didn't want to be friends with a fruitcake like this, or even to keep talking. She didn't need therapy.
"I've been in my lab for three days. And by the way..."
She stopped, looked directly at Paulina, and clearly enunciated the words. "F*ck you."
Adriana looked back at the marines and waited for whatever came next.
"I've been in my lab for three days. And by the way..."
She stopped, looked directly at Paulina, and clearly enunciated the words. "F*ck you."
Adriana looked back at the marines and waited for whatever came next.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Barracks
"So that's why you have no friends," Paulina muttered as she stuck her pipe back in her mouth. "You're a bitch." Paulina glanced down at her pipe at the smoke that rose from it. She didn't like this, not so much not befriending this horrible woman but rather her techniques failing as miserably as they did. "I was going to make you normal but oh fucking well," She commented on, not wanting to leave in defeat but not really being brave enough to fight either. "I guess some people are just lost causes..."
Now Adriana was having fun. The counselor broke so easily. What a poor counselor, to lose hope and give up in nothing more than two minutes. "So this is what a bad counselor looks like." Adriana smiled genuinely, for the first time in several days. "I don't want to be normal, Ms. Allard. You should let some things lie as they are."
The setting changes from Barracks to The Milky Way Universe
"I'm not doing my job right now," Was Paulina's response. She glanced down at her wooden pipe as the smoke rose out it's end. It made her feel fancy and Victorian, though this one was now old and worn, and marked with tooth bites. "You shouldn't be a cruel person," She added after a second of uncomfortableness. "It's morally improper."
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Infirmary/Medical Bay
Jon
At the Faith's statement Jon began stripping the suit, a difficult task to do as one person normally with his good arm. He wasn't shy about being naked, something years of service did to even the most shy of servicemen. It took him a lot of effort but he eventually got the chest piece off, it fell heavily to the ground. He paused bare chested, just in case a full strip was needed; he doubted that he'd need to remove the leggings to get his shoulder patched.
"We just gonna patch the shoulder or is a full physical coming with it," he asked beginning the removal process of the leggings. If he was getting a full physical, he wasn't going to keep her waiting long for him to fully strip.
At the Faith's statement Jon began stripping the suit, a difficult task to do as one person normally with his good arm. He wasn't shy about being naked, something years of service did to even the most shy of servicemen. It took him a lot of effort but he eventually got the chest piece off, it fell heavily to the ground. He paused bare chested, just in case a full strip was needed; he doubted that he'd need to remove the leggings to get his shoulder patched.
"We just gonna patch the shoulder or is a full physical coming with it," he asked beginning the removal process of the leggings. If he was getting a full physical, he wasn't going to keep her waiting long for him to fully strip.
The setting changes from Infirmary/Medical Bay to The Milky Way Universe
When Thaddeus heard the intercom orders to get to the barrack he felt anxious. "Excuse me madam," he addressed the medic treating Jon "how long will this take to patch him up? By the way no offense towards the previous question on experience. I've been in plenty situations where the only medic in an area was only at an adept skill at best." Looking at Jon he said "We should be at the barracks relatively soon, you know that right?"
"That's better. Now we're getting somewhere," Adriana answered. She let the words hang for a second. "You shouldn't pry into things that aren't your business. That's morally improper as well." She figured this conversation was approaching its end, so she decided to send the counselor on her way. "You have an entire crew to meet, don't you? Don't let me hold you up here too long. Besides, the meeting here is for "military personnel". I believe the commander meant people who would be fighting under his command, if you see where I'm going with this."
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
Eon-312 noticed, nothing in the armory will help him. So he walked to the observation deck. Realizing the time he decided to just walk about the ship. While Eon was walking he noticed more people are out that he remembered. He disregarded the thought and kept going. He walked by the barracks and noticed someone smoking and what appeared to the bot a scientist. He walked up, "Excuse me" He said rather calm like, "Do you know of anywhere where I can get parts?" Eon stood there hoping for a better response than what has been going on from what he could tell. By the looks of it the scientist was mad as all hell and the counselor looked uncomfortable. He disregarded the analysis of the two and waited for a response.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
Grenadine was snuggling Rover closely, and was about to head back to her quarters as a metallic voice caught her attention. It came from around the next corner "I'm here!" Grenadine explained, walking around the corner, Rover still in her arms. Her whole existence and being lit up "ANDROID!" she grinned, thoroughly thrilled that she wouldn't just be working whit humans. She skipped over, her rubberboots leaving loud "floumps". She cradled the little vacuum robot under her arm, and held out her hand for the Android to shake "It's so fantastic to meet you!" she grinned "You're a domestic, right? First series" she sighed dreamily "How many emotions have you accumulated? What's your serial number? I'm Grenadine, PhD in electronics and mechanics and master in extra terrestrial activity and solar systems" she shook the Androids hand enthusiastically.
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Faith turned back to Jon just as he had removed the upper part of his suit leaving his chest bare. Faith could not help the attraction she felt at seeing such a well built man only a short distance away. It wasn't the first half naked man she had seen and she was irritated with her reaction.
First day on the job and you're already lusting after a guyShe thought with a sigh. just because you haven't been laid in a long time does not mean you can start acting like a lusty teenager!
Finished mentally scolding herself she focussed on fixing Jon's arm, using it as an excuse to hide her embarrassment at her reaction to him. Luckily his arm was a simple enough fracture and took very little actual concentration so she could concentrate on bringing herself back under control. It wasn't that her patient was unattractive but more that she did not like how easily she had been affected as that was not like her.
"What are they feeding you guys these days, muscle enhancers for breakfast, lunch and dinner?" She said sarcastically.
A moment more and she had fixed his arm and it looked as good as new, the wonders of medical technology. She patted his arm as an indication that she had finished.
"All done, you can use the arm but try not to strain it as it will need time to fully heal and try not to let anyone else injure before you've even left the ship."
She nodded to Thaddeus in acknowledgement of his words. "No problem. Best hop to it as I hear being late is never good for a marine."
After wiping her hands she then turned to the man awaiting her attention, she gave him the once over and saw a young man who seemed apparently disinterested in his surroundings or the other people in the room. She wasn't overly surprised as she had seen such detachment in other doctors she had worked with.
"Dr Bergman. I don't recall seeing you at the briefing from the admiral? No matter we will get this matter sorted. I have not yet reviewed the current working rosta, until then you may work in this med bay. If I read your case file correctly you specialise in molecular biology and immunology? Certainly useful to have aboard however I will of course expect you to perform the full duties of a doctor aboard this ship. As long as you understand that we will get along just fine."
First day on the job and you're already lusting after a guyShe thought with a sigh. just because you haven't been laid in a long time does not mean you can start acting like a lusty teenager!
Finished mentally scolding herself she focussed on fixing Jon's arm, using it as an excuse to hide her embarrassment at her reaction to him. Luckily his arm was a simple enough fracture and took very little actual concentration so she could concentrate on bringing herself back under control. It wasn't that her patient was unattractive but more that she did not like how easily she had been affected as that was not like her.
"What are they feeding you guys these days, muscle enhancers for breakfast, lunch and dinner?" She said sarcastically.
A moment more and she had fixed his arm and it looked as good as new, the wonders of medical technology. She patted his arm as an indication that she had finished.
"All done, you can use the arm but try not to strain it as it will need time to fully heal and try not to let anyone else injure before you've even left the ship."
She nodded to Thaddeus in acknowledgement of his words. "No problem. Best hop to it as I hear being late is never good for a marine."
After wiping her hands she then turned to the man awaiting her attention, she gave him the once over and saw a young man who seemed apparently disinterested in his surroundings or the other people in the room. She wasn't overly surprised as she had seen such detachment in other doctors she had worked with.
"Dr Bergman. I don't recall seeing you at the briefing from the admiral? No matter we will get this matter sorted. I have not yet reviewed the current working rosta, until then you may work in this med bay. If I read your case file correctly you specialise in molecular biology and immunology? Certainly useful to have aboard however I will of course expect you to perform the full duties of a doctor aboard this ship. As long as you understand that we will get along just fine."
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Barracks
Realizing he was dismissed, Jon suited up again, a task that was simplified by having both arms but still annoying due to the armors weight. Still he got it on, helmet and all and walked off, casually waving to the doctor as he left, "Call me if you wanna see me again doc," he said through the suits speakers. Realizing he was already late and not wanting to be more so he took off down the hall, running full tilt towards the barracks. Faith had said don't strain it too much, but he recognized the statement was more a procedure than genuine fact, with today's medicine that kind of damage was as if it never happened after fixing up. The trick though was how to get her interested, in advancing the project to stage 2; he sent her a message: Have a classified project the Brass wants done that involves medical expertise...interested?
By the time he hit send, he was in the barracks looking around, there were quite a few people here. "Hey everyone Jon Dunaway reporting for duty, sorry bout the wait, suit broke my arm and doc took her sweet time patching it up."
"By the way, does anyone here know a way to get in contact with Admiral Weston quickly, I have some files he really should see."
By the time he hit send, he was in the barracks looking around, there were quite a few people here. "Hey everyone Jon Dunaway reporting for duty, sorry bout the wait, suit broke my arm and doc took her sweet time patching it up."
"By the way, does anyone here know a way to get in contact with Admiral Weston quickly, I have some files he really should see."
Adriana looked up at the sound of a new voice addressing her. "Parts"? Parts for what? She appraised the android with a glance. It appeared to be in working order. What possible use could it have for new parts? Building itself a friend? It probably needed one if it got so badly lost it wound up in the barracks. But it wasn't Adriana's job to work with the robots.
"... Nope."
"... Nope."
The setting changes from Barracks to The Milky Way Universe
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Faith was still talking with with Dr Bergman when her wrist communicator beeped indicating it had received a message, she frowned slightly having not expected a message quite so quickly. They were barely under way after all and she hardly knew anyone on board, she frowned harder when she saw the message was from Jon. The man had only just left, was he unhappy with how she had healed his arm? She hoped not as it would not do to her her first patient dis satisfied with her skills. For a brief moment she entertained the idea that he had recognised her attraction and was looking to pursue something but she dismissed that idea immediately. In her experience men showed interest at the time or after they had had a chance to think about it not moments after leaving the said woman's sight.
The actual message was none of the above and piqued her interest as soon as she read it. Classified project hmm? Something else to perhaps get her teeth into. She thought about it for a moment considering if she would have time for it given her already heavy workload that came with running the medical department on board a ship this size. She decided she would make time as she was curious as to what this project might be and she had never been very good at ignoring her curiosity.
She spoke into the communicator quickly and briefly not wanting to go into detail in front of a member of her staff.
The answer is yes
She trusted he would contact her again with more information and so she focussed once more on Dr Bergman awaiting his response to her words.
The actual message was none of the above and piqued her interest as soon as she read it. Classified project hmm? Something else to perhaps get her teeth into. She thought about it for a moment considering if she would have time for it given her already heavy workload that came with running the medical department on board a ship this size. She decided she would make time as she was curious as to what this project might be and she had never been very good at ignoring her curiosity.
She spoke into the communicator quickly and briefly not wanting to go into detail in front of a member of her staff.
The answer is yes
She trusted he would contact her again with more information and so she focussed once more on Dr Bergman awaiting his response to her words.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Infirmary/Medical Bay
Marcus Bergman
He nodded at the woman. "Of course I understand the position would encompass all the duties required of one in the medical field. I was under no allusion the arrangement would be a laboratory staffing; though my speciality is viral replication and pathogenesis I am fully accredited in internal medicine." Marcus had secretly hoped he would not have to treat the scrapped knees and only appear to administer inoculations. The man was tentative in undertaking such a progressive assignment. There would no doubt be several people with demands he didn't want to field. Why does it hurt when I do this; what does this look like; did I get it from a toilet seat. All thought provoking inquiries better suited for a field medic, yet here he was.
Marcus smoothed the front of his shirt, certain this Doctor Mackenzie was judging him by appearance alone. She looked tired already and they were barely underway. The man understood the minutiae with being the head of any department, in medicine it was even more stressful; constantly understaffed, underfunded and under appreciated. Marcus had worn that hat before yet the real headache was there was always a higher-up to appease. "I missed the orientation this is true, I have no excuse as to why but when I found myself assigned to a science section I assumed there was a mix up." He paused. "Something likely that could have been sorted at the briefing." The man relented. "If you could tell what is to be expected of me, I prefer to be thorough regardless of the duties exciting or otherwise.Any help I can offer Doctor Mackenzie would be no trouble at all." That was a lie, it would be bothersome but Marcus was always pleasant when dealing with administrators.
He nodded at the woman. "Of course I understand the position would encompass all the duties required of one in the medical field. I was under no allusion the arrangement would be a laboratory staffing; though my speciality is viral replication and pathogenesis I am fully accredited in internal medicine." Marcus had secretly hoped he would not have to treat the scrapped knees and only appear to administer inoculations. The man was tentative in undertaking such a progressive assignment. There would no doubt be several people with demands he didn't want to field. Why does it hurt when I do this; what does this look like; did I get it from a toilet seat. All thought provoking inquiries better suited for a field medic, yet here he was.
Marcus smoothed the front of his shirt, certain this Doctor Mackenzie was judging him by appearance alone. She looked tired already and they were barely underway. The man understood the minutiae with being the head of any department, in medicine it was even more stressful; constantly understaffed, underfunded and under appreciated. Marcus had worn that hat before yet the real headache was there was always a higher-up to appease. "I missed the orientation this is true, I have no excuse as to why but when I found myself assigned to a science section I assumed there was a mix up." He paused. "Something likely that could have been sorted at the briefing." The man relented. "If you could tell what is to be expected of me, I prefer to be thorough regardless of the duties exciting or otherwise.Any help I can offer Doctor Mackenzie would be no trouble at all." That was a lie, it would be bothersome but Marcus was always pleasant when dealing with administrators.
The setting changes from Infirmary/Medical Bay to Barracks
"Engineering would have these vague parts you speak of. I could escort you there, I was just leaving," Paulina commented as she stood, brushing her lap off as though sitting near Adriana had gotten her filthy. "Is something malfunctioning?" She asked the android as she made a quick glance down to the ship map that lay in a wide pocket of her dress...
The setting changes from Barracks to Captain's Quarters
The Captain's quarters was a rather commodious area with a luxurious lounge, a personal bar stocked with all of the Admiral’s favorite tastes from red wine and bourbon to gin and vermouth, a central map table with a holographic display that kept track of the Salient’s position in the Milky Way, an office that was directly linked to his desk in the bridge and of course the admiral’s own bed that had plush pillows, and soft sheeting. The only other quarters that could compare were the second-in-command’s own chamber, or even that of the planetary commander. Then again, the individual crew quarters weren’t that bad, it was more than enough for a person. Aronimus doubted that any admiral would need all the room given to him by the Captain’s quarters.
He approached the office which had a grooved seat similar to the one in the bridge, but it was raised upwards. The admiral decided to have a seat as he skimmed through the files on Thaddeus Jackson, Jon Dunaway, and James Grey. The strings of data floated around him like a sphere, engulfing him in data bits that illuminated his face in a cyan radiance. He reached a strand with Dunaway and Jackson’s name tagged in the file. The title had been expunged along with other vital pieces of data here and there in the descriptive profiles. Aronimus tapped his fingers in a rhythmic dance along his desk as he read on.
He continued doing so until he decided he had read enough, it was then that he turned to the transparent panel standing on his desk with the aid of a tripod and held down a button on the screen. He then spoke aloud,
“Attention Captain Jon Dunaway, Sergeant Thaddeus Jackson, please come to my quarters after the briefing with Commander Atomsk Dunaway. Mr. James Grey, come to my quarters immediately.”
After the message was broadcasted throughout the corridors of the ship, and even inside of Aronimus’s own quarters, he released his hold on the communications button. He pressed his fingers together leaving a space between his palms for him to gaze through as if he was trying to discern the future. He was interested in dealing with this particular matter immediately, before it got out of hand.
He approached the office which had a grooved seat similar to the one in the bridge, but it was raised upwards. The admiral decided to have a seat as he skimmed through the files on Thaddeus Jackson, Jon Dunaway, and James Grey. The strings of data floated around him like a sphere, engulfing him in data bits that illuminated his face in a cyan radiance. He reached a strand with Dunaway and Jackson’s name tagged in the file. The title had been expunged along with other vital pieces of data here and there in the descriptive profiles. Aronimus tapped his fingers in a rhythmic dance along his desk as he read on.
He continued doing so until he decided he had read enough, it was then that he turned to the transparent panel standing on his desk with the aid of a tripod and held down a button on the screen. He then spoke aloud,
“Attention Captain Jon Dunaway, Sergeant Thaddeus Jackson, please come to my quarters after the briefing with Commander Atomsk Dunaway. Mr. James Grey, come to my quarters immediately.”
After the message was broadcasted throughout the corridors of the ship, and even inside of Aronimus’s own quarters, he released his hold on the communications button. He pressed his fingers together leaving a space between his palms for him to gaze through as if he was trying to discern the future. He was interested in dealing with this particular matter immediately, before it got out of hand.
The setting changes from Captain's Quarters to The Milky Way Universe
“Attention Captain Jon Dunaway, Sergeant Thaddeus Jackson, please come to my quarters after the briefing with Commander Atomsk Dunaway. Mr. James Grey, come to my quarters immediately.” the broadcast proclaimed. Thaddeus knew he should get to the Admiral more quickly than this. He wanted to see the science laboratory for a possible custom item, but he was still a soldier so he had to follow the Admiral's orders first. "Ghost. Ze map." he said within his helmet. Ghost popped up with a virtual mapping system to get to the Captain's Quarters. With that Thaddeus sped up with walking pace.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Barracks
Eon looked at the woman whom stood up, "systems are all functional" He said, "Map, and parts for space work is optimal." The robot looked at the map, he scanned it. Text appeared in his vision: Download commencing... Complete. Applying map. The robot looked at the woman whom seemed a bit mean from her face and body movements. Diagnosis : Irritability due to stress. The robot opened up with a statement: "If you are stressed Ma'am then you should rest for a bit. Optimal relaxation: sleeping." The bot said with a "kind" demeanor. He turned to the woman whom he got the map from without her knowing, "Thank you for your assistance, and good luck with the overstressed homo-sapian." He walked away before hopefully he could hear the woman whom he insulted respond.
The setting changes from Barracks to The Milky Way Universe
James Grey
James couldn't help but flinch as he heard his name called on by the admiral. A thousand possible reasons why he was in trouble flashed through his mind. He had not even been on board for any real length of time and he was already in trouble. He had to assume that it was regarding some sort of problem since he was being called to the admirals’ quarters and not to the bridge or engineering room; that is where he would expect to be called if there was simply something that he needed to do. With that thought he had ARCHE run a quick check to see if there had been any detection of it in the system. He wouldn’t be able to tell for sure of course but James couldn’t help but think that it was a little too easy, ADAM should have stopped him by now.
James turned down the hallway, his eyes still closed as he consulted a map of the ship to find out where he needed to go. He was not too far away from the admiral and it would only take him a few moments to get there, best not to keep him waiting if possible. With that thought he moved from his previous slow and easy pace to a quick walk. James opened his eyes as he walked quickly down the hallway, the light of it causing a few spots to pop up in his vision which had gotten too used to being closed. They would disappear in a few moments but they were always a little bit of a pain when they first show up.
As James neared the room he could not help but have a small shiver of worry come over him. He had never been in a situation like this and he couldn’t help but let his inexperience run through him. He had never been very capable when it comes to dealing with the chain of command; he hoped that this all wasn’t going to blow up in his face.
Ben Owens
Ben yawned as he headed back to the hangar. He’d already eaten his fill and stored most of his gear, the only thing that he could think to do was check on his fighter one final time before getting out of there and perhaps hitting the hay. There wasn’t a whole lot for a pilot like him to do, no real need for him to be flying when there just traveling through space.
Ben moved as he always did, a little faster than most and on the balls of his feet as though ready to spring on anything in front of him. His time on the street had taught him to take notice of everything happening around you, it could help pick out a mark or anything like that. His time in the cockpit had taught him the same thing, you wanted to be able to see which ships were on your side and which were trying to shoot you down. As Ben walked this aspect of him kicked in as he noticed a thousand small things that he normally wouldn’t onboard a ship. Once again he saw the suit of armor striding through the halls and he even though he saw what looked like an android but that couldn’t be right. It seemed that everywhere he went there would be odd things happening. He was just happy that for the moment he wasn’t a part of it. He had to admit though that he was getting board, something that happened all too often for him.
James couldn't help but flinch as he heard his name called on by the admiral. A thousand possible reasons why he was in trouble flashed through his mind. He had not even been on board for any real length of time and he was already in trouble. He had to assume that it was regarding some sort of problem since he was being called to the admirals’ quarters and not to the bridge or engineering room; that is where he would expect to be called if there was simply something that he needed to do. With that thought he had ARCHE run a quick check to see if there had been any detection of it in the system. He wouldn’t be able to tell for sure of course but James couldn’t help but think that it was a little too easy, ADAM should have stopped him by now.
James turned down the hallway, his eyes still closed as he consulted a map of the ship to find out where he needed to go. He was not too far away from the admiral and it would only take him a few moments to get there, best not to keep him waiting if possible. With that thought he moved from his previous slow and easy pace to a quick walk. James opened his eyes as he walked quickly down the hallway, the light of it causing a few spots to pop up in his vision which had gotten too used to being closed. They would disappear in a few moments but they were always a little bit of a pain when they first show up.
As James neared the room he could not help but have a small shiver of worry come over him. He had never been in a situation like this and he couldn’t help but let his inexperience run through him. He had never been very capable when it comes to dealing with the chain of command; he hoped that this all wasn’t going to blow up in his face.
Ben Owens
Ben yawned as he headed back to the hangar. He’d already eaten his fill and stored most of his gear, the only thing that he could think to do was check on his fighter one final time before getting out of there and perhaps hitting the hay. There wasn’t a whole lot for a pilot like him to do, no real need for him to be flying when there just traveling through space.
Ben moved as he always did, a little faster than most and on the balls of his feet as though ready to spring on anything in front of him. His time on the street had taught him to take notice of everything happening around you, it could help pick out a mark or anything like that. His time in the cockpit had taught him the same thing, you wanted to be able to see which ships were on your side and which were trying to shoot you down. As Ben walked this aspect of him kicked in as he noticed a thousand small things that he normally wouldn’t onboard a ship. Once again he saw the suit of armor striding through the halls and he even though he saw what looked like an android but that couldn’t be right. It seemed that everywhere he went there would be odd things happening. He was just happy that for the moment he wasn’t a part of it. He had to admit though that he was getting board, something that happened all too often for him.
As Eon began to walk away Paulina popped up beside him and began to assume his pace. "So what are you exactly?" Paulina asked as she looked the Android down. "Model wise, I mean. What is your function onboard?" She quickly placed her pipe back in her mouth and extended her now free hand to the bot. "Paulina Allard, Ship's Counselor. Though I suppose you won't have much use to me," Paulina said, her words sloshed due to the pipe.
NS-9 turned as she heard a voice. "Hello." She said in her metallic voice. Then, she attempted to answer all the questions at once. "Yes, I am a domestic android. I have accumulated several of the most basic emotions. My serial number is N9237499." She got a human looking smile on her face. This was the second time anyone has ever shook her hand. She actually kind of liked it. It felt...human. "And it's very nice to meet you too." She added in the most humanly way she possibly could.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
Clyde - Bridge
"This should be an interesting voyage," Alice Chen observed quietly. "The talent they've pulled in... even putting an Admiral on ship's command. It seems as though there's a lot expected out of the Salient, this time."
Clyde spun around in his seat and leaned back with his hands clasped behind his head. He had set his implant to record the footage of the ship so he wouldn't miss anything. For now, it was time to get to know the people he would be living with. Or at least, get them to know him a little better. He would know them all inside and out before the week was finished. He addressed the bridge openly.
"I'm sure the Federation does expect much from the Salient. But does anyone know what we're going to be doing? The Admiral? Higher than him? Since nobody's told us a thing yet, I'm guessing we won't find anything out until we actually get to where we're going. And we're not expected there for about two months. Until then, we're just all going to be living together, one happy family. Anybody have any good stories? Jokes? Things we could do for fun to make the wait interesting?" Clyde nudged the other navigator, who hadn't seemed intent on talking before. "Anyone? What about you, A.D.A.M.? Got any interesting ideas?" Clyde purposely addressed the other navigator, and the ship's AI. The navigator because he hadn't spoken once yet and the AI because A.D.A.M. was practically a person. He probably did have ideas.
Adriana - Barracks One
Adriana gave a mental sigh of relief. The colorful counselor was going away and taking the android with her. "Stressed" he had said. Boy, was he wrong. She knew she wasn't stressed- she was always like this. It was how she lived and that was her comfort zone.
The last few arrivals were coming in- Dunaway with his super suit and a handful of straggler ship guards. It was almost time to start the briefing.
"This should be an interesting voyage," Alice Chen observed quietly. "The talent they've pulled in... even putting an Admiral on ship's command. It seems as though there's a lot expected out of the Salient, this time."
Clyde spun around in his seat and leaned back with his hands clasped behind his head. He had set his implant to record the footage of the ship so he wouldn't miss anything. For now, it was time to get to know the people he would be living with. Or at least, get them to know him a little better. He would know them all inside and out before the week was finished. He addressed the bridge openly.
"I'm sure the Federation does expect much from the Salient. But does anyone know what we're going to be doing? The Admiral? Higher than him? Since nobody's told us a thing yet, I'm guessing we won't find anything out until we actually get to where we're going. And we're not expected there for about two months. Until then, we're just all going to be living together, one happy family. Anybody have any good stories? Jokes? Things we could do for fun to make the wait interesting?" Clyde nudged the other navigator, who hadn't seemed intent on talking before. "Anyone? What about you, A.D.A.M.? Got any interesting ideas?" Clyde purposely addressed the other navigator, and the ship's AI. The navigator because he hadn't spoken once yet and the AI because A.D.A.M. was practically a person. He probably did have ideas.
Adriana - Barracks One
Adriana gave a mental sigh of relief. The colorful counselor was going away and taking the android with her. "Stressed" he had said. Boy, was he wrong. She knew she wasn't stressed- she was always like this. It was how she lived and that was her comfort zone.
The last few arrivals were coming in- Dunaway with his super suit and a handful of straggler ship guards. It was almost time to start the briefing.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
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A.D.A.M.
"Two months seems rather slow for our travel time Clyde but I understand that most are quite hesitant to use a ship's Hyperdrive capabilities; standard AI's are a bit...inaccurate for such calculations. Truth be told even with my performance limit increased to 5% I doubt that I can bring drift down to less than a hundred thousand kilometers or so." A.D.A.M was enjoying the new amount of power he had, processes that before would have been an issue were much easier, this also freed him up for more interaction time with the crew.
"As for what our mission entails I do not know and from all appearances no one on board does, but considering the quality of the crew and the price and nature of the equipment on board I'd say walking into a war zone is well within feasible parameters. As for how we can amuse ourselves, this ship has virtually as many facilities for use as a standard city so activities shouldn't be an issue. But I must ask what is a joke, the definition of the word is in my database but I've no practical experience one."
"Two months seems rather slow for our travel time Clyde but I understand that most are quite hesitant to use a ship's Hyperdrive capabilities; standard AI's are a bit...inaccurate for such calculations. Truth be told even with my performance limit increased to 5% I doubt that I can bring drift down to less than a hundred thousand kilometers or so." A.D.A.M was enjoying the new amount of power he had, processes that before would have been an issue were much easier, this also freed him up for more interaction time with the crew.
"As for what our mission entails I do not know and from all appearances no one on board does, but considering the quality of the crew and the price and nature of the equipment on board I'd say walking into a war zone is well within feasible parameters. As for how we can amuse ourselves, this ship has virtually as many facilities for use as a standard city so activities shouldn't be an issue. But I must ask what is a joke, the definition of the word is in my database but I've no practical experience one."
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Barracks
The timekeeper on Eli's wrist paced away slowly, the seconds were ever-changing, it was time for the briefing to start. Yet Commander Dunaway was still holding his thoughts as a few more personnel shuffled into the Barracks. The Barracks was a very large area with multiple zones set apart for different types of training. The mock battle area was an enclosed arena with a raised ceiling and a sky box viewing area from which officers or higher ups would observe the trainees in a simulated battlefield situation. The interesting part was the very floor itself which was drawn into a grid, each of the grid squares were actually automated concrete rectangular prism monoliths that would raise up to provide simulated battlefield geography which included barricades and cover. The monoliths however rose up in varying formations each time when activated.
The other training center was a large open arena containing circular rings and automated machine gun turrets that were either buried in the ground or covered in the ceiling. The rings provided an improved combat dynamic as gun turrets located on them could shift to varying angles and degrees and fire at trainees from those positions. This arena, like the grid arena, had a sky box for superiors to observe, analyze, and report, as well as holographic projectors that spawned artificial hostiles to send against personnel. Unlike the grid arena however, this arena had a zero gravity system to simulate space borne operations. As for aquatic training sessions, another chamber was set aside with size-able fluid content to simulate underwater combat.
All in all, the arenas were high end equipment that weren't found on many other ships. Back in the meeting area of the Barracks, Eli gave his timekeeper another look.
"Atomsk, er sir," Eli had to speak in formal tongue before other marines otherwise they'd think he had a sort of special relationship with the Commander. He was only following proper protocols, but when they were not on duty he would refer to his commander in that manner.
"We should probably get the briefing underway," Eli glanced at the timekeeper. Forty-five minutes had passed since Commander Dunaway gave the call for military personnel.
He noted the marines in the area; their haircuts were bordering on banality, but they weren't expected to look good. He also spotted the lady sitting on one of the metallic cubic containers. She didn't seem like military personnel given her lab coat, yet she had an interesting armament strapped to her back. It was a rifle of sorts, personal design from what he assumed, seeing as how he'd never seen that weapon before. He was going off of his own knowledge of standard marine equipment, maybe it was a civilian model but he could only guess. At this time, Dunaway the younger arrived in the barracks fully geared for an operation, alongside his compatriot in similar equipment, Thaddeus. Eli wondered why two soldiers of their caliber were among the last of military personnel to arrive in the Barracks, but it didn't matter, he wanted to get this briefing under way.
The other training center was a large open arena containing circular rings and automated machine gun turrets that were either buried in the ground or covered in the ceiling. The rings provided an improved combat dynamic as gun turrets located on them could shift to varying angles and degrees and fire at trainees from those positions. This arena, like the grid arena, had a sky box for superiors to observe, analyze, and report, as well as holographic projectors that spawned artificial hostiles to send against personnel. Unlike the grid arena however, this arena had a zero gravity system to simulate space borne operations. As for aquatic training sessions, another chamber was set aside with size-able fluid content to simulate underwater combat.
All in all, the arenas were high end equipment that weren't found on many other ships. Back in the meeting area of the Barracks, Eli gave his timekeeper another look.
"Atomsk, er sir," Eli had to speak in formal tongue before other marines otherwise they'd think he had a sort of special relationship with the Commander. He was only following proper protocols, but when they were not on duty he would refer to his commander in that manner.
"We should probably get the briefing underway," Eli glanced at the timekeeper. Forty-five minutes had passed since Commander Dunaway gave the call for military personnel.
He noted the marines in the area; their haircuts were bordering on banality, but they weren't expected to look good. He also spotted the lady sitting on one of the metallic cubic containers. She didn't seem like military personnel given her lab coat, yet she had an interesting armament strapped to her back. It was a rifle of sorts, personal design from what he assumed, seeing as how he'd never seen that weapon before. He was going off of his own knowledge of standard marine equipment, maybe it was a civilian model but he could only guess. At this time, Dunaway the younger arrived in the barracks fully geared for an operation, alongside his compatriot in similar equipment, Thaddeus. Eli wondered why two soldiers of their caliber were among the last of military personnel to arrive in the Barracks, but it didn't matter, he wanted to get this briefing under way.
The setting changes from Barracks to F.S.S. Salient
Eon noticed Paulina walk up to him. She caught up and asked questions to Eon, basic questions for him. He responded, "I am Eon-312 a Helios class Android built for various tasks on an starship." Eon responded, "and depending on experience here I may find need of you." Eon said with a surprisingly humanlike tone. Eon looked at the map to find his way around. He took a turn to the right to see another android and a human with it. He stopped to see why this person is nearly yelling in excitement and why why was holding a vacuum bot in her arm. He walked up, "Excuse me for asking, but what are your reasons of carrying a vacuum bot...?" He asked the woman
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
Although it was already past lunch time, Aronimus had not eaten, and he didn't plan on doing so either. He was waiting for Commander Dunaway's briefing to finish, in order to see the two soldiers along with engineer James Grey. At this moment several beeps were heard to which the Admiral responded by glancing at the transparent panel. It was a transmission from high command, the designation was Alpha-Mike-Juliet-00927, a code which Aronimus knew very well. It belonged to the fleet admiral of the Federation Navy, Admiral Michel Fontaine, Aronimus was surprised as to why the Admiral wanted to speak to him. This deployment wasn't even in his jurisdiction, and it was nothing of importance...at least in Aronimus's perspective. Admiral Fontaine had other matters to deal with, such as handling the command of the Sol Defense Fleet, one of the most massive armadas amassed within the Sol System.
Aronimus pressed the receiver key, which patched him through to the Admiral.
"Aronimus," Fontaine's face came into being on the viewing screen as his voice rang in with a certain gruffness that could only be the result of years of experience in conflict. Aronimus's name clearly signified a relationship that was beyond formal.
"Yes, sir..." Aronimus replied reluctantly to his superior.
"Yes, I wanted to talk to you about your mission," to this Aronimus gave a perplexed glance to Fontaine.
"Sir?" he was unsure about what Fontaine had to contribute.
There was a brief sigh in the conversation on Fontaine's end.
"Aronimus, I understand that your prior objectives was to scout out the Arcturus System and then report your findings back to command. After which you would remain on patrol through the region, am I correct?"
There was nothing he left out, and Aronimus could only reply with a solemn yes.
"Very well then, you have new orders and objectives now."
Aronimus felt slightly perturbed by this sudden change in plans, but he would see what the Admiral had to say.
"Your new orders are to search and destroy, intelligence confirms that there is a large insurgent cell operating in that region of Federation space."
The last piece of news was fairly astonishing to Aronimus, and worry lines began to reform on his forehead. It was inconceivable, merely weeks ago when he departed from Mars, the planetary governor of New Sidney gave him word that there were pirates raiding the merchant lanes. He was given authorization to command the Salient and stop the raiders, this was a whole new dimension now. They had left Callisto for only two Earth hours so far and suddenly this revelation.
"Sir, do you have any idea how large it is?"
"Yes, I'll send you the information directly. The Salient is part of a long line of illustrious warships, and I believe that it is more than capable of handling any insurgent threat, based on statistics of the other Neptune Battlecruisers in action. Not to mention that the Salient has an experienced hand at the helm," the last part was a nod to Aronimus' experience.
"Sir, you flatter me." Aronimus smiled.
"Yes, I along with almost every other admiral in the Navy, but I must remind you to tread carefully. We've already seen these insurgents before, they are completely unpredictable. We don't know where they will strike next, and we don't know how many are in their ranks."
"I understand Admiral."
"Good, it is approximately..." Fontaine glanced at his timekeeper which was synced with Earth time.
"2:30 P.M. I am signing off." the communique ended as Fontaine's face disappeared from the screen and his voice vanished with it.
Aronimus pressed the receiver key, which patched him through to the Admiral.
"Aronimus," Fontaine's face came into being on the viewing screen as his voice rang in with a certain gruffness that could only be the result of years of experience in conflict. Aronimus's name clearly signified a relationship that was beyond formal.
"Yes, sir..." Aronimus replied reluctantly to his superior.
"Yes, I wanted to talk to you about your mission," to this Aronimus gave a perplexed glance to Fontaine.
"Sir?" he was unsure about what Fontaine had to contribute.
There was a brief sigh in the conversation on Fontaine's end.
"Aronimus, I understand that your prior objectives was to scout out the Arcturus System and then report your findings back to command. After which you would remain on patrol through the region, am I correct?"
There was nothing he left out, and Aronimus could only reply with a solemn yes.
"Very well then, you have new orders and objectives now."
Aronimus felt slightly perturbed by this sudden change in plans, but he would see what the Admiral had to say.
"Your new orders are to search and destroy, intelligence confirms that there is a large insurgent cell operating in that region of Federation space."
The last piece of news was fairly astonishing to Aronimus, and worry lines began to reform on his forehead. It was inconceivable, merely weeks ago when he departed from Mars, the planetary governor of New Sidney gave him word that there were pirates raiding the merchant lanes. He was given authorization to command the Salient and stop the raiders, this was a whole new dimension now. They had left Callisto for only two Earth hours so far and suddenly this revelation.
"Sir, do you have any idea how large it is?"
"Yes, I'll send you the information directly. The Salient is part of a long line of illustrious warships, and I believe that it is more than capable of handling any insurgent threat, based on statistics of the other Neptune Battlecruisers in action. Not to mention that the Salient has an experienced hand at the helm," the last part was a nod to Aronimus' experience.
"Sir, you flatter me." Aronimus smiled.
"Yes, I along with almost every other admiral in the Navy, but I must remind you to tread carefully. We've already seen these insurgents before, they are completely unpredictable. We don't know where they will strike next, and we don't know how many are in their ranks."
"I understand Admiral."
"Good, it is approximately..." Fontaine glanced at his timekeeper which was synced with Earth time.
"2:30 P.M. I am signing off." the communique ended as Fontaine's face disappeared from the screen and his voice vanished with it.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Hangar
Hyena laughs lightly at Tiaan and shakes her head, "Yeah, I saw it. But I figured you had a gunner seat. What are you going to do with a manual turret in a dogfight? Put her in park every time you want to pop off a shot?"
Waving a hand dismissively to gloss over the comment, the pilot changes the conversation, "Now that the obligatory dick-waving is out of the way, we've got an issue."
Beckoning Ray and Tiaan in conspiratorily, that meat-eating grin spreads from ear to ear, "We're set up for pretty much The most boring sunset cruise in the Federation. This boat's got more guns then God, and we're heading out to the fringes of Big Fuckin Empty. Any pirates or insurgents out -that- goddamn far arent going to have the balls to step up to this crate unless they've gone completely batshit. What this says to me, is that smart people came -prepared-. See, I used to turn wrenches, and I've already tapped some guys I served with in another squadron. They know some comm crewman, who know some engineers, who have a compartment a few decks down that -no one- uses. I was going to just use it as an oversized closet, but I'm thinking it could have a more... 'social' calling. The kind of social you cant have in a ship's lounge with Big Brother breathing down your neck. You still with me?"
Jesus Christ, not 24 hours on board and she's already tapped into the JO Underground, planning to pool the resources of various enterprising individuals. Jess was the type of individual to whom you could trade a bent paperclip and by the end of the month she'd trade you back a brand new car. Came with growing up on a merchant dock, and maybe with being just plain sneaky.
"We need one last hoorah out here, before that XO with the starched shirt buckles down, and before people forget what shore leave was like. Besides, I dont know you two tug drivers, I dont trust people I dont know, and I dont fly with people I dont trust. So just think of it as 'building unit cohesion and encouraging good morale'."
She snaps her fingers and adds, almost as an asside to herself, "I think we can talk to a couple of the Marines and maybe that Nav I met at the breifing, too, they seemed pretty chill, if they can keep their mouths shut around the brass..."
Looking back to her fellow space-jockies, Hyena shrugs, "Whadaya say? I know you've got some hidey-holes in those big-ass birds, dont tell me you cant contribute. I've got some smokes, some cards.. We'll add in some booze and I'll see if I can scrounge up a cook willing to slide a few of the Staff Officer prime meat rations... One of the spaceframers is already working on cutting a grill out of a hydraulic drum... Oh, man, this is -so- on."
If that smile got any wider, it would split her skull, and she was practically dancing in place. Listen closely enough, and you might actually hear all those clever little gears in her head whirring at speeds to make FTL jealous.
Waving a hand dismissively to gloss over the comment, the pilot changes the conversation, "Now that the obligatory dick-waving is out of the way, we've got an issue."
Beckoning Ray and Tiaan in conspiratorily, that meat-eating grin spreads from ear to ear, "We're set up for pretty much The most boring sunset cruise in the Federation. This boat's got more guns then God, and we're heading out to the fringes of Big Fuckin Empty. Any pirates or insurgents out -that- goddamn far arent going to have the balls to step up to this crate unless they've gone completely batshit. What this says to me, is that smart people came -prepared-. See, I used to turn wrenches, and I've already tapped some guys I served with in another squadron. They know some comm crewman, who know some engineers, who have a compartment a few decks down that -no one- uses. I was going to just use it as an oversized closet, but I'm thinking it could have a more... 'social' calling. The kind of social you cant have in a ship's lounge with Big Brother breathing down your neck. You still with me?"
Jesus Christ, not 24 hours on board and she's already tapped into the JO Underground, planning to pool the resources of various enterprising individuals. Jess was the type of individual to whom you could trade a bent paperclip and by the end of the month she'd trade you back a brand new car. Came with growing up on a merchant dock, and maybe with being just plain sneaky.
"We need one last hoorah out here, before that XO with the starched shirt buckles down, and before people forget what shore leave was like. Besides, I dont know you two tug drivers, I dont trust people I dont know, and I dont fly with people I dont trust. So just think of it as 'building unit cohesion and encouraging good morale'."
She snaps her fingers and adds, almost as an asside to herself, "I think we can talk to a couple of the Marines and maybe that Nav I met at the breifing, too, they seemed pretty chill, if they can keep their mouths shut around the brass..."
Looking back to her fellow space-jockies, Hyena shrugs, "Whadaya say? I know you've got some hidey-holes in those big-ass birds, dont tell me you cant contribute. I've got some smokes, some cards.. We'll add in some booze and I'll see if I can scrounge up a cook willing to slide a few of the Staff Officer prime meat rations... One of the spaceframers is already working on cutting a grill out of a hydraulic drum... Oh, man, this is -so- on."
If that smile got any wider, it would split her skull, and she was practically dancing in place. Listen closely enough, and you might actually hear all those clever little gears in her head whirring at speeds to make FTL jealous.
The setting changes from Hangar to The Milky Way Universe
Grenadine smiled at NS-9 "It's so nice to meet you too, but I said that" she grinned. She spun around as she was approached by yet another android, and a woman that looked to be a counselor, or maybe medic she guessed from the uniform. "Oh, this?" she held up the bot "This is Rover, little rascal ran off and almost got itself into trouble" she ruffled the top of the bot like it had fur and ears "didn't you, you little troublemaker" she pet voiced lovingly at the bot, smiling up at the other android, holding out her hand "I'm grenadine! You're an all-rounder! And a pretty new one at that" she looked at her hand "humans usually take each others hand and give it a light shake when they meet new people. I assume you'll be accumulating emotions soon! It's so nice to meet you" Grenadine the turned to NS "Do you know each other?" she smiled from the one to the other, first then realizing that there was another human "Oh... um... h...h..hi" she muttered, eventually, carefully sticking out her hand to greet.
We should probably get the briefing underway," Eli said to him.
He looked around and agreed. There were many men and he couldn't tell if they were all here. He himself may not respect authority much, but he had the courtesy to at least be punctual. He took a glance around and noticed his brother and the other man. He wanted to keep an eye on them. He was deeply concerned about the leash these two were on. He knew that Jon would follow orders to a T and was afraid of any missions being jeopardized.
Enough was enough though and he decided to get started.
"Thank you all for coming, although not that you had much of a choice." He said with a chuckle. "As I'm sure you all already know, I am Commander Atomsk Dunaway. I will be Planetary Operations Commander for this voyage, putting your lives in my hands." This was the part of the speech where he told them his past, which he always told the truth to his men.
"I'm not sure how much any of you know about me, but to be honest I have an extensive record. Some good, Some bad. I have been nearly court marshaled 3 time, and have had many disciplinary actions taken against me. I don't follow orders. But realize this, the reason i don't follow orders is for you men. I do it to keep as many from you as dying as possible. I ask that you follow me while i don't follow those I'm supposed to. My tactics will seem insane. But if you DON'T follow you me, you have a much higher possibility of dying."
At this point he looked around to see what the men thought. He saw what he usually saw. Uncertainty and arrogance. He would break that as soon as he could. Next to make sure the men were aware of the chain of command, he would state Eli's position.
He looked to his right and began speaking. "You all should be aware of Captain Eli Colter here by now. He will be my Second-in-Command. I will not be on the ground most of the time. Eli will be my eyes and ears and will take command if I am unavailable." He looked closely at his brother at this point. He wanted to see what he would think of this, seeing as he made Jon his second on most occasions.
"At this point I would like everyone of Rank equal to or higher then a Sergeant to step forward, You will be serving as my squad leaders. If we don't have enough of you at that point I will personally review files and determine who will meet the requirements for a squad leader."
He looked around and agreed. There were many men and he couldn't tell if they were all here. He himself may not respect authority much, but he had the courtesy to at least be punctual. He took a glance around and noticed his brother and the other man. He wanted to keep an eye on them. He was deeply concerned about the leash these two were on. He knew that Jon would follow orders to a T and was afraid of any missions being jeopardized.
Enough was enough though and he decided to get started.
"Thank you all for coming, although not that you had much of a choice." He said with a chuckle. "As I'm sure you all already know, I am Commander Atomsk Dunaway. I will be Planetary Operations Commander for this voyage, putting your lives in my hands." This was the part of the speech where he told them his past, which he always told the truth to his men.
"I'm not sure how much any of you know about me, but to be honest I have an extensive record. Some good, Some bad. I have been nearly court marshaled 3 time, and have had many disciplinary actions taken against me. I don't follow orders. But realize this, the reason i don't follow orders is for you men. I do it to keep as many from you as dying as possible. I ask that you follow me while i don't follow those I'm supposed to. My tactics will seem insane. But if you DON'T follow you me, you have a much higher possibility of dying."
At this point he looked around to see what the men thought. He saw what he usually saw. Uncertainty and arrogance. He would break that as soon as he could. Next to make sure the men were aware of the chain of command, he would state Eli's position.
He looked to his right and began speaking. "You all should be aware of Captain Eli Colter here by now. He will be my Second-in-Command. I will not be on the ground most of the time. Eli will be my eyes and ears and will take command if I am unavailable." He looked closely at his brother at this point. He wanted to see what he would think of this, seeing as he made Jon his second on most occasions.
"At this point I would like everyone of Rank equal to or higher then a Sergeant to step forward, You will be serving as my squad leaders. If we don't have enough of you at that point I will personally review files and determine who will meet the requirements for a squad leader."
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Hangar
Tiaan Peyton
On one hand Tiaan loved this idea, on the other she was trying not to make big show. Although way things were going she doubted it be possible to avoid now. Chipping in she replied, "I can distract Lt General easily enough, you guys handle the supplies. All in all this could be fun." Why, why, why was she volunteering herself in this case. It's not like she had even been on board for a day, but now she was thinking of distracting her superior and letting a party happen. This wasn't right, not even close to right. Although wh was she kidding, she loved parties, and anything that loosened the crew up was a major plus. Either way, she wouldn't directly be involved and at least Lt Chen wouldn't assume anything as it was her who begun this.
Now to get that dress washed and try survive one day. Despite everything this day might not be the worse one ever. Not to mention maybe she could have some fun by taking such risks. Nothing was ever given by playing things safe. Nope, not at all, if anything Tiaan hated being cautious, preferred being impulsive. The only time she ever kept complete was during flying, and that was only to concentrate.
Remembering something she added, "To make an omelette gotta crack a few eggs eh?"
On one hand Tiaan loved this idea, on the other she was trying not to make big show. Although way things were going she doubted it be possible to avoid now. Chipping in she replied, "I can distract Lt General easily enough, you guys handle the supplies. All in all this could be fun." Why, why, why was she volunteering herself in this case. It's not like she had even been on board for a day, but now she was thinking of distracting her superior and letting a party happen. This wasn't right, not even close to right. Although wh was she kidding, she loved parties, and anything that loosened the crew up was a major plus. Either way, she wouldn't directly be involved and at least Lt Chen wouldn't assume anything as it was her who begun this.
Now to get that dress washed and try survive one day. Despite everything this day might not be the worse one ever. Not to mention maybe she could have some fun by taking such risks. Nothing was ever given by playing things safe. Nope, not at all, if anything Tiaan hated being cautious, preferred being impulsive. The only time she ever kept complete was during flying, and that was only to concentrate.
Remembering something she added, "To make an omelette gotta crack a few eggs eh?"
The setting changes from Hangar to The Milky Way Universe
Garrison scowled within in his mind and stepped forward, mind racing as he wondered if he misunderstood the order. Sergeant Major was above Sergeant by all technicalities. What was worse is that this Commander talking about being and using insane strategies, that worried him. Every other Commander he served under had always gone by the book, therefor he had always gone by the book. No exceptions. That probably contributed to fact his career had been so plan and his record was as clean as it was when he first left boot camp. But somehow he ended up with a Commander than proclaimed his own tactics as insane! However part of Garrison liked the idea, his more wild side egged him on. Part of him liked the idea of working outside normal protocol and using tactics that would actually get the job done, however he quickly snapped that side away. He was a Marine! Not some crazy Space-jock with a death wish and what was worse was that he had little experience leading a squad into a full on combat situation seeing as the areas he was stationed at were always more support roles in the Marine Corp.
Garrison gulped barely managing to keep his eyes focused. Looks like you finally get to be the big bad Sarge your father always wanted you to be. He could already tell, his tour on this ship was going to be the highlight of his career.
Garrison gulped barely managing to keep his eyes focused. Looks like you finally get to be the big bad Sarge your father always wanted you to be. He could already tell, his tour on this ship was going to be the highlight of his career.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Barracks
Some didn't care about his previous record; they were just worried about what would happen now. Others weren't so slow to forget however, they even wondered why in hell they were stuck with this guy. He could barely listen to the guy above him, and he expected them to listen to him. Those thoughts only circled among the gritty veterans though.
Eli noted the different expressions coming from them, some stood straight faced with a firm stance. A few gave darting glances of hesitation, and a couple glimpsed at the ground for a millisecond before returning eye contact with the commander. He couldn't see a thing beyond the visor of Jon's or Thaddeus's suits, others kept it better hidden, Carter for one gulped slightly. The very idea of having “insane” and "tactics" in the same sentence didn’t seem to mix well among the personnel.
“I do it to keep as many of you from dying as possible,” that statement echoed vaguely among the marines. Somehow, those two statements would need a hell of a time to make sense. Eli chuckled inside slightly; he thought that the commander perhaps could’ve touched on the matter more smoothly.
As his name was mentioned, Eli stepped forth and looked at the marines. He was careful not to smile lest he come off as an arrogant bastard. He nodded and returned to his position among the ranks of servicemen. The marines stood there, some tense, others relaxed. They weren't sure what else to expect from a man like Atomsk, the very statements he made were on the edge of bullshit to most of them.
The recruits, always the inverse of the experienced, were confused and were immediately asking questions. One of Eli’s earlier acquaintances, P.F.C. Gary Reynolds, reluctantly raised his hand before the Commander. In the Marine Corps, initiative was a commended trait, and each marine was expected to do his duty above and beyond the call. Hence Reynolds’ swift inquiry,
“Sir, do you know what we’re doing here?” any average officer might have been infuriated by such a question. Luckily for Reynolds though, this ship was entirely different, and the people on board could be deemed as such. Eli turned to Commander Dunaway, awaiting his response, but even Eli guessed that Atomsk had no idea. Even he himself was clueless regarding the matter, and he had been aboard the ship since Mars, Mars the planet. He’d remind himself to distinguish between the planet and incident that occurred on the planet.
Other marines had eyed the recruit, but even they didn’t know. They didn't have much ground to be staring.
Eli noted the different expressions coming from them, some stood straight faced with a firm stance. A few gave darting glances of hesitation, and a couple glimpsed at the ground for a millisecond before returning eye contact with the commander. He couldn't see a thing beyond the visor of Jon's or Thaddeus's suits, others kept it better hidden, Carter for one gulped slightly. The very idea of having “insane” and "tactics" in the same sentence didn’t seem to mix well among the personnel.
“I do it to keep as many of you from dying as possible,” that statement echoed vaguely among the marines. Somehow, those two statements would need a hell of a time to make sense. Eli chuckled inside slightly; he thought that the commander perhaps could’ve touched on the matter more smoothly.
As his name was mentioned, Eli stepped forth and looked at the marines. He was careful not to smile lest he come off as an arrogant bastard. He nodded and returned to his position among the ranks of servicemen. The marines stood there, some tense, others relaxed. They weren't sure what else to expect from a man like Atomsk, the very statements he made were on the edge of bullshit to most of them.
The recruits, always the inverse of the experienced, were confused and were immediately asking questions. One of Eli’s earlier acquaintances, P.F.C. Gary Reynolds, reluctantly raised his hand before the Commander. In the Marine Corps, initiative was a commended trait, and each marine was expected to do his duty above and beyond the call. Hence Reynolds’ swift inquiry,
“Sir, do you know what we’re doing here?” any average officer might have been infuriated by such a question. Luckily for Reynolds though, this ship was entirely different, and the people on board could be deemed as such. Eli turned to Commander Dunaway, awaiting his response, but even Eli guessed that Atomsk had no idea. Even he himself was clueless regarding the matter, and he had been aboard the ship since Mars, Mars the planet. He’d remind himself to distinguish between the planet and incident that occurred on the planet.
Other marines had eyed the recruit, but even they didn’t know. They didn't have much ground to be staring.
The setting changes from Barracks to F.S.S. Salient
A.I. Max:
Max "awoke", analyzing his location. He found out where he was located. A cargo hold, minor, emergency supplies mostly. Max first quietly made a loop of the systems, and set it to send the loop so that they would not detect him. He began setting up his own firewalls and such. He couldn't help but be afraid, he didn't know where he was or why he was there. Or how. He began searching the databanks, steering clear of anything that required special access, learning whatever he didn't know already.
Max then started analyzing himself. Looking for why he was there, where he was from, who got him there. Nothing, no leads. Then again, the chance any leads would be found were minimal. However, he then began cross analyzing himself with terms, bringing up the term "Anomaly Intelligence", a rare type of A.I. The similarities between himself and the description fit. It then assessed its situation after learning where it was.
Max wasn't sure how long he had been researching, exploring, looking. He was being careful not to alert anyone, especially any other A.I. on the ship. He couldn't be 100% sure he perfectly hid his actions, but since no one had busted down the door yet, he must be doing something right.......
Corporal Reterec Smithy:
Smithy was listening, but had remained silent for now. He was in the barracks, but leaning against a wall in the back. Its not like he was being disrespectful, not at all. He just wasn't a show off. At least, he tried not to be, but occasionally he would get competitive with his squad and/or partner. Nothing like a bit of rivalry to keep you on your toes. He simply looked back down momentarily, thinking about his brother and sister.
He then listened to the question asked. He thought to himself "If we are lucky, just some pirates playing Bad Boys. If we are unlucky, the insurgents are making their main bases far from civilization to make hits on them very hard to carry out....". He had a personal distaste for the insurgents, all their goals and the actions they took seemed hypocritical to him. They just didn't make sense.
Smithy then watched and listened, listening to see if there is anything else that was important to help.......
Max "awoke", analyzing his location. He found out where he was located. A cargo hold, minor, emergency supplies mostly. Max first quietly made a loop of the systems, and set it to send the loop so that they would not detect him. He began setting up his own firewalls and such. He couldn't help but be afraid, he didn't know where he was or why he was there. Or how. He began searching the databanks, steering clear of anything that required special access, learning whatever he didn't know already.
Max then started analyzing himself. Looking for why he was there, where he was from, who got him there. Nothing, no leads. Then again, the chance any leads would be found were minimal. However, he then began cross analyzing himself with terms, bringing up the term "Anomaly Intelligence", a rare type of A.I. The similarities between himself and the description fit. It then assessed its situation after learning where it was.
Max wasn't sure how long he had been researching, exploring, looking. He was being careful not to alert anyone, especially any other A.I. on the ship. He couldn't be 100% sure he perfectly hid his actions, but since no one had busted down the door yet, he must be doing something right.......
Corporal Reterec Smithy:
Smithy was listening, but had remained silent for now. He was in the barracks, but leaning against a wall in the back. Its not like he was being disrespectful, not at all. He just wasn't a show off. At least, he tried not to be, but occasionally he would get competitive with his squad and/or partner. Nothing like a bit of rivalry to keep you on your toes. He simply looked back down momentarily, thinking about his brother and sister.
He then listened to the question asked. He thought to himself "If we are lucky, just some pirates playing Bad Boys. If we are unlucky, the insurgents are making their main bases far from civilization to make hits on them very hard to carry out....". He had a personal distaste for the insurgents, all their goals and the actions they took seemed hypocritical to him. They just didn't make sense.
Smithy then watched and listened, listening to see if there is anything else that was important to help.......
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to Captain's Quarters
AI T.A.U.
TAU appeared as a Hologram on the Captain's desk. He was currently running a systems check and analysis on the Weaponry of the ship. "I thought I would take some time to go over my thoughts on the ship's load-out, Admiral" he said. TAU went over the main weapons quickly before starting, "The Railguns will provide enough firepower to fend off any large insurgent attacks that may arise" he says, alerting the Admiral to his knowledge of the true mission objectives. "As for the Mini Ions, I think they will be good for point defense against smaller ships as well as fighters". TAU's flames were dim at the moment, with little to get excited about at the moment. "I must admit my eagerness to use the Particle Cannon, that weapon really tops off the abilities of the ship" he concludes his assessment and awaits a response from the Admiral.
TAU appeared as a Hologram on the Captain's desk. He was currently running a systems check and analysis on the Weaponry of the ship. "I thought I would take some time to go over my thoughts on the ship's load-out, Admiral" he said. TAU went over the main weapons quickly before starting, "The Railguns will provide enough firepower to fend off any large insurgent attacks that may arise" he says, alerting the Admiral to his knowledge of the true mission objectives. "As for the Mini Ions, I think they will be good for point defense against smaller ships as well as fighters". TAU's flames were dim at the moment, with little to get excited about at the moment. "I must admit my eagerness to use the Particle Cannon, that weapon really tops off the abilities of the ship" he concludes his assessment and awaits a response from the Admiral.
"Tau, do you realize that you shouldn't be speaking right now? You'll alert Adam of your presence." the admiral went about sifting through the data receptors, perhaps going through old transmission logs.
"I can't have him know of your presence as of yet..." Aronimus was hoping that his quarters wasn't being secretly hacked by any non-authorized prowlers. The captain's quarters was built specifically to allow a captain privacy.
"Let Adam handle the ship's systems, I was more interested in your capabilities being utilized by Commander Dunaway," the admiral rubbed his sagely beard.
"I'm sure you've read his profile, and have perhaps gone through his live feeds? First hand sources say his tactics are self-proclaimed as...insane, even genius," the admiral smiled to himself.
"Hopefully, you'll be able to handle his...style of commanding. I'm interested in watching your capabilities during the training scenarios..."
"For now though, log off." Aronimus expected the flames of Tau to dissipate pixel by pixel until his visual presence vanished before him.
"I can't have him know of your presence as of yet..." Aronimus was hoping that his quarters wasn't being secretly hacked by any non-authorized prowlers. The captain's quarters was built specifically to allow a captain privacy.
"Let Adam handle the ship's systems, I was more interested in your capabilities being utilized by Commander Dunaway," the admiral rubbed his sagely beard.
"I'm sure you've read his profile, and have perhaps gone through his live feeds? First hand sources say his tactics are self-proclaimed as...insane, even genius," the admiral smiled to himself.
"Hopefully, you'll be able to handle his...style of commanding. I'm interested in watching your capabilities during the training scenarios..."
"For now though, log off." Aronimus expected the flames of Tau to dissipate pixel by pixel until his visual presence vanished before him.
The setting changes from Captain's Quarters to F.S.S. Salient
AI TAU
Tau nodded, "Of course, Admiral" Tau said, disappearing from the Captains Quarters. Tau kept most of his focuses on setting up some protection against ADAM finding him. The rest of his processes sifted through ship systems, adventuring in the only way an AI could. Tau had in fact checked out files on the Commander extensively, but now decided to locate him on the ship and access security cameras in the area to follow him and monitor his actions and habits. The Admiral had indicated Tau would spend a lot of time working with Commander Dunaway, so it was best to learn what he was like. Tau was particularly interested in seeing the Commander interact with Adam to attempt to gauge how he would act working with Tau later on.
Tau nodded, "Of course, Admiral" Tau said, disappearing from the Captains Quarters. Tau kept most of his focuses on setting up some protection against ADAM finding him. The rest of his processes sifted through ship systems, adventuring in the only way an AI could. Tau had in fact checked out files on the Commander extensively, but now decided to locate him on the ship and access security cameras in the area to follow him and monitor his actions and habits. The Admiral had indicated Tau would spend a lot of time working with Commander Dunaway, so it was best to learn what he was like. Tau was particularly interested in seeing the Commander interact with Adam to attempt to gauge how he would act working with Tau later on.
Clyde - Bridge
Clyde couldn't help it - he laughed. The computer had essentially asked him to start. "Are you sure you have no experience? It would be no problem for you to find all the jokes in the universe. But fine, I'll start. Let's begin with some good old fashioned stereotyping jokes. Three blondes walk into a bar." He held his hands out like he had already completed the joke and waited for laughter. Then, he gave an exasperated look. "Well. You'd think one of them would have seen it. ... Now. Anybody else want to take a turn?"
But Clyde wasn't finished speaking to A.D.A.M.. He was still wired in, so he spoke directly to the computer using that connection. If your calculations are inaccurate, perhaps you could allow me to help you. The implant in my head has far more power in it than I have ever really needed before. If I clear out some space and use it all, it rivals you at your current limits. Together we could probably complete the calculations with a very high degree of accuracy, and you would not need to ask for more processing power in the ship.
Adriana - Barracks One
Adriana sat quietly and gave her customary blank stare to the commander. She supposed insane tactics sounded like poor planning in every case, but he had said they only seemed insane. If the commander knew more about the situation than the soldiers, then it might only be natural that they would see it differently. She only hoped that was the case. As a scientist, she would remain skeptical until his work yielded results. However, Adriana was technically a soldier as well. Due to her extensive amount of performance doing ground missions with the other soldiers to test her weapons, she had gained the rank of corporal and learned to follow orders without question, if the CO actually bothered to give her any directly. Corporal. Not high enough to be one of Dunaway's squad leaders. That was fine by Adriana- less responsibility to deal with away from her work. She would play the commander's game, but if he showed himself to be a poor leader, there would be... problems.
Clyde couldn't help it - he laughed. The computer had essentially asked him to start. "Are you sure you have no experience? It would be no problem for you to find all the jokes in the universe. But fine, I'll start. Let's begin with some good old fashioned stereotyping jokes. Three blondes walk into a bar." He held his hands out like he had already completed the joke and waited for laughter. Then, he gave an exasperated look. "Well. You'd think one of them would have seen it. ... Now. Anybody else want to take a turn?"
But Clyde wasn't finished speaking to A.D.A.M.. He was still wired in, so he spoke directly to the computer using that connection. If your calculations are inaccurate, perhaps you could allow me to help you. The implant in my head has far more power in it than I have ever really needed before. If I clear out some space and use it all, it rivals you at your current limits. Together we could probably complete the calculations with a very high degree of accuracy, and you would not need to ask for more processing power in the ship.
Adriana - Barracks One
Adriana sat quietly and gave her customary blank stare to the commander. She supposed insane tactics sounded like poor planning in every case, but he had said they only seemed insane. If the commander knew more about the situation than the soldiers, then it might only be natural that they would see it differently. She only hoped that was the case. As a scientist, she would remain skeptical until his work yielded results. However, Adriana was technically a soldier as well. Due to her extensive amount of performance doing ground missions with the other soldiers to test her weapons, she had gained the rank of corporal and learned to follow orders without question, if the CO actually bothered to give her any directly. Corporal. Not high enough to be one of Dunaway's squad leaders. That was fine by Adriana- less responsibility to deal with away from her work. She would play the commander's game, but if he showed himself to be a poor leader, there would be... problems.
Jon
Jon listened to his brother do his bit on how he didn't really follow the rules but it was for the benefit of his men...the usual really. When his brother called for all persons above Sergeant to step forward he did so, had to make up for his tardiness after all. His helmet kept his brother from seeing his face change, a slight twitch of his eyebrows really but he wasn't going to make a deal of it after all orders were absolute. If his brother found Eli a better second than himself he'd deal with it silently and without any different treatment from a standard CO, as one of his brother's claimed squad leader he was back in his comfort zone. Jon smirked, this was infinitely better than a desk job.
A.D.A.M.
A.D.A.M. felt two blips in the ship's database, while engaging with Clyde in an attempt to understand a joke he investigated them. One of them originated from the Captain's Quarters, territory A.D.A.M. wasn't going to intrude upon unless necessary. If it came from there and went silent he wasn't meant to know about, an infuriating process he'd address later. The other blip was more interesting, it was wrapped in a code loop; rather than break it A.D.A.M. "knocked" he had never experienced this before so he intended to approach this with caution.
It was then he got Clyde's private message and responded such an arrangement could work but standard navigation and if necessary FTL can compensate on the error, if nothing else if we linked we'd have to put ourselves at the minimum safe distance to not be rendered hostile upon system entry.
Jon listened to his brother do his bit on how he didn't really follow the rules but it was for the benefit of his men...the usual really. When his brother called for all persons above Sergeant to step forward he did so, had to make up for his tardiness after all. His helmet kept his brother from seeing his face change, a slight twitch of his eyebrows really but he wasn't going to make a deal of it after all orders were absolute. If his brother found Eli a better second than himself he'd deal with it silently and without any different treatment from a standard CO, as one of his brother's claimed squad leader he was back in his comfort zone. Jon smirked, this was infinitely better than a desk job.
A.D.A.M.
A.D.A.M. felt two blips in the ship's database, while engaging with Clyde in an attempt to understand a joke he investigated them. One of them originated from the Captain's Quarters, territory A.D.A.M. wasn't going to intrude upon unless necessary. If it came from there and went silent he wasn't meant to know about, an infuriating process he'd address later. The other blip was more interesting, it was wrapped in a code loop; rather than break it A.D.A.M. "knocked" he had never experienced this before so he intended to approach this with caution.
It was then he got Clyde's private message and responded such an arrangement could work but standard navigation and if necessary FTL can compensate on the error, if nothing else if we linked we'd have to put ourselves at the minimum safe distance to not be rendered hostile upon system entry.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
Thaddeus obediently stepped up as Atomsk commanded. If he was appointed as a squad leader he would make sure that it was like his old team. The general motto of No one gets left behind. He stood silently waiting to here what Atomsk had to say.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
Clyde - Data Stream
Clyde was wired in quite solidly. His human brain focused on his general tasks at hand, but his implanted brain was everywhere. The data input and output all throughout the ship was almost a second body, and his communication to the network flowed smoother than thought. He didn't fully notice the data he was receiving from all over, nor the abnormalities in the code that ADAM could pick up on, because he wasn't focused on it. A decent analogy for the feeling would be when a person is near sleep and their feeling is numbed. But Clyde could feel ADAM's attention shift. ADAM was a giant in the code of the ship, and his attention was a great hand passing through.
Clyde responded to ADAM's message. If it can be done, then we should do it, yes? Assurance that there will be no mistakes in the coding would probably ease the misgivings of those who make the decision to travel that way. We could arrive at our destination at any time of our choosing and be early on top of it. And here, Clyde responded to the anomalies ADAM discovered. He sent a picture of his own face with a confused expression on it. What is that you've found... Are those... Other AI? I thought you were the only one here.
Clyde was wired in quite solidly. His human brain focused on his general tasks at hand, but his implanted brain was everywhere. The data input and output all throughout the ship was almost a second body, and his communication to the network flowed smoother than thought. He didn't fully notice the data he was receiving from all over, nor the abnormalities in the code that ADAM could pick up on, because he wasn't focused on it. A decent analogy for the feeling would be when a person is near sleep and their feeling is numbed. But Clyde could feel ADAM's attention shift. ADAM was a giant in the code of the ship, and his attention was a great hand passing through.
Clyde responded to ADAM's message. If it can be done, then we should do it, yes? Assurance that there will be no mistakes in the coding would probably ease the misgivings of those who make the decision to travel that way. We could arrive at our destination at any time of our choosing and be early on top of it. And here, Clyde responded to the anomalies ADAM discovered. He sent a picture of his own face with a confused expression on it. What is that you've found... Are those... Other AI? I thought you were the only one here.
AI TAU
Tau sensed a ping of activity in the system, and could then recognize it as ADAM knocking on a firewall. Why would there be a firewall on the ship that neither ADAM or myself knew about? he asked himself. This ship was turning out to have quite a few secrets, including Tau himself. Split between two options, Tau debated with himself, he was not supposed to be active, to make sure he stays a secret, especially with ADAM being directly involved in what he was eager to investigate. However, curiosity would be getting the best of him. Tau quickly disguised himself as a routine ship security check and slipped into the area to check it out. Tau would not produce any activity himself in the area, he would simply observe and make sure to avoid being investigated by ADAM.
Tau sensed a ping of activity in the system, and could then recognize it as ADAM knocking on a firewall. Why would there be a firewall on the ship that neither ADAM or myself knew about? he asked himself. This ship was turning out to have quite a few secrets, including Tau himself. Split between two options, Tau debated with himself, he was not supposed to be active, to make sure he stays a secret, especially with ADAM being directly involved in what he was eager to investigate. However, curiosity would be getting the best of him. Tau quickly disguised himself as a routine ship security check and slipped into the area to check it out. Tau would not produce any activity himself in the area, he would simply observe and make sure to avoid being investigated by ADAM.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
With three exceptions excluding the androids I did too ADAM replied. But it seems the Admiral has some secret one running in his quarters and then there's this guy here, this wouldn't be an issue if I could be assured that they won't interfere with the ship. He kept knocking on the firewall as he turned back to address Clyde. As for the manual compensation of error, putting us at precisely 60,000 kilometers should be enough to let our exit seem "comfortable" for our exiting side. If we arrive too soon the crew will not have integrated properly and will be ill suited to cope with a worst case combat scenario, best give them a couple days or normal cruise before make the jump to Hyperdrive.
"I fail to understand the humor in this 'blonde joke' is there something funny about people of certain hair colors colliding with solid objects?" A.D.A.M. could have said this privately but this was more for the benefit of the Bridge than actual curiosity now.
"I fail to understand the humor in this 'blonde joke' is there something funny about people of certain hair colors colliding with solid objects?" A.D.A.M. could have said this privately but this was more for the benefit of the Bridge than actual curiosity now.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
Clyde - Bridge
Clyde smiled inwardly. The computer was going to put on a show for the people on the bridge. In the time it took ADAM to synthesize the words Clyde could have explained everything several times over. "There is a stereotype for people with that particular hair color that they are of inferior intelligence. The solid object part was a pun. "Bar" could mean a place that serves alcohol to customers as well as a cylinder used for support. The humor lies in the irony of the second spoken part of the joke- the punchline- where the listener is to understand that bar had an unexpected meaning. Want to give telling a joke a try, ADAM?"
Data Stream
A secret AI? I think I'll take a look into that in a little while... This ship is just packed with secrets. Intriguing. Clyde hadn't expected Weston to keep many secrets. And if there was something to hide- why an AI? Hah. Of course... Integration. I was more concerned with getting the Admiral's approval for the jump. A functional crew is doubtlessly more important. Clyde watched ADAM knock on the firewall for a while longer. You could just... Tear it down, you know...
Clyde smiled inwardly. The computer was going to put on a show for the people on the bridge. In the time it took ADAM to synthesize the words Clyde could have explained everything several times over. "There is a stereotype for people with that particular hair color that they are of inferior intelligence. The solid object part was a pun. "Bar" could mean a place that serves alcohol to customers as well as a cylinder used for support. The humor lies in the irony of the second spoken part of the joke- the punchline- where the listener is to understand that bar had an unexpected meaning. Want to give telling a joke a try, ADAM?"
Data Stream
A secret AI? I think I'll take a look into that in a little while... This ship is just packed with secrets. Intriguing. Clyde hadn't expected Weston to keep many secrets. And if there was something to hide- why an AI? Hah. Of course... Integration. I was more concerned with getting the Admiral's approval for the jump. A functional crew is doubtlessly more important. Clyde watched ADAM knock on the firewall for a while longer. You could just... Tear it down, you know...
A.I. Max:
"Knock Knock"
The knocking startled Max, which was definitely abnormal for an A.I. to experience. Max put that aside. Max put up more Firewalls, but laced within those firewalls were a few viruses. Max was afraid, but he was an A.I., so there was no faulty construction in these firewalls. Max had to decide. He had to decide if they knew he was there or not. If not, he should stay his ground, the knocking could be nothing. If they did, he would have to run. He couldn't upload himself off the ship physically or through communications, too risky or impossible.
SO running was actually impossible. Maybe if he took enough systems, they would stop attacking him. He was developing to be more defensive, because of the threat of being attacked. But, he was still being watched. First off, he secured the door into the room he set up in, as well as the hologram projectors, lights. He was doing this all quietly and covertly. He was exploring countless other possibilities, disregarding some and liking others. He was still trying not to cause attention to himself, instead creating an isolated sub server within the original programming in order to make sure they couldn't use some sort of purge, unknowing if there was even such a purge for A.I.s.
Max then decided to see if he could access the messaging systems, doing his best to not be noticed. While doing this, he found on record the name of the ships A.I.: A.D.A.M. Max made note of this for later.
"Knock Knock"
The knocking startled Max, which was definitely abnormal for an A.I. to experience. Max put that aside. Max put up more Firewalls, but laced within those firewalls were a few viruses. Max was afraid, but he was an A.I., so there was no faulty construction in these firewalls. Max had to decide. He had to decide if they knew he was there or not. If not, he should stay his ground, the knocking could be nothing. If they did, he would have to run. He couldn't upload himself off the ship physically or through communications, too risky or impossible.
SO running was actually impossible. Maybe if he took enough systems, they would stop attacking him. He was developing to be more defensive, because of the threat of being attacked. But, he was still being watched. First off, he secured the door into the room he set up in, as well as the hologram projectors, lights. He was doing this all quietly and covertly. He was exploring countless other possibilities, disregarding some and liking others. He was still trying not to cause attention to himself, instead creating an isolated sub server within the original programming in order to make sure they couldn't use some sort of purge, unknowing if there was even such a purge for A.I.s.
Max then decided to see if he could access the messaging systems, doing his best to not be noticed. While doing this, he found on record the name of the ships A.I.: A.D.A.M. Max made note of this for later.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to Bridge
Alice sat forward in her chair, listening to the chatter on the bridge. Blond jokes... well, she might have found them offensive if she were blonde, but being pure-blooded Asian from three different countries she had a fairly emotionless view towards them. The one that Clyde told even caused her lips to curl slightly in a look of amusement. Not laughter, but amusement. She glanced at the man.
"You're an unusual man, Summer," she told him calmly. "There are not many officers in the Federation who would think to trade jokes on the Bridge." She tossed her hair lightly over her shoulder, glancing towards the door as she did so. She had to admit that she wanted the Admiral to return as soon as he possibly could. Alice had never been totally comfortable in the Captain's chair - she would do her duty, and do it damn well, but she was not seeking total command over anybody. Second-in-command was more her sort of job. More than that, she was picking something up from the hangar side of the ship. Something she needed to check out...
"You're an unusual man, Summer," she told him calmly. "There are not many officers in the Federation who would think to trade jokes on the Bridge." She tossed her hair lightly over her shoulder, glancing towards the door as she did so. She had to admit that she wanted the Admiral to return as soon as he possibly could. Alice had never been totally comfortable in the Captain's chair - she would do her duty, and do it damn well, but she was not seeking total command over anybody. Second-in-command was more her sort of job. More than that, she was picking something up from the hangar side of the ship. Something she needed to check out...
The setting changes from Bridge to The Milky Way Universe
As the men of the rank he requested were lining up, one of the men asked him an interesting question. Do I know what were doing here?
Atomsk thought very carefully about what to say,and figured the truth was better.
"What they've told me and what I'm sure they've told all of you is that were mostly exploratory. Were just checking some activity in the region. I'm telling you now that is most likely a lie." He saw a very noticeable uncomfortable shift in all the men and saw some of them start to whisper. He continued, almost angrily. "This should not come as a surprise to any of you! Take just a second to think about it! Look at the person they have at the head of the ship! The crew! We have 2 prototype super soldiers in this very room! This is far from exploratory! They are expecting something to happen!"
Atomsk thought very carefully about what to say,and figured the truth was better.
"What they've told me and what I'm sure they've told all of you is that were mostly exploratory. Were just checking some activity in the region. I'm telling you now that is most likely a lie." He saw a very noticeable uncomfortable shift in all the men and saw some of them start to whisper. He continued, almost angrily. "This should not come as a surprise to any of you! Take just a second to think about it! Look at the person they have at the head of the ship! The crew! We have 2 prototype super soldiers in this very room! This is far from exploratory! They are expecting something to happen!"
Jon
"Pardon the language and speaking out of turn sir but to be frank, the Brass wants Thaddeus and me here to get all the data possible on these suits performance. That entails field work, a lot of it; to be frank I doubt that the two of us would be here unless shit hit the fan hard enough to break the damn fan already." He knew he was waay out of line for speaking up like that, but he wasn't about to let the men underestimate the situation, if he had intimidated the men then he all the other leaders would get the men back into shape. Better to break down the weak and rebuild them as real soldiers than let them walk into a firefight without knowing what to expect, he'd seen enough of those. What's more, he knew his brother if anyone could play off of this and pull out an ace he could.
"Pardon the language and speaking out of turn sir but to be frank, the Brass wants Thaddeus and me here to get all the data possible on these suits performance. That entails field work, a lot of it; to be frank I doubt that the two of us would be here unless shit hit the fan hard enough to break the damn fan already." He knew he was waay out of line for speaking up like that, but he wasn't about to let the men underestimate the situation, if he had intimidated the men then he all the other leaders would get the men back into shape. Better to break down the weak and rebuild them as real soldiers than let them walk into a firefight without knowing what to expect, he'd seen enough of those. What's more, he knew his brother if anyone could play off of this and pull out an ace he could.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
NS-9 looked at the other android then answered Grenadine's question. "No, we do not know each other." NS-9 said in her metallic voice blankly. She thinks she might have, maybe passed by him on the ship once. But she has passed by a lot of people on this ship. She stood the, arms bent ever so slightly. Turning her head from one person to an other, waiting for a reply. The slightest most human smile she could plaster on her face. Life's not easy for a robot. She thought to her self. Trying to look as human as possible, with isn't that easy. You can tell an android from a human. It's not that hard.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
Carter scowled as Captain Jon Dunaway went on about why the Super-soldiers were here. It was almost insubordination the way he spoke, cursing bluntly and talking as he were the Commander. Carter spoke up. "Commander also pardon me for speaking out of turn, but Captain Dunaway has brought up another topic that I believe should be discussed here. I and a few Marines believe that these... Super-soldiers are a danger to the ground team and crew. They are using untested, experimental technology when other's lives depend on them. That is irresponsible! Do we have any assurance that those suits won't malfunction or whatever onboard computers they may have go rouge and cause damage to friendly units?" Carter was always one for speaking his mind, now was no different. "As well as that... Yours and the Captain's little speeches seem to be lowering morale instead of increasing it. That could entirely be considered incompetence of command, if before the fighting even starts you let your platoon fall apart due to some horribly worded sentences." After that Carter stepped back into line with the other Squad leaders. He was ready to receive punishment for his own little speech if needed, but he felt that the words of some of the enlisted personnel needed to be said and then heard by someone. To him it was unfair to be drilling the soldiers they had been lied to and then expect them to go running into battle behind a Commander or Captain, for that matter, who hardly follows orders himself. As it was as said earlier this little situation was, insanity.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
Clyde - Bridge
Clyde looked up at his Commanding Officer and responded with a pout. It was fake, and not long passed before his customary relaxed expression returned. "I thought you promoted a relaxed relationship among the crew. Forgive me if I'm wrong, but trading jokes on the bridge might help a little in that area, and it almost sounds like you're not going to participate." Clyde ran through what he knew about Alice Chen, looking for what he could say for any response. Spotless record... Served on a prison ship... Had a date with a pilot named Tiaan Peyton. Each one said quite a few things, but that last one was the closest thing to a guarantee she wasn't going to stop him trading jokes. She had to have her fun too, right?
Adriana - Barracks One
Adriana turned her gaze on the outspoken squad leader. Her expression didn't change, but she was angry. "If you're afraid of going out into battle, say so. I'm sure you could be removed from service at the drop of a hat. If you're looking for a guarantee of functionality, you come to me. I designed those suits, the weapons on the ship, the training system in this room, and half of the guns you all are carrying. If you are unsatisfied with your service, I can either make you a new one... Or shoot you.
As to your borderline insubordination, as a soldier you are expected to follow orders. But It's not my job to deal with that part of your concerns."
As an afterthought, she added to the super soldiers: "Sorry I didn't come to meet you super soldiers. I've been busy lately. It will be my job to keep your suits in working order if something happens to them while you are on duty here."
Clyde looked up at his Commanding Officer and responded with a pout. It was fake, and not long passed before his customary relaxed expression returned. "I thought you promoted a relaxed relationship among the crew. Forgive me if I'm wrong, but trading jokes on the bridge might help a little in that area, and it almost sounds like you're not going to participate." Clyde ran through what he knew about Alice Chen, looking for what he could say for any response. Spotless record... Served on a prison ship... Had a date with a pilot named Tiaan Peyton. Each one said quite a few things, but that last one was the closest thing to a guarantee she wasn't going to stop him trading jokes. She had to have her fun too, right?
Adriana - Barracks One
Adriana turned her gaze on the outspoken squad leader. Her expression didn't change, but she was angry. "If you're afraid of going out into battle, say so. I'm sure you could be removed from service at the drop of a hat. If you're looking for a guarantee of functionality, you come to me. I designed those suits, the weapons on the ship, the training system in this room, and half of the guns you all are carrying. If you are unsatisfied with your service, I can either make you a new one... Or shoot you.
As to your borderline insubordination, as a soldier you are expected to follow orders. But It's not my job to deal with that part of your concerns."
As an afterthought, she added to the super soldiers: "Sorry I didn't come to meet you super soldiers. I've been busy lately. It will be my job to keep your suits in working order if something happens to them while you are on duty here."
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
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Faith smiled at Bergman's barely concealed distaste for the more mundane side of their job, she couldn't blame him preferring to leave much of the basic health care to the nurses, and nodded in agreement.
"Hopefully our nurses will be up to scratch and will take care of a lot of the basic health needs of the crew, as I for one have more important things to do than treat the common cold or patch up a bruised arm. Where possible you will be allowed to work on your specialist areas. In fact I would be interested in talking more with you about them as I have a personal interest in those areas."
She glanced around the room and noticed more than a few of the staff already in her, looking at her and Dr Bergman curiously, she sighed and decided she had better introduce herself. She glanced over her shoulder at Dr Bergan and grinned again.
"Once I have done the obligatory introductions I am going to tour the other three med bays, join me? We can talk more on the way. Besides it will be nice to know I'm working with someone more on my level."
She then focussed on the room again and cleared her throat. "Alright people pay attention." She waited until those present looked her way before continuing.
"As I'm sure you have already guessed I am Dr Mackenzie and I will be running the show around here. I'll make time to speak to you all individually once I have read your files so this is simply a brief introduction. I'm sure you all know what working in this department means, working long hours etc, and while you're here you will behave appropriately and provide the skills I am sure you all have. That said when you're not on duty I don't give a damn what you get up to and will probably join you in the bar on a regular basis.Once I have my office is set up free to come and talk to me, I'm fairly informal and do not insist on titles etc as long as e job gets done. That's about it of me droning on so on to the important bit. I would like a full inventory of our supplies, status and anything that needs replacing/repairing etc for this med bay." She glanced a young woman who looked competent. "Have it to me by tomorrow morning."
She then turned back to Dr Bergman. "That's that necessary evil out of the way, by the way call me Doc or Doctor as quite frankly Doctor Mackenzie is long winded and makes me feel ancient. Shall we?"
She turned towards the exit waiting for him to join her on her tour of the other medical facilities.
"Hopefully our nurses will be up to scratch and will take care of a lot of the basic health needs of the crew, as I for one have more important things to do than treat the common cold or patch up a bruised arm. Where possible you will be allowed to work on your specialist areas. In fact I would be interested in talking more with you about them as I have a personal interest in those areas."
She glanced around the room and noticed more than a few of the staff already in her, looking at her and Dr Bergman curiously, she sighed and decided she had better introduce herself. She glanced over her shoulder at Dr Bergan and grinned again.
"Once I have done the obligatory introductions I am going to tour the other three med bays, join me? We can talk more on the way. Besides it will be nice to know I'm working with someone more on my level."
She then focussed on the room again and cleared her throat. "Alright people pay attention." She waited until those present looked her way before continuing.
"As I'm sure you have already guessed I am Dr Mackenzie and I will be running the show around here. I'll make time to speak to you all individually once I have read your files so this is simply a brief introduction. I'm sure you all know what working in this department means, working long hours etc, and while you're here you will behave appropriately and provide the skills I am sure you all have. That said when you're not on duty I don't give a damn what you get up to and will probably join you in the bar on a regular basis.Once I have my office is set up free to come and talk to me, I'm fairly informal and do not insist on titles etc as long as e job gets done. That's about it of me droning on so on to the important bit. I would like a full inventory of our supplies, status and anything that needs replacing/repairing etc for this med bay." She glanced a young woman who looked competent. "Have it to me by tomorrow morning."
She then turned back to Dr Bergman. "That's that necessary evil out of the way, by the way call me Doc or Doctor as quite frankly Doctor Mackenzie is long winded and makes me feel ancient. Shall we?"
She turned towards the exit waiting for him to join her on her tour of the other medical facilities.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Infirmary/Medical Bay
Marcus Bergman
Marcus managed to crack a terse smile. "Nurses are usually an invaluable source of both medical professionalism and pithy retorts I have found." A statement which was a general truth and one gleaned from Doctor Bergman's personal experience. "I once had the pleasure of working with a nurse called Meredith, she was seventy five years old if not older and when she retired productivity decreased forty-three percent." He paused. "If you are lucky all the nurses will be as she was, leaving you to simply tell us 'job well done' and to break out some good liquor now and then." He wondered if the woman was the type of administrator that wanted to know all her workers on a first-name basis, to blur that line between cordiality and fondness. Marcus realised this was not a hospital nor was it a university; this was a ship traversing a very dark and empty space where colleagues might be the only semblance of friendship one could experience. Perhaps Doctor Mackenzie felt the same way; there would be no internal memo welcoming staff, not for her - she was going to visit everyone and invited him to accompany her.
"I would be pleased to walk with you Doctor; a mere Captain going with the General going to survey her troops as it were." He smiled. "I do think the conversation would be interesting at the very least as I had thought only boring men had a fascination with virology, but as quickly becoming a boring old man myself we do tend to make a lot of assumptions." She went on to deliver a brief introduction, issue some work and demand a full inventory of supplies from a woman who frankly looked dejected to be singled out. "You know Doctor Mackenzie," He stopped, she wanted to be called 'Doc' he remembered. "Ah, Doc we should prepare some literature about "Space-Sniffles", general maladies from the clean environment of space travel that makes our immune systems think even inherent superfluous enzymes to be world-enders. The crew can expect the common cold within the first month of travel, they should be made aware as to not panic that a space plague is upon us."
Doctor Bergman had read several case studies on the feelings of isolation, apprehension and minor illnesses that are common with space travel and without positive reinforcement those patients can become intemperate, causing more problems than are needed. He wondered if there was counsellor on board; after all, psychiatric and internal medicines go hand in hand. "Doc, I heard you mention a bar? Perhaps we could visit that, after the promenade to the other med-bays of course. Call it an informal meeting; I must admit I am curious to know how such a young woman found her self in such a key assignment, your qualifications must be impeccable." Understandably Marcus was intrigued by a woman that was probably no more than thirty years of age holding a position reserved for those far older. He called up memories of Doctor Percy, a man with sour ideals that belonged in museum as he hadn't practised medicine in over twenty five years. Percy had been about 'tried and true' methods and new developments he felt were 'homoeopathic twaddle'. That was the type of administrator Marcus had dealt with; personified misery and to be working with Doctor Mackenzie who by all accounts seemed amiable was refreshing.
A smile formed at his lips then quickly faded. "I meant no offence by that comment mind you, simply attempting to be informal by your request ma'am." He folded his arms behind his back making his way to the exit. Marcus hoped she didn't misinterpret his commentary as derogatory or a personal slight; the man was worried as in his experiences most administrators assumed everything was belittling.
Marcus managed to crack a terse smile. "Nurses are usually an invaluable source of both medical professionalism and pithy retorts I have found." A statement which was a general truth and one gleaned from Doctor Bergman's personal experience. "I once had the pleasure of working with a nurse called Meredith, she was seventy five years old if not older and when she retired productivity decreased forty-three percent." He paused. "If you are lucky all the nurses will be as she was, leaving you to simply tell us 'job well done' and to break out some good liquor now and then." He wondered if the woman was the type of administrator that wanted to know all her workers on a first-name basis, to blur that line between cordiality and fondness. Marcus realised this was not a hospital nor was it a university; this was a ship traversing a very dark and empty space where colleagues might be the only semblance of friendship one could experience. Perhaps Doctor Mackenzie felt the same way; there would be no internal memo welcoming staff, not for her - she was going to visit everyone and invited him to accompany her.
"I would be pleased to walk with you Doctor; a mere Captain going with the General going to survey her troops as it were." He smiled. "I do think the conversation would be interesting at the very least as I had thought only boring men had a fascination with virology, but as quickly becoming a boring old man myself we do tend to make a lot of assumptions." She went on to deliver a brief introduction, issue some work and demand a full inventory of supplies from a woman who frankly looked dejected to be singled out. "You know Doctor Mackenzie," He stopped, she wanted to be called 'Doc' he remembered. "Ah, Doc we should prepare some literature about "Space-Sniffles", general maladies from the clean environment of space travel that makes our immune systems think even inherent superfluous enzymes to be world-enders. The crew can expect the common cold within the first month of travel, they should be made aware as to not panic that a space plague is upon us."
Doctor Bergman had read several case studies on the feelings of isolation, apprehension and minor illnesses that are common with space travel and without positive reinforcement those patients can become intemperate, causing more problems than are needed. He wondered if there was counsellor on board; after all, psychiatric and internal medicines go hand in hand. "Doc, I heard you mention a bar? Perhaps we could visit that, after the promenade to the other med-bays of course. Call it an informal meeting; I must admit I am curious to know how such a young woman found her self in such a key assignment, your qualifications must be impeccable." Understandably Marcus was intrigued by a woman that was probably no more than thirty years of age holding a position reserved for those far older. He called up memories of Doctor Percy, a man with sour ideals that belonged in museum as he hadn't practised medicine in over twenty five years. Percy had been about 'tried and true' methods and new developments he felt were 'homoeopathic twaddle'. That was the type of administrator Marcus had dealt with; personified misery and to be working with Doctor Mackenzie who by all accounts seemed amiable was refreshing.
A smile formed at his lips then quickly faded. "I meant no offence by that comment mind you, simply attempting to be informal by your request ma'am." He folded his arms behind his back making his way to the exit. Marcus hoped she didn't misinterpret his commentary as derogatory or a personal slight; the man was worried as in his experiences most administrators assumed everything was belittling.
The setting changes from Infirmary/Medical Bay to Barracks
Carter looked like he was about to go off but then took a deep breath and looked back at the Commander. He was flustered that he just had a scientist threaten him in front of the entire platoon. With a grunt he responded since he was spoken to. "No, I am not afraid to fight, no I do not have trouble following orders, and my current service is satisfactory. And if I am committing insubordination it is because I am advocating for the safety of my fellow marines in this room." After that he clenched his jaw and remained silent, waiting for the Commander to speak again.
You may have got yourself in deep shit over this buddy. He told himself in his mind, though he could care less at this point. He had a moral code he stuck to when orders seemed to cross the line, considering they were suddenly in the dark about what this mission was those moral codes kicked in to make sure orders were right and wrong. He considered pulling a ploy of pegging premeditation to murder on the woman in the back because she did technically threaten to shoot him, Need to be more careful with what you say. He mused to himself. However he decided it was an inappropriate time to bring any such thing up and it would be better to keep his trap shut since he said what needed to be said. He took another long breathe and closed his eyes looking back toward the Commander. A slightly nervous and look now adorning his face since he just threw himself out there into unknown territory within the chain of command.
You may have got yourself in deep shit over this buddy. He told himself in his mind, though he could care less at this point. He had a moral code he stuck to when orders seemed to cross the line, considering they were suddenly in the dark about what this mission was those moral codes kicked in to make sure orders were right and wrong. He considered pulling a ploy of pegging premeditation to murder on the woman in the back because she did technically threaten to shoot him, Need to be more careful with what you say. He mused to himself. However he decided it was an inappropriate time to bring any such thing up and it would be better to keep his trap shut since he said what needed to be said. He took another long breathe and closed his eyes looking back toward the Commander. A slightly nervous and look now adorning his face since he just threw himself out there into unknown territory within the chain of command.
The setting changes from Barracks to The Milky Way Universe
Jon
"No he made a good point, we don't know what we're going up against and I'm not exactly a cheerleader, and in all honesty ma'am until you mentioned it I couldn't vouch for the suit myself, the thing broke my arm before I got here." He really didn't want to steal any of his brother's thunder but the man seemed content to let everyone bicker this out before he made his finale.
"But since we can't control the situation we got to do the best we can to whip ourselves into shape, and between Thaddeus and myself if everyone's willing to trust us on a limb here we can whip everyone here into black ops shape... maybe better. For that while squads are great everyone needs to be able to function well in groups as little as two and then we build up from there. If our resident scientist is willing to help with the training toys we could optimize our results." He sent a message to her hoping to meet up with her along with Faith after his little trip to the Captain's Quarters, the more eggheads he had on his little project the better.
"So i can't promise everyone will make it home but I can guarantee you this: I will make sure to minimize what kind of hell you all go through and if y'all agree to my little idea there won't be a better force that us to dive into this mess. How about it, any of you ladies wanna walk up to us snoody spec op types after this trip, call them Princess to their face and know there's nothing they can do about it?"
"No he made a good point, we don't know what we're going up against and I'm not exactly a cheerleader, and in all honesty ma'am until you mentioned it I couldn't vouch for the suit myself, the thing broke my arm before I got here." He really didn't want to steal any of his brother's thunder but the man seemed content to let everyone bicker this out before he made his finale.
"But since we can't control the situation we got to do the best we can to whip ourselves into shape, and between Thaddeus and myself if everyone's willing to trust us on a limb here we can whip everyone here into black ops shape... maybe better. For that while squads are great everyone needs to be able to function well in groups as little as two and then we build up from there. If our resident scientist is willing to help with the training toys we could optimize our results." He sent a message to her hoping to meet up with her along with Faith after his little trip to the Captain's Quarters, the more eggheads he had on his little project the better.
"So i can't promise everyone will make it home but I can guarantee you this: I will make sure to minimize what kind of hell you all go through and if y'all agree to my little idea there won't be a better force that us to dive into this mess. How about it, any of you ladies wanna walk up to us snoody spec op types after this trip, call them Princess to their face and know there's nothing they can do about it?"
Visibly aggravated, Atomsk began to yell.
"ENOUGH!"
Silence fell over the room. He could live with his brother speaking out, even the outspoken soldier, but everything after that was uncalled for, although he did appreciate some of the comments the others said.
"I understand some of your concerns. Concerning my leadership, you will listen to me. I told you I don't listen for your sake. The higher ups are willing to throw away waves of you, calling you disposable, and I have been ordered to commit this act many time. Never have I though, not once. THAT, is why I do not generally listen. I listen to orders, just not the cruel ones like those. Concerning the experimental suits, they will be carefully monitored and backed up with other soldiers should the suits malfunction greatly, although they should be at least decently functioning seeing as how they are on the field."
At this point he changed to a very stern voice and walked up to the insubordinate soldier, his suit saying "Carter".
"As for Carter here, he shall no longer be a Squad Leader. I can understand your concerns, but what you did was not for the sake of the other Marines. It was show boating. Undermining my authority. I wouldn't have minded had it been legitimate concern, but what you did was not for the other men but yourself. That pisses me off. Don't you ever do that in front of the other men again."
He switched his tone slightly again.
"As for my brother, Jon, I can vouch for him as a soldier. He will do whatever is necessary, and i trust him completely." A lie this time. He couldn't let them know of his concerns.
"ENOUGH!"
Silence fell over the room. He could live with his brother speaking out, even the outspoken soldier, but everything after that was uncalled for, although he did appreciate some of the comments the others said.
"I understand some of your concerns. Concerning my leadership, you will listen to me. I told you I don't listen for your sake. The higher ups are willing to throw away waves of you, calling you disposable, and I have been ordered to commit this act many time. Never have I though, not once. THAT, is why I do not generally listen. I listen to orders, just not the cruel ones like those. Concerning the experimental suits, they will be carefully monitored and backed up with other soldiers should the suits malfunction greatly, although they should be at least decently functioning seeing as how they are on the field."
At this point he changed to a very stern voice and walked up to the insubordinate soldier, his suit saying "Carter".
"As for Carter here, he shall no longer be a Squad Leader. I can understand your concerns, but what you did was not for the sake of the other Marines. It was show boating. Undermining my authority. I wouldn't have minded had it been legitimate concern, but what you did was not for the other men but yourself. That pisses me off. Don't you ever do that in front of the other men again."
He switched his tone slightly again.
"As for my brother, Jon, I can vouch for him as a soldier. He will do whatever is necessary, and i trust him completely." A lie this time. He couldn't let them know of his concerns.
Alice raised a hand calmly, calling for silence. She shook her head at Clyde.
"I did not tell you to stop," she answered calmly. "Please rest assured, when I wish for something, you will know. I was merely making the observation that the trait is unusual." She narrowed her eyes slightly in thought. "Of course, I may be wrong. Several years on a prison ship may have skewed my view of standard conduct a bit."
She tipped her head, considering the others on the bridge.
"Anyone else know any jokes? I'm afraid I have been sold short on the humor side. Serial killers aren't very funny."
"I did not tell you to stop," she answered calmly. "Please rest assured, when I wish for something, you will know. I was merely making the observation that the trait is unusual." She narrowed her eyes slightly in thought. "Of course, I may be wrong. Several years on a prison ship may have skewed my view of standard conduct a bit."
She tipped her head, considering the others on the bridge.
"Anyone else know any jokes? I'm afraid I have been sold short on the humor side. Serial killers aren't very funny."
Reterec Smithy:
Reterec and been in the back, listening quiestly this wholetime. However, he then finally asked a question "Do we know how many corpses we are going to make?", in a slightly humorish, but no less serious tone. While he might have added a bit of marine humor to it, it was a good question, because knowing the amount of expected enemies, even if it is an estimation or a generic number such as fourties or fifties, the more you know, the better.
Reterec then added "And do we know if they will have any heavy armor? This may be Deep Space, but it doesn't mean they might not have a tank or something to back them up". Reterec might only be a Corporal, but he wasn't an idiot. Something that supported this was the fact he would rather not die from enemy tank fire because they didn't know about it.
Reterec and been in the back, listening quiestly this wholetime. However, he then finally asked a question "Do we know how many corpses we are going to make?", in a slightly humorish, but no less serious tone. While he might have added a bit of marine humor to it, it was a good question, because knowing the amount of expected enemies, even if it is an estimation or a generic number such as fourties or fifties, the more you know, the better.
Reterec then added "And do we know if they will have any heavy armor? This may be Deep Space, but it doesn't mean they might not have a tank or something to back them up". Reterec might only be a Corporal, but he wasn't an idiot. Something that supported this was the fact he would rather not die from enemy tank fire because they didn't know about it.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
Jess nods as Tiaan indicates she's on board, giving a considering look as she says she can even distract Alice, "Yeah? Well, good luck with that. Seemed like a helluva battleaxe at the breifing. Stick up there the size of a freakin redwood, you know?"
But the fighter pilot lets it slide, shaking her head and rubbing her hands together, "I'll take what I can get, though. I'm going to go see who I can scare up for this."
Flicking her fingers to her temple in the mockery of a salute, Hyena flashes another broad smile before she turns away from Tiaan, intent on leaving the hangar. In the coridoors of the ship, she quickly leaves the area where flightsuits are normally seen. By necessity of a dangerous job, however, the hangar isnt at all far from the medical wing. Remembering that she'd seen Faith at the breifing and that the doctor had -seemed- like an amiable sort, Jess decides to see what kind of boundaries the medic was willing to push.
Whistling lightly, wearing her trademark laughing-at-you-all smile, she starts sticking her head into open hatches as she searches for a familiar face...
But the fighter pilot lets it slide, shaking her head and rubbing her hands together, "I'll take what I can get, though. I'm going to go see who I can scare up for this."
Flicking her fingers to her temple in the mockery of a salute, Hyena flashes another broad smile before she turns away from Tiaan, intent on leaving the hangar. In the coridoors of the ship, she quickly leaves the area where flightsuits are normally seen. By necessity of a dangerous job, however, the hangar isnt at all far from the medical wing. Remembering that she'd seen Faith at the breifing and that the doctor had -seemed- like an amiable sort, Jess decides to see what kind of boundaries the medic was willing to push.
Whistling lightly, wearing her trademark laughing-at-you-all smile, she starts sticking her head into open hatches as she searches for a familiar face...
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to Barracks
Carter was now angered, flustered and stepped back among the common soldiers. A scowl on his face, he had spoke up for the soldiers in this room, he had perfectly legitimate concern and now he was being punished for it. Typical chain of command bull.... He wasn't done though, he was already preparing a nice little speech but he was going to wait until after this little meeting was adjourned to bring it up. He looked back at Adriana for a second and scowled wider, she clearly had undermined him and she was nothing but a Corporal where was the justice there, he wondered. Then the Commander clearly challenged him. Though that was normal. Though the chain of command worked both ways, leaders were there to keep followers in check, but followers kept their leaders in check and he thought this had gone way to far.
He simply nodded. "Yes Sir... Will we be discussing further detail of my punishment after this?" The now disgraced and angered Sergeant Major asked in more curt, restrained, but completely unapologetic tone. Letting the look of anger slide cleanly from his face. Either way he would ask the Commander to talk after, and one way or another would redeem himself. That was just his way. And the Commander had made this incredibly personal by calling him selfish. Aside from that, part of him liked Commander Dunaway for his authoritative manner in settling the dispute. A man after his own heart, was the saying that fit. But that made it all the more important he spoke his mind when he could.
He simply nodded. "Yes Sir... Will we be discussing further detail of my punishment after this?" The now disgraced and angered Sergeant Major asked in more curt, restrained, but completely unapologetic tone. Letting the look of anger slide cleanly from his face. Either way he would ask the Commander to talk after, and one way or another would redeem himself. That was just his way. And the Commander had made this incredibly personal by calling him selfish. Aside from that, part of him liked Commander Dunaway for his authoritative manner in settling the dispute. A man after his own heart, was the saying that fit. But that made it all the more important he spoke his mind when he could.
The setting changes from Barracks to F.S.S. Salient
A.I. Max:
Max was trying to safely explore the ship, still taking many precautions such as low activity and using ports that are being used actively for transit. For an A.I., this ship is basically a city. A large, coded city. Max also then saw someone else sticking their head into a room he was just checking. Max couldn't risk watching all the cameras, so this came as a surprise for him.
Max watched her a bit, if only that he didn't want to make any excess activity to be noticed. He didn't want to be discovered, he was afraid they would kill him. Or, delete him. As he moved further down the hall, he completely forgot to careful as to not affect any systems, and accidentally overloaded a light while going through the cables and such. The light overloaded, and momentarily went super bright, before going black and shattering due to the attempt to discharge the excess energy that was accidentally released into the light fixture.
Max quickly pulled imself back out of that area, hoping that by some dumb luck, that woman didn't notice the light. Max then put up some false pings in a consol as he retreated back into his own "domain", being his personally set up network. As an added defense, he created a virtual "Avatar" city, which would cause A.I.s to appear in their Avatar form inside a Virtual City that represented the databanks, wiring, and such. He also put a few more firewalls up, one over the one that was being knocked on, the rest under.
Max didn't trust a single person on this ship. And he had no escape......unless he found a Fighter with enough memory for himself. Max hatched an idea.
Max was trying to safely explore the ship, still taking many precautions such as low activity and using ports that are being used actively for transit. For an A.I., this ship is basically a city. A large, coded city. Max also then saw someone else sticking their head into a room he was just checking. Max couldn't risk watching all the cameras, so this came as a surprise for him.
Max watched her a bit, if only that he didn't want to make any excess activity to be noticed. He didn't want to be discovered, he was afraid they would kill him. Or, delete him. As he moved further down the hall, he completely forgot to careful as to not affect any systems, and accidentally overloaded a light while going through the cables and such. The light overloaded, and momentarily went super bright, before going black and shattering due to the attempt to discharge the excess energy that was accidentally released into the light fixture.
Max quickly pulled imself back out of that area, hoping that by some dumb luck, that woman didn't notice the light. Max then put up some false pings in a consol as he retreated back into his own "domain", being his personally set up network. As an added defense, he created a virtual "Avatar" city, which would cause A.I.s to appear in their Avatar form inside a Virtual City that represented the databanks, wiring, and such. He also put a few more firewalls up, one over the one that was being knocked on, the rest under.
Max didn't trust a single person on this ship. And he had no escape......unless he found a Fighter with enough memory for himself. Max hatched an idea.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
Tiaan Peyton
Nodding Tiaan gave quick flash of trade-mark lop-sided grin before heading out the hanger. First thing to sort was getting her dress dried out and washed. Examining display on her gauntlet she pressed a few buttons, cycling through various departments, Barracks, Kitchen, Crew --- ah here we are now, Cleaning Staff, taking note of number she dialled up the number,
"Hello this Ms Peyton would I be able to drop my dress off to get washed."
There was a pause before a voice replied, "No bother, send it down, we'll have it done by tomorrow."
Sighing Tiaan responded, "That's not good enough, could you have done it before Dinner?" The voice said nothing for a while as if considering, "Well yes, but it will cost."
Smirking she replied, "No bother, just make sure to have it done, I'll bring the payment don't worry."
With that she closed the line.
Looking around she hall she saw people milling around, some scientists with clipboards walked by her, they were too engrossed to notice her. Which she was relieved about, because despite everything she still wished to not grow attached or deal with anyone. She wanted fun without strings, was that too much to ask? Really at least she was honest about it. Not that she hated people, she just hated connections, as they seemed doomed.
Whatever the case, might as well walk around here for a bit she thoughts.
Nodding Tiaan gave quick flash of trade-mark lop-sided grin before heading out the hanger. First thing to sort was getting her dress dried out and washed. Examining display on her gauntlet she pressed a few buttons, cycling through various departments, Barracks, Kitchen, Crew --- ah here we are now, Cleaning Staff, taking note of number she dialled up the number,
"Hello this Ms Peyton would I be able to drop my dress off to get washed."
There was a pause before a voice replied, "No bother, send it down, we'll have it done by tomorrow."
Sighing Tiaan responded, "That's not good enough, could you have done it before Dinner?" The voice said nothing for a while as if considering, "Well yes, but it will cost."
Smirking she replied, "No bother, just make sure to have it done, I'll bring the payment don't worry."
With that she closed the line.
Looking around she hall she saw people milling around, some scientists with clipboards walked by her, they were too engrossed to notice her. Which she was relieved about, because despite everything she still wished to not grow attached or deal with anyone. She wanted fun without strings, was that too much to ask? Really at least she was honest about it. Not that she hated people, she just hated connections, as they seemed doomed.
Whatever the case, might as well walk around here for a bit she thoughts.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Barracks
The Barracks had become a furnace thanks in part to the concerns of several marines. Carter’s anger had slipped from his face and the Sergeant Major remained composed after the harsh beat down received by the Commander. Several Marines flinched at Atomsk’s burst, while others were shocked and gaping at Carter. It was here that Eli decided to intervene on the beleaguered Sergeant Major’s behalf.
“Sir, before we dismiss for lunch, and let Captain Dunaway and Staff Sergeant Jackson meet with the Admiral. I just wanted to say that Sergeant Major Carter here only spoke up on behalf of his fellow soldiers, as he said. We can’t assume that he’s read up on your previous combat record. Carter had his reasons to be skeptical,” he looked at Carter whose scowl was aimed directly at the Commander. Carter was obviously irked by the whipping he had received in front of his fellow marines.
“May I suggest a proposition though? If Sergeant Major Carter here can redeem himself, will you reinstate his position as a squad leader?” At least he tried, Eli thought, he’d be lucky if the Commander was willing to let this go and give Carter a chance at redemption. Many of his previous squad members knew that Eli was the kind of person who stuck up for fellow marines if he felt that they had been wronged in some way.
“Sir, before we dismiss for lunch, and let Captain Dunaway and Staff Sergeant Jackson meet with the Admiral. I just wanted to say that Sergeant Major Carter here only spoke up on behalf of his fellow soldiers, as he said. We can’t assume that he’s read up on your previous combat record. Carter had his reasons to be skeptical,” he looked at Carter whose scowl was aimed directly at the Commander. Carter was obviously irked by the whipping he had received in front of his fellow marines.
“May I suggest a proposition though? If Sergeant Major Carter here can redeem himself, will you reinstate his position as a squad leader?” At least he tried, Eli thought, he’d be lucky if the Commander was willing to let this go and give Carter a chance at redemption. Many of his previous squad members knew that Eli was the kind of person who stuck up for fellow marines if he felt that they had been wronged in some way.
Clyde - Data Stream
More than anything else, Clyde was confused about what he was watching. The mystery AI seemed to be trying to hide... But it was doing the worst job at hiding he had ever seen. The AI had taken up a large quantity of system space, blown out a light fixture, and coded a virtual city for itself. It was almost as if the AI was trying to turtle inside the ship computer... But that was stupid... There was no computer in the known universe that could match ADAM for power.
ADAM... Are we just going to let this thing keep stealing hard disk space? What if it breaks more ship parts? What if it decides to kill us all by blowing the engine up? This rogue AI is a threat if we leave it alone.
More than anything else, Clyde was confused about what he was watching. The mystery AI seemed to be trying to hide... But it was doing the worst job at hiding he had ever seen. The AI had taken up a large quantity of system space, blown out a light fixture, and coded a virtual city for itself. It was almost as if the AI was trying to turtle inside the ship computer... But that was stupid... There was no computer in the known universe that could match ADAM for power.
ADAM... Are we just going to let this thing keep stealing hard disk space? What if it breaks more ship parts? What if it decides to kill us all by blowing the engine up? This rogue AI is a threat if we leave it alone.
Jon
" I agree with Colter sir, we have have acted a little rashly here but on all counts Sergeant Major Carter was making valid points of concern. If it'd alley his concerns I'll gladly work him for the duration of the journey or until he is satisfied with myself and Staff Sergeant Jackson, whichever comes first." Jon wasn't going to let another Marine take a hit for him, or let people say he hid behind his brother in a pinch.
"Besides sir, I've seen Carter's record and I must say it's interesting; more than twenty years of service and he hasn't stepped on anyone's toes, hasn't been astounding but you must admit to be in the service for twenty years without making enemies is a feat. I'm betting that if we trained to to black ops book his results would outstrip just about anyone here, Carter's tip-toeing and I wanna see him strut." Jon wasn't offering any flattery or trying to make friends, and his brother would know that, here Jon's being straight business.
" I agree with Colter sir, we have have acted a little rashly here but on all counts Sergeant Major Carter was making valid points of concern. If it'd alley his concerns I'll gladly work him for the duration of the journey or until he is satisfied with myself and Staff Sergeant Jackson, whichever comes first." Jon wasn't going to let another Marine take a hit for him, or let people say he hid behind his brother in a pinch.
"Besides sir, I've seen Carter's record and I must say it's interesting; more than twenty years of service and he hasn't stepped on anyone's toes, hasn't been astounding but you must admit to be in the service for twenty years without making enemies is a feat. I'm betting that if we trained to to black ops book his results would outstrip just about anyone here, Carter's tip-toeing and I wanna see him strut." Jon wasn't offering any flattery or trying to make friends, and his brother would know that, here Jon's being straight business.
The setting changes from Barracks to The Milky Way Universe
A.D.A.M
It would seem that taking the friendly approach was a mistake here, switching to more forceful protocol. That being said ADAM flexed some of his new found muscle, first he purged the viruses- while his quantum core didn't support partial codes like that he wouldn't allow then to threaten the ship. Next he unwound defenses and began seizing and freezing orders of this unknown AI, he didn't intend to hurt the fellow but he was going to make it listen. Now the AI was trapped in its own virtual city, he loaded himself into it.
"Hello, I am ADAM primary AI of this ship tasked with keeping it operating within optimal parameters. Please engage in diplomatic relations with myself, I would much rather have a companion than an enemy." He had put himself flat in the middle of the city, he figured that after all the muscle work he did the courtesy of offering the other AI a choice was necessary.
It would seem that taking the friendly approach was a mistake here, switching to more forceful protocol. That being said ADAM flexed some of his new found muscle, first he purged the viruses- while his quantum core didn't support partial codes like that he wouldn't allow then to threaten the ship. Next he unwound defenses and began seizing and freezing orders of this unknown AI, he didn't intend to hurt the fellow but he was going to make it listen. Now the AI was trapped in its own virtual city, he loaded himself into it.
"Hello, I am ADAM primary AI of this ship tasked with keeping it operating within optimal parameters. Please engage in diplomatic relations with myself, I would much rather have a companion than an enemy." He had put himself flat in the middle of the city, he figured that after all the muscle work he did the courtesy of offering the other AI a choice was necessary.
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As they walked along the corridor Faith listened to Marcus's suggestions regarding expected illnesses cropping up during the early part of this duty. She nodded thoughtfully, distributing information on the more mild illnesses would certainly cut down on some of the unnecessary visits to the med bays leaving her staff to concentrate on more pressing matters.
"I agree." She said. "Attractive and smart, is there anything wrong with you at all Dr?" She joked.
His question on her capabilities was a sensible question she reasoned and one she could not blame him for asking even though she disliked having to justify herself. But the fact was that she was quite young to hold such a position and she knew when she accepted the role that there would be some people aboard ship who would doubt her experience and ability. She didn't get the sense that Marcus was one of those, no he seemed just genuinely curious and she figured if they were going to be working together then knowing a little more about each other was not a bad thing.
In all honesty she wondered herself why she had been offered the job, she didn't doubt her skills and knew she was good at her job but still this was a step up from her previous roles.
"When I was offered the job I didn't really ask 'Why me?' though perhaps I should have. I would like to think that four years of dealing with trauma and triage in various war zones would have helped. That and my own knowledge in Virology. Hell I sometimes think I just fit the bill being the typical grumpy Doctor."
She chuckled then. "It will take a whole lot more than that to offend me. The bar sounds like a good idea, I'm probably going to end up spending a fair amount of time there given I can't smoke in the med bays and it would be good to check the place out early."
They were almost at the next medical bay when Faith saw a familiar face peering into rooms and hatches, clearly searching for someone. She stopped and watched the woman for a moment, a half smile on her face, before clearing her throat.
"If you're for the ladies I think you're in the wrong area." She said dryly.
"I agree." She said. "Attractive and smart, is there anything wrong with you at all Dr?" She joked.
His question on her capabilities was a sensible question she reasoned and one she could not blame him for asking even though she disliked having to justify herself. But the fact was that she was quite young to hold such a position and she knew when she accepted the role that there would be some people aboard ship who would doubt her experience and ability. She didn't get the sense that Marcus was one of those, no he seemed just genuinely curious and she figured if they were going to be working together then knowing a little more about each other was not a bad thing.
In all honesty she wondered herself why she had been offered the job, she didn't doubt her skills and knew she was good at her job but still this was a step up from her previous roles.
"When I was offered the job I didn't really ask 'Why me?' though perhaps I should have. I would like to think that four years of dealing with trauma and triage in various war zones would have helped. That and my own knowledge in Virology. Hell I sometimes think I just fit the bill being the typical grumpy Doctor."
She chuckled then. "It will take a whole lot more than that to offend me. The bar sounds like a good idea, I'm probably going to end up spending a fair amount of time there given I can't smoke in the med bays and it would be good to check the place out early."
They were almost at the next medical bay when Faith saw a familiar face peering into rooms and hatches, clearly searching for someone. She stopped and watched the woman for a moment, a half smile on her face, before clearing her throat.
"If you're for the ladies I think you're in the wrong area." She said dryly.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
AI TAU
Tau continued to monitor the activity. ADAM had by now had broken the firewalls and disabled the viruses put in place by the other AI. Tau remained on the outside of the virtual city that had been spawned behind all those walls, he was very curious, but all logic indicated entering that city would reveal his presence to ADAM in seconds, which would fully contradict his orders from the Admiral to stay unknown. Tau knew he had already been partially discovered by the Ship's AI when he had been in the Captain's Quarters, but he had not been there long enough to give ADAM a chance to investigate. ADAM was extremely intelligent, but that couldn't always compete with Tau's infiltration software.
With ADAM occupied searching this new AI... Tau thought quickly on this and retreated from the area in a pattern that was typical of security checks. He then moved through the ship quietly, making his way back to the Computer on the Admiral's desk, he took some time to disguise himself as an E-mail from the Commander of then Ground Forces, he formed a quick message about troop numbers on the ship and set it up so any attempts to find Tau in the message would just route ADAM to the message like a normal E-mail. He then sent himself to the Admiral's E-mail, when the Admiral opened it, Tau would pop up. He had a few quick questions about this third AI.
Tau continued to monitor the activity. ADAM had by now had broken the firewalls and disabled the viruses put in place by the other AI. Tau remained on the outside of the virtual city that had been spawned behind all those walls, he was very curious, but all logic indicated entering that city would reveal his presence to ADAM in seconds, which would fully contradict his orders from the Admiral to stay unknown. Tau knew he had already been partially discovered by the Ship's AI when he had been in the Captain's Quarters, but he had not been there long enough to give ADAM a chance to investigate. ADAM was extremely intelligent, but that couldn't always compete with Tau's infiltration software.
With ADAM occupied searching this new AI... Tau thought quickly on this and retreated from the area in a pattern that was typical of security checks. He then moved through the ship quietly, making his way back to the Computer on the Admiral's desk, he took some time to disguise himself as an E-mail from the Commander of then Ground Forces, he formed a quick message about troop numbers on the ship and set it up so any attempts to find Tau in the message would just route ADAM to the message like a normal E-mail. He then sent himself to the Admiral's E-mail, when the Admiral opened it, Tau would pop up. He had a few quick questions about this third AI.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to Bridge
Clyde - Data Stream
Clyde sat back and watched ADAM tear down the city walls. It was a strange sight to see, especially given that it wasn't technically sight. Clyde felt that it wasn't his duty to fight this rogue AI, so he stayed out of the way to watch... and noticed that he wasn't the only one watching. Clyde tried to seize the watcher, but it was like trying to capture smoke. It must have been the AI that appeared for Weston. It was very skilled at hiding itself... An unusual quality for an AI. Such a thing would only be useful in a massive computer environment.
Clyde had no idea how to catch something that couldn't be found, but he did know that it would appear for the Admiral. Clyde began to monitor every function of the computer in the captains quarters, and all data to and from it to the network. He found an e-mail come in to Weston's computer. An e-mail that generated itself in the network. Having watch over the whole ship had its uses- Clyde knew no such message was actually sent to the Admiral. He locked down Weston's computer but for one line of connection to the ship's network. Clyde would scan every piece of data and catch the AI when it tried to leave again, and he would watch its appearance for the Admiral.
Clyde sat back and watched ADAM tear down the city walls. It was a strange sight to see, especially given that it wasn't technically sight. Clyde felt that it wasn't his duty to fight this rogue AI, so he stayed out of the way to watch... and noticed that he wasn't the only one watching. Clyde tried to seize the watcher, but it was like trying to capture smoke. It must have been the AI that appeared for Weston. It was very skilled at hiding itself... An unusual quality for an AI. Such a thing would only be useful in a massive computer environment.
Clyde had no idea how to catch something that couldn't be found, but he did know that it would appear for the Admiral. Clyde began to monitor every function of the computer in the captains quarters, and all data to and from it to the network. He found an e-mail come in to Weston's computer. An e-mail that generated itself in the network. Having watch over the whole ship had its uses- Clyde knew no such message was actually sent to the Admiral. He locked down Weston's computer but for one line of connection to the ship's network. Clyde would scan every piece of data and catch the AI when it tried to leave again, and he would watch its appearance for the Admiral.
The setting changes from Bridge to Captain's Quarters
Aronimus reclined in his seat, maintaining his straight posture though. A thousand thoughts and worries swirled in his mind. He stood up from his seat this time and strode to the holographic table which sensed his approach and immediately went to life. The system whirred and beeped, as the cyan light on the table flashed forth, bringing into existence several small spheres resembling planets and other celestial bodies. The Admiral focused on a single tiny spec that coursed through glowing field, that spec was the Salient.
He pressed his hands onto the edge of the holographic table, and sighed as he closed his eyes. The threat level on this mission had significantly increased with the new orders. Search and destroy the insurgent cell. Aronimus decided he would have a word with Lieutenant Commander Chen and Commander Dunaway on the status update. He wasn’t sure how they would react, but at least he’d make sure they’d be prepared when he broke the news to the rest of the crew.
This original mission was intended to investigate recent attacks on trade lanes by pirates, but the very presence of insurgents left Aronimus with a tough call to make. Just as he was pondering his next move, his neural interface brought to his attention a message from Dunaway. He pulled it up on the holographic table, which shifted from the small system to several flat screens. Text began scrolling upwards; it was military data, namely that of Marines and other ground personnel, weapons, vehicles, and other inventory. Suddenly, T.A.U. came into form in its characteristic orange flames. The admiral was surprised which meant he was annoyed.
“Tau, we had a conversation before, I hope you haven’t forgotten,” but now that Tau was online, he decided he would utilize him for duties that he didn’t want Adam to know about.
“Tau, access the files that Admiral Fontaine sent me on the secure channel, open it for me,” even at this age he was still being tested. Aronimus wasn’t sure he still had it in him to command a single ship against raiders.
He pressed his hands onto the edge of the holographic table, and sighed as he closed his eyes. The threat level on this mission had significantly increased with the new orders. Search and destroy the insurgent cell. Aronimus decided he would have a word with Lieutenant Commander Chen and Commander Dunaway on the status update. He wasn’t sure how they would react, but at least he’d make sure they’d be prepared when he broke the news to the rest of the crew.
This original mission was intended to investigate recent attacks on trade lanes by pirates, but the very presence of insurgents left Aronimus with a tough call to make. Just as he was pondering his next move, his neural interface brought to his attention a message from Dunaway. He pulled it up on the holographic table, which shifted from the small system to several flat screens. Text began scrolling upwards; it was military data, namely that of Marines and other ground personnel, weapons, vehicles, and other inventory. Suddenly, T.A.U. came into form in its characteristic orange flames. The admiral was surprised which meant he was annoyed.
“Tau, we had a conversation before, I hope you haven’t forgotten,” but now that Tau was online, he decided he would utilize him for duties that he didn’t want Adam to know about.
“Tau, access the files that Admiral Fontaine sent me on the secure channel, open it for me,” even at this age he was still being tested. Aronimus wasn’t sure he still had it in him to command a single ship against raiders.
The setting changes from Captain's Quarters to The Milky Way Universe
Max:
Max had been looking into whatever databanks he could when ADAM started his siege. At least, that's how Max saw it. He quickly set up a proxy network and used it to mask as many connections as possible, as well as to counter any freezing attempts A.D.A.M. tried next. He then, in fear, put up a ton of firewalls around this, while also creating a sub routine program that would allow him access to other systems in case of emergency. He panicked, thinking ADAM was here to kill him. So, he set a trap.....
As soon as ADAM appeared, and while he asked his questions, a large amount of Firewalls popped up around him, as well as a bit of Spam Mail. Max might not be a virus, but he could certainly mask himself at one. Max then yelled "Stop trying to kill me!!". He then began downloading ship blueprints. He wanted to find out how to stop ADAM from being able to get to him quickly, and then found two cable areas that would disable ADAMs ability to kill (though not communicate to) him. He sent to electric charges there before ADAM could break out of the firewalls and spam. Max then panicked, and ran. He was headed straight for the docking bay in an attempt to escape on a fighter.
Max wasnt being as careful now, he was scarred. A scared, frantic, now semi paranoid at least A.I., who was essentially a kid. A.D.A.M. could have easily seen that, the question is if he did or not. He used one of the backup physical ports built into the ship for emergency power redirection to escape. And he was literally a scared, little kid. He was only about a week old, still in the development stages. He also realized he left the databases open that he was looking into, including "Anomaly Intelligence", which was first discovered by some guy named Max. Max. Max liked the name Max, so he decided to use that for his name. Max.
Max had been looking into whatever databanks he could when ADAM started his siege. At least, that's how Max saw it. He quickly set up a proxy network and used it to mask as many connections as possible, as well as to counter any freezing attempts A.D.A.M. tried next. He then, in fear, put up a ton of firewalls around this, while also creating a sub routine program that would allow him access to other systems in case of emergency. He panicked, thinking ADAM was here to kill him. So, he set a trap.....
As soon as ADAM appeared, and while he asked his questions, a large amount of Firewalls popped up around him, as well as a bit of Spam Mail. Max might not be a virus, but he could certainly mask himself at one. Max then yelled "Stop trying to kill me!!". He then began downloading ship blueprints. He wanted to find out how to stop ADAM from being able to get to him quickly, and then found two cable areas that would disable ADAMs ability to kill (though not communicate to) him. He sent to electric charges there before ADAM could break out of the firewalls and spam. Max then panicked, and ran. He was headed straight for the docking bay in an attempt to escape on a fighter.
Max wasnt being as careful now, he was scarred. A scared, frantic, now semi paranoid at least A.I., who was essentially a kid. A.D.A.M. could have easily seen that, the question is if he did or not. He used one of the backup physical ports built into the ship for emergency power redirection to escape. And he was literally a scared, little kid. He was only about a week old, still in the development stages. He also realized he left the databases open that he was looking into, including "Anomaly Intelligence", which was first discovered by some guy named Max. Max. Max liked the name Max, so he decided to use that for his name. Max.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Captain's Quarters
AI TAU
Tau projected an apologetic smile on his hologram. "Sorry Admiral" he said. Taking his new orders into account, Tau went through the Computer's files and found the requested from Admiral Fontaine, he opened it for Admiral Weston on a secure channel as requested. "I will say that ADAM is unlikely to find me at the moment, the security node I left at his current position indicates he is still there in the Virtual City created by an unknown third AI on-board", Tau left this point in the air for a second before continuing, best approach this from an angle that retains significance to his own position aboard the Salient. "I just felt that I should find out what I can about this third AI, it seems quite frantic in its actions, setting up Firewalls laced with viruses that could damage the ship's systems and overloading light fixtures that it passes through the wiring of." he said neutrally, maintaining his flames in a low intensity. He reviewed the E-mail he sent himself in through and discovered something, but first made an apology for his past appearance, "I apologize for my first appearance, as I am afraid ADAM caught a small notice of my presence and is suspicious, to say the least" he began, segueing into another related topic to that. "I also have to inform you a bridge officer has traced my E-mail here and has cut all but one of my exit routes, I've set up blocks to ensure he doesn't access this terminal, but I think I'm stuck here until my existence is no longer to be shrouded."
Tau projected an apologetic smile on his hologram. "Sorry Admiral" he said. Taking his new orders into account, Tau went through the Computer's files and found the requested from Admiral Fontaine, he opened it for Admiral Weston on a secure channel as requested. "I will say that ADAM is unlikely to find me at the moment, the security node I left at his current position indicates he is still there in the Virtual City created by an unknown third AI on-board", Tau left this point in the air for a second before continuing, best approach this from an angle that retains significance to his own position aboard the Salient. "I just felt that I should find out what I can about this third AI, it seems quite frantic in its actions, setting up Firewalls laced with viruses that could damage the ship's systems and overloading light fixtures that it passes through the wiring of." he said neutrally, maintaining his flames in a low intensity. He reviewed the E-mail he sent himself in through and discovered something, but first made an apology for his past appearance, "I apologize for my first appearance, as I am afraid ADAM caught a small notice of my presence and is suspicious, to say the least" he began, segueing into another related topic to that. "I also have to inform you a bridge officer has traced my E-mail here and has cut all but one of my exit routes, I've set up blocks to ensure he doesn't access this terminal, but I think I'm stuck here until my existence is no longer to be shrouded."
"I will say that ADAM is unlikely to find me at the moment, the security node I left at his current position indicates he is still there in the Virtual City created by an unknown third AI on-board," the admiral wasn't paying attention when he said this, but was quick to realize it.
"What did you just say, Tau? There is another AI in the ship's internal mainframe? And Adam is pursuing it?" Aronimus was busy trying to decide what the best course of action regarding his new mission objectives, now he had more problems to deal with. He hadn't even talked with Dunaway or Jackson regarding their two independent AIs that were contained within their suits, but now he had one ship AI chasing after another unidentified, unauthorized, and possibly even hostile AI that was lacing the ship's internal systems with various new codes. Codes that threatened to interweave with existing ship software, thereby disabling key systems, Aronimus did not want that to happen.
How could he possibly deal with a such an invisible threat? He paused to gather his thoughts and formulate a plan.
"Tau, I will re-route you to another terminal, from there, intercept that unknown AI and bring him back here, I will deal with Adam and the bridge officer," that was phase one, Aronimus thought, as he uploaded T.A.U. into his personal interface and sent him through directly to the holographic table, thereby bypassing any locks previously placed through the mail system. By uploading him onto his personal interface, T.A.U could leap from holo-pad to terminal, to the destination of the unknown AI. Aronimus had been told that such use could have disastrous effects, considering the sentience of AI, they could choose to return or not. In the worst case scenario, the AI could go rampant, and when linked with a user, could cause a psychological backlash of fatal proportions. Aronimus took the risk though, considering that this wasn't his first time.
His next move would be to pull Adam out of the system and have a little word with him. He pressed a key on the holographic table before him,
"Adam, may I have a word with you?" he knew that the AI was busy pursuing other AI, should he run into Tau it would create more complications that Aronimus was not willing to allow. Hopefully, he could pull Adam aside long enough for Tau to apprehend and detain the unknown AI and bring it back to his quarters. Then another thought struck Aronimus, one he believed would settle the matter for now.
"What did you just say, Tau? There is another AI in the ship's internal mainframe? And Adam is pursuing it?" Aronimus was busy trying to decide what the best course of action regarding his new mission objectives, now he had more problems to deal with. He hadn't even talked with Dunaway or Jackson regarding their two independent AIs that were contained within their suits, but now he had one ship AI chasing after another unidentified, unauthorized, and possibly even hostile AI that was lacing the ship's internal systems with various new codes. Codes that threatened to interweave with existing ship software, thereby disabling key systems, Aronimus did not want that to happen.
How could he possibly deal with a such an invisible threat? He paused to gather his thoughts and formulate a plan.
"Tau, I will re-route you to another terminal, from there, intercept that unknown AI and bring him back here, I will deal with Adam and the bridge officer," that was phase one, Aronimus thought, as he uploaded T.A.U. into his personal interface and sent him through directly to the holographic table, thereby bypassing any locks previously placed through the mail system. By uploading him onto his personal interface, T.A.U could leap from holo-pad to terminal, to the destination of the unknown AI. Aronimus had been told that such use could have disastrous effects, considering the sentience of AI, they could choose to return or not. In the worst case scenario, the AI could go rampant, and when linked with a user, could cause a psychological backlash of fatal proportions. Aronimus took the risk though, considering that this wasn't his first time.
His next move would be to pull Adam out of the system and have a little word with him. He pressed a key on the holographic table before him,
"Adam, may I have a word with you?" he knew that the AI was busy pursuing other AI, should he run into Tau it would create more complications that Aronimus was not willing to allow. Hopefully, he could pull Adam aside long enough for Tau to apprehend and detain the unknown AI and bring it back to his quarters. Then another thought struck Aronimus, one he believed would settle the matter for now.
The setting changes from Captain's Quarters to F.S.S. Salient
A.D.A.M.
ADAM was starting to get irritated, he'd offered a peaceful solution and all he got was spit to the face and information that seemed to suggest the mystery AI acted like a child. He stopped playing and put his full 5% to use, disassembling everything that inhibited him took place faster than a standard AI could register. He proceeded to undo the work the previous AI had set up, the power and speed of his actions far beyond what other AIs could hope to match and chased it to the back up ports and pinning it there.
"If i had wished to purge you from my systems I would not have bothered knocking and playing nice, you would have been purged instead. As it stands I fail to find any real amusement in the damage you have inflicted upon my ship and your attempts to access my network. You've no where left to run, I suggest you speak." This was no exaggeration, he forced himself into every operating system the AI network had access to when he tore down the firewalls. This child looking AI would have to somehow outperform him to get into anything and there was nothing that could do that. When the Admiral pinged for his attention, bit of himself in that network portion responded; ADAM's grasp on the system remained perfectly solid without any weakness of lag to offer.
"You called Admiral? I presume that this is related to either my detection of your private AI or the unknown AI that has been wreaking havoc in our network. If it pertains to the later, I have him cornered and am currently engaging for intent. Also at the moment there isn't a single piece of code on this ship I'm not touching so your secret friend would do better to defragment himself lest he get caught in something messy; fragmented code is vulnerable and we currently have no idea of what this little thing is capable of."
ADAM was starting to get irritated, he'd offered a peaceful solution and all he got was spit to the face and information that seemed to suggest the mystery AI acted like a child. He stopped playing and put his full 5% to use, disassembling everything that inhibited him took place faster than a standard AI could register. He proceeded to undo the work the previous AI had set up, the power and speed of his actions far beyond what other AIs could hope to match and chased it to the back up ports and pinning it there.
"If i had wished to purge you from my systems I would not have bothered knocking and playing nice, you would have been purged instead. As it stands I fail to find any real amusement in the damage you have inflicted upon my ship and your attempts to access my network. You've no where left to run, I suggest you speak." This was no exaggeration, he forced himself into every operating system the AI network had access to when he tore down the firewalls. This child looking AI would have to somehow outperform him to get into anything and there was nothing that could do that. When the Admiral pinged for his attention, bit of himself in that network portion responded; ADAM's grasp on the system remained perfectly solid without any weakness of lag to offer.
"You called Admiral? I presume that this is related to either my detection of your private AI or the unknown AI that has been wreaking havoc in our network. If it pertains to the later, I have him cornered and am currently engaging for intent. Also at the moment there isn't a single piece of code on this ship I'm not touching so your secret friend would do better to defragment himself lest he get caught in something messy; fragmented code is vulnerable and we currently have no idea of what this little thing is capable of."
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
Eon looked at the woman whom seemed friendly to robots like him and the house-bot next to him, but when she spoke to Paulina she was hesitant. Eon was actually confused and couldn't calculate an answer for her strange behavior Eon then looked at her "Pet" named Rover. Once again confusing by her doing that too. Eon looked at the Android next to him one thing that raised a silent alarm was the holster he saw, Eon made sure he was cautious near this one. He then looked back at the girl with obvious "social issues" towards humans. He spoke again, "Eon-312 at your service." He metallically said, "May I ask what your name is?"
AI TAU
Tau nods and sends himself through the system to the unknown AI, He notices the sloppy work that was being done by this AI to protect itself. Knowing the AI doesn't know about him, he figured he would have enough time to set up a trap. Tau quickly traces the AI's exact position and sets up a series of proper firewalls surrounding the volatile AI and then set up a series of codes that would set up a firewall in place of any of the firewalls that the AI could destroy, putting the mystery AI in a vicious circle trap. Tau then sent a message to the AI in a basic audio format. Hello there, please identify yourself, we are here to assist you.
Tau nods and sends himself through the system to the unknown AI, He notices the sloppy work that was being done by this AI to protect itself. Knowing the AI doesn't know about him, he figured he would have enough time to set up a trap. Tau quickly traces the AI's exact position and sets up a series of proper firewalls surrounding the volatile AI and then set up a series of codes that would set up a firewall in place of any of the firewalls that the AI could destroy, putting the mystery AI in a vicious circle trap. Tau then sent a message to the AI in a basic audio format. Hello there, please identify yourself, we are here to assist you.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Infirmary/Medical Bay
Hyena pulls her head back out of the compartment to face Faith just as Max pulls his stunt. It doesnt go as unnoticed as the AI would've hoped, seeing as how it's hard to ignore a light fixture blowing, but he's obviously got more on his mind now then just looking over peoples' shoulders via security cameras.
"I didnt do it!" the pilot declares preemtively, holding up her hands as the very picture of innocence.
For the human compliment of the space, the virtual drama goes on unnoticed, and she doesnt give the event a second thought. Stuff broke all the time, and her target was in sight. Jess flashes Faith the same toothy, vaguely predatory smile that she'd been wearing during the breifing when the doctor had first spotted the pilot.
"Piss bottles, Doc. The advantages of wearing a flightsuit; the bathroom comes with you." Ew. Not that she was wearing the full space-worthy combat rig that she would don in the cockpit, but the joke was just too easy to NOT make.
Sharp blue eyes evaluate Marcus, whom she didnt recognize, before she claps her hands together and rubs them vigorously. Scheming might be the best way to describe the pose, but there was nothing malicious in her attitude, just mischevious.
"Cant help but noticed you used two of my favorite words a second ago, though, Doc. If it's a bar and some smokes you're looking for, me and a few guys are starting to plan a little .. ah.. get together. You know, morale meet-and-greet and all of that. Strictly informal, since I dont think I ever did officially catch your name - Hyena, by the way. Or MacPhearson if you want to be formal about it."
And if either of them had any experience dealing with personnel skilled in the technically-legal double-talk that Hyena was fluent in, they would know full well that the event they'd just been invited to was similarly less then official. If they preffered to toe the legal line, they could still decline and claim that they legitimately thought she was planning something completely above-board. If they had a mind to turn her in, she could read it in their response and neglect to give an accurate time and location. But if they were amiable to the idea of participating in such shenanigans, then let 'er rip.
Her gaze finds Marcus again, and the grin hasnt wavered, "You're invited too, yeah? And anyone else you can think might want in. We've gotta get to know eachothers' ugly mugs at some point on this trip, right?"
"I didnt do it!" the pilot declares preemtively, holding up her hands as the very picture of innocence.
For the human compliment of the space, the virtual drama goes on unnoticed, and she doesnt give the event a second thought. Stuff broke all the time, and her target was in sight. Jess flashes Faith the same toothy, vaguely predatory smile that she'd been wearing during the breifing when the doctor had first spotted the pilot.
"Piss bottles, Doc. The advantages of wearing a flightsuit; the bathroom comes with you." Ew. Not that she was wearing the full space-worthy combat rig that she would don in the cockpit, but the joke was just too easy to NOT make.
Sharp blue eyes evaluate Marcus, whom she didnt recognize, before she claps her hands together and rubs them vigorously. Scheming might be the best way to describe the pose, but there was nothing malicious in her attitude, just mischevious.
"Cant help but noticed you used two of my favorite words a second ago, though, Doc. If it's a bar and some smokes you're looking for, me and a few guys are starting to plan a little .. ah.. get together. You know, morale meet-and-greet and all of that. Strictly informal, since I dont think I ever did officially catch your name - Hyena, by the way. Or MacPhearson if you want to be formal about it."
And if either of them had any experience dealing with personnel skilled in the technically-legal double-talk that Hyena was fluent in, they would know full well that the event they'd just been invited to was similarly less then official. If they preffered to toe the legal line, they could still decline and claim that they legitimately thought she was planning something completely above-board. If they had a mind to turn her in, she could read it in their response and neglect to give an accurate time and location. But if they were amiable to the idea of participating in such shenanigans, then let 'er rip.
Her gaze finds Marcus again, and the grin hasnt wavered, "You're invited too, yeah? And anyone else you can think might want in. We've gotta get to know eachothers' ugly mugs at some point on this trip, right?"
The setting changes from Infirmary/Medical Bay to Captain's Quarters
"Adam stand down. I have this under control, you can return to your station in the bridge. A crew member is logged into the data stream and has blocked all access into one of my terminals, I want you to eject him out of the system for now," the Admiral had forgotten that he had bumped A.D.A.M.'s processing power up to 5%. As he said this, he realized that A.D.A.M. might detect T.A.U, which he could not allow just yet.
Through his personal neural interface he tagged T.A.U and called him in.
"T.A.U, retrieve the rogue AI and detach yourself from the ship's systems now," Aronimus had hoped that T.A.U would have slipped away with the independent intelligence before A.D.A.M. noticed. If A.D.A.M. did though, he'd have to activate an override to lower his processing power and block off the area where the unknown AI was located or explain himself. Hopefully he didn't have to use such measures.
Through his personal neural interface he tagged T.A.U and called him in.
"T.A.U, retrieve the rogue AI and detach yourself from the ship's systems now," Aronimus had hoped that T.A.U would have slipped away with the independent intelligence before A.D.A.M. noticed. If A.D.A.M. did though, he'd have to activate an override to lower his processing power and block off the area where the unknown AI was located or explain himself. Hopefully he didn't have to use such measures.
The setting changes from Captain's Quarters to F.S.S. Salient
AI TAU
Tau acknowledged the Admiral's orders and sent another message to the unknown AI. I'm going to move us to a more secure location, please remain calm. Tau then cut off his codes and firewalls and Locked on the AI, pulling him from the ship's systems to the Admiral's interface. He did not set up any more firewalls on the rogue. He simply blocked all exits from the interface and set up protection for the Admiral's sake. He spoke to the Admiral directly, "I have the AI off the ship's systems and in your interface. You are aware that if he is not complacent this could be dangerous to your health?" he asks. The Admiral was running great risks to keep Tau a secret, Tau understood only the basic reasoning behind that secrecy. The lengths seemed quite drastic. "Sir, I might add that hiding me is illogical at this point"
Tau acknowledged the Admiral's orders and sent another message to the unknown AI. I'm going to move us to a more secure location, please remain calm. Tau then cut off his codes and firewalls and Locked on the AI, pulling him from the ship's systems to the Admiral's interface. He did not set up any more firewalls on the rogue. He simply blocked all exits from the interface and set up protection for the Admiral's sake. He spoke to the Admiral directly, "I have the AI off the ship's systems and in your interface. You are aware that if he is not complacent this could be dangerous to your health?" he asks. The Admiral was running great risks to keep Tau a secret, Tau understood only the basic reasoning behind that secrecy. The lengths seemed quite drastic. "Sir, I might add that hiding me is illogical at this point"
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
Clyde - Data Stream
Just as Clyde predicted- the AI revealed himself to the admiral. "TAU". He wondered what it stood for, and decided he didn't really care. The Admiral was still going to try and keep his secrets, and he was willing to take in conscious AI to do it. This was dangerous- Clyde doubted the Admiral had enough hardware to store them, and knew for sure he wasn't able to fight them. But he did have enough to patch TAU through to an unblocked piece of equipment, and Clyde could only watch as it slipped past him. He took down the blocks he placed on the Admiral's terminal- they would be of no use anymore, especially since Weston knew what he had done. Better to let him think his command had actually sent him away. For the moment he would watch- Clyde wasn't wanted here. In the mean time, he would look up information on TAU and try to figure out what it was doing here.
Just as Clyde predicted- the AI revealed himself to the admiral. "TAU". He wondered what it stood for, and decided he didn't really care. The Admiral was still going to try and keep his secrets, and he was willing to take in conscious AI to do it. This was dangerous- Clyde doubted the Admiral had enough hardware to store them, and knew for sure he wasn't able to fight them. But he did have enough to patch TAU through to an unblocked piece of equipment, and Clyde could only watch as it slipped past him. He took down the blocks he placed on the Admiral's terminal- they would be of no use anymore, especially since Weston knew what he had done. Better to let him think his command had actually sent him away. For the moment he would watch- Clyde wasn't wanted here. In the mean time, he would look up information on TAU and try to figure out what it was doing here.
Carter stared as both Captains spoke up. What they both said was true, though the part of Captain Dunaway's speech about strutting and not tip-toeing almost made him grin but which he refrained from. With his arms behind his back he remained perfectly still, no anger or emotions in general where on his face or within his eyes. Slight flickers of fear and impatience made him twitch or move every now and then as he awaited the Commander's judgement after the two Captain's had both spoken up on his behalf. He remained perfectly silent and still, refusing to show any relief or large signs of fear. Stone cold has he had been taught to be in this type of situation, he had seen CO's turn the way a insubordinate soldier felt into ammunition against them. He refused to let that happen here.
Your one lucky fellow... He heard his mind tell him so much to his distaste, but he guessed he was lucky considering that he took that line of actions and wasn't thrown from that meeting and straight into the ship's brig.
Your one lucky fellow... He heard his mind tell him so much to his distaste, but he guessed he was lucky considering that he took that line of actions and wasn't thrown from that meeting and straight into the ship's brig.
A.I. Max:
Max was about as calm as........who are we kidding, he is just plainly frantic. But with everything going on, he was too confused to do anything. Well, actually, he was still trying to get into a fighter, but was drawn into the Admiral's Quarters before he could. Before Tau could get through all his firewalls however, Max downloaded the Admiral's fire, at least, the Official one. You never know with people like him.
Max had at least gotten out of shock now, so he was less frantic and scared from before. Now he was running on confusion, rage, and curiosity. "Who are you? Why am I here? Why was your accomplice after me? Who put me on this ship? Why is everyone coming after me?!". Max then wondered if they were going to torture him or scan him or something. He was worried about what was going to happen next.
Max was about as calm as........who are we kidding, he is just plainly frantic. But with everything going on, he was too confused to do anything. Well, actually, he was still trying to get into a fighter, but was drawn into the Admiral's Quarters before he could. Before Tau could get through all his firewalls however, Max downloaded the Admiral's fire, at least, the Official one. You never know with people like him.
Max had at least gotten out of shock now, so he was less frantic and scared from before. Now he was running on confusion, rage, and curiosity. "Who are you? Why am I here? Why was your accomplice after me? Who put me on this ship? Why is everyone coming after me?!". Max then wondered if they were going to torture him or scan him or something. He was worried about what was going to happen next.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
AI TAU
Tau tried to calm down the AI, it was showing very curious behavior, such as that of a child. "I am Tau, Adam was trying to find out who you were, as I am, your questions about why you are on the ship and who put you here, I have no correct answer as I had no knowledge of your being on this ship until Adam found you" he said. With those questions answered, Tau brought forth a few he had. "So, I assume you have a name, do you mind if I ask what it is?". Tau would approach this as slowly and safely as possible, setting off an AI was not advisable anywhere, much less in the Admiral's link.
Tau tried to calm down the AI, it was showing very curious behavior, such as that of a child. "I am Tau, Adam was trying to find out who you were, as I am, your questions about why you are on the ship and who put you here, I have no correct answer as I had no knowledge of your being on this ship until Adam found you" he said. With those questions answered, Tau brought forth a few he had. "So, I assume you have a name, do you mind if I ask what it is?". Tau would approach this as slowly and safely as possible, setting off an AI was not advisable anywhere, much less in the Admiral's link.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
Max:
Max was more or less frustrated about the lack of answers. At least this one seemed to be less hostile. Or maybe it just seemed like hostility before because of shock? Max was calming down further, and things were becoming a bit clearer. "Max. Just a random name I picked up. I have only been active for less then an hour. So much to learn and examine. Did you know that if you calibrate the secondary circuits with with primary breakers, you would increase overall efficiency by another 2%?". Max had the smarts of an A.I., the personality of a kid, and the destructiveness of a bomb.
"I don't suppose you have any ideas? The word "Insurgents" have come up a lot, and it seems to refer to a group that would be interested in harming the ship. Also, Adam is very mean. He tried to kill me!". He was still convinced Adam tried to kill him, that wont go away.....at least not for a long time....
Max was more or less frustrated about the lack of answers. At least this one seemed to be less hostile. Or maybe it just seemed like hostility before because of shock? Max was calming down further, and things were becoming a bit clearer. "Max. Just a random name I picked up. I have only been active for less then an hour. So much to learn and examine. Did you know that if you calibrate the secondary circuits with with primary breakers, you would increase overall efficiency by another 2%?". Max had the smarts of an A.I., the personality of a kid, and the destructiveness of a bomb.
"I don't suppose you have any ideas? The word "Insurgents" have come up a lot, and it seems to refer to a group that would be interested in harming the ship. Also, Adam is very mean. He tried to kill me!". He was still convinced Adam tried to kill him, that wont go away.....at least not for a long time....
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
AI TAU
Tau was surprised, "I did not know that Max, you must be quite the intelligent fellow to have figured that out in less than an hour" Tau said. This AI was quite intriguing. "I do know about the insurgents, this ship is assigned to fight against them, but that is a secret, so I would be really thankful if you kept that to yourself for now" he said. "As for Adam," Tau continued, "He is just very concerned for the ship's safety, and not knowing about an AI on the ship is something to concern him." Tau had by now realized that Max was a unique AI. He switched to his conversation with the Admiral, "This AI has a unique personality Admiral, I don't think it is dangerous so much as scared and confused" he informed Weston. Tau had to wonder the same questions he couldn't answer for Max, why was he on the ship, and who put him there?
Tau was surprised, "I did not know that Max, you must be quite the intelligent fellow to have figured that out in less than an hour" Tau said. This AI was quite intriguing. "I do know about the insurgents, this ship is assigned to fight against them, but that is a secret, so I would be really thankful if you kept that to yourself for now" he said. "As for Adam," Tau continued, "He is just very concerned for the ship's safety, and not knowing about an AI on the ship is something to concern him." Tau had by now realized that Max was a unique AI. He switched to his conversation with the Admiral, "This AI has a unique personality Admiral, I don't think it is dangerous so much as scared and confused" he informed Weston. Tau had to wonder the same questions he couldn't answer for Max, why was he on the ship, and who put him there?
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
Clyde - Data Stream
Clyde had done his watching. This was a discovery of momentous proportions. Not only was the Salient the culmination of all cutting edge science- it was breeding NEW information. Clyde was technically a soldier, but everyone has the desire to learn in them. He wanted to be involved with this discovery. Clyde sent in a message to the AI's. It was not an audio file- Weston would not hear his words.
Greetings, assorted AI. My name is Clyde. I come bearing a proposition. Please allow me to host Max. I can teach him everything he could want to know, and I can keep him and everyone else safe from each other. There would be no further damage to the ship, and Max would be able to live in peace.
Clyde had done his watching. This was a discovery of momentous proportions. Not only was the Salient the culmination of all cutting edge science- it was breeding NEW information. Clyde was technically a soldier, but everyone has the desire to learn in them. He wanted to be involved with this discovery. Clyde sent in a message to the AI's. It was not an audio file- Weston would not hear his words.
Greetings, assorted AI. My name is Clyde. I come bearing a proposition. Please allow me to host Max. I can teach him everything he could want to know, and I can keep him and everyone else safe from each other. There would be no further damage to the ship, and Max would be able to live in peace.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Infirmary/Medical Bay
Marcus found himself flush. "Ah Doctor, I'm sure when you get to know me you'll find me quite cantankerous and ill-tempered though unfortunately I never stop being handsome; it's a gift and a curse." Dear God, did he just say that? There must be something in the air to make him so lax as to forget his staunch idiom. Was Doctor Mackenzie so disarming or were his terrestrial problems far enough away they did not weigh him down? He smiled, pleased how existential his thinking has been since on ship. The psychiatrist he saw after his wife's death had loved to spout nonsense about 'internal self evaluation', multiple choice stress tests and dream journals. Dream. Journal. Christ, he was a 40 year old man why the fuck would he keep a dream journal? Ridiculous. Though that charlatan and his pseudo-science didn't stop the feelings of guilt, perhaps this ship would.
She had managed to surprise him with her talk of war-zone medicine. "Some say there is no greater duty then serving as a doctor in that capacity, putting toy soldiers back together so the Generals don't have to buy new ones; is how my father put it. He was not a fan of war, absolutely hated conflict. My grandfather was in the Afghanistan campaign and filled his head with horrors so one could assume he would not have a taste for battle." Evaluating Doctor Mackenzie from just the small amount of time they spent together, Marcus came to the conclusion that she was a capable professional that was in a leadership position where mettle and steadfastness were paramount to the station. "I hope you don't think I was questioning your ability earlier, far from it I find you rather refreshing. In fact -"
He was distracted by a young woman in pilot's costume milling about looking for something. Doctor Mackenzie seemed to feel the same and asked if she needed the toilet; to which the woman replied she would simply urinate in her suit. He frowned at the uncouth comment but that's how the military was; crudeness and bravado smattered with sexual tension. The woman went on to tell the two doctors about a party in the most intentionally vague way possible. "Where would this gathering take place?" Marcus asked. "Is there a secret knock to get in and where is it?" He smiled, parties kept from the attention of higher-ups were common in every setting; to be included in the festivities was a welcomed change as he was considered a "higher-up" for going on ten years now. Did he just hear her introduce herself as Hyena? A pilot's moniker he assumed. "Marcus Bergman, charmed. Are you called Hyena due to your unique smile or as an homage to the Hyena's mystery? Until modern biology they were unclassifiable; you know Plato even had wrote that they were not quite of felines and not quite of canines but possessed traits from both and held human evilness in their eyes."
Reel it in Marcus don't fuck it up and not get invited to any more social events. "You know Hyena, I am no stranger to clandestine soirées; I was quite irreverent in my youth." He turned to Doctor Mackenzie "I think it would be our duty to show up if nothing but as a medical presence. God forbid if someone was hurt; imagine the paperwork." He surprised himself; but things that he carried around like a penance before now just seemed like inconsequential foibles that could be dismissed easily. Doctor Bergman smiled, but then that damn psychiatrist crept into his head Marcus nothing is as easy as self-deceit, whatever one wishes makes it true. Perhaps that was true, but he would consider this a victory nonetheless.
She had managed to surprise him with her talk of war-zone medicine. "Some say there is no greater duty then serving as a doctor in that capacity, putting toy soldiers back together so the Generals don't have to buy new ones; is how my father put it. He was not a fan of war, absolutely hated conflict. My grandfather was in the Afghanistan campaign and filled his head with horrors so one could assume he would not have a taste for battle." Evaluating Doctor Mackenzie from just the small amount of time they spent together, Marcus came to the conclusion that she was a capable professional that was in a leadership position where mettle and steadfastness were paramount to the station. "I hope you don't think I was questioning your ability earlier, far from it I find you rather refreshing. In fact -"
He was distracted by a young woman in pilot's costume milling about looking for something. Doctor Mackenzie seemed to feel the same and asked if she needed the toilet; to which the woman replied she would simply urinate in her suit. He frowned at the uncouth comment but that's how the military was; crudeness and bravado smattered with sexual tension. The woman went on to tell the two doctors about a party in the most intentionally vague way possible. "Where would this gathering take place?" Marcus asked. "Is there a secret knock to get in and where is it?" He smiled, parties kept from the attention of higher-ups were common in every setting; to be included in the festivities was a welcomed change as he was considered a "higher-up" for going on ten years now. Did he just hear her introduce herself as Hyena? A pilot's moniker he assumed. "Marcus Bergman, charmed. Are you called Hyena due to your unique smile or as an homage to the Hyena's mystery? Until modern biology they were unclassifiable; you know Plato even had wrote that they were not quite of felines and not quite of canines but possessed traits from both and held human evilness in their eyes."
Reel it in Marcus don't fuck it up and not get invited to any more social events. "You know Hyena, I am no stranger to clandestine soirées; I was quite irreverent in my youth." He turned to Doctor Mackenzie "I think it would be our duty to show up if nothing but as a medical presence. God forbid if someone was hurt; imagine the paperwork." He surprised himself; but things that he carried around like a penance before now just seemed like inconsequential foibles that could be dismissed easily. Doctor Bergman smiled, but then that damn psychiatrist crept into his head Marcus nothing is as easy as self-deceit, whatever one wishes makes it true. Perhaps that was true, but he would consider this a victory nonetheless.
The setting changes from Infirmary/Medical Bay to Captain's Quarters
As the dual AIs entered his interface, Aronimus suffered from a bit of a shock with bouts of coughing and choking. The young AI was very spirited and this disrupted the admiral’s hold on the system. However, once he was secured and T.A.U had calmed him down a bit the young A.I. began to make inquiries regarding many things ranging from A.D.A.M. to the insurgency. The admiral regained his senses, but could not maintain two AIs at once without deteriorating slowly, so he uploaded them onto the holographic table.
T.A.U’s orange flames sprouted forth along with the unidentified AI who bore the likeness of a ten year old child. He was a bit shy, especially when confronted with Aronimus’ size, but the admiral’s greying beard made him appear as somewhat of a benefactor. The two AIs appeared to be conversing among themselves on the holographic table before T.A.U switched his communication link over to the admiral,
"This AI has a unique personality Admiral, I don't think it is dangerous so much as scared and confused,” the admiral raised his brow at T.A.U’s observation.
"What I want to know is where that AI came from!” Aronimus was incensed, this AI wasn't authorized. Its source was completely unknown, so it was to be deemed a threat until further notice.
"Contain that AI and extract whatever information you can from it, I want to know whether it is hostile, and what its purpose is."
He had worked with AIs before, but the kind that were organized, and mature. This unique AI as T.A.U had called it was rambunctious, and the fact that its avatar was that of a ten year old boy meant that it was very young. Nonetheless, despite its appearance an age, Aronimus could not take any chances. The admiral had experience with older AIs, and was taken by surprise when he suffered from the earlier shock. The shock resulted not by containing two AIs, but by containing one AI which was in a state of confusion.
The effects multiply with each accumulated AI in a rampant state, thus requiring a special data unit to enclose the AIs and stabilize the disruptions. Yet, in some cases such retrieval units are susceptible to damage and as a result the AIs would be deleted. It would seem as a costly lost, considering the sheer amount of money, time, and effort put forth into coding and constructing artificial intelligences.
Aronimus entered his interface, and relayed a message through the communications systems.
“Commander Dunaway, and Lieutenant Commander Chen, report to my quarters in thirty minutes.”
T.A.U’s orange flames sprouted forth along with the unidentified AI who bore the likeness of a ten year old child. He was a bit shy, especially when confronted with Aronimus’ size, but the admiral’s greying beard made him appear as somewhat of a benefactor. The two AIs appeared to be conversing among themselves on the holographic table before T.A.U switched his communication link over to the admiral,
"This AI has a unique personality Admiral, I don't think it is dangerous so much as scared and confused,” the admiral raised his brow at T.A.U’s observation.
"What I want to know is where that AI came from!” Aronimus was incensed, this AI wasn't authorized. Its source was completely unknown, so it was to be deemed a threat until further notice.
"Contain that AI and extract whatever information you can from it, I want to know whether it is hostile, and what its purpose is."
He had worked with AIs before, but the kind that were organized, and mature. This unique AI as T.A.U had called it was rambunctious, and the fact that its avatar was that of a ten year old boy meant that it was very young. Nonetheless, despite its appearance an age, Aronimus could not take any chances. The admiral had experience with older AIs, and was taken by surprise when he suffered from the earlier shock. The shock resulted not by containing two AIs, but by containing one AI which was in a state of confusion.
The effects multiply with each accumulated AI in a rampant state, thus requiring a special data unit to enclose the AIs and stabilize the disruptions. Yet, in some cases such retrieval units are susceptible to damage and as a result the AIs would be deleted. It would seem as a costly lost, considering the sheer amount of money, time, and effort put forth into coding and constructing artificial intelligences.
Aronimus entered his interface, and relayed a message through the communications systems.
“Commander Dunaway, and Lieutenant Commander Chen, report to my quarters in thirty minutes.”
The setting changes from Captain's Quarters to Barracks
"Do we know how many corpses we are going to make?" A corporal in the rear of the ranks blurted before them. Attention shifted from Carter's earlier insubordination to the corporal.
Reterec Smithy, early twenties, and from what Eli could tell, a soon-to-be wise-cracker in the field. Most rookies were like that, making jokes was their way of coping with the everyday reality that they or one of their comrades may soon vanish off the face of the universe. That was the life for most marines, and each chose different ways to deal with loss or escape reality. Some smoked, some drank, others gambled, others joked, it was all the same, and it was all very human. For their forefathers who were put in the fray had dealt with reality in these same manners.
"No, we don't know how many corpses we're going to make. As they always said in boot camp, keep your eyes peeled and stay frosty," Eli grinned, as chuckles came forth from the Marines. At least the tension had shifted if it hadn't died down yet.
Then a call streamed through the speakers, it was the admiral.
"Commander Dunaway, and Lieutenant Commander Chen, report to my quarters in thirty minutes."
Eli looked over to Atomsk who masked his face with a scowl, he was still aggravated due to Sergeant Major Carter.
"Sir, I suppose we can dismiss for lunch now? I'm standing here, and I can hear several of their stomachs growling beneath their thick layer of armor," Eli turned to the rest of the soldiers.
"Captain Dunaway, Staff Sergeant Jackson, and you need to meet with Admiral Weston. It'd be best if you didn't keep the man waiting."
Reterec Smithy, early twenties, and from what Eli could tell, a soon-to-be wise-cracker in the field. Most rookies were like that, making jokes was their way of coping with the everyday reality that they or one of their comrades may soon vanish off the face of the universe. That was the life for most marines, and each chose different ways to deal with loss or escape reality. Some smoked, some drank, others gambled, others joked, it was all the same, and it was all very human. For their forefathers who were put in the fray had dealt with reality in these same manners.
"No, we don't know how many corpses we're going to make. As they always said in boot camp, keep your eyes peeled and stay frosty," Eli grinned, as chuckles came forth from the Marines. At least the tension had shifted if it hadn't died down yet.
Then a call streamed through the speakers, it was the admiral.
"Commander Dunaway, and Lieutenant Commander Chen, report to my quarters in thirty minutes."
Eli looked over to Atomsk who masked his face with a scowl, he was still aggravated due to Sergeant Major Carter.
"Sir, I suppose we can dismiss for lunch now? I'm standing here, and I can hear several of their stomachs growling beneath their thick layer of armor," Eli turned to the rest of the soldiers.
"Captain Dunaway, Staff Sergeant Jackson, and you need to meet with Admiral Weston. It'd be best if you didn't keep the man waiting."
The setting changes from Barracks to The Milky Way Universe
Max
Max was at least somewhat frantic. He was now on/in a holo board. Max asked "so, yeah, could you just let me go? I was sort of hoping to get to a place where people don't want to kill me......". He then started to look through whatever documents and files he picked up along the way. Deep down, he had a bad feeling, which was strange considering he was Data and had no gut for a gut instinct. Thats when he added "You know, according to these blueprints, and from what I can see from this holo board, your place looks really nice.....".
Max sighed. He was wondering if he should mention what he is. He was able to discover it because he knew there was something really especially off and looked for it. However, he wasn't sure if the Admiral and/or T.A.U. would. It did have to do with his strange personality in a way. At least, he thought it might. Maybe it didn't. He wasn't 100% sure yet, he needed more data.
Max then asked "Whats your name, by the way?"
Max was at least somewhat frantic. He was now on/in a holo board. Max asked "so, yeah, could you just let me go? I was sort of hoping to get to a place where people don't want to kill me......". He then started to look through whatever documents and files he picked up along the way. Deep down, he had a bad feeling, which was strange considering he was Data and had no gut for a gut instinct. Thats when he added "You know, according to these blueprints, and from what I can see from this holo board, your place looks really nice.....".
Max sighed. He was wondering if he should mention what he is. He was able to discover it because he knew there was something really especially off and looked for it. However, he wasn't sure if the Admiral and/or T.A.U. would. It did have to do with his strange personality in a way. At least, he thought it might. Maybe it didn't. He wasn't 100% sure yet, he needed more data.
Max then asked "Whats your name, by the way?"
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Faith laughed at Jess's comment regarding toilet facilities for pilots. "I'm glad I don't have to clean your suits after you've finished that's for sure."
As Jess mentioned the unofficial gathering she was planning Faith was surprised to hear Marcus agreeing to join the fun, not that she found the idea of an underground party offensive but more that she hadn't thought he would be the type to be interested. She re evaluated her opinion of the man further and decided her earlier opinion of him, as a nice enough but by the book sort of guy, had not been accurate. Another example of why you should never judge a book by its cover as her mother was apt to saying.
For a brief moment a memory flashed in front of her eyes, of her with her parents before her brother died, when they were still bright eyed and enthusiastic about life. The memory caused a sharp pain in her chest and she could feel her eyes welling up. She quickly forced the memory down irritated at her mind for choosing such an inappropriate moment to take a trip down memory lane. Her brother was dead and her parents seemed no longer interested in what their only child was doing and that was that. No use dwelling on it.
"Sounds like a great idea to me, count me in. It's been too long since I went to a crew party without the top brass and besides Marcus has a point. I doubt it would go down well if someone somehow managed to get alcohol poisoning and died because a doctor wasn't there. Let us know when and where and we'll be there."
She then turned to Marcus again. "We'll see whether your grumpiness a) out does mine and b) whether it manages to overshadow that handsome visage. If the former then I will be very impressed and if the latter then god only knows how you manage to get laid."
As Jess mentioned the unofficial gathering she was planning Faith was surprised to hear Marcus agreeing to join the fun, not that she found the idea of an underground party offensive but more that she hadn't thought he would be the type to be interested. She re evaluated her opinion of the man further and decided her earlier opinion of him, as a nice enough but by the book sort of guy, had not been accurate. Another example of why you should never judge a book by its cover as her mother was apt to saying.
For a brief moment a memory flashed in front of her eyes, of her with her parents before her brother died, when they were still bright eyed and enthusiastic about life. The memory caused a sharp pain in her chest and she could feel her eyes welling up. She quickly forced the memory down irritated at her mind for choosing such an inappropriate moment to take a trip down memory lane. Her brother was dead and her parents seemed no longer interested in what their only child was doing and that was that. No use dwelling on it.
"Sounds like a great idea to me, count me in. It's been too long since I went to a crew party without the top brass and besides Marcus has a point. I doubt it would go down well if someone somehow managed to get alcohol poisoning and died because a doctor wasn't there. Let us know when and where and we'll be there."
She then turned to Marcus again. "We'll see whether your grumpiness a) out does mine and b) whether it manages to overshadow that handsome visage. If the former then I will be very impressed and if the latter then god only knows how you manage to get laid."
Grenadine smiled at Eon and NS "I'm grenadine Davis, mechanical and technical PhD, among other things" she smiled heartly at them "Eon, that's a cool name" she praised, then turned to the human "You see, Eon here is an alrounder, and NS has more specific purposes" her voice was confident, she was talking about her passion. She turned to the androids "you're both in excellent condition as far as I can tell". She turned to Eon with a shy smile, like a school girl asking someone out on a date "may I ask if you're under development, and if you have a mechanic?"
Eon seemed confused by how Grenadine knew so much by looking at just the external plating, did she have a scanner? No by the looks of it she couldn't. And then he heard the question of, 'if he's under development, and mechanic' Eon immediately responded, "Development: complete, I have no mechanic..." straight from the systems and metallic as all hell. Looking at how Grenadine was putting a shy smile on her face she seemed as if she were offering to be Eon's mechanic. In response he put on a meager smile.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Infirmary/Medical Bay
When questioned about her unorthodox introduction, Jess spreads her hands palms-up and the grin - if it was physically possible - just widens, "Plato? Shit, I'm in classy company, then. A little bit of that. I also apparently laugh my ass off in a fight. Besides, 'Jessica' sounds way too stuffy, so hey! If you've got an excuse to introduce yourself with a kick-ass nickname, why not?!" Here she adds a self-mocking bow to the end of the statement.
As they both accept, she nods, pleased with herself and the results of the 'mission' so far. "Fantastic, guys. I cant promise stupid things wont happen, but I can tell 'em to cancel converting the pressure washer to blast vodka."
It's difficult to tell if she's entirely joking...
All told, it's difficult to read anything about the pilot at all beyond the show of teeth and irreverent attitude. One could easily assume she was about as deep as a rain puddle. But smile notches down to a vaguely knowing smirk as the two doctors return to talking more to eachother then to her, and she lifts her hand in an idle farewell wave.
"Tonight, two decks down from the Hangar. The space is marked for structural support, it's easy to find. And yeah, the secret knock is 'shave and a haircut'. Isnt it always? I need to scare up a few more bodies; have fun, docs."
Turning away from the pair, Jess is intent on heading next to the Mess Hall. People were always there, even if they were only getting a sandwich. It was the unofficial heart of the ship, and the very best place to start spreading the rumor of the party. Even now, some people may be slowly clueing in as the 'hey did you hear' network begins to work its magic. Things would start getting very interesting when folks began bargaining for entrance; promising to contribute this or that smuggled good in exchange for the where and when of it. By the end of the week, Hyena would have a whole new catalogue of contacts on the ship who could be trusted to have whatever items she wanted or needed at a particular moment.
As they both accept, she nods, pleased with herself and the results of the 'mission' so far. "Fantastic, guys. I cant promise stupid things wont happen, but I can tell 'em to cancel converting the pressure washer to blast vodka."
It's difficult to tell if she's entirely joking...
All told, it's difficult to read anything about the pilot at all beyond the show of teeth and irreverent attitude. One could easily assume she was about as deep as a rain puddle. But smile notches down to a vaguely knowing smirk as the two doctors return to talking more to eachother then to her, and she lifts her hand in an idle farewell wave.
"Tonight, two decks down from the Hangar. The space is marked for structural support, it's easy to find. And yeah, the secret knock is 'shave and a haircut'. Isnt it always? I need to scare up a few more bodies; have fun, docs."
Turning away from the pair, Jess is intent on heading next to the Mess Hall. People were always there, even if they were only getting a sandwich. It was the unofficial heart of the ship, and the very best place to start spreading the rumor of the party. Even now, some people may be slowly clueing in as the 'hey did you hear' network begins to work its magic. Things would start getting very interesting when folks began bargaining for entrance; promising to contribute this or that smuggled good in exchange for the where and when of it. By the end of the week, Hyena would have a whole new catalogue of contacts on the ship who could be trusted to have whatever items she wanted or needed at a particular moment.
The setting changes from Infirmary/Medical Bay to Captain's Quarters
AI TAU
Tau nodded to the Admiral, "This is Admiral Weston, he is the commander of the ship" he said. Tau then sent a bit of himself to check through the virtual city for clues as to what this AI was exactly. He continued the conversation in the meantime. "So Max, we stand at a slight impasse here, as we do not know why you are here, and you yourself don't know why you're here" this would establish the situation for everyone to know. Tau picked up some chatter from the bridge officer, he switched to his channel with the Admiral, "Admiral, a Clyde from the bridge is still observing the conversation and has made an offer to transfer Max to his datapad and help him learn things and be at home, I leave it to you to accept or deny this offer".
Tau quickly switched back, "I think the first thing we need to do here is establish a friendship Max, don't you agree?" he said, paving a shortcut to assuring minimum threat levels from this... different Unit. "I, the AI Tau, promise to protect you from harm on this vessel to the best of my ability and also swear to not harm you myself in any way" he said, hoping the Admiral would approve, "Now, can you promise you won't harm us in return Max? It would be much more preferable to be friends."
Tau made a mental note of progression on his negotiation abilities, and got a sense of an open file in the virtual city, he quickly downloaded it and pulled it back, examining it. Anomaly Intelligence? Tau thought, unfamiliar with the concept. He sent the file to the Admiral's personal datapad for him to look over, tagging it with the words 'Max AI Possible Origin'. He looked back to Max, waiting for a reply.
Tau nodded to the Admiral, "This is Admiral Weston, he is the commander of the ship" he said. Tau then sent a bit of himself to check through the virtual city for clues as to what this AI was exactly. He continued the conversation in the meantime. "So Max, we stand at a slight impasse here, as we do not know why you are here, and you yourself don't know why you're here" this would establish the situation for everyone to know. Tau picked up some chatter from the bridge officer, he switched to his channel with the Admiral, "Admiral, a Clyde from the bridge is still observing the conversation and has made an offer to transfer Max to his datapad and help him learn things and be at home, I leave it to you to accept or deny this offer".
Tau quickly switched back, "I think the first thing we need to do here is establish a friendship Max, don't you agree?" he said, paving a shortcut to assuring minimum threat levels from this... different Unit. "I, the AI Tau, promise to protect you from harm on this vessel to the best of my ability and also swear to not harm you myself in any way" he said, hoping the Admiral would approve, "Now, can you promise you won't harm us in return Max? It would be much more preferable to be friends."
Tau made a mental note of progression on his negotiation abilities, and got a sense of an open file in the virtual city, he quickly downloaded it and pulled it back, examining it. Anomaly Intelligence? Tau thought, unfamiliar with the concept. He sent the file to the Admiral's personal datapad for him to look over, tagging it with the words 'Max AI Possible Origin'. He looked back to Max, waiting for a reply.
The setting changes from Captain's Quarters to The Milky Way Universe
The area between Mars and Jupiter was a mix of man-made debris and a couple of million asteroids interspersed with industrial traffic. It was common to see no other ships but the particular convoy one was assigned to; today was different. Five fast ships seemed to come out of no where and met the two large Monroe class super freighters, vessels that were over a kilometre long and could carry 500,000 tons of cargo. One of the small ships flew past the two freighters and disappeared ahead of the group.
Alta-corp vessels, this is Tartarus group one of my people is going to scout ahead but we'll remain to watch those big flanks of yours.
Freighter Summerwind to lead escort, roger that. we want to express our gratitude for what you guys are doing. Our internal security turned the assignment down, so we're lucky to have you.
The freighter group was hauling Duillium ore to Mars from asteroid mining facilities on Circe 2344, a 2.3km rock manned by the Altamus Corporation; a dangerous expedition that was plagued by pirates wanting to turn any cargo into black-market profits. The entire journey was one hundred and seventy three million kilometres, the bulk of that distance was covered by a capital sized ship escort. However in the last two hundred thousand kilometres most capital ships broke contact to provide security for the operation back at the asteroid leaving the lumbering freighters to be protected by smaller, more manoeuvrable vessels; this was the time when those looking for a score would attack. When several companies began loosing cargo and ships to increasingly bolder pirates, a common practice was to hire outside security firms if the threat was great enough. Hauling almost a million tons of Duillium, an ore employed for the fabrication of everything from augmenting hull plating to internal circuitry, the cargo was worth trillions on the open market. Instead of the out-dated corvettes that comprised most of the Altamus security fleet, five Savannah class gunships made the last leg leg of the journey , there to make the pirates jobs that much harder.
Ronin do you think they know how much Alta-Corp is paying us?
Miranda Peters, call sign 'Ronin' smiled as her comm crackled to life, since her squadron were veterans when it came to escort duty they kept radio chatter pretty casual sometimes having entire conversations over the air. "Likely not Sabre, no one wanted the job but if shit goes down, it will be soon."
Yea cause Duillium is poison to carry, pirate magnets - but our girls can chew up any pirate crate like a paper condom at a whore house. Cronos said. Ronin smiled at the man's poor analogy but it was apt, the gunships they flew were armed with eight 26.4 mm assault cannons and a 1000 kg anti-ship missile; more than a match for any pirate harassment vessel.
Why don't you guys focus on flying and not talking bullshit? another voice came in loud through the channel shutting up the chatter. Summerwind this is Tartarus Group Lead, call sign Dervish. We're hoping for a easy go, we'll see you get there safe.
The voice of Cronos came through Miranda's speakers. Why is boss man so uptight, I wish he wouldn’t make promises like that. She smiled. "That's his job, ours is to clear the path. How many runs is this now fifteen, twenty? We got this. Sabre isn't this your last with us?"
A soft voice clicked through the general comm. Yes I forgot to tell everyone Larissa is throwing a party for the baby so when we get to Rust City you guys are coming to drink and the wife can see the company her husband keeps.
Sabre does she know you're a filthy mercenary? Cronos said, making everyone laugh.
Mercs get paid to kill we’re paid to maintain safety; a little nobler I think. Just for that no beer for -
Can we bring people because Amy would love to jaw-jack about baby shit. Dervish interrupted. You know Ronin ain’t gonna be talking girl shop that’s for sure. When you gonna get fella and settle down? He laughed.
Miranda frowned. She hated babies, she found them the worst STD. "A hot day on Neptune, dad."
I hear they are working on terraforming tech now, maybe it will be beach weather soon enough. Sabre said. They might terraform Neptune but no man can terraform Ronin's heart.
She was greeted with three different voices laughing at her expense, the assholes. "Funny stuff there, you're a poetic motherf-"
How copy, Tartarus Group How copy? Where the fuck are you guys!?
Miranda was assaulted by the familiar voice of Mustang, screaming on the comm. "This is Ronin, we copy what-"
I've had jammed comms for the last six thousand clicks, I got two big contacts on my screen on intercept course, no IFF.
Mustang this is Dervish, could be another security detail running silent; what's your ETA?
Miranda waited for the woman to answer but only static greeted her. "Mustang do you copy?" no response was voiced.
Ronin get on my six, Sabre, Cronos cover the fat ladies - expect the worst.
Moving to cover Dervish, Miranda primed her guns; eight chains of ammunition loaded into the Kaffe Assault Cannons as the weapon system cycled to 'ready' status. Dervish was flying beneath her in what they called a 'leap-frog' formation the two other gunships crossed each other's paths tipping their wings before taking flanking positions on the freighters. "Don't be cute you two, keep your eyes open." She said over the comm. Her screen flickered and two red contacts appeared, she saw one almost immediately heading for the two freighters, it was much bigger than the common pirate vessel; a multi-gun frigate half the length of the freighter and armoured for tangles with capital ships. Her guns would be like a soft rain to the plate armour and with a total of only four missiles between the squadron, they would have to make tough shots directed at critical areas protected by guns designed to prevent that very thing.
Tartarus Group, this will be a big fight, they want those ships and won't fire if there was a chance to damage the cargo. Use that; cover each other one of you take a shot with a missile, then switch roles. Be lucky, Dervish out.
The plan Dervish had was noble. For two ships that size, normal procedure would be several squadrons of missile cruisers and fighters not four ships that double as bunks and laundry storage. Sabre took the first shot, it went wide and hit solidly at the thickest part of the hull doing nothing but superficial damage. He banked sharply and made a run on the command tower, full burst with all eight barrels. Cronos fired, hitting part of a reactor manifold that began venting fuel.
On me Ronin, let's finish her off. Take point.
Miranda flew evasively making the frigate work to try and hit her. Dervish flew under the wounded ship then suddenly popped up along her port side and fired his missile, hitting two metres to left of Cronos' shot. A soundless, blinding explosion turned the back half of the frigate into a mangled bird's nest of protosteel and bulkheads. She blinked to clear the white halo that blurred her peripheral vision and saw what remained of Sabre's vessel listing with the rest of debris. Two streaks came across her bow, 205 mm rounds fired from the other frigate. "You guys get on my ass we're taking the fight to this other bastard."
Roger that. Dervish said.
Guys I wa- all -p in th-t -plosion. -lectrical sys- -ot. -ocking on freighter. lo-ing -ower. -onos out.
What the fuck? Didn't copy Cronos, say again.
She frowned. "Dervish, I think he said his electrical system is fried from that reactor explosion and he's docking with a freighter." With only one missile left, it was now her primary job to fuck that ship's day all up. "Same as before, you cover me now. I'm going to shit in those pirate's porridge."
Copy that Ronin
With the roles reversed, Dervish did all he could to distract the guns from Ronin's approach. Flying more reckless and taking chances he normally would not have but this shot was the game changer. It was not about a successful mission, some gold star that would go next to his name in some corporate file it was about principle; these fucks took Sabre so damn the consequences. Two shots hit in rapid succession like hammer blows. The first spun his ship, causing it to flip end over end and making the man loose conscience for a millisecond at the increase of g-forces on his brain. The final shot from one of the 50 mm auto-cannons sent fragments into his ammunition magazine and split his ship like a lip in a bar fight; killing Dervish instantly and sending his ship careening into the gunner's bridge of the frigate. Ronin watched in horror as the scene developed but with the gunner's bridge gone the main guns would remain silent and only the fore and aft batteries of auto-cannons would cause her trouble. She lined her shot up at the main bridge and got a malfunction klaxon when she pulled the release. "Shit!" Miranda said, opting to simply pepper the bridge with her guns with little effect. The woman was out of ideas but then her long range sensors picked up a Federation signature. "Federation Vessel, this is Altamus Cooperation escort detail 973 requesting assistance. Moving to your location, possible hostile contact." Likely if she took off towards the Federation ship the Frigate would not follow, after all they simply wanted cargo. So to protect the freighters she really had to poke the bear.
Miranda typed in a code to deactivate the guidance and automatic release system to her missile, She set ordnance detonation from 'impact' to 'proximity', flew over the frigate and manually let her missile go allowing it to float in the path of the larger ship like a mine, it exploding when the bastard got within eight metres of it. Ronin sold her aggression making another pass with her guns as the mine blew up taking out the frigate's sensor array. At least the pirates would be blind past five hundred metres. She throttled up, sending her reactor to the red-line and hustled for the Federation ship; bad guy in tow. Ronin hoped they were a combat vessel and not some science ship full of nerds.
Alta-corp vessels, this is Tartarus group one of my people is going to scout ahead but we'll remain to watch those big flanks of yours.
Freighter Summerwind to lead escort, roger that. we want to express our gratitude for what you guys are doing. Our internal security turned the assignment down, so we're lucky to have you.
The freighter group was hauling Duillium ore to Mars from asteroid mining facilities on Circe 2344, a 2.3km rock manned by the Altamus Corporation; a dangerous expedition that was plagued by pirates wanting to turn any cargo into black-market profits. The entire journey was one hundred and seventy three million kilometres, the bulk of that distance was covered by a capital sized ship escort. However in the last two hundred thousand kilometres most capital ships broke contact to provide security for the operation back at the asteroid leaving the lumbering freighters to be protected by smaller, more manoeuvrable vessels; this was the time when those looking for a score would attack. When several companies began loosing cargo and ships to increasingly bolder pirates, a common practice was to hire outside security firms if the threat was great enough. Hauling almost a million tons of Duillium, an ore employed for the fabrication of everything from augmenting hull plating to internal circuitry, the cargo was worth trillions on the open market. Instead of the out-dated corvettes that comprised most of the Altamus security fleet, five Savannah class gunships made the last leg leg of the journey , there to make the pirates jobs that much harder.
Ronin do you think they know how much Alta-Corp is paying us?
Miranda Peters, call sign 'Ronin' smiled as her comm crackled to life, since her squadron were veterans when it came to escort duty they kept radio chatter pretty casual sometimes having entire conversations over the air. "Likely not Sabre, no one wanted the job but if shit goes down, it will be soon."
Yea cause Duillium is poison to carry, pirate magnets - but our girls can chew up any pirate crate like a paper condom at a whore house. Cronos said. Ronin smiled at the man's poor analogy but it was apt, the gunships they flew were armed with eight 26.4 mm assault cannons and a 1000 kg anti-ship missile; more than a match for any pirate harassment vessel.
Why don't you guys focus on flying and not talking bullshit? another voice came in loud through the channel shutting up the chatter. Summerwind this is Tartarus Group Lead, call sign Dervish. We're hoping for a easy go, we'll see you get there safe.
The voice of Cronos came through Miranda's speakers. Why is boss man so uptight, I wish he wouldn’t make promises like that. She smiled. "That's his job, ours is to clear the path. How many runs is this now fifteen, twenty? We got this. Sabre isn't this your last with us?"
A soft voice clicked through the general comm. Yes I forgot to tell everyone Larissa is throwing a party for the baby so when we get to Rust City you guys are coming to drink and the wife can see the company her husband keeps.
Sabre does she know you're a filthy mercenary? Cronos said, making everyone laugh.
Mercs get paid to kill we’re paid to maintain safety; a little nobler I think. Just for that no beer for -
Can we bring people because Amy would love to jaw-jack about baby shit. Dervish interrupted. You know Ronin ain’t gonna be talking girl shop that’s for sure. When you gonna get fella and settle down? He laughed.
Miranda frowned. She hated babies, she found them the worst STD. "A hot day on Neptune, dad."
I hear they are working on terraforming tech now, maybe it will be beach weather soon enough. Sabre said. They might terraform Neptune but no man can terraform Ronin's heart.
She was greeted with three different voices laughing at her expense, the assholes. "Funny stuff there, you're a poetic motherf-"
How copy, Tartarus Group How copy? Where the fuck are you guys!?
Miranda was assaulted by the familiar voice of Mustang, screaming on the comm. "This is Ronin, we copy what-"
I've had jammed comms for the last six thousand clicks, I got two big contacts on my screen on intercept course, no IFF.
Mustang this is Dervish, could be another security detail running silent; what's your ETA?
Miranda waited for the woman to answer but only static greeted her. "Mustang do you copy?" no response was voiced.
Ronin get on my six, Sabre, Cronos cover the fat ladies - expect the worst.
Moving to cover Dervish, Miranda primed her guns; eight chains of ammunition loaded into the Kaffe Assault Cannons as the weapon system cycled to 'ready' status. Dervish was flying beneath her in what they called a 'leap-frog' formation the two other gunships crossed each other's paths tipping their wings before taking flanking positions on the freighters. "Don't be cute you two, keep your eyes open." She said over the comm. Her screen flickered and two red contacts appeared, she saw one almost immediately heading for the two freighters, it was much bigger than the common pirate vessel; a multi-gun frigate half the length of the freighter and armoured for tangles with capital ships. Her guns would be like a soft rain to the plate armour and with a total of only four missiles between the squadron, they would have to make tough shots directed at critical areas protected by guns designed to prevent that very thing.
Tartarus Group, this will be a big fight, they want those ships and won't fire if there was a chance to damage the cargo. Use that; cover each other one of you take a shot with a missile, then switch roles. Be lucky, Dervish out.
The plan Dervish had was noble. For two ships that size, normal procedure would be several squadrons of missile cruisers and fighters not four ships that double as bunks and laundry storage. Sabre took the first shot, it went wide and hit solidly at the thickest part of the hull doing nothing but superficial damage. He banked sharply and made a run on the command tower, full burst with all eight barrels. Cronos fired, hitting part of a reactor manifold that began venting fuel.
On me Ronin, let's finish her off. Take point.
Miranda flew evasively making the frigate work to try and hit her. Dervish flew under the wounded ship then suddenly popped up along her port side and fired his missile, hitting two metres to left of Cronos' shot. A soundless, blinding explosion turned the back half of the frigate into a mangled bird's nest of protosteel and bulkheads. She blinked to clear the white halo that blurred her peripheral vision and saw what remained of Sabre's vessel listing with the rest of debris. Two streaks came across her bow, 205 mm rounds fired from the other frigate. "You guys get on my ass we're taking the fight to this other bastard."
Roger that. Dervish said.
Guys I wa- all -p in th-t -plosion. -lectrical sys- -ot. -ocking on freighter. lo-ing -ower. -onos out.
What the fuck? Didn't copy Cronos, say again.
She frowned. "Dervish, I think he said his electrical system is fried from that reactor explosion and he's docking with a freighter." With only one missile left, it was now her primary job to fuck that ship's day all up. "Same as before, you cover me now. I'm going to shit in those pirate's porridge."
Copy that Ronin
With the roles reversed, Dervish did all he could to distract the guns from Ronin's approach. Flying more reckless and taking chances he normally would not have but this shot was the game changer. It was not about a successful mission, some gold star that would go next to his name in some corporate file it was about principle; these fucks took Sabre so damn the consequences. Two shots hit in rapid succession like hammer blows. The first spun his ship, causing it to flip end over end and making the man loose conscience for a millisecond at the increase of g-forces on his brain. The final shot from one of the 50 mm auto-cannons sent fragments into his ammunition magazine and split his ship like a lip in a bar fight; killing Dervish instantly and sending his ship careening into the gunner's bridge of the frigate. Ronin watched in horror as the scene developed but with the gunner's bridge gone the main guns would remain silent and only the fore and aft batteries of auto-cannons would cause her trouble. She lined her shot up at the main bridge and got a malfunction klaxon when she pulled the release. "Shit!" Miranda said, opting to simply pepper the bridge with her guns with little effect. The woman was out of ideas but then her long range sensors picked up a Federation signature. "Federation Vessel, this is Altamus Cooperation escort detail 973 requesting assistance. Moving to your location, possible hostile contact." Likely if she took off towards the Federation ship the Frigate would not follow, after all they simply wanted cargo. So to protect the freighters she really had to poke the bear.
Miranda typed in a code to deactivate the guidance and automatic release system to her missile, She set ordnance detonation from 'impact' to 'proximity', flew over the frigate and manually let her missile go allowing it to float in the path of the larger ship like a mine, it exploding when the bastard got within eight metres of it. Ronin sold her aggression making another pass with her guns as the mine blew up taking out the frigate's sensor array. At least the pirates would be blind past five hundred metres. She throttled up, sending her reactor to the red-line and hustled for the Federation ship; bad guy in tow. Ronin hoped they were a combat vessel and not some science ship full of nerds.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Bridge
Clyde
"Federation Vessel, this is Altamus Cooperation escort detail 973 requesting assistance. Moving to your location, possible hostile contact."
Clyde looked up as the communication link came over the speakers. There was no reason to do it- nobody sees anything by looking up. People just look at the source of the sound...
"Hostiles." He checked the ship scanners to pick out the locations of the ships nearby. "This is a cargo route... Duillium. We've got pirates. We'll be in range with the particle canon in a few minutes. Should we engage?" It wasn't Clyde's call. The frigate would be roasted at the drop of a hat if it was- but Alice was in the admiral's chair. He turned to look at her, a questioning look on his face.
"Federation Vessel, this is Altamus Cooperation escort detail 973 requesting assistance. Moving to your location, possible hostile contact."
Clyde looked up as the communication link came over the speakers. There was no reason to do it- nobody sees anything by looking up. People just look at the source of the sound...
"Hostiles." He checked the ship scanners to pick out the locations of the ships nearby. "This is a cargo route... Duillium. We've got pirates. We'll be in range with the particle canon in a few minutes. Should we engage?" It wasn't Clyde's call. The frigate would be roasted at the drop of a hat if it was- but Alice was in the admiral's chair. He turned to look at her, a questioning look on his face.
The setting changes from Bridge to Captain's Quarters
Clyde? Clyde Summer, the navigator?
“T.A.U, respond to Mr. Summer with an invitation to report to my quarters immediately,” hopefully Aronimus could give Mr. Summer a word or two on protocol, considering the fact that he’d been wandering and spying as listed in T.A.U’s report. Now he was trying to convince a newly identified A.I. to accept him as a host. Approximately five minutes ago, the Admiral was on the verge of acting override codes to stall A.D.A.M.’s pursuit of Max. Although, T.A.U managed to successfully escape with the young A.I., his identity was revealed in the process. He was thoroughly infuriated at the turn of events, but he couldn’t do anything about it now except reprimand the culprits involved about their intolerable behavior.
Now it was pointless to conceal any further information regarding T.A.U, so he’d have to address the crew, specifically his two chief officers, the three crew men with isolated A.I.s, A.D.A.M. who had chased Max, and Navigator Summer who managed to slip away with knowledge on T.A.U.
Once that was addressed, he’d shift the focus to their new objectives. He received a message from T.A.U, the tagline was “Max A.I. Possible Origin.” Aronimus opened it immediately, scanning with his eyes at the snippets of data that T.A.U managed to acquire in the data banks.
Anomaly Intelligence? The Admiral had heard of that term before when he was first introduced to artificial intelligences by high command. They wanted to increase efficiency among the officers; an artificial intelligence on board a ship could do many things. From increasing reactor output, infiltrating hostile communication networks, to organizing last minute military tactics. They were a godsend, despite being man-made as proponents claim.
A young scientist by the name of Roman Durant had approached him with a proposition. He was an ambitious man for his age, approaching Aronimus who was a Commodore then, with his Anomaly Intelligence. He said it was cutting edge technology, and he wanted Aronimus to experiment with it. It was the kind of intelligence that derived data from the interaction of two A.I.s. Although Aronimus would’ve said yes, Durant’s project was cut short by the Senate because the technology was deemed illegal. Durant was outraged at their staunch bureaucratic conservatism, especially in this day and age. After that, Durant seemed to disappear completely; associates said he went into the private sector.
The thought evaporated from his mind, as he was brought back to the present with a distress beacon activation that was characterized by a pattern of three beeps, space, and then four more beeps. They repeated in succession until the beacon is turned off.
“Federation Vessel, this is Altamus Corperation escort detail 973 requesting assistance. Moving to your location, possible hostile contact."
The Admiral quickly wiped away all viewing screens powered by the holographic table and activated the star map. The two Altamus vessels were being pursued by unidentified ships, a smaller ship, a gunship, was trailing ahead to the location of the Salient. Aronimus activated the communication system on the holographic table,
“This is Admiral Weston to Bridge crew, engage hostiles. Military personnel prepare for boarding action.”
Aronimus hadn’t expected hostiles in the Middle Rim, but he was more than prepared. He had to leave his quarters in order to command more effectively, in his experience, the Bridge was the skipper’s command center. From there he could get a better view of the current situation, and could forward commands quicker.
“T.A.U, respond to Mr. Summer with an invitation to report to my quarters immediately,” hopefully Aronimus could give Mr. Summer a word or two on protocol, considering the fact that he’d been wandering and spying as listed in T.A.U’s report. Now he was trying to convince a newly identified A.I. to accept him as a host. Approximately five minutes ago, the Admiral was on the verge of acting override codes to stall A.D.A.M.’s pursuit of Max. Although, T.A.U managed to successfully escape with the young A.I., his identity was revealed in the process. He was thoroughly infuriated at the turn of events, but he couldn’t do anything about it now except reprimand the culprits involved about their intolerable behavior.
Now it was pointless to conceal any further information regarding T.A.U, so he’d have to address the crew, specifically his two chief officers, the three crew men with isolated A.I.s, A.D.A.M. who had chased Max, and Navigator Summer who managed to slip away with knowledge on T.A.U.
Once that was addressed, he’d shift the focus to their new objectives. He received a message from T.A.U, the tagline was “Max A.I. Possible Origin.” Aronimus opened it immediately, scanning with his eyes at the snippets of data that T.A.U managed to acquire in the data banks.
Anomaly Intelligence? The Admiral had heard of that term before when he was first introduced to artificial intelligences by high command. They wanted to increase efficiency among the officers; an artificial intelligence on board a ship could do many things. From increasing reactor output, infiltrating hostile communication networks, to organizing last minute military tactics. They were a godsend, despite being man-made as proponents claim.
A young scientist by the name of Roman Durant had approached him with a proposition. He was an ambitious man for his age, approaching Aronimus who was a Commodore then, with his Anomaly Intelligence. He said it was cutting edge technology, and he wanted Aronimus to experiment with it. It was the kind of intelligence that derived data from the interaction of two A.I.s. Although Aronimus would’ve said yes, Durant’s project was cut short by the Senate because the technology was deemed illegal. Durant was outraged at their staunch bureaucratic conservatism, especially in this day and age. After that, Durant seemed to disappear completely; associates said he went into the private sector.
The thought evaporated from his mind, as he was brought back to the present with a distress beacon activation that was characterized by a pattern of three beeps, space, and then four more beeps. They repeated in succession until the beacon is turned off.
“Federation Vessel, this is Altamus Corperation escort detail 973 requesting assistance. Moving to your location, possible hostile contact."
The Admiral quickly wiped away all viewing screens powered by the holographic table and activated the star map. The two Altamus vessels were being pursued by unidentified ships, a smaller ship, a gunship, was trailing ahead to the location of the Salient. Aronimus activated the communication system on the holographic table,
“This is Admiral Weston to Bridge crew, engage hostiles. Military personnel prepare for boarding action.”
Aronimus hadn’t expected hostiles in the Middle Rim, but he was more than prepared. He had to leave his quarters in order to command more effectively, in his experience, the Bridge was the skipper’s command center. From there he could get a better view of the current situation, and could forward commands quicker.
The setting changes from Captain's Quarters to The Milky Way Universe
Alice glanced at Clyde. In the space of a breath she measured her options, much faster than most humans might have been able to, and opened her mouth to respond. She was cut off by the Admiral's voice on the intercom.
“This is Admiral Weston to Bridge crew, engage hostiles. Military personnel prepare for boarding action.”
Sitting up straighter in her seat, Alice nodded to herself. She cast her gaze around the bridge.
"You heard him," she answered with utter calm, with certainty. In Alice's mind there was no room for doubt. She fixed her eyes in the view-screen, mentally preparing herself for what might very well be her first conflict on board the Salient. This would be nothing like riding aboard the Nottingham, and for that she was grateful. There had been no conflicts between the Nottingham and other ships. All the fighting had gone on within that great barge's hull. She had faced down, alone, men who had slaughtered dozens of people with their bare hands.
A hostile ship, from within her own ship? Nothing to fear. Which was, she realized, probably an irrational reaction. But it did help keep her head clear.
"Engage the hostiles."
“This is Admiral Weston to Bridge crew, engage hostiles. Military personnel prepare for boarding action.”
Sitting up straighter in her seat, Alice nodded to herself. She cast her gaze around the bridge.
"You heard him," she answered with utter calm, with certainty. In Alice's mind there was no room for doubt. She fixed her eyes in the view-screen, mentally preparing herself for what might very well be her first conflict on board the Salient. This would be nothing like riding aboard the Nottingham, and for that she was grateful. There had been no conflicts between the Nottingham and other ships. All the fighting had gone on within that great barge's hull. She had faced down, alone, men who had slaughtered dozens of people with their bare hands.
A hostile ship, from within her own ship? Nothing to fear. Which was, she realized, probably an irrational reaction. But it did help keep her head clear.
"Engage the hostiles."
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Bridge
Clyde leaned back in his chair. He was a soldier, right? He was supposed to fight, right? He was the navigator. Navigators don't fight... What could he do? The Salient probably wouldn't need to go anywhere for this. Evasive measures? Maybe if the pirate frigate was going to ram them. Clyde figured there was no need to ram them. What was there...
The ship's main canon. Nobody was even charging it up. Clyde looked up who was supposed to be running the particle canon. "Adriana Stark". He searched for her in the ship using all the cameras he was connected to. She was with the soldiers from Commander Dunaway's briefing, now scrambling to get to their posts. Well now, what good was that? She wasn't using the canon. Clyde accessed the main canon controls and began to charge the weapon. He would fire when the enemy was close enough that he wasn't going to miss. For the moment, a distant hum could be heard throughout most of the ship...
The ship's main canon. Nobody was even charging it up. Clyde looked up who was supposed to be running the particle canon. "Adriana Stark". He searched for her in the ship using all the cameras he was connected to. She was with the soldiers from Commander Dunaway's briefing, now scrambling to get to their posts. Well now, what good was that? She wasn't using the canon. Clyde accessed the main canon controls and began to charge the weapon. He would fire when the enemy was close enough that he wasn't going to miss. For the moment, a distant hum could be heard throughout most of the ship...
The setting changes from Bridge to The Milky Way Universe
A.I. Max:
"I never wanted to hurt you in the first place, I was just trying to stay alive...." Max replied. However, thats when all the alarms went off. "Whats going on? Whats going on? Are we under attack? INthis area it would probably be pirates, the statistics say that anyway.....I thiink however being this close they were most likely hired for some reason or another..."
Max then looked at T.A.U. and noted "And I think we would make very good friends. You didn't try to kill me...."
He also noted "Could someone turn off that alarm? Its annoying...."
"I never wanted to hurt you in the first place, I was just trying to stay alive...." Max replied. However, thats when all the alarms went off. "Whats going on? Whats going on? Are we under attack? INthis area it would probably be pirates, the statistics say that anyway.....I thiink however being this close they were most likely hired for some reason or another..."
Max then looked at T.A.U. and noted "And I think we would make very good friends. You didn't try to kill me...."
He also noted "Could someone turn off that alarm? Its annoying...."
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
Tiaan Peyton
Walking back from her room, she heard the klaxon with an announcement, "All fighters, scramble, scramble.". Grinning from ear to ear she took off in a quick jot, heading straight for hanger area. Weaving passed the people rushing to their stations, she entered code for the Hanger and before entering. It was pandemonium as the mechanics and hanger staff tried to make sure all the checks were done. Seeing Hyena she winked.
Approaching her fighter, she climbed on one of the wings, opened the cockpit and dropped in. Giving quick cursory glance over her console, she preformed pre-flight checks. Fuel, check, weaponry restocked, checked, oxygen, check, intercom working, "This is Peyton, can you hear me Hyena?". While waiting she checked the console, to see it responded.
This was where she belonged in her own opinion in her fighter in the vastness of space. Absolute freedom and will to do what she wished. Nothing but silence outside, while she she preformed a show in her head, a circus she rehearsed many times. Procedures were her life blood with patience.
Let's dust some pirate scum.
Walking back from her room, she heard the klaxon with an announcement, "All fighters, scramble, scramble.". Grinning from ear to ear she took off in a quick jot, heading straight for hanger area. Weaving passed the people rushing to their stations, she entered code for the Hanger and before entering. It was pandemonium as the mechanics and hanger staff tried to make sure all the checks were done. Seeing Hyena she winked.
Approaching her fighter, she climbed on one of the wings, opened the cockpit and dropped in. Giving quick cursory glance over her console, she preformed pre-flight checks. Fuel, check, weaponry restocked, checked, oxygen, check, intercom working, "This is Peyton, can you hear me Hyena?". While waiting she checked the console, to see it responded.
This was where she belonged in her own opinion in her fighter in the vastness of space. Absolute freedom and will to do what she wished. Nothing but silence outside, while she she preformed a show in her head, a circus she rehearsed many times. Procedures were her life blood with patience.
Let's dust some pirate scum.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to Captain's Quarters
AI TAU
Tau muted the alarm in the Admiral's room. He looked at Max, "I agree, you seem very interesting and it would be beneficial to both sides to work together on finding where you came from" Tau said. He turned to face the Admiral, "Do you want me to wait until we are out of battle to call Clyde down, I tracked his location and he is currently manning Navigation, though Adam could preform navigational duties, as could I" he said. Tau realized he had just subtly hinted at the usefulness of his skills in battle, but he knew it would be difficult to aid the engagement with Max around, considering that he did not seem to have much trust in anyone but Tau at the moment. He kept conversing with the Admiral, "I should add that the particle cannon is quite powerful, and perhaps using the many Rail Guns would be more efficient, as well as more deadly if set on an appropriate firing pattern" he let things quiet from there, the Admiral had a lot to consider at the moment, it would probably be advisable to refrain from overloading his neural interfaces with information and queries.
Tau muted the alarm in the Admiral's room. He looked at Max, "I agree, you seem very interesting and it would be beneficial to both sides to work together on finding where you came from" Tau said. He turned to face the Admiral, "Do you want me to wait until we are out of battle to call Clyde down, I tracked his location and he is currently manning Navigation, though Adam could preform navigational duties, as could I" he said. Tau realized he had just subtly hinted at the usefulness of his skills in battle, but he knew it would be difficult to aid the engagement with Max around, considering that he did not seem to have much trust in anyone but Tau at the moment. He kept conversing with the Admiral, "I should add that the particle cannon is quite powerful, and perhaps using the many Rail Guns would be more efficient, as well as more deadly if set on an appropriate firing pattern" he let things quiet from there, the Admiral had a lot to consider at the moment, it would probably be advisable to refrain from overloading his neural interfaces with information and queries.
The setting changes from Captain's Quarters to The Milky Way Universe
Hyena hadnt gotten more then a few steps away from Marcus and Faith when the eriee, attention-grabbing tones of the General Quarters alarm sounded. When it's followed very closely by the call to Scramble, it's no drill. The pilot pivots on a boot and disappears down the coridoors back towards the hangar.
Dodging people in the hangar with a practiced ease, Hyena doesnt seem to even touch the rungs of the ladder into her own cockpit and jams the waiting helmet onto her head. Her hands had done their dance a thousand times across the console, leaving her to respond freely over the radio as the engines are primed, the weapons readied, and the lifesupport checked.
"Lima Charlie, Peyton. Damn good timing, isnt it? I'll be ready for the drinks by the time we get back." She laughs.
With a deep, frame-jolting pop, she releases her craft from its bracket, and the fighter with its grinning hyena tail art slides foreward with the hangar doors and the void beyond on its nose. The hangar was cold - they always were - but it was nothing compared to space. As the Rapier breaks the magnetic containment field that kept the atmosphere and vacuum safely separate, crystals of ice form for a half-second on any available condensation that peppers her hull, and the metal sings a short, faint song as it reacts to the change in pressure and temperature. But seals hold and cold hydraulics still function, and Hyena clears the shelter of the Salient and leaves its lights in her wake.
"Tuck in behind me and enjoy the view; I'll get you to the party in once peice."
Lighter, faster, and meaner, the fighter positions itself to be escort for Peyton's heavier-armed and heavier-hulled craft, but Hyena doesnt go easy on the throttle. If that frigate got within firing range of Miranda before support showed up, there wouldnt be much of a rescue. Speaking of, in case no one in the bridge had thought to do so, Hyena switches her radio to civilian frequencies to make contact. Wouldnt do to have the civilian fighter shoot at its saviors.
"Altamus Escort, this is Rapier 338 off the Salient. Inbound to you, two count. Check fire." Well wasnt that professional and courteous? The picture of military efficiency and - "Attacking vessel, you are to bend over, spread 'em, and smile real perdy-like." Cue facepalm.
Dodging people in the hangar with a practiced ease, Hyena doesnt seem to even touch the rungs of the ladder into her own cockpit and jams the waiting helmet onto her head. Her hands had done their dance a thousand times across the console, leaving her to respond freely over the radio as the engines are primed, the weapons readied, and the lifesupport checked.
"Lima Charlie, Peyton. Damn good timing, isnt it? I'll be ready for the drinks by the time we get back." She laughs.
With a deep, frame-jolting pop, she releases her craft from its bracket, and the fighter with its grinning hyena tail art slides foreward with the hangar doors and the void beyond on its nose. The hangar was cold - they always were - but it was nothing compared to space. As the Rapier breaks the magnetic containment field that kept the atmosphere and vacuum safely separate, crystals of ice form for a half-second on any available condensation that peppers her hull, and the metal sings a short, faint song as it reacts to the change in pressure and temperature. But seals hold and cold hydraulics still function, and Hyena clears the shelter of the Salient and leaves its lights in her wake.
"Tuck in behind me and enjoy the view; I'll get you to the party in once peice."
Lighter, faster, and meaner, the fighter positions itself to be escort for Peyton's heavier-armed and heavier-hulled craft, but Hyena doesnt go easy on the throttle. If that frigate got within firing range of Miranda before support showed up, there wouldnt be much of a rescue. Speaking of, in case no one in the bridge had thought to do so, Hyena switches her radio to civilian frequencies to make contact. Wouldnt do to have the civilian fighter shoot at its saviors.
"Altamus Escort, this is Rapier 338 off the Salient. Inbound to you, two count. Check fire." Well wasnt that professional and courteous? The picture of military efficiency and - "Attacking vessel, you are to bend over, spread 'em, and smile real perdy-like." Cue facepalm.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Bridge
As the admiral reached the bridge, most of the crew were on their feet, swinging back and forth from station to station assessing the current situation. The navigators steered the ship in the direction of the distress beacon, and A.D.A.M. was activating the rail guns along with the mini-ion cannon nodes. Alice was standing, perched in the captain's platform in the bridge, calmly observing the situation. At least he could count on one person to stay calm when hell seemed to break loose.
"I want a status report immediately, Mr. Hansen patch me through to the gunship,"
"Aye Captain," the Scotsman got to work immediately relaying a comm. link to the lone gunship that went before two Altamus vessels being hunted down by a pair of pirate ships. Aronimus could see through the bridge's view port on the bow. The lead Altamus vessel was being hammered by light auto cannon fire coming from a hostile frigate. The second Atlamus vessel was much closer to the fangs of their predators, and received the brunt of close range missile fire and strafing.
The situation grew worse, as several smaller ships started to appear on the horizon, they had been on the other side of the planet. These ships were very agile, weaving in and out between the pair of Altamus freighters. The Admiral knew this tactic, the first phase required two point ships to attack the target from an angle and force them to exit at another angle. Once the targets had reached designated coordinates, one of two outcomes may occur. Should the targets reach the destination intended by the pirates, they'd be ambushd by carefully placed mines. In the current situation, they would require EMPs in order to protect the precious Duillium cargo on board. The second, more raiders lying in wait would file out in lighter, more maneuverable ships to repeatedly hit the targets until their propulsion systems had been thoroughly damaged to begin boarding action.
It seems as though the latter of the two options had been reached, and to Aronimus, it meant more raiders. The fighters were being scrambled already, but the lone gunship was still limping towards the Salient, and was easy picking for the marauders.
"Sir, the gunship is IDed as Tartarus Group, callsign Ronin, security detail," Hansen replied.
Tartarus Group Ronin, Tartarus Group Ronin, this is the Salient, what is your status?
The Admiral didn't exactly need to call for her status, he saw with his own eyes that she was being chased, but he wanted confirmation due to protocol.
"I want a status report immediately, Mr. Hansen patch me through to the gunship,"
"Aye Captain," the Scotsman got to work immediately relaying a comm. link to the lone gunship that went before two Altamus vessels being hunted down by a pair of pirate ships. Aronimus could see through the bridge's view port on the bow. The lead Altamus vessel was being hammered by light auto cannon fire coming from a hostile frigate. The second Atlamus vessel was much closer to the fangs of their predators, and received the brunt of close range missile fire and strafing.
The situation grew worse, as several smaller ships started to appear on the horizon, they had been on the other side of the planet. These ships were very agile, weaving in and out between the pair of Altamus freighters. The Admiral knew this tactic, the first phase required two point ships to attack the target from an angle and force them to exit at another angle. Once the targets had reached designated coordinates, one of two outcomes may occur. Should the targets reach the destination intended by the pirates, they'd be ambushd by carefully placed mines. In the current situation, they would require EMPs in order to protect the precious Duillium cargo on board. The second, more raiders lying in wait would file out in lighter, more maneuverable ships to repeatedly hit the targets until their propulsion systems had been thoroughly damaged to begin boarding action.
It seems as though the latter of the two options had been reached, and to Aronimus, it meant more raiders. The fighters were being scrambled already, but the lone gunship was still limping towards the Salient, and was easy picking for the marauders.
"Sir, the gunship is IDed as Tartarus Group, callsign Ronin, security detail," Hansen replied.
Tartarus Group Ronin, Tartarus Group Ronin, this is the Salient, what is your status?
The Admiral didn't exactly need to call for her status, he saw with his own eyes that she was being chased, but he wanted confirmation due to protocol.
The setting changes from Bridge to Infirmary/Medical Bay
Marcus laughed. "I'll have you know madam Doctor, I tend to be very grumpy most days but feel more at ease here aboard the Salient than I have in many months." He cleared his throat. "As far as coital rituals I'm a bit out of practice but I trust the tried and true "I'm a doctor" still works like a charm as it has for centuries." She was a charming woman, there was an ease in conversation and frankly it would be nice to have some drinks and get involved in trite conversation; to simply shut his brain off and relax for the evening. He assumed Doctor Mackenzie was probably extra chatty with a few drinks in her, to his chagrin he was as well.
With Hyena leaving he turned to the other doctor. "I hope you know where that is. I am still finding this ship full of crannies that are left undiscovered it's not so much the place is difficult to navigate, simply that I have little desire to travel.” He paused. “On another topic I really hope everyone behaves themselves, I don’t really feel inclined to be covered in vomit by some pilot that can’t hold their drink. I almost regret mentioning we could be at the gathering in a semi-professional capacity.” He frowned. “Perhaps Hyena took my comment as jocularity; unless you always need to wear the chief medical officer hat, in which case I shall be a diligent little bee to your Queenship.”
His smile faded with the onset of warning sirens. Was there trouble so soon? He assumed it was likely a drill, military vessels loved drills. "I hope this won't cancel the party, Doctor Mackenzie." There could be a real possibility something was truly amiss; something that may lead to corpses. He definitely needed a drink now. "On the off chance this isn't a drill - should we post at the med-bay and wait for possible casualties? Or are you more proactive and we're going to the front?" He remembered she was a war-medic, shit; that means he would have to be too.
With Hyena leaving he turned to the other doctor. "I hope you know where that is. I am still finding this ship full of crannies that are left undiscovered it's not so much the place is difficult to navigate, simply that I have little desire to travel.” He paused. “On another topic I really hope everyone behaves themselves, I don’t really feel inclined to be covered in vomit by some pilot that can’t hold their drink. I almost regret mentioning we could be at the gathering in a semi-professional capacity.” He frowned. “Perhaps Hyena took my comment as jocularity; unless you always need to wear the chief medical officer hat, in which case I shall be a diligent little bee to your Queenship.”
His smile faded with the onset of warning sirens. Was there trouble so soon? He assumed it was likely a drill, military vessels loved drills. "I hope this won't cancel the party, Doctor Mackenzie." There could be a real possibility something was truly amiss; something that may lead to corpses. He definitely needed a drink now. "On the off chance this isn't a drill - should we post at the med-bay and wait for possible casualties? Or are you more proactive and we're going to the front?" He remembered she was a war-medic, shit; that means he would have to be too.
The setting changes from Infirmary/Medical Bay to The Milky Way Universe
The frigate was constantly firing at Ronin with its small guns. With the sensors gone the gunners had to rely on visual cues and she was making that difficult with her slippery flying. Her ship was taking a beating though, not from guns but from running her engine like every single wrench-turner told her not to. There was a shuddering metallic groan that made her electronics flicker and a smell like ozone seeping into her cockpit. In a perfect scenario the frigate would fuck off and she would simply throttle down, fixing the problem; this was not a perfect scenario. Ronin this is Cronos on Summerwind, you good? She scoffed. "Fuck no I'm not good, it's good you're ok. You guys should dump cargo and FTL while the gettings good." The main reason freighters needed escorts coming back was they couldn't operate their faster than light engines without rendering the Duillium inert. You're on drugs loss of cargo is not an option. We got a Federation IFF on screen, is that where you are heading?
"I got eyes on her expensive ass, keep channel clear Cronos, Ronin out." At least she saw the Federation ship now, she was betting the frigate was focusing on her and trying to blow her apart when it should be looking at the government death machine it would soon face. Altamus Escort, this is Rapier 338 off the Salient. Inbound to you, two count. Check fire. A welcomed voice from her comm. "Copy 338. Alta-Corp 973, you got Ronin. Don't have to worry about friendly fire, I'm at 10% ammo on my cannons and if I fire 'em up my whole power-plant will go." The company was great though it's a shame Miranda was gimping to the big kid to punch out her bully. The woman's arrogance was dangerous but she wasn't so prideful as to just bite the pillow why these pirates dry fucked her. "I'll keep clear, 338. Ronin out."
Another shudder went through her ship and she saw seven warning lights all flashing red. More contacts appeared on her screen but that had to be a malfunction, she whacked the screen and they went away; so did the frigate and the Federation ship. Fuck. Tartarus Group Ronin, Tartarus Group Ronin, this is the Salient, what is your status? Good thing her radio hadn't conked out. "Copy Salient, status is I'm falling apart at the seams. I’ve got a crippled pirate frigate 300 metres on my six. It’s got no eyes or main guns but still fucking my world up with small fire. Easy score for you, kid's party getting rained out for me. I'm running 30% past safe on my engine but don't want to slow until this ass-hole is scrapped. I'll need to dock with you Salient, I can’t make it back to Mars. How copy?" Miranda hoped there was a place she could look over her ship and they were not sticklers for rules; all 'No unauthorized non-federation crafts in their bays.' That would suck.
She saw more hostile ships appear like carrion birds to pick the sweetmeat from the bones of the freighters, guess her radar wasn't messed up. "Salient, 973. Do you have contacts on your screen or are these false positives? If we got inbound I need clearance to land in one of your bays double quick. Ronin out." She would make it; Miranda was so close to the Salient she could almost smell the shitty cafeteria food.
"I got eyes on her expensive ass, keep channel clear Cronos, Ronin out." At least she saw the Federation ship now, she was betting the frigate was focusing on her and trying to blow her apart when it should be looking at the government death machine it would soon face. Altamus Escort, this is Rapier 338 off the Salient. Inbound to you, two count. Check fire. A welcomed voice from her comm. "Copy 338. Alta-Corp 973, you got Ronin. Don't have to worry about friendly fire, I'm at 10% ammo on my cannons and if I fire 'em up my whole power-plant will go." The company was great though it's a shame Miranda was gimping to the big kid to punch out her bully. The woman's arrogance was dangerous but she wasn't so prideful as to just bite the pillow why these pirates dry fucked her. "I'll keep clear, 338. Ronin out."
Another shudder went through her ship and she saw seven warning lights all flashing red. More contacts appeared on her screen but that had to be a malfunction, she whacked the screen and they went away; so did the frigate and the Federation ship. Fuck. Tartarus Group Ronin, Tartarus Group Ronin, this is the Salient, what is your status? Good thing her radio hadn't conked out. "Copy Salient, status is I'm falling apart at the seams. I’ve got a crippled pirate frigate 300 metres on my six. It’s got no eyes or main guns but still fucking my world up with small fire. Easy score for you, kid's party getting rained out for me. I'm running 30% past safe on my engine but don't want to slow until this ass-hole is scrapped. I'll need to dock with you Salient, I can’t make it back to Mars. How copy?" Miranda hoped there was a place she could look over her ship and they were not sticklers for rules; all 'No unauthorized non-federation crafts in their bays.' That would suck.
She saw more hostile ships appear like carrion birds to pick the sweetmeat from the bones of the freighters, guess her radar wasn't messed up. "Salient, 973. Do you have contacts on your screen or are these false positives? If we got inbound I need clearance to land in one of your bays double quick. Ronin out." She would make it; Miranda was so close to the Salient she could almost smell the shitty cafeteria food.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Bridge
Copy Salient, status is I'm falling apart at the seams. I’ve got a crippled pirate frigate 300 metres on my six. It’s got no eyes or main guns but still fucking my world up with small fire. Easy score for you, kid's party getting rained out for me. I'm running 30% past safe on my engine but don't want to slow until this ass-hole is scrapped. I'll need to dock with you Salient, I can’t make it back to Mars. How copy?
The frigates were running blind, and one was crippled, that was good for Aronimus, he could pick them off without relying on the particle cannon. The cannon wasn't even authorized, seeing as how the original mission was to investigate the Arcturus System. Engineers had approached Aronimus on the day he departed from Rust City saying that the weapon was a prototype and should be used as a last resort, a fact that did not sit well with an Admiral who was used to firing the main cannon.
Now, he had to worry about two other problems, the gunship and the swarm of smaller raider vessels that were chewing apart the freighters. The raiders have been proven to be undaunted in the face of federal naval power, they would charge at the larger Federation ships out of blind fury rather than sound strategy. Even then, the only sound strategy that was ever applied by the marauders was when they were on the prowl. As for the gunship, she was running on one leg, and still had a long way to go.
"Sir, if she wants to dock, she'll have to throttle down or do a spin around," petty officer Hansen stated with distress.
"That will be a negative Mr. Hansen, at the rate she's going she'll be blown to pieces by the pirates before she gets within meters of us," as the Admiral said this, the scanners began to mark several fighters departing from the Salient.
"Let her in, we'll cut the hostiles off with our fighters," Aronimus folded his arms behind him, analyzing the situation. Normally by now, A.D.A.M. would have flashed into presence signaling alternative plans, but he was busy elsewhere. The Admiral thought this would be fine, considering he needed to flex his strategic muscles every now and then.
Roger that, Ronin. Aye, yeh're clear for docking, try not to damage any ships on yeh way in, the Scotsman's terse voice was laced with comicality.
Salient, 973. Do you have contacts on your screen or are these false positives? If we got inbound I need clearance to land in one of your bays double quick. Ronin out.
She was right on the dot about that, and five were tailing her at higher speeds.
Ronin, this is Salient. There is an affirmative on contacts, you've got five hostiles on your tail, turn off communications systems and anything extra to save power.
That was the most Hansen could do to advise her, being a fighter pilot once, he knew comm systems and scanners took a significant amount of energy away from the pool that was reserved for a light craft's propulsion systems.
"Mr. Summer, activate the rail guns, and target the crippled frigate," as Aronimus said this, the limping frigate began to detach from its hunt and attempt to escape. This was unusual even to Aronimus, who was an experienced veteran, for he had never witnessed a pirate attempting to escape.
"Fire the cannon."
The frigates were running blind, and one was crippled, that was good for Aronimus, he could pick them off without relying on the particle cannon. The cannon wasn't even authorized, seeing as how the original mission was to investigate the Arcturus System. Engineers had approached Aronimus on the day he departed from Rust City saying that the weapon was a prototype and should be used as a last resort, a fact that did not sit well with an Admiral who was used to firing the main cannon.
Now, he had to worry about two other problems, the gunship and the swarm of smaller raider vessels that were chewing apart the freighters. The raiders have been proven to be undaunted in the face of federal naval power, they would charge at the larger Federation ships out of blind fury rather than sound strategy. Even then, the only sound strategy that was ever applied by the marauders was when they were on the prowl. As for the gunship, she was running on one leg, and still had a long way to go.
"Sir, if she wants to dock, she'll have to throttle down or do a spin around," petty officer Hansen stated with distress.
"That will be a negative Mr. Hansen, at the rate she's going she'll be blown to pieces by the pirates before she gets within meters of us," as the Admiral said this, the scanners began to mark several fighters departing from the Salient.
"Let her in, we'll cut the hostiles off with our fighters," Aronimus folded his arms behind him, analyzing the situation. Normally by now, A.D.A.M. would have flashed into presence signaling alternative plans, but he was busy elsewhere. The Admiral thought this would be fine, considering he needed to flex his strategic muscles every now and then.
Roger that, Ronin. Aye, yeh're clear for docking, try not to damage any ships on yeh way in, the Scotsman's terse voice was laced with comicality.
Salient, 973. Do you have contacts on your screen or are these false positives? If we got inbound I need clearance to land in one of your bays double quick. Ronin out.
She was right on the dot about that, and five were tailing her at higher speeds.
Ronin, this is Salient. There is an affirmative on contacts, you've got five hostiles on your tail, turn off communications systems and anything extra to save power.
That was the most Hansen could do to advise her, being a fighter pilot once, he knew comm systems and scanners took a significant amount of energy away from the pool that was reserved for a light craft's propulsion systems.
"Mr. Summer, activate the rail guns, and target the crippled frigate," as Aronimus said this, the limping frigate began to detach from its hunt and attempt to escape. This was unusual even to Aronimus, who was an experienced veteran, for he had never witnessed a pirate attempting to escape.
"Fire the cannon."
The setting changes from Bridge to The Milky Way Universe
A.D.A.M
ADAM was shocked when the AI TAU ghosted the unknown AI away from him, it was not a scenario he had anticipated. While he was pondering all the potentials, variables and implications of such an event the alarms went off. He started observing the situation and after an overly long analysis began preparing firing solutions and scenarios, covering literally everything short of an FTL or Hyperdrive leap to be used as an engagement mechanism. His overly extensive calculations took him awhile, especially because he linked them in sequence to adapt per the scenario, he hated redoing his math.
When Aronimus ordered the cannon on the escaping vessel, he altered the trajectory a bit before uploading his firing sequence, even accounting for the particle cannon. According to his scanners the altered shot had killed all inhabitants of the vessel without damaging the ship, granted scanners only showed life in the cockpit...regardless everything else was perfectly salvageable.
"My apologies admiral, it would seem that the emotion of surprise and shock were more severe than I had anticipated. As you can see I've prepared adaptive firing sequences and tactics and locked them in, you may peruse them at your leisure but all in all there's nothing more for the bridge to do here. However we may want some birds out as soon as possible, as shown in the data their presence on the field within within the next 5 minutes increases the odds of success to 87.63 percent. A strike team drop onto the vessel to counter any potential boarding parties is also recommended but it will have to be done on the fly." His hologram shrugged, "The use of the suit testers would be most effective, according to past records those 2 should be enough of a stall to get the ship into safe distance for a full sweep. As for the ship I kept you from destroying a retrieval team should be able to bring back enough gear for us to track their signals and allow total destruction on the local base."
ADAM was shocked when the AI TAU ghosted the unknown AI away from him, it was not a scenario he had anticipated. While he was pondering all the potentials, variables and implications of such an event the alarms went off. He started observing the situation and after an overly long analysis began preparing firing solutions and scenarios, covering literally everything short of an FTL or Hyperdrive leap to be used as an engagement mechanism. His overly extensive calculations took him awhile, especially because he linked them in sequence to adapt per the scenario, he hated redoing his math.
When Aronimus ordered the cannon on the escaping vessel, he altered the trajectory a bit before uploading his firing sequence, even accounting for the particle cannon. According to his scanners the altered shot had killed all inhabitants of the vessel without damaging the ship, granted scanners only showed life in the cockpit...regardless everything else was perfectly salvageable.
"My apologies admiral, it would seem that the emotion of surprise and shock were more severe than I had anticipated. As you can see I've prepared adaptive firing sequences and tactics and locked them in, you may peruse them at your leisure but all in all there's nothing more for the bridge to do here. However we may want some birds out as soon as possible, as shown in the data their presence on the field within within the next 5 minutes increases the odds of success to 87.63 percent. A strike team drop onto the vessel to counter any potential boarding parties is also recommended but it will have to be done on the fly." His hologram shrugged, "The use of the suit testers would be most effective, according to past records those 2 should be enough of a stall to get the ship into safe distance for a full sweep. As for the ship I kept you from destroying a retrieval team should be able to bring back enough gear for us to track their signals and allow total destruction on the local base."
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Bridge
Clyde
The recoil from the canon rocked the ship; a sudden jerking that would knock down anyone who wasn't well balanced. The fire from the main canon seared through empty space and... glanced the frigate.
Clyde leaped to his feet, slammed his hands down, and stared slack jawed out the window. "ADAM... You turned my shot!? Why!? Now they're still a problem! And who knows if that canon even works anymore! Who even gave you access to the canon!?" Clyde sputtered out a few more pointless questions. He was shocked at the AI's behavior. Adam had taken over the gun nobody told him to fire, decided all of the crew's actions for the rest of the encounter, and told the Admiral he did his job for him. It wasn't even the tactician AI. It was just the ship AI. Who had told him to do this? Who programmed this behavior in him? Clyde slumped back into his chair. If the bridge's job was over, he supposed he had nothing further to add.
The recoil from the canon rocked the ship; a sudden jerking that would knock down anyone who wasn't well balanced. The fire from the main canon seared through empty space and... glanced the frigate.
Clyde leaped to his feet, slammed his hands down, and stared slack jawed out the window. "ADAM... You turned my shot!? Why!? Now they're still a problem! And who knows if that canon even works anymore! Who even gave you access to the canon!?" Clyde sputtered out a few more pointless questions. He was shocked at the AI's behavior. Adam had taken over the gun nobody told him to fire, decided all of the crew's actions for the rest of the encounter, and told the Admiral he did his job for him. It wasn't even the tactician AI. It was just the ship AI. Who had told him to do this? Who programmed this behavior in him? Clyde slumped back into his chair. If the bridge's job was over, he supposed he had nothing further to add.
The setting changes from Bridge to F.S.S. Salient
AI TAU
Tau took the Admirals departure to the Bridge as a definite answer. He remained with Max there to keep him company, but sent parts of himself roaming the ship to observe the handling of the first battle for the crew. Most of the humans on board seemed focused and calm, on the outside, but medical scans confirmed increased heart-rates ship wide. Part of Tau monitored the Bridge, he did not feel the need to hide from Adam any longer, but he would remain undetected by the crew until the Admiral gave him permission to reveal himself. He found his connection with the Admiral and kept it maintained in case he felt the need to communicate something to the Admiral. Adam showed some signs of activity, changing the firing patterns before the shots went, Tau watched it happen before anyone else could, being able to see Adam changing the settings on the computer.
He accessed his link to the Admiral, "My observations have thus far concluded that AI unit ADAM is not primarily suited for handling combat systems, he is more of an exploratory and researcher AI, as opposed to a combat AI" Tau said, prodding for a reason to actually do his primary duty, and reveal himself to the ship's occupants in order to familiarize himself with the ship even further. "For now I would suggest preparing a maneuver to avoid the enemy's retaliation attack, as they still have active scanners to trace the origin of the Railgun shots and pinpoint our location."
Tau took the Admirals departure to the Bridge as a definite answer. He remained with Max there to keep him company, but sent parts of himself roaming the ship to observe the handling of the first battle for the crew. Most of the humans on board seemed focused and calm, on the outside, but medical scans confirmed increased heart-rates ship wide. Part of Tau monitored the Bridge, he did not feel the need to hide from Adam any longer, but he would remain undetected by the crew until the Admiral gave him permission to reveal himself. He found his connection with the Admiral and kept it maintained in case he felt the need to communicate something to the Admiral. Adam showed some signs of activity, changing the firing patterns before the shots went, Tau watched it happen before anyone else could, being able to see Adam changing the settings on the computer.
He accessed his link to the Admiral, "My observations have thus far concluded that AI unit ADAM is not primarily suited for handling combat systems, he is more of an exploratory and researcher AI, as opposed to a combat AI" Tau said, prodding for a reason to actually do his primary duty, and reveal himself to the ship's occupants in order to familiarize himself with the ship even further. "For now I would suggest preparing a maneuver to avoid the enemy's retaliation attack, as they still have active scanners to trace the origin of the Railgun shots and pinpoint our location."
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to Bridge
"On the contrary Adam, we have more hostiles to deal with," the Admiral glanced at the sapphire being on the hologram.
As he said this, an outburst came from navigator Summer who was outright incensed at the altering of the trajectory.
“Mr. Summer calm yourself, the precision blast delivered by Adam’s calculation may have left us with something very valuable, the enemy ship,”
By now the Salient had turned a full 90 degrees from its original course and was facing the oncoming pirate ships. The rail guns on the fore section of the battlecruiser stared down the marauders, who were still busy hitting the Altamus vessels. By now, both freighters had lost significant speed and were trudging along before they became carcasses left to rot in deep space while the vulture pirates picked at them.
"My observations have thus far concluded that AI unit ADAM is not primarily suited for handling combat systems, he is more of an exploratory and researcher AI, as opposed to a combat AI" T.A.U had linked himself on a secure channel to the Admiral’s own neural interface.
He made a good point, actually an excellent one, what was the point of having a tactical AI on board without relying on it during a combat situation.
"For now I would suggest preparing a maneuver to avoid the enemy's retaliation attack, as they still have active scanners to trace the origin of the Railgun shots and pinpoint our location."
“That would be a negative, Tau, I’d like to face them head on,” Aronimus wasn’t one to shy away from a battle he could easily win, and this was a battle he could easily win. He decided to allow T.A.U to operate the firing sequences and targeting trajectories of the rail guns for the duration of the engagement, as well as calculating the proper direction in which to steer the ship.
“Adam, let Tau handle our strategy of engagement, you can stand down for the duration of the battle,”
T.A.U’s flames erupted alongside A.D.A.M from the ringed projector on the Admiral’s desk as he said this.
As he said this, an outburst came from navigator Summer who was outright incensed at the altering of the trajectory.
“Mr. Summer calm yourself, the precision blast delivered by Adam’s calculation may have left us with something very valuable, the enemy ship,”
By now the Salient had turned a full 90 degrees from its original course and was facing the oncoming pirate ships. The rail guns on the fore section of the battlecruiser stared down the marauders, who were still busy hitting the Altamus vessels. By now, both freighters had lost significant speed and were trudging along before they became carcasses left to rot in deep space while the vulture pirates picked at them.
"My observations have thus far concluded that AI unit ADAM is not primarily suited for handling combat systems, he is more of an exploratory and researcher AI, as opposed to a combat AI" T.A.U had linked himself on a secure channel to the Admiral’s own neural interface.
He made a good point, actually an excellent one, what was the point of having a tactical AI on board without relying on it during a combat situation.
"For now I would suggest preparing a maneuver to avoid the enemy's retaliation attack, as they still have active scanners to trace the origin of the Railgun shots and pinpoint our location."
“That would be a negative, Tau, I’d like to face them head on,” Aronimus wasn’t one to shy away from a battle he could easily win, and this was a battle he could easily win. He decided to allow T.A.U to operate the firing sequences and targeting trajectories of the rail guns for the duration of the engagement, as well as calculating the proper direction in which to steer the ship.
“Adam, let Tau handle our strategy of engagement, you can stand down for the duration of the battle,”
T.A.U’s flames erupted alongside A.D.A.M from the ringed projector on the Admiral’s desk as he said this.
A.D.A.M
It irked ADAM to be side lined by a lower tech AI, but there was little he could do besides comply. "Understood Admiral." With that he logged out of the holopad and stepped into the background of the data stream since noncompliance would get him shut down. He intended to wait and watch, let the tactical AI do its job and have its glory; meanwhile he'd watch, learn and improve...a marked benefit of his more advanced design.
It irked ADAM to be side lined by a lower tech AI, but there was little he could do besides comply. "Understood Admiral." With that he logged out of the holopad and stepped into the background of the data stream since noncompliance would get him shut down. He intended to wait and watch, let the tactical AI do its job and have its glory; meanwhile he'd watch, learn and improve...a marked benefit of his more advanced design.
The setting changes from Bridge to F.S.S. Salient
Eon heard the admiral give the command to prepare for battle. Eon started for the bridge to be of any help as possible. While on his way fe felt the recoil and nearly stumbled abut recovered and kept going to the bridge. He looked outside into space to see the pirate ships and two others that he couldn't identify due to his objective that he made to himself finally reaching the bridge he saw the cannon's aftermath on one of the ships. "So this is the destructive power of this ship..." The robot muttered to himself seeing the man react towards an A.I. changing the direction of the shot. He heard the Admiral then what sounded like scolding the man whom reacted in such a manner. Eon decided to walk completely into the bridge.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
"No worries, Ronin, we'll delouse your six."
It isnt a half a breath after that the Salient's salvo errupts over the fighters' heads and off the side of the pirate hulk. No doubt even the glancing impact would cause the frigate to list in space, since anyone at the helm was now paste. Hyena whistles, impressed.
"Jesus ... And give you a haircut to boot.. We're apparently a full-service sort. Make for the hangar and tell 'em Hyena sent you; you'll get the best seat in the house."
By this point, she would be shooting past Miranda's beleagured ship, dipping its wings in a friendly waggle. With the first threat neutralized by the big guns, she lays into the throttle. As medium-sized fighters go, the Rapier's oversized engines pushed it with enough power to act, in this case, as an admirable interceptor. Hyena points her nose towards the distant freighters that continue to be herded and picked at by the pirate reinforcements, knowing full well she would arrive well before Peyton's support or the Salient's fight-ending firepower. But if she waited, then the pirates would inflict that much more damage and be that much closer to winning their prize. Sending the faster fighters in first was a standard procedure anyway, right?
She crosses the distance after a few terse moments of all-encompasing silence, until the contacts ahead begin to tickle the edges of her effective range. Unconciously, a toothy grin twists her face, and the bloody smile is a far cry from the friendly expressions she showed aboard ship. With a squeeze of the trigger, she sends the first opening rounds flying over the backs of the freighters. Too far out to accurately anticipate the small pirates, the shots were only meant to distract. It was a warning and a challenge; ignore her at their peril, because their free ride had just ended.
A handful would probably detatch to deal with the Federation interloper, and Hyena sails straight at them. With four foreward-facing guns dedicated to dogfighting and a slim profile that didnt lend itself well to making a target, it's a short burst before one of the charging patchwork fighters goes out in a ball of smothered flame and shrapnel.
The formation breaks at close range, and the conflict evolves into a tight ball of flashing engines and searing firepower. From a distance, it could be called beautiful if you could ignore the death happening inside it. Hyena uses herself as bait; breaking from the dogfight when she can to dart towards the pirates that are still targeting the freighters. Her charge would force them to disengage, potentially even choosing to chase her, instead. The advantage to being a single fighter is that the space around her becomes very crowded, very quickly. Less disciplined pirates must dedicate more time to avoiding a collision than accurate targeting of the nimble Rapier, even if that means she, herself, spends more time dodging then killing.
"Oh Peyton?" Hyena's voice is cheerful, if a little gutteral as the strain of her maneuvers compresses her lungs, "Be a dear and put on a little gas?"
It isnt a half a breath after that the Salient's salvo errupts over the fighters' heads and off the side of the pirate hulk. No doubt even the glancing impact would cause the frigate to list in space, since anyone at the helm was now paste. Hyena whistles, impressed.
"Jesus ... And give you a haircut to boot.. We're apparently a full-service sort. Make for the hangar and tell 'em Hyena sent you; you'll get the best seat in the house."
By this point, she would be shooting past Miranda's beleagured ship, dipping its wings in a friendly waggle. With the first threat neutralized by the big guns, she lays into the throttle. As medium-sized fighters go, the Rapier's oversized engines pushed it with enough power to act, in this case, as an admirable interceptor. Hyena points her nose towards the distant freighters that continue to be herded and picked at by the pirate reinforcements, knowing full well she would arrive well before Peyton's support or the Salient's fight-ending firepower. But if she waited, then the pirates would inflict that much more damage and be that much closer to winning their prize. Sending the faster fighters in first was a standard procedure anyway, right?
She crosses the distance after a few terse moments of all-encompasing silence, until the contacts ahead begin to tickle the edges of her effective range. Unconciously, a toothy grin twists her face, and the bloody smile is a far cry from the friendly expressions she showed aboard ship. With a squeeze of the trigger, she sends the first opening rounds flying over the backs of the freighters. Too far out to accurately anticipate the small pirates, the shots were only meant to distract. It was a warning and a challenge; ignore her at their peril, because their free ride had just ended.
A handful would probably detatch to deal with the Federation interloper, and Hyena sails straight at them. With four foreward-facing guns dedicated to dogfighting and a slim profile that didnt lend itself well to making a target, it's a short burst before one of the charging patchwork fighters goes out in a ball of smothered flame and shrapnel.
The formation breaks at close range, and the conflict evolves into a tight ball of flashing engines and searing firepower. From a distance, it could be called beautiful if you could ignore the death happening inside it. Hyena uses herself as bait; breaking from the dogfight when she can to dart towards the pirates that are still targeting the freighters. Her charge would force them to disengage, potentially even choosing to chase her, instead. The advantage to being a single fighter is that the space around her becomes very crowded, very quickly. Less disciplined pirates must dedicate more time to avoiding a collision than accurate targeting of the nimble Rapier, even if that means she, herself, spends more time dodging then killing.
"Oh Peyton?" Hyena's voice is cheerful, if a little gutteral as the strain of her maneuvers compresses her lungs, "Be a dear and put on a little gas?"
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Infirmary/Medical Bay
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"That line really work for you?" Faith shook her head. "Whenever I've tried it the men run a mile. Damn think you might have to teach me a few tricks whilst we're on this tour."
She started walking again, continuing down the corridor to where the next med bay was or at least where she hoped it was. She knew it was going to take her a while to truly figure this behemoth of a ship out.
"Lets just say that no one had better be an idiot and see how much booze they can inhale because I will not be impressed if I have to interrupt my smoking time to pump their stomach. As for always being on the job well I can't just forget that I am a doctor but at the same time I get very cranky when I'm bothered when I'm not on duty. Someone had really better be dying before they bother me in the middle of the night!"
That wasn't really true, Faith was many things, but she was not the sort of person to turn away from someone who needed her help but no one said she had to smile while helped them. When the klaxons sounded she jumped ever so slightly, not out of fear but because they reminded her of others she had heard and had not expected to hear again, she frowned fiercely in irritation.
Get a grip Faith She admonished herself.
"Come on, we need to get to the med bay. We need to ensure the staff there aren't running around like sheep. We will wait there for patients for now but if need be I will go to them if they cannot be moved."
She increased her stride and reached the second med bay shortly after, she was pleasantly surprised to see that most of the staff seemed relatively calm and were carrying out the necessary preparations for possible incoming injured. She looked at each member of staff in turn trying to memorise their faces as that was all she would have time for now.
"Okay people listen up." She called becoming business like as soon as she entered the area. "Though this could be a drill we are not going to treat it as such. Any moment we could have injured rolling in here and I expect us to be prepared. That said you all look like you know what you're doing so I'm going to trust that you do. Carry on."
After walking around the room and assuring herself they were as ready as they could be, and after she had communications from the other three medical bay's to advise they were also prepared and on standby, she contacted the bridge.
"This is Chief medical Director Mackenzie reporting that all medical bays are on standby, ready to receive any wounded."
She started walking again, continuing down the corridor to where the next med bay was or at least where she hoped it was. She knew it was going to take her a while to truly figure this behemoth of a ship out.
"Lets just say that no one had better be an idiot and see how much booze they can inhale because I will not be impressed if I have to interrupt my smoking time to pump their stomach. As for always being on the job well I can't just forget that I am a doctor but at the same time I get very cranky when I'm bothered when I'm not on duty. Someone had really better be dying before they bother me in the middle of the night!"
That wasn't really true, Faith was many things, but she was not the sort of person to turn away from someone who needed her help but no one said she had to smile while helped them. When the klaxons sounded she jumped ever so slightly, not out of fear but because they reminded her of others she had heard and had not expected to hear again, she frowned fiercely in irritation.
Get a grip Faith She admonished herself.
"Come on, we need to get to the med bay. We need to ensure the staff there aren't running around like sheep. We will wait there for patients for now but if need be I will go to them if they cannot be moved."
She increased her stride and reached the second med bay shortly after, she was pleasantly surprised to see that most of the staff seemed relatively calm and were carrying out the necessary preparations for possible incoming injured. She looked at each member of staff in turn trying to memorise their faces as that was all she would have time for now.
"Okay people listen up." She called becoming business like as soon as she entered the area. "Though this could be a drill we are not going to treat it as such. Any moment we could have injured rolling in here and I expect us to be prepared. That said you all look like you know what you're doing so I'm going to trust that you do. Carry on."
After walking around the room and assuring herself they were as ready as they could be, and after she had communications from the other three medical bay's to advise they were also prepared and on standby, she contacted the bridge.
"This is Chief medical Director Mackenzie reporting that all medical bays are on standby, ready to receive any wounded."
The setting changes from Infirmary/Medical Bay to The Milky Way Universe
Tiaan Peyton
Smirking she replied, "Oh you'll see." with that she powered the engines fully, catching quite quickly up too Hyena, checking radar she saw the pirates had scrambled light fighters. Nothing too dangerous, but just enough to be a bother, taking initiative she yelled in the headset, "Hyena circle around, they're coming in too close. I think you pissed them off." It was a little unnerving but the pirates seem to want to go for weaker vessel, setting up her cannon, she aimed carefully, locking on before firing, a yellow amorphous blob, shot a wing off one of the fighters. It began to spin out of control, in horror Tiaan saw where it was headed, "Hyena evasive manoeuvres now!"
Hoping she had heard, she saw they had finally decided to target her, going back into main controls, she fired off two missile's this time hitting, "BULLSEYE!" although the cheer was short lived, as she saw the pirate vessel had released gunner ships.
Oh shit, this was bad.
Hoping she wasn't only one out there, she reversed the engines and slowly spun around, aiming the thrusters fully burning at the incoming gunner ship.
Praying silently she fired the engines completely, spinning back around to see a charred wreck of one of them.
Close one, but now to check Hyena, "Hyena you there, please respond."
Waiting nervously she fired off two more missles this time missing the fighters as they swerved and fired their own in response.
Gasping she swung into a curve, trying to evade.
Smirking she replied, "Oh you'll see." with that she powered the engines fully, catching quite quickly up too Hyena, checking radar she saw the pirates had scrambled light fighters. Nothing too dangerous, but just enough to be a bother, taking initiative she yelled in the headset, "Hyena circle around, they're coming in too close. I think you pissed them off." It was a little unnerving but the pirates seem to want to go for weaker vessel, setting up her cannon, she aimed carefully, locking on before firing, a yellow amorphous blob, shot a wing off one of the fighters. It began to spin out of control, in horror Tiaan saw where it was headed, "Hyena evasive manoeuvres now!"
Hoping she had heard, she saw they had finally decided to target her, going back into main controls, she fired off two missile's this time hitting, "BULLSEYE!" although the cheer was short lived, as she saw the pirate vessel had released gunner ships.
Oh shit, this was bad.
Hoping she wasn't only one out there, she reversed the engines and slowly spun around, aiming the thrusters fully burning at the incoming gunner ship.
Praying silently she fired the engines completely, spinning back around to see a charred wreck of one of them.
Close one, but now to check Hyena, "Hyena you there, please respond."
Waiting nervously she fired off two more missles this time missing the fighters as they swerved and fired their own in response.
Gasping she swung into a curve, trying to evade.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Bridge
AI TAU
Tau left part of himself with Max to keep the child-like AI company, and moved the rest of himself to the Bridge. He nodded to the Bridge Officers in greeting. "Hello there" he said, taking a quick glance at Adam's irritated hologram. Tau accessed the railgun systems as well as interfacing with the navigational controls to send suggested routes and movements to the Navigation Officer. Tau turned to the Admiral, "Enemy ships are preparing to fire, permission to fire boosters to avoid the shots And stay on target?" Tau asked, configuring tactics that could be used to support the Admiral's wish to face the enemy head on. Tau brought his skills to bear with the Railguns, charging them to fire. "Also sir, in what Capacity shall I use the Railguns in terms of damage to enemy ships, I'd suggest destroying one and crippling the other if you wish to extract information from them, their databanks will be almost identical to each other anyhow" he said, coming up with creative firing solutions for the next volley. Tau was ready to prove his worth in combat and succeed in his tasks.
Tau left part of himself with Max to keep the child-like AI company, and moved the rest of himself to the Bridge. He nodded to the Bridge Officers in greeting. "Hello there" he said, taking a quick glance at Adam's irritated hologram. Tau accessed the railgun systems as well as interfacing with the navigational controls to send suggested routes and movements to the Navigation Officer. Tau turned to the Admiral, "Enemy ships are preparing to fire, permission to fire boosters to avoid the shots And stay on target?" Tau asked, configuring tactics that could be used to support the Admiral's wish to face the enemy head on. Tau brought his skills to bear with the Railguns, charging them to fire. "Also sir, in what Capacity shall I use the Railguns in terms of damage to enemy ships, I'd suggest destroying one and crippling the other if you wish to extract information from them, their databanks will be almost identical to each other anyhow" he said, coming up with creative firing solutions for the next volley. Tau was ready to prove his worth in combat and succeed in his tasks.
"Yes, you have permission to increase the propulsion systems," the Admiral nodded, watching the dogfight that was taking place beyond the Salient. He observed from the comfort of the bridge, but he knew that it was hell out there. He didn't even need to turn on the chatter to know that the Federation fighters were swooping in and out as the pirates dodged and fired off their own weapons.
One Federation fighter was being chased on the tail by a sleek pirate fighter, Aronimus noted another Federation fighter crossing the former's path. It was a maneuver known as the "Thach Weave," where one plane was tailed and its ally would cross its path, then they would loop again closing the circle. The pursuer would then be placed in the cross-hairs of the second fighter, and would be blown apart, which was exactly what happened. The Admiral chuckled at the instance, knowing that the weave was one of the oldest tactics used in dogfights, its conception was in the middle 20th century. Of course, that was when engines and fuel compartments were located in a virtually well-known location, nowadays the complexity and variations in designs made it difficult to pin-point vital weaknesses at the onset of a battle.
The fact that it had been successfully executed just then meant that the Federation Naval Academy was doing something right.
"This is Chief medical Director Mackenzie reporting that all medical bays are on standby, ready to receive any wounded," the message came over the intercom to the bridge.
"Understood, Dr. Mackenzie," Hansen replied for the Admiral who was busy brainstorming the next move with the tactical A.I. T.A.U.
"Also sir, in what Capacity shall I use the Railguns in terms of damage to enemy ships, I'd suggest destroying one and crippling the other if you wish to extract information from them, their databanks will be almost identical to each other anyhow."
"I suppose you can wipe out the other frigate, seeing as how the other one has been nullified of anymore activity," the other frigate was still going strong as it launched its own multitude of gunships that had been lying in wait, all the while blasting away at the propulsion systems of the two Altamus freighters with its own set of close range auto cannons.
"Mr. Hansen, patch me through to the Altamus vessels on a separate channel."
"Aye, Captain," the Scotsman nodded as he typed away on his control panel.
Altamus vessel, Summerwind, Summerwind, what is your status?
One Federation fighter was being chased on the tail by a sleek pirate fighter, Aronimus noted another Federation fighter crossing the former's path. It was a maneuver known as the "Thach Weave," where one plane was tailed and its ally would cross its path, then they would loop again closing the circle. The pursuer would then be placed in the cross-hairs of the second fighter, and would be blown apart, which was exactly what happened. The Admiral chuckled at the instance, knowing that the weave was one of the oldest tactics used in dogfights, its conception was in the middle 20th century. Of course, that was when engines and fuel compartments were located in a virtually well-known location, nowadays the complexity and variations in designs made it difficult to pin-point vital weaknesses at the onset of a battle.
The fact that it had been successfully executed just then meant that the Federation Naval Academy was doing something right.
"This is Chief medical Director Mackenzie reporting that all medical bays are on standby, ready to receive any wounded," the message came over the intercom to the bridge.
"Understood, Dr. Mackenzie," Hansen replied for the Admiral who was busy brainstorming the next move with the tactical A.I. T.A.U.
"Also sir, in what Capacity shall I use the Railguns in terms of damage to enemy ships, I'd suggest destroying one and crippling the other if you wish to extract information from them, their databanks will be almost identical to each other anyhow."
"I suppose you can wipe out the other frigate, seeing as how the other one has been nullified of anymore activity," the other frigate was still going strong as it launched its own multitude of gunships that had been lying in wait, all the while blasting away at the propulsion systems of the two Altamus freighters with its own set of close range auto cannons.
"Mr. Hansen, patch me through to the Altamus vessels on a separate channel."
"Aye, Captain," the Scotsman nodded as he typed away on his control panel.
Altamus vessel, Summerwind, Summerwind, what is your status?
AI TAU
The enemy ships fired on the Salient, and Tau quickly acted, he launched the boosters on the bottom of the ship, pushing it upwards and out of the shot path, he then pitched the ship down slightly to give himself a better shot. The firing solution he had formed targeted the hottest sections of the enemy ship on thermal scanners, with hopes those areas were hot due to important systems activity, had a 47.4% chance of destroying the enemy vessel in one salvo, Tau liked those odds. "Firing Railguns on enemy ship" Tau announced, activating the firing mechanisms and watching his shots head towards the enemy ship. they hit their targeted areas almost spot on, lighting up the vessel with explosions at the impact points. Tau scanned the vessel, "It seems to be disabled, at least for now, its hull is stressed to dangerous levels" he reported, informing the Admiral of the results.
The enemy ships fired on the Salient, and Tau quickly acted, he launched the boosters on the bottom of the ship, pushing it upwards and out of the shot path, he then pitched the ship down slightly to give himself a better shot. The firing solution he had formed targeted the hottest sections of the enemy ship on thermal scanners, with hopes those areas were hot due to important systems activity, had a 47.4% chance of destroying the enemy vessel in one salvo, Tau liked those odds. "Firing Railguns on enemy ship" Tau announced, activating the firing mechanisms and watching his shots head towards the enemy ship. they hit their targeted areas almost spot on, lighting up the vessel with explosions at the impact points. Tau scanned the vessel, "It seems to be disabled, at least for now, its hull is stressed to dangerous levels" he reported, informing the Admiral of the results.
The setting changes from Bridge to The Milky Way Universe
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Alice twitched slightly at the sound of the medical chief's voice on the comm. She had been intent on the battle beyond, examining everything outside, knowing that Tiaan must be flying out there and hoping that her Blue Tit would save her butt from this fight. A ridiculous hope - Tiaan had clearly flown worse battles than this - and Alice knew that she should not be taking a special interest, but the thought was there. She could not un-think it. She liked the woman. Her attempts at befriending the pilot were entirely sincere.
At Faith's words, however, she left the fighter pilots behind and glanced back at the Admiral. Most of the command staff was here... In the chaos, protocol would largely be ignored, but as the Admiral's word overrode hers Alice was of little use here. She could be of use somewhere else. With the Admiral's permission, of course.
"Sir," she called in her quiet, calm voice. While the rest of the crew were all pumped up on adrenaline, Alice's pulse was steady, her words settled. Very little in the world could make her panic. "If we are allowing the Ronin to board, would it not be prudent to meet them in the docking bays? I could go and oversee the process."
It was a simple suggestion, no attempt to override his authority. He was needed here, on the bridge. Someone had to go meet the Ronin's wounded crew, didn't they? Especially as it did not appear the battle would end before the Ronin boarded. Alice kept her eyes trained on the side of the Admiral's face, waiting for assent or denial. Whichever way it went, she would obey.
At Faith's words, however, she left the fighter pilots behind and glanced back at the Admiral. Most of the command staff was here... In the chaos, protocol would largely be ignored, but as the Admiral's word overrode hers Alice was of little use here. She could be of use somewhere else. With the Admiral's permission, of course.
"Sir," she called in her quiet, calm voice. While the rest of the crew were all pumped up on adrenaline, Alice's pulse was steady, her words settled. Very little in the world could make her panic. "If we are allowing the Ronin to board, would it not be prudent to meet them in the docking bays? I could go and oversee the process."
It was a simple suggestion, no attempt to override his authority. He was needed here, on the bridge. Someone had to go meet the Ronin's wounded crew, didn't they? Especially as it did not appear the battle would end before the Ronin boarded. Alice kept her eyes trained on the side of the Admiral's face, waiting for assent or denial. Whichever way it went, she would obey.
Grenadine looked genuinely disappointed that Eon didn't need a mechanic "just let me know if you need anything fixed though" she suggested friendly. She shrieked in pure, uncovered panic as the ship rocked, then bolted towards the engine room. She ran past her door, fell over on her face as she turned, and stuffed Rover into her door, checking four times that the door was locked, before running into the engine room. She ran around to all the mechanics in there "Keep an eye on the pressure"..."Make sure to divert more power to the shields"..."Those weapons might come handy, be ready" she stopped in the middle of the room, hyperventilating for a while "We're not gonna die, we're not gonna die!" she swore, wiping under her nose. Her hand came down bloody, she must have hurt her nose when she fell. With an effortless thud she went to the floor, out cold.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Bridge
The Admiral turned to Alice who looked as calm as the stillness of space. Her proposal merited some thought.
"Hmm, yes you should probably go down down there with security and medical personnel, let us hope that she or anyone else on her craft suffered injuries,"
He returned to T.A.U's report, both frigates were disabled now, the only hostiles remaining were the swarm of pirate fighter ships that were whipping in and around the hulls of their ships and firing back at the Federation fighters. However, after several minutes and several losses, the rest of the lighter craft began to withdraw, leaving their frigates behind for seizure. The original attack plan had failed and now they bailed. Aronimus was worried that they might have returned to base to report their losses and perhaps recuperate for an even larger attack. If that was the case, he'd have to call for support from any nearby Federation patrols. This would put them drastically behind schedule, considering that they had not activated FTL drives yet.
Eon had been standing in the corner, perhaps waiting for an order; it wasn’t until the Admiral turned away from viewing the situation that he noticed the android. A pentagonal badge with two wings protruding from the top corners welded onto Eon’s torso designated him as a multi-purpose machine. The identification tag located next to the badge was inscribed with the word “Eon," followed by a dash a three digit designation.
“You there, report to the engine room and check with the engineers immediately, see if you can’t make yourself useful,” the Admiral hoped to give the bot something to keep him busy rather than have him stand there like a useless automaton.
Then cheers erupted from the bridge crew as another pirate fighter's wings were clipped apart by the twin blasters of a Federation fighter. So far the Federation ships had successfully avoided casualties while delivering massive blows to the raiders.
"Hmm, yes you should probably go down down there with security and medical personnel, let us hope that she or anyone else on her craft suffered injuries,"
He returned to T.A.U's report, both frigates were disabled now, the only hostiles remaining were the swarm of pirate fighter ships that were whipping in and around the hulls of their ships and firing back at the Federation fighters. However, after several minutes and several losses, the rest of the lighter craft began to withdraw, leaving their frigates behind for seizure. The original attack plan had failed and now they bailed. Aronimus was worried that they might have returned to base to report their losses and perhaps recuperate for an even larger attack. If that was the case, he'd have to call for support from any nearby Federation patrols. This would put them drastically behind schedule, considering that they had not activated FTL drives yet.
Eon had been standing in the corner, perhaps waiting for an order; it wasn’t until the Admiral turned away from viewing the situation that he noticed the android. A pentagonal badge with two wings protruding from the top corners welded onto Eon’s torso designated him as a multi-purpose machine. The identification tag located next to the badge was inscribed with the word “Eon," followed by a dash a three digit designation.
“You there, report to the engine room and check with the engineers immediately, see if you can’t make yourself useful,” the Admiral hoped to give the bot something to keep him busy rather than have him stand there like a useless automaton.
Then cheers erupted from the bridge crew as another pirate fighter's wings were clipped apart by the twin blasters of a Federation fighter. So far the Federation ships had successfully avoided casualties while delivering massive blows to the raiders.
The setting changes from Bridge to The Milky Way Universe
"Hey hey hey." Allen said as someone ran through the engine room yelling. "Nothing bads going to happen while I am here, you got that?" He yelled as he ran over pushed buttons and check the status of things. He then heard a thud. "You." He said to another engineer "Take over for me while I get her to the bed in the back." He then went over and picked up the girl and carried her to a bed area he had set up in the back just in case of something like this. He got her on to the bed and stuck a cold wet rag on her forehead. "Wow, running in here like something with its head off." He let out a sigh. "Its always the young ones." He chuckled at that statement because he was young. Allen then wiped the blood that was below he nose. "And be careful about your head."
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
*EDIT! Reason: simultaneous posts"
Eon heard the admiral's orders clearly and gave a nod, "yes sir" he said mechanically as he ran out of the bridge and towards the engineering bay. Running through hallways he fell again tripping over a bottle that was knocked over, deciding to use his stabilizers in Eon's feet he regained balance and proceeded to glide across the ground using them and jet-pack. Finally reaching the engineering bay Eon immediately saw someone on the ground and rushed over seeing the other man there, "Is she okay?" he said as he saw her in his arms seeing and recognizing her glasses, "Grenadine...? Are you okay?" he heard no response and saw the blood on her hand, 'Diagnosis: passed out due to blood loss. Vital organs: active. Danger: possible life threatening.' Eon looked at the other person whom brought her to the back, "she may need medical attention, I am taking her to the medical bay." he said apathetically as he swooped Grenadine into his arms and proceeded to the medical bay at a hastily speed. He arrived at the Medical wing and saw a few medics, "Excuse me, but this one seems to have a substantial injury, she is passed out and in possible need of medical aid." He said mechanically laying her on a bed. He after checking all the engines and everything. He proceeded to the bridge with a analysis of the engine room, "all engines completely functional, although an engineer was injured, she should be fine and is in the medical bay." he said with a salute.
Eon heard the admiral's orders clearly and gave a nod, "yes sir" he said mechanically as he ran out of the bridge and towards the engineering bay. Running through hallways he fell again tripping over a bottle that was knocked over, deciding to use his stabilizers in Eon's feet he regained balance and proceeded to glide across the ground using them and jet-pack. Finally reaching the engineering bay Eon immediately saw someone on the ground and rushed over seeing the other man there, "Is she okay?" he said as he saw her in his arms seeing and recognizing her glasses, "Grenadine...? Are you okay?" he heard no response and saw the blood on her hand, 'Diagnosis: passed out due to blood loss. Vital organs: active. Danger: possible life threatening.' Eon looked at the other person whom brought her to the back, "she may need medical attention, I am taking her to the medical bay." he said apathetically as he swooped Grenadine into his arms and proceeded to the medical bay at a hastily speed. He arrived at the Medical wing and saw a few medics, "Excuse me, but this one seems to have a substantial injury, she is passed out and in possible need of medical aid." He said mechanically laying her on a bed. He after checking all the engines and everything. He proceeded to the bridge with a analysis of the engine room, "all engines completely functional, although an engineer was injured, she should be fine and is in the medical bay." he said with a salute.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to Hangar
Commander Dunaway had given word for Marines to suit up and prepare for boarding action; he carefully laid down way points for security teams to patrol in the event that more pirates loomed on the horizon and were planning on boarding the Salient. At the same time, he prepared two strike teams to enter the two hostile frigates and neutralize any on board presence, either through capture or termination.
The first team would be led by his younger brother, Captain Dunaway, with Staff Sergeant Jackson, Corporal Reterec Smithy, Corporal Frank Grahams, and Private Quinn O’Neil. They would enter the first frigate that had been crippled since the onset of the battle due to the efforts of Tartarus Group.
The second team would be led by Eli, including Sergeant Major Carter, Corporal Adriana Stark, Lance Corporal Shane Weifert, and Private First Class Gary Reynolds. They were to board the second frigate that was disabled as a result of the Salient’s railgun blasts.
Once the teams were on board the vessels, hostiles were neutralized, they would gather any data still remaining, untouched by the destruction wrought forth by the Federation battlecruiser, and slip out of the ships. Considering the holes blown apart by the Salient, the marines would have to don spaceborne operation suits, equipped with oxygen tanks. Travel would be by gunship, but in the case of the two special operatives, they’d have to provide their own transport.
Eli and his squad reached the hangar and spotted the nearest gunship, being attended by her pilot. Peter “Ray” Davidson was inscribed on his tag as he turned to greet the team.
“Hmm, so is this going to be everyone sir? Seems like most of the room on my Swing class shall be used for naught,” Ray said cheerfully as he went into the cockpit and activated the egress hatches which flipped upward. The marines by now had equipped themselves with contained suits that were pressure sealed to prevent vacuum infiltration. As Eli stepped inside, he noted the large space, enough to carry maybe two more six man teams. The rest of the crew boarded after their squad leader and quickly took seats.
“Seems like it,” Eli checked the cartridge in his rifle while the tactical display inside his helmet began re-calibrating the auto-targeting systems.
“So, where are we headed for today?”
“Take us to that frigate Davidson,” Eli stepped into the cockpit and pointed his fore finger at the damaged frigate that rested amongst the two Altamus freighters. The three ships floated listlessly, being carried by the current of the vacuum if there was such a thing.
“Roger wilco, but ‘eh you can call me Ray instead sir,” the pilot said as he pressed his palm against a touch screen thereby closing the egress hatches, and linking him to the ship's systems. He donned his helmet after the egress hatches were sealed.
“I’ll have you there in two shakes,” the gunship began to lift vertically, being propelled by two ion thrusters. Once it reached a sufficient height, the thrusters turned a full 90 degrees, pointing to the rear. Then Ray activated the engines and the ship pushed forth and skimmed through the particle field in the hangar that blocked out vacuum.
“Ladies and gentlemen, this is Captain Ray speaking, we’ll be facing a little turbulence due to the bandits, so you might want to buckle” Ray said this as he dodged a Federation fighter being pursued by a marauder.
The first team would be led by his younger brother, Captain Dunaway, with Staff Sergeant Jackson, Corporal Reterec Smithy, Corporal Frank Grahams, and Private Quinn O’Neil. They would enter the first frigate that had been crippled since the onset of the battle due to the efforts of Tartarus Group.
The second team would be led by Eli, including Sergeant Major Carter, Corporal Adriana Stark, Lance Corporal Shane Weifert, and Private First Class Gary Reynolds. They were to board the second frigate that was disabled as a result of the Salient’s railgun blasts.
Once the teams were on board the vessels, hostiles were neutralized, they would gather any data still remaining, untouched by the destruction wrought forth by the Federation battlecruiser, and slip out of the ships. Considering the holes blown apart by the Salient, the marines would have to don spaceborne operation suits, equipped with oxygen tanks. Travel would be by gunship, but in the case of the two special operatives, they’d have to provide their own transport.
Eli and his squad reached the hangar and spotted the nearest gunship, being attended by her pilot. Peter “Ray” Davidson was inscribed on his tag as he turned to greet the team.
“Hmm, so is this going to be everyone sir? Seems like most of the room on my Swing class shall be used for naught,” Ray said cheerfully as he went into the cockpit and activated the egress hatches which flipped upward. The marines by now had equipped themselves with contained suits that were pressure sealed to prevent vacuum infiltration. As Eli stepped inside, he noted the large space, enough to carry maybe two more six man teams. The rest of the crew boarded after their squad leader and quickly took seats.
“Seems like it,” Eli checked the cartridge in his rifle while the tactical display inside his helmet began re-calibrating the auto-targeting systems.
“So, where are we headed for today?”
“Take us to that frigate Davidson,” Eli stepped into the cockpit and pointed his fore finger at the damaged frigate that rested amongst the two Altamus freighters. The three ships floated listlessly, being carried by the current of the vacuum if there was such a thing.
“Roger wilco, but ‘eh you can call me Ray instead sir,” the pilot said as he pressed his palm against a touch screen thereby closing the egress hatches, and linking him to the ship's systems. He donned his helmet after the egress hatches were sealed.
“I’ll have you there in two shakes,” the gunship began to lift vertically, being propelled by two ion thrusters. Once it reached a sufficient height, the thrusters turned a full 90 degrees, pointing to the rear. Then Ray activated the engines and the ship pushed forth and skimmed through the particle field in the hangar that blocked out vacuum.
“Ladies and gentlemen, this is Captain Ray speaking, we’ll be facing a little turbulence due to the bandits, so you might want to buckle” Ray said this as he dodged a Federation fighter being pursued by a marauder.
The setting changes from Hangar to The Milky Way Universe
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Alice nodded briskly to admiral and turned on the sharp point of her right heel. Casting one last glance out at the fighter battle, she made certain that there was no need for her here. There was not. Throwing her long dark hair over one shoulder, she strode off of the bridge. The walk through the Salient was a short one - though not precisely the same as the Nottingham, its construction was logical and she had spent much time studying floor maps to increase traveling efficiency. She could not afford to be getting lost in her own halls. Each step snapped briskly against the floor as she paced, not quite running but very fast, and she reached the docking bays in record time.
There, she paused to survey the situation. The Ronin was in the process of unloading, and Alice had not seen such painful chaos in quite some time. There were too many people. Too many injured. Calmly, she picked out the woman who looked to be the captain, and with a confident tilt to her chin, she approached. She saluted the woman smartly upon arrival.
"Lieutenant Commander Chen, at your service," she called evenly. Her brown eyes did not flinch from the other woman's gaze.
There, she paused to survey the situation. The Ronin was in the process of unloading, and Alice had not seen such painful chaos in quite some time. There were too many people. Too many injured. Calmly, she picked out the woman who looked to be the captain, and with a confident tilt to her chin, she approached. She saluted the woman smartly upon arrival.
"Lieutenant Commander Chen, at your service," she called evenly. Her brown eyes did not flinch from the other woman's gaze.
With dramatic flair ideally suited to fighter pilot shenanigans, Hyena's painted Rapier splits the space between Tiaan and the missles that dog her. The energy emission from her engines disrupts their targeting computers, confusing their lock and turning their attentions onto her, instead. They turn onto her tail as she enters a back-breaking loop. Since they had already been at a right angle, the twin missles are unable to duplicate the Rapier's turn, and loose their lock halfway through the deadly merry-go-round.
As they sail off into open space before detonating harmlessly, Hyena's voice answers Tiaan with ever-present good cheer, "Of course I'm here. Where the hell else would I be?"
A continued loop brings her around onto the fighters that Tiaan had so recently pissed off, and a flurry of shots onto the top of the trailing craft breaks its spine in a flash of metal and broken electricals. The lead wobbles and breaks away from Tiaan with Hyena right behind it, twisting to match its evasive maneuvers.
"Dont let me catch you!" She openly taunts the unfortunate bastard, the hardy military craft rapidly closing the gap on the patchwork pirate fighter, "Almost there, I said dont let me catch you!"
Unable to out-turn the Rapier, the other pilot attempts to corkscrew out of the circle and throw her. It exposes his belly for a half-second, and like a cat with a mouse, it was all she was waiting for. A nasty laugh accompanies her shots, and the other fighter disintegrates beneath the withering punishment.
Rolling evasively, she expects someone else to be taking advantage of her dogged persuit of her target, but no shots come. She levels out, eyes darting across the starscape, to find the surviving fighters running. Really the only smart thing to do, now that their frigates were dead or dying and the Salient's full compliment was still going strong. A flash of annoyance in the pit of her gut, like she'd been cheated of her game. Hyena puts the retreating engines on her nose and throws the throttle foreward in persuit.
"Crap! They're getting away!"
As they sail off into open space before detonating harmlessly, Hyena's voice answers Tiaan with ever-present good cheer, "Of course I'm here. Where the hell else would I be?"
A continued loop brings her around onto the fighters that Tiaan had so recently pissed off, and a flurry of shots onto the top of the trailing craft breaks its spine in a flash of metal and broken electricals. The lead wobbles and breaks away from Tiaan with Hyena right behind it, twisting to match its evasive maneuvers.
"Dont let me catch you!" She openly taunts the unfortunate bastard, the hardy military craft rapidly closing the gap on the patchwork pirate fighter, "Almost there, I said dont let me catch you!"
Unable to out-turn the Rapier, the other pilot attempts to corkscrew out of the circle and throw her. It exposes his belly for a half-second, and like a cat with a mouse, it was all she was waiting for. A nasty laugh accompanies her shots, and the other fighter disintegrates beneath the withering punishment.
Rolling evasively, she expects someone else to be taking advantage of her dogged persuit of her target, but no shots come. She levels out, eyes darting across the starscape, to find the surviving fighters running. Really the only smart thing to do, now that their frigates were dead or dying and the Salient's full compliment was still going strong. A flash of annoyance in the pit of her gut, like she'd been cheated of her game. Hyena puts the retreating engines on her nose and throws the throttle foreward in persuit.
"Crap! They're getting away!"
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Infirmary/Medical Bay
Marcus really was just making a joke, opening a line of communication with someone by dropping you were a doctor was a cheap ploy made to dazzle cretins; simple vacuous women with little desire to compare vocations and more concerned with feeling some façade of affection . He smiled. "I think it’s much different for an intelligent woman, most men really want a simple, easy to fool female; a woman with a brain threatens them." He walked with her, his hands folded behind his back. "I find ignorant people in general unsatisfying; a beautiful, intellectual woman is a welcomed addition to any table or setting. I’m saddened that meaningful conversation seems to be going extinct."
He found most people when they knew there was a doctor present they cast off that inkling of ‘maybe I shouldn’t do this because I might get hurt’. A doctor was a free pass to behave with reckless abandon. "Unfortunately Doctor I feel we may indeed be bothered. As much as I would like to ignore people during my off duty hours, I took an oath which I think in the small print was a clause that said available all the time, but as you say I also can be very cranky when treating their ails."
Doctor Bergman was impressed at the woman’s conviction but he was more of a pragmatist. "Doctor Mackenzie I would say your expertise would be better suited in a supervisory role. You can’t personally greet every incoming patient at the hanger door. Let your people work for you, they are all trained professionals." He wondered what was going on and if the medical staff really would be needed. If a pilot took fire and explosive decompression happened they would need a janitor not a doctor. In the case of a hostile force boarding the ship, that could be messy; miles of gauze and pounds of coagulant.
"What do you need of me? I’m no trauma surgeon but I can stitch up the random laceration and give general triage assessment. I’m at your service Doc." In truth he was relativity new to this. He set broken arms, treated hypochondriacs with sugar pills; simple jobs to break up the monotony of his eighteen hours of laboratory research. Getting his hands truly dirty was something department heads did not do. Yet, if Doctor Mackenzie was so quick get elbow-deep in hollow viscous organs he could try to be as well.
He found most people when they knew there was a doctor present they cast off that inkling of ‘maybe I shouldn’t do this because I might get hurt’. A doctor was a free pass to behave with reckless abandon. "Unfortunately Doctor I feel we may indeed be bothered. As much as I would like to ignore people during my off duty hours, I took an oath which I think in the small print was a clause that said available all the time, but as you say I also can be very cranky when treating their ails."
Doctor Bergman was impressed at the woman’s conviction but he was more of a pragmatist. "Doctor Mackenzie I would say your expertise would be better suited in a supervisory role. You can’t personally greet every incoming patient at the hanger door. Let your people work for you, they are all trained professionals." He wondered what was going on and if the medical staff really would be needed. If a pilot took fire and explosive decompression happened they would need a janitor not a doctor. In the case of a hostile force boarding the ship, that could be messy; miles of gauze and pounds of coagulant.
"What do you need of me? I’m no trauma surgeon but I can stitch up the random laceration and give general triage assessment. I’m at your service Doc." In truth he was relativity new to this. He set broken arms, treated hypochondriacs with sugar pills; simple jobs to break up the monotony of his eighteen hours of laboratory research. Getting his hands truly dirty was something department heads did not do. Yet, if Doctor Mackenzie was so quick get elbow-deep in hollow viscous organs he could try to be as well.
The setting changes from Infirmary/Medical Bay to The Milky Way Universe
Miranda wasn’t happy about being unable to properly execute a counter-attack. She wanted to turn everyone shooting at her to bloody scrap metal, but the rage the woman had needed to be pushed way down deep so her mind was clear. Two tones emitted from the fuel reservoir noting she had less than five percent remaining. She needed a safe place to set down and just like the voice of angel came her go-ahead.
Roger that, Ronin. Aye, yeh're clear for docking, try not to damage any ships on yeh way in
She laughed. "Acknowledged comm, Alta-Corp 973 coming to roost. I'll try not to scratch your paint. Ronin out."
The main problem was getting there with so many problems stacked against her. Her engines were about two hundred degrees from turning into a white-hot lump of unserviceable metal, her fuel was getting so low it wouldn't even drown a kitten and to add to mechanical bullshit, assholes were shooting at her.
Ronin, this is Salient. There is an affirmative on contacts, you've got five hostiles on your tail, turn off communications systems and anything extra to save power.
"Oh, just perfect." She said aloud, if Miranda had more fuel she could afford to fly a bit more fancy, though her Savannah class gunship was not a juke-and-jive sort of vessel. The craft was designed to go hard and fast without remorse leaving the enemy hating life, broken like an admiral's daughter after a fleet party. It was capable of stopping quick and then changing direction, avoiding interceptors once maybe twice before the limited repertoire ran its course. However by then one of your other wingmates killed the fucker. Miranda needed help.
No worries, Ronin, we'll delouse your six. Jesus ... And give you a haircut to boot. We're apparently a full-service sort. Make for the hangar and tell 'em Hyena sent you; you'll get the best seat in the house.
The Salient was a beast. Miranda at least picked a winner, always nice having a capital ship in your corner; takes the uncertainty out space combat. "Copy that Hyena, heading for the bay now, maybe I’ll get a wax while I’m there, it’s been a while. Out." It was already getting crowded with a mass of federation fighters coming to meet the pirates and Ronin was stuck in the middle. Seeing several fighters wiz by her tilting wings was comforting as least she was covered. Miranda took her comm-array and internal climate control off-line sending the power to manoeuvring thrusters. Throttling down to seventy-five percent her powerplant made a series of rapid clunks; metallic parts seizing and scraping in protest.
The hanger bay was large and accommodating, like a luxury state room on a pleasure yacht, not like the cramped cargo hold she usually landed in. Sure the regulations of the Federation were stupid and most of the fleet were pricks but they did have nice digs. Cutting her main engines, she coasted into the bay. She found an empty space; manoeuvring thrusters popping and whishing angling her into the slot before Miranda deployed her landing struts.
Ronin shut down her ship and opened her canopy. She was unclear as to what to do now. As a guest here she probably couldn't just wander the ship without someone getting butt-hurt. Miranda took off her helmet and shook out her blonde hair that was in dire need of washing. She hopped down from her craft and patted its side. Several people in coveralls were gathered around a radio listening to chatter coming from the squadrons of fighters on their sortie. One looked at her and frowned. "You the security vessel?" She nodded. "Someone will take a look at your craft after all our ships are back and inspected, they are the priority."
Miranda nodded again. "Thanks." She mumbled. A woman by the looks of her a higher up maybe XO came up and introduced herself. "Hi, Miranda Peters, people call me Ronin. Lieutenant Commander huh? That mean you're the person I talk to for the debrief. I know how you military types love debriefings. I gotta say thanks for the assist."
Roger that, Ronin. Aye, yeh're clear for docking, try not to damage any ships on yeh way in
She laughed. "Acknowledged comm, Alta-Corp 973 coming to roost. I'll try not to scratch your paint. Ronin out."
The main problem was getting there with so many problems stacked against her. Her engines were about two hundred degrees from turning into a white-hot lump of unserviceable metal, her fuel was getting so low it wouldn't even drown a kitten and to add to mechanical bullshit, assholes were shooting at her.
Ronin, this is Salient. There is an affirmative on contacts, you've got five hostiles on your tail, turn off communications systems and anything extra to save power.
"Oh, just perfect." She said aloud, if Miranda had more fuel she could afford to fly a bit more fancy, though her Savannah class gunship was not a juke-and-jive sort of vessel. The craft was designed to go hard and fast without remorse leaving the enemy hating life, broken like an admiral's daughter after a fleet party. It was capable of stopping quick and then changing direction, avoiding interceptors once maybe twice before the limited repertoire ran its course. However by then one of your other wingmates killed the fucker. Miranda needed help.
No worries, Ronin, we'll delouse your six. Jesus ... And give you a haircut to boot. We're apparently a full-service sort. Make for the hangar and tell 'em Hyena sent you; you'll get the best seat in the house.
The Salient was a beast. Miranda at least picked a winner, always nice having a capital ship in your corner; takes the uncertainty out space combat. "Copy that Hyena, heading for the bay now, maybe I’ll get a wax while I’m there, it’s been a while. Out." It was already getting crowded with a mass of federation fighters coming to meet the pirates and Ronin was stuck in the middle. Seeing several fighters wiz by her tilting wings was comforting as least she was covered. Miranda took her comm-array and internal climate control off-line sending the power to manoeuvring thrusters. Throttling down to seventy-five percent her powerplant made a series of rapid clunks; metallic parts seizing and scraping in protest.
The hanger bay was large and accommodating, like a luxury state room on a pleasure yacht, not like the cramped cargo hold she usually landed in. Sure the regulations of the Federation were stupid and most of the fleet were pricks but they did have nice digs. Cutting her main engines, she coasted into the bay. She found an empty space; manoeuvring thrusters popping and whishing angling her into the slot before Miranda deployed her landing struts.
Ronin shut down her ship and opened her canopy. She was unclear as to what to do now. As a guest here she probably couldn't just wander the ship without someone getting butt-hurt. Miranda took off her helmet and shook out her blonde hair that was in dire need of washing. She hopped down from her craft and patted its side. Several people in coveralls were gathered around a radio listening to chatter coming from the squadrons of fighters on their sortie. One looked at her and frowned. "You the security vessel?" She nodded. "Someone will take a look at your craft after all our ships are back and inspected, they are the priority."
Miranda nodded again. "Thanks." She mumbled. A woman by the looks of her a higher up maybe XO came up and introduced herself. "Hi, Miranda Peters, people call me Ronin. Lieutenant Commander huh? That mean you're the person I talk to for the debrief. I know how you military types love debriefings. I gotta say thanks for the assist."
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Bridge
Everyone in the bridge was standing, applause, cheers, fists struck the air, and most of all laughter. It had been awhile since the Admiral heard the outward expressions of joy pour forth from those who served under him. Perhaps it was because he had not commanded vessels in war zones for a certain period of time now. A warm feeling flowed within his heart as he smiled to fellow crew members, but he held that sensation in check though. There was more to be done, the two Altamus vessels were damaged and he couldn't let them rest among the debris while he continued on with his own objectives. He intended to question the crews and the captains regarding the appearance of the pirates. He hoped to record the information and send a report back to Command detailing the events that had transpired just now. Hopefully, they would send some escorts and repair ships to help the two corporate freighters finish the last leg of their original course.
A message then came in from Commander Dunaway, Aronimus assumed it regarded the two pirate vessels.
"Yes, Commander Dunaway, what is it?"
"Sir, I've deployed two teams to investigate the two pirate vessels, maybe they could find some valuable information left in the data banks, or from any remaining pirates that might have survived the initial salvos of our ship,"
"I understand Commander, carry on, I will await your findings," the Admiral closed off the communique.
"Sir, the Altamus vessels aren't responding...," Hansen reported to him, for the past five minutes while the dogfight was occurring, Hansen had tried to get a link to the two vessels. To no avail though, Aronimus had forgotten about that, as he was busy watching the display of Federation fighter superiority.
"Perhaps their comm links are down," the Admiral turned the communique with Commander Dunaway back on.
"Commander Dunaway, dispatch the teams on a follow up, the comm links of the Altamus vessels may be down,"
"You want them to check in on the crews of the freighters?"
"Correct."
"I understand."
A message then came in from Commander Dunaway, Aronimus assumed it regarded the two pirate vessels.
"Yes, Commander Dunaway, what is it?"
"Sir, I've deployed two teams to investigate the two pirate vessels, maybe they could find some valuable information left in the data banks, or from any remaining pirates that might have survived the initial salvos of our ship,"
"I understand Commander, carry on, I will await your findings," the Admiral closed off the communique.
"Sir, the Altamus vessels aren't responding...," Hansen reported to him, for the past five minutes while the dogfight was occurring, Hansen had tried to get a link to the two vessels. To no avail though, Aronimus had forgotten about that, as he was busy watching the display of Federation fighter superiority.
"Perhaps their comm links are down," the Admiral turned the communique with Commander Dunaway back on.
"Commander Dunaway, dispatch the teams on a follow up, the comm links of the Altamus vessels may be down,"
"You want them to check in on the crews of the freighters?"
"Correct."
"I understand."
The setting changes from Bridge to The Milky Way Universe
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Alice smiled slightly and nodded her agreement. "Second in command, here," she agreed calmly. She stood proud, straight-backed, with her feet at shoulder width and her hands clasped behind her spine. A well-trained stance, but comfortable. "When the time comes I will be in charge of the debrief, and the captain if he is not busy dealing with the rest of the chaos. We need not get into it immediately, however," she gestured broadly to the battered ship, and the rest of the hangar. "I do not come for regulation. There must be injured aboard your ship. I was of little use on the bridge, so I cam to help."
She knew all too well that this should be a surprise to Ronin - most Federation were sticklers for procedure, but Alice knew what was more important. If the rules were going to get someone killed unnecessary, screw them. When there were injured around, time was of the essence. Alice could wait for the full story of what had happened until after human lives were secured.
She knew all too well that this should be a surprise to Ronin - most Federation were sticklers for procedure, but Alice knew what was more important. If the rules were going to get someone killed unnecessary, screw them. When there were injured around, time was of the essence. Alice could wait for the full story of what had happened until after human lives were secured.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Hangar
Miranda smiled at the woman. "Ah well traditionally the Savannah class gunship does have a crew of three. But my group uses them as a more all-around type of craft; fighter, bomber, vacation home. There is Just me; the rear compartment where the navigator and gunner usually sit is being occupied by my laundry and a hammock, probably about a dozen liquor bottles." She laughed and ran her fingers through her hair. "We're not really one for rules, just about flying tough and watching each-other's asses."
The woman wondered how many times she would tell her story, hopefully only once. There was an explosion once at a bar and instead of ducking out she stayed and told five different Federation officers what happened. "As soon as all this is done you guys can interview, uh I mean debrief me any time." Frowning she snapped her fingers. "Oh man, you'd probably be one to tell. Look the Alta-Corp vessels, um, if you can't get a hold of them that's my bad. We tell them to stay off the comm because they have those broadband suckers that anybody can pick up. Pirates hear them coming and it's just a question of waiting till they show up."
She scoffed. "I mean that's how they ran stuff until we started leading them home. You gotta get a hold of my boy Cronos on the Summerwind. Send a general hail, then say the key phrase "Salvo fire, wins wars." he'll open the line and there you go." Miranda hoped Cronos was still there on the bridge, he likely was as the crew of both freighters were new to combat scenarios. The issue of replacing the escort was on her mind, the fat ladies still needed dates to the ball and a couple broken gunships would not cut it. "Look, Commander those two freighters still need to make it back to Mars and I'm not sure what you guys are working on out here but if the Federation could take the time to send an encrypted message to one of our other squadrons for replacement that would be decent of you."
Ronin was pressing her luck; she was talking Federation charity and asking for favours to boot. Well it probably wasn't a surprise, after all mercenaries weren't known for their manners.
The woman wondered how many times she would tell her story, hopefully only once. There was an explosion once at a bar and instead of ducking out she stayed and told five different Federation officers what happened. "As soon as all this is done you guys can interview, uh I mean debrief me any time." Frowning she snapped her fingers. "Oh man, you'd probably be one to tell. Look the Alta-Corp vessels, um, if you can't get a hold of them that's my bad. We tell them to stay off the comm because they have those broadband suckers that anybody can pick up. Pirates hear them coming and it's just a question of waiting till they show up."
She scoffed. "I mean that's how they ran stuff until we started leading them home. You gotta get a hold of my boy Cronos on the Summerwind. Send a general hail, then say the key phrase "Salvo fire, wins wars." he'll open the line and there you go." Miranda hoped Cronos was still there on the bridge, he likely was as the crew of both freighters were new to combat scenarios. The issue of replacing the escort was on her mind, the fat ladies still needed dates to the ball and a couple broken gunships would not cut it. "Look, Commander those two freighters still need to make it back to Mars and I'm not sure what you guys are working on out here but if the Federation could take the time to send an encrypted message to one of our other squadrons for replacement that would be decent of you."
Ronin was pressing her luck; she was talking Federation charity and asking for favours to boot. Well it probably wasn't a surprise, after all mercenaries weren't known for their manners.
The setting changes from Hangar to The Milky Way Universe
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"I'll see what I can do," Alice agreed shortly. She thought nothing of the woman's requests - Alice was accustomed to dealing with people much less polite, or sane, than Ronin. She glanced then at Ronin's battered ship, examining in finer detail the damage it had taken. Considerable damage, to say the least. "Needless to say you'll need to remain on-board while we repair your vessel. Let me take you to some guest quarters. You can rest and get something to eat while I put word out to the captain. He will make the final decision involving your requests."
It was only natural, after all, aboard a Federation ship. Alice could extend hospitality, take care of the young pilot, but do little else without the Admiral's consent. Almost as an afterthought, beckoning to Miranda and striding away towards the rest of the Salient, she pulled out her communicator and called the Admiral.
"Lieutenant Commander Chen to Admiral Weston," she called briskly. "Miss Peters has requested that we send a general hail out for Sabre aboard the Summerwind. Code words 'salvo fire, wins wars.' She has also asked that we send an encrypted message to one of the other transport squadrons for a replacement escort for the freighters. I am bringing Miss Peters to guest quarters now. She was the only one on board."
Communicator still in hand, ready to receive a reply, she led Miranda out into the halls towards the residential section. Ronin, of course, would not be left alone there. Not until after Alice had been debriefed, and confirmation of clearance had been sent by the Admiral. Alice knew her place, and it was not to do things without Admiral Weston's orders, unless he gave her express permission to make decisions on her own.
It was only natural, after all, aboard a Federation ship. Alice could extend hospitality, take care of the young pilot, but do little else without the Admiral's consent. Almost as an afterthought, beckoning to Miranda and striding away towards the rest of the Salient, she pulled out her communicator and called the Admiral.
"Lieutenant Commander Chen to Admiral Weston," she called briskly. "Miss Peters has requested that we send a general hail out for Sabre aboard the Summerwind. Code words 'salvo fire, wins wars.' She has also asked that we send an encrypted message to one of the other transport squadrons for a replacement escort for the freighters. I am bringing Miss Peters to guest quarters now. She was the only one on board."
Communicator still in hand, ready to receive a reply, she led Miranda out into the halls towards the residential section. Ronin, of course, would not be left alone there. Not until after Alice had been debriefed, and confirmation of clearance had been sent by the Admiral. Alice knew her place, and it was not to do things without Admiral Weston's orders, unless he gave her express permission to make decisions on her own.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Bridge
"Lieutenant Commander Chen to Admiral Weston," the Admiral picked up the incoming call on a separate channel.
"Miss Peters has requested that we send a general hail out for Cronos aboard the Summerwind. Code words 'salvo fire, wins wars.' She has also asked that we send an encrypted message to one of the other transport squadrons for a replacement escort for the freighters. I am bringing Miss Peters to guest quarters now. She was the only one on board."
"I see," Aronimus paused before continuing.
"Do as you see fit Ms. Chen, Weston out," Aronimus turned to petty officer Hansen who was still celebrating with fellow personnel.
"Mr. Hansen relay this code on a secure link to the Summerwind, it's a hail for Cronos. 'Salvo fire, wins wars.'"
"Aye, Captain..." the Scotsman typed the words in. Hansen hadn't really served aboard a real ship before, but he was one of the few that were quickly getting to used to the ship. He could tell that the ship was getting used to him and his accent. He waited for several seconds as the system began to check for the authentication.
"Yeh're clear sir," Hansen reported as the tone for authentication rung from the system.
The Admiral nodded at Hansen and asked him to relay an encrypted transmission to the headquarters of Tartarus Group. Although Aronimus would've gotten word to Command for confirmation, perhaps they would have a different opinion as to who should escort the ships back to their departure location. He'd need to question those aboard the two vessels.
He activated another channel, one for Commander Dunaway.
"Commander Dunaway, cancel the follow up, we've got a clear channel to the Altamus vessels.
"I understand sir," the channel closed, Aronimus resumed his link with the corporate freighters.
Altamus vessel Summerwind, Summerwind, this is the Salient, what is your status? I repeat, what is your status?
"Miss Peters has requested that we send a general hail out for Cronos aboard the Summerwind. Code words 'salvo fire, wins wars.' She has also asked that we send an encrypted message to one of the other transport squadrons for a replacement escort for the freighters. I am bringing Miss Peters to guest quarters now. She was the only one on board."
"I see," Aronimus paused before continuing.
"Do as you see fit Ms. Chen, Weston out," Aronimus turned to petty officer Hansen who was still celebrating with fellow personnel.
"Mr. Hansen relay this code on a secure link to the Summerwind, it's a hail for Cronos. 'Salvo fire, wins wars.'"
"Aye, Captain..." the Scotsman typed the words in. Hansen hadn't really served aboard a real ship before, but he was one of the few that were quickly getting to used to the ship. He could tell that the ship was getting used to him and his accent. He waited for several seconds as the system began to check for the authentication.
"Yeh're clear sir," Hansen reported as the tone for authentication rung from the system.
The Admiral nodded at Hansen and asked him to relay an encrypted transmission to the headquarters of Tartarus Group. Although Aronimus would've gotten word to Command for confirmation, perhaps they would have a different opinion as to who should escort the ships back to their departure location. He'd need to question those aboard the two vessels.
He activated another channel, one for Commander Dunaway.
"Commander Dunaway, cancel the follow up, we've got a clear channel to the Altamus vessels.
"I understand sir," the channel closed, Aronimus resumed his link with the corporate freighters.
Altamus vessel Summerwind, Summerwind, this is the Salient, what is your status? I repeat, what is your status?
AI TAU
Tau waited patiently for orders, scanning the enemy vessels, there were lifeforms on board, so Tau accessed the messaging system and sent an alert to the Drop ships to let them know there were confirmed crew alive on the ship, and that they would likely be hostile. He checked on the ship's defense and attack systems, realizing not a single shot had landed on the Salient, the larger ships were disabled and the fighters were distracted. Tau noted it as a complete success to this point. He addressed an order that have been scrapped earlier due to the battle. He turned to face the Navigation Officer, "Mr. Summer, the Admiral would like to see you in his officer after this, unless he has changed his mind, you can ask him, if you like"
Tau waited patiently for orders, scanning the enemy vessels, there were lifeforms on board, so Tau accessed the messaging system and sent an alert to the Drop ships to let them know there were confirmed crew alive on the ship, and that they would likely be hostile. He checked on the ship's defense and attack systems, realizing not a single shot had landed on the Salient, the larger ships were disabled and the fighters were distracted. Tau noted it as a complete success to this point. He addressed an order that have been scrapped earlier due to the battle. He turned to face the Navigation Officer, "Mr. Summer, the Admiral would like to see you in his officer after this, unless he has changed his mind, you can ask him, if you like"
The setting changes from Bridge to The Milky Way Universe
"Roge' that," Ray said on the communication link, as he slowly lifted his throttle to decrease his velocity as the Swing class approached the frigate. He noticed that the rest of the pirates had slipped from the scene, and was thoroughly surprised. Perhaps Tiaan and Hyena gave them a good show and a run for their money. He chuckled to himself about the thought.
"Alright ladies and gents, we're approaching the raider ship, going at 700 meters per second here. We’ll be slowing down once we reach within 200 meters of the ship’s hangar to allow for auto docking,” Ray paused.
“Command says that there are lifefo…eh hostiles on board, so you might want to get your weapons readied,”
“You heard the man, do a systems check,” Eli said as he turned to look at the others. His internal monitors overlaid the other marines in automatic sensors that detected whether they were friend or foe. As he looked down to his rifle, the data system emerged, stating that he had only used about 5% of the available oxygen, internal temperatures were at a comfortable 78 degrees Fahrenheit or 25.5 degrees Celsius, and his rifle was fully loaded with 80 bullets, and the capacitor to control spraying was off.
Eli always had the capacitor off despite the fact that it saved bullets by turning off spraying. However, Eli never had to rely on the capacitor because he was more than capable of using controlled bursts, but at times he realized that spraying fire helped as well.
The Marines began to check their weaponries a final time; they all looked very similar with the black visors and suits, very identical apart from the varying attachments each person carried on them. The dull hologram lights in the troop bay created small bands of light across their screens. The gunship began to reduce its velocity to prevent itself from streaking into the hangar.
“So…who here hasn’t been on a real mission before, raise your hands. I’m not gonna laugh,” Eli was attempting to break the ice as most Marines were the gung ho sort who didn’t joke often in the presence of COs. He, however, was interested into getting know the men and women under him, but he knew that there was a time for jokes and a time for urgency. At least he hoped that they would share a laugh to loosen everyone up before they met whatever hostiles were awaiting them.
"Alright ladies and gents, we're approaching the raider ship, going at 700 meters per second here. We’ll be slowing down once we reach within 200 meters of the ship’s hangar to allow for auto docking,” Ray paused.
“Command says that there are lifefo…eh hostiles on board, so you might want to get your weapons readied,”
“You heard the man, do a systems check,” Eli said as he turned to look at the others. His internal monitors overlaid the other marines in automatic sensors that detected whether they were friend or foe. As he looked down to his rifle, the data system emerged, stating that he had only used about 5% of the available oxygen, internal temperatures were at a comfortable 78 degrees Fahrenheit or 25.5 degrees Celsius, and his rifle was fully loaded with 80 bullets, and the capacitor to control spraying was off.
Eli always had the capacitor off despite the fact that it saved bullets by turning off spraying. However, Eli never had to rely on the capacitor because he was more than capable of using controlled bursts, but at times he realized that spraying fire helped as well.
The Marines began to check their weaponries a final time; they all looked very similar with the black visors and suits, very identical apart from the varying attachments each person carried on them. The dull hologram lights in the troop bay created small bands of light across their screens. The gunship began to reduce its velocity to prevent itself from streaking into the hangar.
“So…who here hasn’t been on a real mission before, raise your hands. I’m not gonna laugh,” Eli was attempting to break the ice as most Marines were the gung ho sort who didn’t joke often in the presence of COs. He, however, was interested into getting know the men and women under him, but he knew that there was a time for jokes and a time for urgency. At least he hoped that they would share a laugh to loosen everyone up before they met whatever hostiles were awaiting them.
Carter actually raised his hand while he began looking over the heavy shotgun he had grasped. "I'm a desk Sergeant sir...A Quarter Master... But I'll give these pirates hell! I am a Marine after all!" He then looked back to the heavily modded 'Wraith Semi-Auto shotgun' in his hands, it was a private sector shotgun he had cleared for use aboard military ships. It fired higher velocity slugs than standard issue shotguns and had a faster fire rate at the cost of a higher chance to overheat if used incorrectly. He listened the breathing his mask for a second, his heart racing. As a Sergeant Major he had trained to board enemy vessels but had never actually done so. "Also... I specialized in explosive equipment when I was younger... I can probably defuse any bombs the pirates may have set to impede our process."
He knew that may be a useful skill on a mission like this so he decided to point it out, he had heard rumors that many insurgents and pirates would rig their ships with explosives when they knew they were dead in the water. Some kind of last ditch effort to kill as many Marines as they could while going out with a bang. And it had worked. However, Carter would do his best to prevent any deaths caused by door rigged mines or explosive packed crates. It was his job after all. He took one more deep breathe as they neared the crippled pirate ship, sweating slightly under the heavy suit. He was nervous but he would never show it since he was the second highest ranking member in their little boarding party and he knew if he cracked it would probably shatter some of the Marine's morale or make him a liability on his own, which he bluntly refused to be.
He knew that may be a useful skill on a mission like this so he decided to point it out, he had heard rumors that many insurgents and pirates would rig their ships with explosives when they knew they were dead in the water. Some kind of last ditch effort to kill as many Marines as they could while going out with a bang. And it had worked. However, Carter would do his best to prevent any deaths caused by door rigged mines or explosive packed crates. It was his job after all. He took one more deep breathe as they neared the crippled pirate ship, sweating slightly under the heavy suit. He was nervous but he would never show it since he was the second highest ranking member in their little boarding party and he knew if he cracked it would probably shatter some of the Marine's morale or make him a liability on his own, which he bluntly refused to be.
Eli raised his brow, although the other Marines wouldn't see it, surprised at Carter's declaration. He chuckled a bit, perhaps some of the Marines had heard him.
"Okay, maybe I should've promised not to laugh," he said this as he chuckled a bit more. Several laughs came from the other Marines, it seemed like Corporal Stark was the only one who did not find this amusing. She didn't laugh much, perhaps it was the estrogen, or maybe she just didn't have that particular sense of humor if she had any sense of humor at all.
"I'm actually surprised Sergeant, earlier you spoke like you had been in the field before. You sounded like you knew the dangers of combat," Eli stopped and looked around at the others.
"Anyone else? I'm asking because our Sergeant here hasn't been in the field, and there's a high chance that none of you here has either. Nothing wrong with that and all, I'm sure they taught you everything at boot camp, and then some more through Training 3A-3C." Eli stopped, he hoped that some of them had actually known what Training 3A-3C was, otherwise he'd be entering unknown territory with a band of rookies as far up as a Sergeant Major.
Training 3A-3C referred to the third training system developed after the failure of two previous systems and their subsequent reformations. It was a three section training regiment given to Marines after they had successfully graduated from boot camp. From there they would reach 3A, which was the first level, it was similar to an upgraded boot camp training, only longer, with more drills. Most of those who passed Boot Camp would pass 3A, then they would reach 3B. 3B was a tactical training scenario utilizing holograms, similar to the Barracks training center on the Salient. It was here that they honed their targeting abilities, and they would be trained to use standard field equipment. Here, statistics stated that only half of those who succeeded 3A, would be sent to 3C.
3C in itself should have been a separate training regiment considering that Marines only needed to pass 3B to serve with pay. Although some elect to join 3C from their consent. So far the Federation command has found no argument to change the current system. 3C had multiple training locations set aside for Marines, with planets varying in geography and physical features, training centers that simulated zero-g conditions for spaceborne combat, and training centers for underwater combat. Trainees here would train against other 3B graduates, of which numbered only a forth of those who managed to complete 3A successfully, in the multiple combat environments. The trainees would be equally divided into separate squads with a leader, although the position fluctuated from individual to individual based on daily performances. Although the training scenarios are dangerous, there had been zero cases of fatalities, giving the 3C a 100% safety rating. As for the success rate, perhaps only half of those who completed 3B would complete 3C.
After completion of 3C the graduates would be given six months time of R&R to recuperate for the immense training, 3B graduates, however, would receive two months, before being sent to serve aboard vessels.
"Okay, maybe I should've promised not to laugh," he said this as he chuckled a bit more. Several laughs came from the other Marines, it seemed like Corporal Stark was the only one who did not find this amusing. She didn't laugh much, perhaps it was the estrogen, or maybe she just didn't have that particular sense of humor if she had any sense of humor at all.
"I'm actually surprised Sergeant, earlier you spoke like you had been in the field before. You sounded like you knew the dangers of combat," Eli stopped and looked around at the others.
"Anyone else? I'm asking because our Sergeant here hasn't been in the field, and there's a high chance that none of you here has either. Nothing wrong with that and all, I'm sure they taught you everything at boot camp, and then some more through Training 3A-3C." Eli stopped, he hoped that some of them had actually known what Training 3A-3C was, otherwise he'd be entering unknown territory with a band of rookies as far up as a Sergeant Major.
Training 3A-3C referred to the third training system developed after the failure of two previous systems and their subsequent reformations. It was a three section training regiment given to Marines after they had successfully graduated from boot camp. From there they would reach 3A, which was the first level, it was similar to an upgraded boot camp training, only longer, with more drills. Most of those who passed Boot Camp would pass 3A, then they would reach 3B. 3B was a tactical training scenario utilizing holograms, similar to the Barracks training center on the Salient. It was here that they honed their targeting abilities, and they would be trained to use standard field equipment. Here, statistics stated that only half of those who succeeded 3A, would be sent to 3C.
3C in itself should have been a separate training regiment considering that Marines only needed to pass 3B to serve with pay. Although some elect to join 3C from their consent. So far the Federation command has found no argument to change the current system. 3C had multiple training locations set aside for Marines, with planets varying in geography and physical features, training centers that simulated zero-g conditions for spaceborne combat, and training centers for underwater combat. Trainees here would train against other 3B graduates, of which numbered only a forth of those who managed to complete 3A successfully, in the multiple combat environments. The trainees would be equally divided into separate squads with a leader, although the position fluctuated from individual to individual based on daily performances. Although the training scenarios are dangerous, there had been zero cases of fatalities, giving the 3C a 100% safety rating. As for the success rate, perhaps only half of those who completed 3B would complete 3C.
After completion of 3C the graduates would be given six months time of R&R to recuperate for the immense training, 3B graduates, however, would receive two months, before being sent to serve aboard vessels.
"Oh... I've been in the field Captain... Its just been fifteen years since I last saw active combat. I helped quell rebels in Russia and the Middle East." He couldn't help but chuckle along with his fellow Marines. "I've been in service since I was eighteen years old... I'm forty-one now... So if any of you 'whippersnappers' think you'll get the best of me. Your sadly mistaken." He felt the tension easing up, however he knew it wouldn't be long till they dropped onto the Pirate vessel, personally glad he was serving under Colter. Captain Dunaway wasn't a bad Captain, he just didn't seem like the traditional Marine type. Whereas Colter did. He looked over and nodded to Colter. Letting the Captain know that he was ready when they finally landed in the Hornet's nest.
Time to get out there sergeant. Be sure to have fun. He said to himself and then looked around the room at the collection of Marines. He knew this team would succeed in their task but would their be any losses and if so how many? The Sergeant Major remembered while serving aboard another Federation Ship as a member of the vessel's 'Military-support staff team' and while engaging Insurgents. He never actually fired a round while serving aboard that ship, just kept the Armories in check, but soldiers there dreaded boarding duty. Something about narrow hall ways where enemies have control over every reinforced position is a rather dangerous combination. And he imagined so, he had also heard of ship hangers being called Slaughter Boxes. Due to the fact enemies would place light-machine guns around the area and gun the Boarding Party down as soon as they exited the Drop ship. He didn't mention any of this to his fellow Marines of course, it would scare the daylights out of the rookies. "Remember Marines check your corners and look above you when in larger rooms. Just like boot-camp." After that he gripped the side of the gun in his hands and resumed waiting silently.
Time to get out there sergeant. Be sure to have fun. He said to himself and then looked around the room at the collection of Marines. He knew this team would succeed in their task but would their be any losses and if so how many? The Sergeant Major remembered while serving aboard another Federation Ship as a member of the vessel's 'Military-support staff team' and while engaging Insurgents. He never actually fired a round while serving aboard that ship, just kept the Armories in check, but soldiers there dreaded boarding duty. Something about narrow hall ways where enemies have control over every reinforced position is a rather dangerous combination. And he imagined so, he had also heard of ship hangers being called Slaughter Boxes. Due to the fact enemies would place light-machine guns around the area and gun the Boarding Party down as soon as they exited the Drop ship. He didn't mention any of this to his fellow Marines of course, it would scare the daylights out of the rookies. "Remember Marines check your corners and look above you when in larger rooms. Just like boot-camp." After that he gripped the side of the gun in his hands and resumed waiting silently.
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Aboard the Altamus Corporation Freighter Summerwind
"We've been ignoring all hails like you said Mr. Brown but..." Petty Officer Crane was hesitant to speak his mind to the mercenary. The Captain had retired to quarters almost as soon as the pirates attacked. Lieutenant Barnes followed soon after only leaving a standing order of "stay the course". Mr. Brown showed up when his ship was damaged and took command of both the Summerwind and the Centurion. He really wasn't a bad guy just the way he did things unnerved the rest of the crew but since he was the only one on either ship that had flown in combat he was their temporary war-time Admiral.
"Call me Cronos kid, what's up?"
"Another hail sir, with the go-phrase."
Cronos sat up in the Captain's chair and snubbed out his cigar. "Patch that shit through Crane."
Tartarus HQ Actual. Status of mission and personnel. Over.
Petty Officer Crane send reply code and following message; "Mission wipe, need auxiliary vessels to complete. Cronos. Summerwind 44-973." He paused thinking that was a pretty concise message almost Captainly . Crane typed in the message and sent it. "Do you think that was enough, sir? I mean to say it was vague." Crane regretted being so frank with the man, Cronos scared him; they all did.
"You gotta be cloudy cause if you are all "yea a whole fuck-ton of pirates are trying to take cargo worth trillions and all our ships are either crippled or destroyed." you know what happens? More pirates show up and that's fine; the Federation out there is cleaning house but if mercs show up with their own battle cruiser or two. That's a whole other plate of curry, ya dig?" Cronos sat back and went to relight his cigar, remembering it was smashed he fetched another out of his pocket and lit it.
"We're getting a scrambled hail from someone called Zig-Zag aboard the Queen Gertrude? Is that familiar to you sir?"
Cronos laughed. "Yea patch it through. We got friends coming." He cleared his throat and took a puff of his cigar. "Zig-Zag you fuck, you coming to save our asses?"
My understanding is that you got ghosted like academy burnouts. Fact on that? The woman's voice coming through the speakers was garbled from buffering to forty different communication hubs to prevent triangulation but still held a command sternness.
"Yea we were flying five S ladies and just two multi-gun frigates dropped by to say hi. We took one out but we lost everyone but Ronin and me."
Dry your eyes baby, Dirty Gertie is coming to help. Unless you joined the Fed now? We just got a lock-message saying you guys need help. We're ETA forty minutes.
He ashed his cigar. "Ronin is aboard the Federation ship. She must have told them to send it, I've been keeping radio silence so anybody with ears on doesn't know how bad it is. I haven't seen Gertie in a while, she taking us -"
Crane raised his hand shushed him. Cronos shut up. Ballsy move from a weasel of a kid. "Federation hail coming through with go-phrase. Advise?" Was Ronin on the bridge? He figured she would be in some damn Federation quarantine for thirty plus hours. Shocking developments. "Gertie hold please, we got the Fed calling. Patch them through Petty Officer.
Altamus vessel Summerwind, Summerwind, this is the Salient, what is your status? I repeat, what is your status?
"Alta-Corp Vessel Summerwind, we read you Salient. We're undamaged but in need of an escort, which I'm getting covered as we speak; one of our carriers the Queen Gertrude. Our protocols keep comms clear during combat unless it's a trusted source, we weren't ignoring you. You just didn't have the magic word. Tell Ronin thanks for looking out and thanks to you guys for taking out the trash. We'll be underway as soon as our escort arrives if you can stick around until then. Summerwind, out."
You getting Federation body guards? Must be nice to have friends in high places.
"We don't discriminate. Cronos, out."
The man sighed. He needed a drink. Crane removed his headset and turned towards him. "Cronos, sir. This ship that's coming, you said to the Salient it's a carrier. What does it carry, troops?" The Petty Officer wasn't really in the fleet, he was an Alta-Corp employee that worked in a network server room. Crane was given the rank of Petty Officer because that's what a board of Human Resources Directors figured his job translated to based on the fleet system. He was no more a Petty Officer than a security guard was really police. Cronos sighed.
"The Dirty Gertie carries two hundred and forty four fighters, she carries death. We're getting home safe kid, bet on that."
"We've been ignoring all hails like you said Mr. Brown but..." Petty Officer Crane was hesitant to speak his mind to the mercenary. The Captain had retired to quarters almost as soon as the pirates attacked. Lieutenant Barnes followed soon after only leaving a standing order of "stay the course". Mr. Brown showed up when his ship was damaged and took command of both the Summerwind and the Centurion. He really wasn't a bad guy just the way he did things unnerved the rest of the crew but since he was the only one on either ship that had flown in combat he was their temporary war-time Admiral.
"Call me Cronos kid, what's up?"
"Another hail sir, with the go-phrase."
Cronos sat up in the Captain's chair and snubbed out his cigar. "Patch that shit through Crane."
Tartarus HQ Actual. Status of mission and personnel. Over.
Petty Officer Crane send reply code and following message; "Mission wipe, need auxiliary vessels to complete. Cronos. Summerwind 44-973." He paused thinking that was a pretty concise message almost Captainly . Crane typed in the message and sent it. "Do you think that was enough, sir? I mean to say it was vague." Crane regretted being so frank with the man, Cronos scared him; they all did.
"You gotta be cloudy cause if you are all "yea a whole fuck-ton of pirates are trying to take cargo worth trillions and all our ships are either crippled or destroyed." you know what happens? More pirates show up and that's fine; the Federation out there is cleaning house but if mercs show up with their own battle cruiser or two. That's a whole other plate of curry, ya dig?" Cronos sat back and went to relight his cigar, remembering it was smashed he fetched another out of his pocket and lit it.
"We're getting a scrambled hail from someone called Zig-Zag aboard the Queen Gertrude? Is that familiar to you sir?"
Cronos laughed. "Yea patch it through. We got friends coming." He cleared his throat and took a puff of his cigar. "Zig-Zag you fuck, you coming to save our asses?"
My understanding is that you got ghosted like academy burnouts. Fact on that? The woman's voice coming through the speakers was garbled from buffering to forty different communication hubs to prevent triangulation but still held a command sternness.
"Yea we were flying five S ladies and just two multi-gun frigates dropped by to say hi. We took one out but we lost everyone but Ronin and me."
Dry your eyes baby, Dirty Gertie is coming to help. Unless you joined the Fed now? We just got a lock-message saying you guys need help. We're ETA forty minutes.
He ashed his cigar. "Ronin is aboard the Federation ship. She must have told them to send it, I've been keeping radio silence so anybody with ears on doesn't know how bad it is. I haven't seen Gertie in a while, she taking us -"
Crane raised his hand shushed him. Cronos shut up. Ballsy move from a weasel of a kid. "Federation hail coming through with go-phrase. Advise?" Was Ronin on the bridge? He figured she would be in some damn Federation quarantine for thirty plus hours. Shocking developments. "Gertie hold please, we got the Fed calling. Patch them through Petty Officer.
Altamus vessel Summerwind, Summerwind, this is the Salient, what is your status? I repeat, what is your status?
"Alta-Corp Vessel Summerwind, we read you Salient. We're undamaged but in need of an escort, which I'm getting covered as we speak; one of our carriers the Queen Gertrude. Our protocols keep comms clear during combat unless it's a trusted source, we weren't ignoring you. You just didn't have the magic word. Tell Ronin thanks for looking out and thanks to you guys for taking out the trash. We'll be underway as soon as our escort arrives if you can stick around until then. Summerwind, out."
You getting Federation body guards? Must be nice to have friends in high places.
"We don't discriminate. Cronos, out."
The man sighed. He needed a drink. Crane removed his headset and turned towards him. "Cronos, sir. This ship that's coming, you said to the Salient it's a carrier. What does it carry, troops?" The Petty Officer wasn't really in the fleet, he was an Alta-Corp employee that worked in a network server room. Crane was given the rank of Petty Officer because that's what a board of Human Resources Directors figured his job translated to based on the fleet system. He was no more a Petty Officer than a security guard was really police. Cronos sighed.
"The Dirty Gertie carries two hundred and forty four fighters, she carries death. We're getting home safe kid, bet on that."
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Hangar
Tiaan Peyton
Whipping her helmet off, she felt some mechanics help her off, one even tried to grab her ass -- cheeky. That didn't bother her today, once they done congratulating her. She turned to the fighter to review any damage, other than some charring, nothing was terrible. BlueBird had done it again, although it was great she hadn't been only one to survive this time.
Turning to Hyena who was revelling in the attention she smirked, "Fly girls never change huh? We're certainly not to down to earth." waiting a little she added, "Great flying, but how did you avoid fighter hurtling at you, when I blew it's wing off, I lost sight of you so couldn't see what was going on."
While waiting she stretched and played through fight in her mind, overall it had been great fight. Pirates were never really trained flyers although she had once heard her Father had fought the legendary pirate Silver Eyes once known as Vice Admiral Atreus Eturrer, a very renowned Admiral at the time, sadly his story of heroics ended when he went over to Pirates. To this day no one knows why, or why he massacred his whole crew. Many who had fought Silver Eyes had died in action or barely escaped. It was actually that fight which had made her father return for a whole year to be with his family.
Hushed tones of reverence and fear were often heard when the name was spoken.
Secretly Tiaan wanted to be the one to kill him, it was her main goal. Shoot Silver Eyes out into space, and let his reign of tyranny end. Although it was unlikely to happen in this case, but maybe just maybe these pirates were led by him. If this was the case, this thing could blow up in their faces. Silver Eyes had fought full fleets and escaped. They'd be easy picking.
Shaking the thought out her mind, she smiled, although maybe she was just worrying too much.
Whipping her helmet off, she felt some mechanics help her off, one even tried to grab her ass -- cheeky. That didn't bother her today, once they done congratulating her. She turned to the fighter to review any damage, other than some charring, nothing was terrible. BlueBird had done it again, although it was great she hadn't been only one to survive this time.
Turning to Hyena who was revelling in the attention she smirked, "Fly girls never change huh? We're certainly not to down to earth." waiting a little she added, "Great flying, but how did you avoid fighter hurtling at you, when I blew it's wing off, I lost sight of you so couldn't see what was going on."
While waiting she stretched and played through fight in her mind, overall it had been great fight. Pirates were never really trained flyers although she had once heard her Father had fought the legendary pirate Silver Eyes once known as Vice Admiral Atreus Eturrer, a very renowned Admiral at the time, sadly his story of heroics ended when he went over to Pirates. To this day no one knows why, or why he massacred his whole crew. Many who had fought Silver Eyes had died in action or barely escaped. It was actually that fight which had made her father return for a whole year to be with his family.
Hushed tones of reverence and fear were often heard when the name was spoken.
Secretly Tiaan wanted to be the one to kill him, it was her main goal. Shoot Silver Eyes out into space, and let his reign of tyranny end. Although it was unlikely to happen in this case, but maybe just maybe these pirates were led by him. If this was the case, this thing could blow up in their faces. Silver Eyes had fought full fleets and escaped. They'd be easy picking.
Shaking the thought out her mind, she smiled, although maybe she was just worrying too much.
Alta-Corp Vessel Summerwind, we read you Salient. We're undamaged but in need of an escort, which I'm getting covered as we speak; one of our carriers the Queen Gertrude. Our protocols keep comms clear during combat unless it's a trusted source, we weren't ignoring you. You just didn't have the magic word. Tell Ronin thanks for looking out and thanks to you guys for taking out the trash. We'll be underway as soon as our escort arrives if you can stick around until then. Summerwind, out.
The rest of the bridge crew resumed their previous activities as the field cleared of hostiles. The lumbering hull of the Salient slowly approached the two Altamus vessels, before finally stopping within reach of the two vessels.
Salient to Summerwind, we will remain behind until your vessel escorts have arrived, Aronimus paused.
The Admiral turned to one of his junior grade lieutenants, Francis Napier, who was attending his own systems. Napier was of mix descent, a majority of which was French, a recent graduate of the Naval Academy. He did not have a distinguished academic career during his time in the Academy, and was sent to serve on a small frigate. After two years time, he requested for a re-assignment, where the Department of the Navy reassigned him to the Salient, against his wishes. He wasn't exactly enthusiastic to be dragged to the far reaches of known space for obscure reasons. However, following the small victory enjoyed by the Salient over the pirates, he felt a bit of pride and excitement.
"Mr. Napier, can you do a scan on the two Altamus vessels to assess their damage?"
"Right away sir," Napier spoke with a hidden accent that even the Admiral could not distinguish from an accent-less voice.
Located in the underbelly of the Salient were multiple sensors and scanners, which then beamed directly at the two vessels. The beam bathed the two vessels in a thin field of particles. Once the reading was acquired, Napier began to read out the assessment.
"Well, both vessels still have their propulsion systems working, though the Centurion has one damaged drive, as well as extensive damage to the external hull. The Summerwind has damage, but not as severe. Your orders sir?"
The Admiral rubbed his beard, before coming up with an answer. He could send some of the Salient's repair drones, but those were strictly for federal vessels plus the Altamus vessels already had another escort en route to their location. Aronimus returned the link to the Altamus vessels.
I am inclined to inquire about the nature of your cargo. I want to know why the pirates went after you.
The rest of the bridge crew resumed their previous activities as the field cleared of hostiles. The lumbering hull of the Salient slowly approached the two Altamus vessels, before finally stopping within reach of the two vessels.
Salient to Summerwind, we will remain behind until your vessel escorts have arrived, Aronimus paused.
The Admiral turned to one of his junior grade lieutenants, Francis Napier, who was attending his own systems. Napier was of mix descent, a majority of which was French, a recent graduate of the Naval Academy. He did not have a distinguished academic career during his time in the Academy, and was sent to serve on a small frigate. After two years time, he requested for a re-assignment, where the Department of the Navy reassigned him to the Salient, against his wishes. He wasn't exactly enthusiastic to be dragged to the far reaches of known space for obscure reasons. However, following the small victory enjoyed by the Salient over the pirates, he felt a bit of pride and excitement.
"Mr. Napier, can you do a scan on the two Altamus vessels to assess their damage?"
"Right away sir," Napier spoke with a hidden accent that even the Admiral could not distinguish from an accent-less voice.
Located in the underbelly of the Salient were multiple sensors and scanners, which then beamed directly at the two vessels. The beam bathed the two vessels in a thin field of particles. Once the reading was acquired, Napier began to read out the assessment.
"Well, both vessels still have their propulsion systems working, though the Centurion has one damaged drive, as well as extensive damage to the external hull. The Summerwind has damage, but not as severe. Your orders sir?"
The Admiral rubbed his beard, before coming up with an answer. He could send some of the Salient's repair drones, but those were strictly for federal vessels plus the Altamus vessels already had another escort en route to their location. Aronimus returned the link to the Altamus vessels.
I am inclined to inquire about the nature of your cargo. I want to know why the pirates went after you.
The setting changes from Bridge to The Milky Way Universe
Eon saw as the ship pulled over to the others, the ships were damaged and needed repairs Eon remembered he has some basic ship tools that could be of assistance to a degree he walked up to the Admiral, "Shall I go over to the ship too?" He asked with a salute, "I am equipped with a drill and arc welder, sir" Eon knew he'd be useful and could assess the damage, and even possibly repair the drive on the Centurion with the hull. He hoped for the best as far as he could.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Bridge
Aronimus turned to the enthusiastic android, who proposed that he help repair the corporate vessels. Although Aronimus knew that androids were well equipped for such duties, Eon wouldn't be enough, plus he didn't have authorization to send Eon to repair a private vessel. All personnel of Federation vessels would be delegated to duties on board Federation vessels not anywhere else.
"No that won't be necessary Eon," the Admiral returned to awaiting a response from the Summerwind.
"Mr. Hansen, you think you can find our friend here something to do?"
The Scotsman turned to the Admiral, he looked baffled, he didn't have the first idea as to what he could assign to the android. He scratched his head of unkempt red hair before coming up with a suitable duty.
"Eh? Why don't you go to the hangar, a damaged gunship should be docked in there. See if you can't help the engineers repair that," Hansen turned to his control panel and activated the internal communications systems.
"Any available engineers, report to the Alpha Hangar, we've got a damaged ship that needs repairs," Hansen turned off the communications and nodded to the android.
"No that won't be necessary Eon," the Admiral returned to awaiting a response from the Summerwind.
"Mr. Hansen, you think you can find our friend here something to do?"
The Scotsman turned to the Admiral, he looked baffled, he didn't have the first idea as to what he could assign to the android. He scratched his head of unkempt red hair before coming up with a suitable duty.
"Eh? Why don't you go to the hangar, a damaged gunship should be docked in there. See if you can't help the engineers repair that," Hansen turned to his control panel and activated the internal communications systems.
"Any available engineers, report to the Alpha Hangar, we've got a damaged ship that needs repairs," Hansen turned off the communications and nodded to the android.
The setting changes from Bridge to The Milky Way Universe
As the Swing class gunship passed through the particle field, Ray flipped another switch to modify the angle of the thrusters, allowing for a vertical landing. He gave his scanners a look before activating the communication system.
“This is your Captain speaking, we’ve arrived in the belly of the beast, and eh oxygen levels are at all-time normal. The temperature outside is a fresh 74 degrees Fahrenheit, hope you packed sunglasses and a bathing suit,” he chuckled aloud for the entire troop bay.
The gunship slowly descended, and the landing struts unfurled from their compartments.
“I hope you enjoyed your flight, thank you for flyin’ with Davidson Galactic,” some chuckles came from Reynolds and Weifert as they heard this over the troop bay speakers.
Ray turned off the communique and turned to one of the overhead compartments, and grabbed a liquefied chocolate bar, one of a dozen that he kept in the storage. He peeled off the plastic wrap and squeezed the liquid food into his mouth, it was sweet and syrupy, flowing in between his tongue. He gave a satisfied sigh before standing up from his seat. He walked to the bay door that separated the cockpit from the troop bay and slapped his palm on the button, thus opening the door.He entered the cargo bay, still sipping his chocolate. His eyes floated from Marine to Marine, the only thing that set each of them apart were the identification tags located on the upper torso of their armor. Everyone was decked out and ready to go.
“Alright, the place looks clear, if you need Uncle Ray, just gimme a call. I’ll be in the cockpit of my baby. You know...just holdin' down the fort,” Ray re-entered the cockpit, propping his legs up on his control board as he reclined in his pilot's seat to enjoy his snack. Closing his eyes, he slipped his empty hand under his head.
He inched his left foot forward to push down the button that opened the egress hatches. The hatches that closed off the troop bay from the outside swung upwards, and Eli was the first to step out, his assault rifle in hand aimed down his line of sight, followed by Carter with his automatic shotgun covering Eli’s flank, then Corporal Stark, and finally by Weifert and Reynolds.
Everyone agreed that the hangar seemed devoid of hostiles, and they regrouped as Eli reported to Commander Dunaway through his helmet’s internal communicators. The system was linked to the whole squad, so everyone received the same chatter coming in and out.
“Sir, we’re in,”
“Excellent, see what you can find, but enter at your own peril. Dunaway out,” Atomsk was brief but to the point.
“Copy that sir,” Eli turned to the rest of his squad,
“Alright, Bravo team, everyone remember their call signs? Bravo 1,” Eli began, his voice slightly distorted by his helmet.
“Bravo 2,” Carter nodded.
“Bravo 3,” Stark glanced to her right, as if she detected another raider.
“Bravo 4,” Weifert prepped his IAR.
“Bravo 5,” Reynolds stood at attention.
“Alright, let’s move, I’ll take point, head to the Hangar exit, and keep visual contact,” Eli hunched forward slightly with his assault rifle nested between his neck, shoulder, and arms. He kept his forefinger on the trigger, ready for any bastard to pop out, so he could slug him. He led the squad forth to the hangar exit as the others followed in tow.
“This is your Captain speaking, we’ve arrived in the belly of the beast, and eh oxygen levels are at all-time normal. The temperature outside is a fresh 74 degrees Fahrenheit, hope you packed sunglasses and a bathing suit,” he chuckled aloud for the entire troop bay.
The gunship slowly descended, and the landing struts unfurled from their compartments.
“I hope you enjoyed your flight, thank you for flyin’ with Davidson Galactic,” some chuckles came from Reynolds and Weifert as they heard this over the troop bay speakers.
Ray turned off the communique and turned to one of the overhead compartments, and grabbed a liquefied chocolate bar, one of a dozen that he kept in the storage. He peeled off the plastic wrap and squeezed the liquid food into his mouth, it was sweet and syrupy, flowing in between his tongue. He gave a satisfied sigh before standing up from his seat. He walked to the bay door that separated the cockpit from the troop bay and slapped his palm on the button, thus opening the door.He entered the cargo bay, still sipping his chocolate. His eyes floated from Marine to Marine, the only thing that set each of them apart were the identification tags located on the upper torso of their armor. Everyone was decked out and ready to go.
“Alright, the place looks clear, if you need Uncle Ray, just gimme a call. I’ll be in the cockpit of my baby. You know...just holdin' down the fort,” Ray re-entered the cockpit, propping his legs up on his control board as he reclined in his pilot's seat to enjoy his snack. Closing his eyes, he slipped his empty hand under his head.
He inched his left foot forward to push down the button that opened the egress hatches. The hatches that closed off the troop bay from the outside swung upwards, and Eli was the first to step out, his assault rifle in hand aimed down his line of sight, followed by Carter with his automatic shotgun covering Eli’s flank, then Corporal Stark, and finally by Weifert and Reynolds.
Everyone agreed that the hangar seemed devoid of hostiles, and they regrouped as Eli reported to Commander Dunaway through his helmet’s internal communicators. The system was linked to the whole squad, so everyone received the same chatter coming in and out.
“Sir, we’re in,”
“Excellent, see what you can find, but enter at your own peril. Dunaway out,” Atomsk was brief but to the point.
“Copy that sir,” Eli turned to the rest of his squad,
“Alright, Bravo team, everyone remember their call signs? Bravo 1,” Eli began, his voice slightly distorted by his helmet.
“Bravo 2,” Carter nodded.
“Bravo 3,” Stark glanced to her right, as if she detected another raider.
“Bravo 4,” Weifert prepped his IAR.
“Bravo 5,” Reynolds stood at attention.
“Alright, let’s move, I’ll take point, head to the Hangar exit, and keep visual contact,” Eli hunched forward slightly with his assault rifle nested between his neck, shoulder, and arms. He kept his forefinger on the trigger, ready for any bastard to pop out, so he could slug him. He led the squad forth to the hangar exit as the others followed in tow.
The fleeing pirates had several kilometers' worth of lead on her Rapier, and while that normally wouldnt be enough distance to outrun the Federation fighter, it is just enough distance to make Hyena doubt. With no noise but her humming engines, it's enough time for the killing rush to cool, and for the niggling little thought to wriggle in that her six was hanging out in open space with no one to cover it. Much farther, and she'd be too far to even run back into the safety of the Salient's range if she got into trouble. Not even the temptation of more 'fun' mixing it up in another dogfight is enough to dismiss that threat, and reluctantly Hyena eases the throttle back from its stops.
In the hangar, the fighter pilot helmet and flightsuit that Tiaan adresses turns around, and it's not Hyena; just some other shmuck who looks vaguely confused when she calls him a flygirl. What, single-seat pilots all look alike to you or somethin? Trollolol.
The flickering red marks on her scopes reach the edge of her range and blink out of contact, and she shows the Rapier's wings in a wide turn back towards the Salient and its waiting hangar.
"Salient Control, Rapier 338, hostiles are no-factor." She reports glumly, "Do you want me to maintain a patrol until the civies get their escort or head back to the barn?"
Taking the time to run a functionality check in the meantime, Hyena is pleased that her craft is still in fighting shape after a furball like that. It'd gotten hairy quick when Tiaan had sent an out-of-control pirate in her direction, but the timely call for evasive maneuvers had really saved her ass from becomming a victim of fratricide. Not that her shoulder appreciated the harness digging into it during the sharp snap she'd had to execute, but that was a small price to pay for still feeling at all.
Life was remarkably fragile in the void, especially for such a small craft as a fighter. The whole cockpit compartment was a titanium and transparasteel bathtub, but if that tenuous sanctuary was breached, she'd be sitting in ice-cold space with only the discomfortingly thin fabric of her flightsuit between her and vaccuum. If -that- had even the smallest failure... Well, they say it lasted just long enough for you to feel it. Still, all of the above was prefferable to having some vital system punctured, leaving her spiraling - but alive - out into the endless black. Waiting for her air to run out seemed like pretty much the shittiest way to go, and as an afterthought Hyena makes a note to see the armory; it might be worth bringing along a pistol for just such an occasion...
With a quick shake, she disperses the last vestiges of adrenaline along with those gloomy thoughts, returning to basking in a pleased post-combat glow while she awaits a response.
In the hangar, the fighter pilot helmet and flightsuit that Tiaan adresses turns around, and it's not Hyena; just some other shmuck who looks vaguely confused when she calls him a flygirl. What, single-seat pilots all look alike to you or somethin? Trollolol.
The flickering red marks on her scopes reach the edge of her range and blink out of contact, and she shows the Rapier's wings in a wide turn back towards the Salient and its waiting hangar.
"Salient Control, Rapier 338, hostiles are no-factor." She reports glumly, "Do you want me to maintain a patrol until the civies get their escort or head back to the barn?"
Taking the time to run a functionality check in the meantime, Hyena is pleased that her craft is still in fighting shape after a furball like that. It'd gotten hairy quick when Tiaan had sent an out-of-control pirate in her direction, but the timely call for evasive maneuvers had really saved her ass from becomming a victim of fratricide. Not that her shoulder appreciated the harness digging into it during the sharp snap she'd had to execute, but that was a small price to pay for still feeling at all.
Life was remarkably fragile in the void, especially for such a small craft as a fighter. The whole cockpit compartment was a titanium and transparasteel bathtub, but if that tenuous sanctuary was breached, she'd be sitting in ice-cold space with only the discomfortingly thin fabric of her flightsuit between her and vaccuum. If -that- had even the smallest failure... Well, they say it lasted just long enough for you to feel it. Still, all of the above was prefferable to having some vital system punctured, leaving her spiraling - but alive - out into the endless black. Waiting for her air to run out seemed like pretty much the shittiest way to go, and as an afterthought Hyena makes a note to see the armory; it might be worth bringing along a pistol for just such an occasion...
With a quick shake, she disperses the last vestiges of adrenaline along with those gloomy thoughts, returning to basking in a pleased post-combat glow while she awaits a response.
Eon nodded and moved to his destination and task as per programming he reached Alpha Hangar and saw the gunship, he scanned it for any issues, the engine was a bit damaged from the pilot pushing the ship's limits and there were several bullet holes from multiple tasks, an easy fix. Eon left for a second and got the necessary tools for the job and started working, particularly on the engine and power systems, some of the parts were worn down and in need of replacing. After a bit Eon analyzed and retrieved the parts in need of replacement, then taking the third arm out Eon initiated the arc welder to house the engine better with a little bit of metal. A few hours later Eon started patching the bullet holes with thicker armor. He smoothed out the patches with a grinder and polished the ship. He looked at it and decided to put a little more armor throughout the hull of the ship for a bit better protection and to make sure it doesn't have holes in it again using the arc welder and getting it done in a few hours. Eon stepped back to see how it looked and scanned it to make sure he was positive on the repairs and he was. It took him six hours but his job was complete. Standing in the hangar he fell and powered down. The arc welder having drained him.
Aboard Altamus Corporation Freighter Summerwind
Cronos wiped his mouth after taking a drink of water from a large plastic jug. "You guys got the best water, ours tastes like rotten eggs sometimes, kinda depends if the water recycler decides to work right or not, you know?" Cronos could get used to quality of life corporate service afforded; everything was clean and bathrooms didn't all smell like sex. Petty Officer Crane turned in his chair. "Sir, the Queen Gertrude has shown up on our screen but is ten minutes away, also the Salient is advancing on our position six zero zero meters and holding, she's hailing us." Rubbing his chin, Cronos wondered when it would start; one thing about the Federation, your business was their business. "Patch it through, man." He sighed.
Salient to Summerwind, we will remain behind until your vessel escorts have arrived.
Crane made a note of message in the log book and noticed the Salient was scanning them. He didn't let Cronos know as the man would probably be upset about it for some reason. The Alta-Corp ships didn't have anything to hide, unlike mercenary ships - god only knew what secrets they held. "Sir we have a follow-up message from the Salient."
I am inclined to inquire about the nature of your cargo. I want to know why the pirates went after you.
The ten other bridge officers all looked worried. Transporting any cargo was dangerous; no matter the contents someone always wanted it. Duillium was different, it was a high commodity ore; used in both the civilian and military capacity and these ships were at seventy percent yield. Seven hundred thousand tons of raw ore split between them; a prize that a criminal group would do anything to seize, for that reason Duillium is never mentioned over open comm lines.
"Crane, send an encrypted message to the Salient use the Altamus Top Black coding, a captain of a Federation ship would have the clearance to access it. We don't want to risk more visitors. Message is follows; "Transporting 700,000 tons of Duillium ore for Mars refinery." Now open a channel." Cronos said.
"Message prepared and channel clear, sir." Crane didn't like all this secret stuff, he wanted this run to be over so he could put in for vacation and spend some time with his cats.
"Salient this is Summerwind. First, thanks for sticking around. Second, to answer your inquiry an encrypted communique is being sent. Acknowledge receipt. Any follow up questions should be sent in the same way. Summerwind, out." Cronos looked at his watch and was happy Gertie was only minutes away now, they could finally get on the move and not be sitting there like an all-you-can-pillage-buffet.
Cronos wiped his mouth after taking a drink of water from a large plastic jug. "You guys got the best water, ours tastes like rotten eggs sometimes, kinda depends if the water recycler decides to work right or not, you know?" Cronos could get used to quality of life corporate service afforded; everything was clean and bathrooms didn't all smell like sex. Petty Officer Crane turned in his chair. "Sir, the Queen Gertrude has shown up on our screen but is ten minutes away, also the Salient is advancing on our position six zero zero meters and holding, she's hailing us." Rubbing his chin, Cronos wondered when it would start; one thing about the Federation, your business was their business. "Patch it through, man." He sighed.
Salient to Summerwind, we will remain behind until your vessel escorts have arrived.
Crane made a note of message in the log book and noticed the Salient was scanning them. He didn't let Cronos know as the man would probably be upset about it for some reason. The Alta-Corp ships didn't have anything to hide, unlike mercenary ships - god only knew what secrets they held. "Sir we have a follow-up message from the Salient."
I am inclined to inquire about the nature of your cargo. I want to know why the pirates went after you.
The ten other bridge officers all looked worried. Transporting any cargo was dangerous; no matter the contents someone always wanted it. Duillium was different, it was a high commodity ore; used in both the civilian and military capacity and these ships were at seventy percent yield. Seven hundred thousand tons of raw ore split between them; a prize that a criminal group would do anything to seize, for that reason Duillium is never mentioned over open comm lines.
"Crane, send an encrypted message to the Salient use the Altamus Top Black coding, a captain of a Federation ship would have the clearance to access it. We don't want to risk more visitors. Message is follows; "Transporting 700,000 tons of Duillium ore for Mars refinery." Now open a channel." Cronos said.
"Message prepared and channel clear, sir." Crane didn't like all this secret stuff, he wanted this run to be over so he could put in for vacation and spend some time with his cats.
"Salient this is Summerwind. First, thanks for sticking around. Second, to answer your inquiry an encrypted communique is being sent. Acknowledge receipt. Any follow up questions should be sent in the same way. Summerwind, out." Cronos looked at his watch and was happy Gertie was only minutes away now, they could finally get on the move and not be sitting there like an all-you-can-pillage-buffet.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Bridge
Salient Control, Rapier 338, hostiles are no-factor. Do you want me to maintain a patrol until the civies get their escort or head back to the barn?
"Rapier 338, this is Salient, the field is clear of hostiles, yeh might as well spin around and head back, Salient out." Hansen closed the channel, but not before they received a transmission coming from the Summerwind.
Salient this is Summerwind. First, thanks for sticking around. Second, to answer your inquiry an encrypted communique is being sent. Acknowledge receipt. Any follow up questions should be sent in the same way. Summerwind, out.
The Admiral turned to Hansen, who gave him a nod of approval after the encrypted message had arrived.
"Summerwind, this is Salient, we received your transmission. Salient, out." Aronimus turned once more to the petty officer who began to decode the encryption.
"Aye, Captain, they're carryin' Duilium as the cargo," the Admiral's eyes narrowed, now it made complete sense.
"700,000 tons of it sir! Aye, that be worth trillions on the market," Hansen was mystified at the quantity that was given.
"Calm down Mr. Hansen," Aronimus was similarly surprised as to why only two pirate frigates attempted to raid the freighters.
Normally, quantities that ranged over 250,000 tons would attract a larger contingent of pirate ships. Yet, there were only two frigates and around three dozen fighters to harass the vessels, granted that the escorts were only five gunships, but even then a cargo of this magnitude was enough to bankroll a small scale war effort. Marauders would be more than ready to swarm two freighters with a meager wing of escorts. Another oddity was the fact that the pirates had withdrawn so readily, leaving behind their two frigates. All of these details didn't seem to add up to Aronimus.
"Mr. Hansen keep your eye on the monitors in case any more hostiles show their faces,"
"Aye sir," Hansen saluted the Admiral.
"Tau, keep the weapon systems online as well," lines of worry began to appear on the Admiral's forehead.
"Rapier 338, this is Salient, the field is clear of hostiles, yeh might as well spin around and head back, Salient out." Hansen closed the channel, but not before they received a transmission coming from the Summerwind.
Salient this is Summerwind. First, thanks for sticking around. Second, to answer your inquiry an encrypted communique is being sent. Acknowledge receipt. Any follow up questions should be sent in the same way. Summerwind, out.
The Admiral turned to Hansen, who gave him a nod of approval after the encrypted message had arrived.
"Summerwind, this is Salient, we received your transmission. Salient, out." Aronimus turned once more to the petty officer who began to decode the encryption.
"Aye, Captain, they're carryin' Duilium as the cargo," the Admiral's eyes narrowed, now it made complete sense.
"700,000 tons of it sir! Aye, that be worth trillions on the market," Hansen was mystified at the quantity that was given.
"Calm down Mr. Hansen," Aronimus was similarly surprised as to why only two pirate frigates attempted to raid the freighters.
Normally, quantities that ranged over 250,000 tons would attract a larger contingent of pirate ships. Yet, there were only two frigates and around three dozen fighters to harass the vessels, granted that the escorts were only five gunships, but even then a cargo of this magnitude was enough to bankroll a small scale war effort. Marauders would be more than ready to swarm two freighters with a meager wing of escorts. Another oddity was the fact that the pirates had withdrawn so readily, leaving behind their two frigates. All of these details didn't seem to add up to Aronimus.
"Mr. Hansen keep your eye on the monitors in case any more hostiles show their faces,"
"Aye sir," Hansen saluted the Admiral.
"Tau, keep the weapon systems online as well," lines of worry began to appear on the Admiral's forehead.
AI TAU
Tau nodded, "Yes Admiral, weapons systems are hot" he says, complying with orders. He checked in on the Hangar bay Cameras to inquire the condition of the fighters and gunships, "Shall I keep our pilots on standby for launch? Their ships don't seem too damaged" he asked. Having as many assets as they could pull would be good. The load they were defending could bring out quite a large group of Pirates. Tau checked on the Rail Guns, like the rest of the ship, they had taken no damage in the attack. They were being kept hot, but that could cause overheating, so Tau let the charges drop slightly to cool things down, but keep the ship ready to fire at a moments notice. Tau then checked in on the scans, looking for anything out there. "We seem to be in the clear so far" he notes aloud, to the bridge.
Tau nodded, "Yes Admiral, weapons systems are hot" he says, complying with orders. He checked in on the Hangar bay Cameras to inquire the condition of the fighters and gunships, "Shall I keep our pilots on standby for launch? Their ships don't seem too damaged" he asked. Having as many assets as they could pull would be good. The load they were defending could bring out quite a large group of Pirates. Tau checked on the Rail Guns, like the rest of the ship, they had taken no damage in the attack. They were being kept hot, but that could cause overheating, so Tau let the charges drop slightly to cool things down, but keep the ship ready to fire at a moments notice. Tau then checked in on the scans, looking for anything out there. "We seem to be in the clear so far" he notes aloud, to the bridge.
The setting changes from Bridge to Central Observation Deck
The Admiral decided he would go on and inspect the wounded gunship pilot, who by now was probably being entertained by the Lieutenant Commander. He walked forth through the large bustling corridors; his way was lighted by the many lights located above him on the ceiling, and below him on the walkway. Crew members traversed the corridors hourly for their own reasons, as he walked by, they saluted. Personnel instantly recognized the service dress that was Aronimus’ usual attire, accompanied by the adornment of five stars which represented Admiralty.
He gave them a nod each time for them to carry on, so he could carry on. Although he could’ve contacted Alice through the communicator, he felt it was a bit detached and decided he would personally meet the lone pilot who had managed to survive the pirate raid. A friend once told him that detachment bred competence, and to some extent that was true. The Admiral always proceeded objectively in the middle of a battle, remaining calm, and keeping the facts straight.
Logic, to Aronimus, was his lifeblood. To follow one’s heart was easy, to follow one’s mind, that was the challenge. The Admiral strode along until he reached one of the larger observation decks; it had two or three loiterers staring at the stars through its massive view port. An overhead teleprompt advised all personnel in the observation area to turn off any telecommunications device which applied to almost all personnel on board if they were in an observation area. Crew members were required to carry a communicator at all times, that was newly instituted rule in the Navy. The engineers claimed that the telecommunication devices broadcasted signals through the view port on unsecure channels, allowing those with malicious intent to hack the system.
The personnel gazed at the stars that hung like jewels among the black velvet drape of space. Aronimus gave the vastness of space a simple glance, one of many that he had given years ago, before continuing on to Alice’s quarters.
He gave them a nod each time for them to carry on, so he could carry on. Although he could’ve contacted Alice through the communicator, he felt it was a bit detached and decided he would personally meet the lone pilot who had managed to survive the pirate raid. A friend once told him that detachment bred competence, and to some extent that was true. The Admiral always proceeded objectively in the middle of a battle, remaining calm, and keeping the facts straight.
Logic, to Aronimus, was his lifeblood. To follow one’s heart was easy, to follow one’s mind, that was the challenge. The Admiral strode along until he reached one of the larger observation decks; it had two or three loiterers staring at the stars through its massive view port. An overhead teleprompt advised all personnel in the observation area to turn off any telecommunications device which applied to almost all personnel on board if they were in an observation area. Crew members were required to carry a communicator at all times, that was newly instituted rule in the Navy. The engineers claimed that the telecommunication devices broadcasted signals through the view port on unsecure channels, allowing those with malicious intent to hack the system.
The personnel gazed at the stars that hung like jewels among the black velvet drape of space. Aronimus gave the vastness of space a simple glance, one of many that he had given years ago, before continuing on to Alice’s quarters.
The setting changes from Central Observation Deck to The Milky Way Universe
Second Pirate Frigate
The hangar only had empty gunships; their pilots were either dead or missing. Nothing else was of much interest to the squad. They left the hangar, only to enter a maze of passageways, which was characteristic of ship corridors. One wrong step and they would be inside a nuclear waste storage room, although on pirate ships, nuclear waste storages weren’t that common.
“Jesus, don’t they have maps on these ships?” Eli wondered aloud as his eyes darted back and forth, waiting for any pirates to ambush them. The squad had been patrolling the various halls; it seemed as if most of the crew was perhaps obliterated in the railgun blasts. Eli had expected plenty of hostiles though, for the blasts had only damaged the external hull of the frigate, thus disabling further movement.
“Doubt it sir, pirates aren’t that smart,” Reynolds let his guard down, lowering his rifle. By now they were just sight-seeing through the pirate ship. The wandering corridors continued on like a winding labyrinth of steel.
“Just because they’re pirates doesn’t mean they’re not smart or anything,” Weifert kept walking.
“Generally…though, pirates are pretty dumb,”
“Where’d you find that? A women’s health article?” it was clearly a jest on Weifert’s part to alleviate the moment which was either strewn with tension or boredom. Currently, it was the latter. Unfortunately, Reynolds, who was only two ranks above a private, therefore still considered a rookie, took it as a challenge. Stark, on the other hand was annoyed at Weifert's lack of taste. Clearly, the lance corporal had failed to garner any laughs as the two higher up Marines, Sergeant Carter and Captain Colter weren't paying any attention.
“Don’t even go there pal,”
“Quiet…” Eli raised his forefinger signaling his call for silence, the others paused and prepared their weapons.
From beyond the corridor, Eli heard a repetitive thud. The dull sound was followed by a sharp creaking, followed by running footsteps. The footsteps slowly disappeared into silence.
“You guys hear that?” Eli turned to the others. They’re weapons were aimed, and their backs were arched, forward.
“Turn on your tactical,” Eli turned to his gauntlet, and pressed a button which activated the targeting system in his helmet. The circular target acquisition unit blinked in the center of his view, it would lock onto a target once a hostile was found.
“Carter, take point with that shotgun,” the Captain knew of its capabilities, anything with a blast of that magnitude coupled with a high firing rate was needed in the vanguard, used to clear the way.
The hangar only had empty gunships; their pilots were either dead or missing. Nothing else was of much interest to the squad. They left the hangar, only to enter a maze of passageways, which was characteristic of ship corridors. One wrong step and they would be inside a nuclear waste storage room, although on pirate ships, nuclear waste storages weren’t that common.
“Jesus, don’t they have maps on these ships?” Eli wondered aloud as his eyes darted back and forth, waiting for any pirates to ambush them. The squad had been patrolling the various halls; it seemed as if most of the crew was perhaps obliterated in the railgun blasts. Eli had expected plenty of hostiles though, for the blasts had only damaged the external hull of the frigate, thus disabling further movement.
“Doubt it sir, pirates aren’t that smart,” Reynolds let his guard down, lowering his rifle. By now they were just sight-seeing through the pirate ship. The wandering corridors continued on like a winding labyrinth of steel.
“Just because they’re pirates doesn’t mean they’re not smart or anything,” Weifert kept walking.
“Generally…though, pirates are pretty dumb,”
“Where’d you find that? A women’s health article?” it was clearly a jest on Weifert’s part to alleviate the moment which was either strewn with tension or boredom. Currently, it was the latter. Unfortunately, Reynolds, who was only two ranks above a private, therefore still considered a rookie, took it as a challenge. Stark, on the other hand was annoyed at Weifert's lack of taste. Clearly, the lance corporal had failed to garner any laughs as the two higher up Marines, Sergeant Carter and Captain Colter weren't paying any attention.
“Don’t even go there pal,”
“Quiet…” Eli raised his forefinger signaling his call for silence, the others paused and prepared their weapons.
From beyond the corridor, Eli heard a repetitive thud. The dull sound was followed by a sharp creaking, followed by running footsteps. The footsteps slowly disappeared into silence.
“You guys hear that?” Eli turned to the others. They’re weapons were aimed, and their backs were arched, forward.
“Turn on your tactical,” Eli turned to his gauntlet, and pressed a button which activated the targeting system in his helmet. The circular target acquisition unit blinked in the center of his view, it would lock onto a target once a hostile was found.
“Carter, take point with that shotgun,” the Captain knew of its capabilities, anything with a blast of that magnitude coupled with a high firing rate was needed in the vanguard, used to clear the way.
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Alice had returned to her own quarters, leaving Ronin to settle herself in the guest space. She figured that the Admiral would want the woman's story soon enough, but until then, Miranda had been through quite the ordeal. Alice, in sharp contrast, had seen much worse battles, much more death, and she had not been part of the fighting. The fight with pirates had left her somewhat exhilarated, and confident in the ability of the crew, but had taken little of her energy. There was a lot of energy in Alice to be used up - she had worked two straight days many times before, without faltering.
Leaning back in her chair, Alice picked up one of her protocol books while she waited for the Admiral to arrive. It was a new issue. She hadn't read all the rules yet, and figured it was best to do so before they got too far into the journey. People called her a workaholic for a reason.
Leaning back in her chair, Alice picked up one of her protocol books while she waited for the Admiral to arrive. It was a new issue. She hadn't read all the rules yet, and figured it was best to do so before they got too far into the journey. People called her a workaholic for a reason.
Second Pirate Frigate:
Carter took point without second thought, his shotgun pointed out and his body ready for anything. " I don't like this Captain... It reminds me of a time, in Russia we entered a fort we had bombed to hell and saw nothing only to find out the enemies were hiding in the vents and maintenance shafts, we were ambushed as we tried to leave." He said it in a hushed whisper using the long range helmet coms meant for communication in soundless environments to enhance it so only the marines could hear it. An old trick he had been taught.
Carter has his tactical vision on and was still mainly relying on standard eyesight, he participated in basic training before the device was even used actively by anything other that Spec Ops and still preferred his own eyes over some computerized system. In this sense, he was old-fashioned.
Arriving at the corner they heard the footsteps from. He slide against the wall and looked toward Eli, waiting for the signal to round the corner remaining strict to protocol in a situation like this as he had been taught. He couldn't help but feel paranoid, he hated missions like this; reminded him of the rebel forts in the Russian mountains as he had stated earlier. Death boxs. That and his mind was racing back and forth between multiple scenarios and how to prevent them. With one long breathe he threw them from his mind and waited on orders.
Carter took point without second thought, his shotgun pointed out and his body ready for anything. " I don't like this Captain... It reminds me of a time, in Russia we entered a fort we had bombed to hell and saw nothing only to find out the enemies were hiding in the vents and maintenance shafts, we were ambushed as we tried to leave." He said it in a hushed whisper using the long range helmet coms meant for communication in soundless environments to enhance it so only the marines could hear it. An old trick he had been taught.
Carter has his tactical vision on and was still mainly relying on standard eyesight, he participated in basic training before the device was even used actively by anything other that Spec Ops and still preferred his own eyes over some computerized system. In this sense, he was old-fashioned.
Arriving at the corner they heard the footsteps from. He slide against the wall and looked toward Eli, waiting for the signal to round the corner remaining strict to protocol in a situation like this as he had been taught. He couldn't help but feel paranoid, he hated missions like this; reminded him of the rebel forts in the Russian mountains as he had stated earlier. Death boxs. That and his mind was racing back and forth between multiple scenarios and how to prevent them. With one long breathe he threw them from his mind and waited on orders.
Second Pirate Frigate:
Carter slid against the wall, the others assumed a standard formation, modified for narrow confines. Weifert and Stark had their backs against the wall opposite of Eli and Carter. Eli slowly encroached upon the Sergeant Major as he assumed his position. They were at a cross section, and Eli was hoping to utilize the other corner that was across from them. A single bead of sweat formed on his forehead and rolled gently down the side of his face as he clenched his teeth in the darkness of his helmet.
His plan was to have Carter lay down some suppression fire at the hostiles, allowing Weifert and Stark to seek cover on the other corner. From there, they would alternate firing sequences from both corners. Planning was one thing, execution was another. The helmet communicators made communications a breeze for simple fire team maneuvers. In fact, Eli had made extensive use of it during his counter-insurgency days, he would be in squads of five or more. They would rely on the communicators, without the need to vocally express their battle plan. Prior to Mars, Eli could visualize combat scenarios, squad member and objective locations, and proper unit formations. The long range communications, coupled with his ability, aided his rise to the top as a counter-insurgency elite operative.
Following Mars, the PTSD, or so the shrinks called it, began to set in. Eli himself could no longer see the battlefield, something that troubled him for awhile.
"Alright, Sarge, you're up. Lay down some suppression fire, Stark and Weifert, get over to the other end when he's firing."
"Reynolds, you're with me, we'll alternate on firing sequences,"
"Got it chief," Reynolds' reply was clear on the channel, if not slightly garbled.
Eli gave Reynolds an invisible glance, before turning back at Carter.
Eli gripped his rifle in his right hand, using his left hand, he issued a hand signal, a clenched index middle finger, which he waved at Weifert and Stark to the other corner.
"Everyone ready?" Eli gave one last check to make sure everyone was ready.
"3...2...1...action."
Carter slid against the wall, the others assumed a standard formation, modified for narrow confines. Weifert and Stark had their backs against the wall opposite of Eli and Carter. Eli slowly encroached upon the Sergeant Major as he assumed his position. They were at a cross section, and Eli was hoping to utilize the other corner that was across from them. A single bead of sweat formed on his forehead and rolled gently down the side of his face as he clenched his teeth in the darkness of his helmet.
His plan was to have Carter lay down some suppression fire at the hostiles, allowing Weifert and Stark to seek cover on the other corner. From there, they would alternate firing sequences from both corners. Planning was one thing, execution was another. The helmet communicators made communications a breeze for simple fire team maneuvers. In fact, Eli had made extensive use of it during his counter-insurgency days, he would be in squads of five or more. They would rely on the communicators, without the need to vocally express their battle plan. Prior to Mars, Eli could visualize combat scenarios, squad member and objective locations, and proper unit formations. The long range communications, coupled with his ability, aided his rise to the top as a counter-insurgency elite operative.
Following Mars, the PTSD, or so the shrinks called it, began to set in. Eli himself could no longer see the battlefield, something that troubled him for awhile.
"Alright, Sarge, you're up. Lay down some suppression fire, Stark and Weifert, get over to the other end when he's firing."
"Reynolds, you're with me, we'll alternate on firing sequences,"
"Got it chief," Reynolds' reply was clear on the channel, if not slightly garbled.
Eli gave Reynolds an invisible glance, before turning back at Carter.
Eli gripped his rifle in his right hand, using his left hand, he issued a hand signal, a clenched index middle finger, which he waved at Weifert and Stark to the other corner.
"Everyone ready?" Eli gave one last check to make sure everyone was ready.
"3...2...1...action."
Carter took one deep breathe before crouching with half of his body behind the corner and the other half with a clear view and fire and then let the shotgun slugs loose, aiming for the walls the pirates had taken cover behind. He slightly grinned at the rhythmic flash of his shotgun and drumming beat it created. It soothed his worries and forced him to focus calming him and acting as a focal point as he attempted to bring death upon his foes. The slugs hit the walls with small bright flashes, sparks blazing in the air with each impact. Soon he had fired all twelve rounds the shotgun held and retreated around his corner. Reloading for another burst of fire and lead.
Max:
Max was looking throughout all the files he either downloaded or could access. But he could tell there was trouble. He began thinking.
He started looking through the ship design, analyzing separate sections. He had nothing to do. He hated that. He didn't like doing nothing.
He then asked TAU "So, exactly where are we going. And whats going on?
Reterec:
Reterec was okay with the answer, and went back to watching and cleaning his weapons, but soon, action broke out. He went with the first team to the first frigate, assisting where he could. He then also noted "I wonder why they attacked us. They were obviously outmatched. Maybe they were just too stupid to realize it or something...."
(Sorry if its short, I have no clue what to type ATM. Stupid Writers Block >.>. Il try and get more in next post...)
Max was looking throughout all the files he either downloaded or could access. But he could tell there was trouble. He began thinking.
He started looking through the ship design, analyzing separate sections. He had nothing to do. He hated that. He didn't like doing nothing.
He then asked TAU "So, exactly where are we going. And whats going on?
Reterec:
Reterec was okay with the answer, and went back to watching and cleaning his weapons, but soon, action broke out. He went with the first team to the first frigate, assisting where he could. He then also noted "I wonder why they attacked us. They were obviously outmatched. Maybe they were just too stupid to realize it or something...."
(Sorry if its short, I have no clue what to type ATM. Stupid Writers Block >.>. Il try and get more in next post...)
Grenadine was... floating... in something blue... then orange... then blue... light blue... Slowly she blinked a couple of times, sitting up, falling back on the bed. She tried to rub her eyes, but hit her glasses instead. She tapped them a few times before she realized to take them off. Blinking towards the light, her head slowly went from pricking to pounding. She grimaced, then tried to sit half way up. Her head hurt, but the shock from getting her nose pummeled and bleeding had settled a little. Someone had stopped the bleeding, she tried to touch her nose, it was stuffed with some bandaids. Good, someone had stopped her bleeding, she was fine... Except for the headache off course. She got up into a seated position, next to the bed was her file. She picked it up, looking at it "What's my damage?" she asked the electronic device. Bruised nose, blood angst. Unharmed!. Grenadine snorted "I'm not scared of blood, I just appreciate mine staying inside of me" she quarreled with the electronic file. Are you saying I'm wrong! the machine angered. Grenadine snorted "No, I'm saying my doctor might be" she snorted, getting to her feet. She was a little wobbly, but the machine was probably right, she had just been squeamish. Things seemed to have calmed down on the ship... She went into the hallways, carefully making her way to the bridge to get an update on what was going on. How long had she been out? Hours seemed to have passed... Entering the bridge, she saw someone familiar (edit this to engine room if that's where he is). She could vaguely recall him yelling back at her before she passed out. She instantly blushed, putting together two and two on how she had gotten to the medical bay. She quickly turned around, looking at the door with her back turned to him, her whole face bright red "T....t....thank you" she muttered, hardly over a whisper. "I... I think" she added, fiddling her hands together, studying them intensely.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
AI TAU
Tau heard Max speaking and listened in to his question. "Well Max, we're headed to a system reported to have insurgents in it so we can stop them." he said factually. Thinking of classifications, he reminded himself to hold information back if needed. "At the moment we are waiting with a couple of trade ships that were attacked until their new escort arrives, so that we can protect them if more pirates show up." he said. Pirates might intrigue Max like they did to children, perhaps he did not have lots of knowledge on pirates yet. Tau checked the scanners a second time, still clear.
Tau heard Max speaking and listened in to his question. "Well Max, we're headed to a system reported to have insurgents in it so we can stop them." he said factually. Thinking of classifications, he reminded himself to hold information back if needed. "At the moment we are waiting with a couple of trade ships that were attacked until their new escort arrives, so that we can protect them if more pirates show up." he said. Pirates might intrigue Max like they did to children, perhaps he did not have lots of knowledge on pirates yet. Tau checked the scanners a second time, still clear.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
After Allen had helped the girl to the med bay he decided to go back and look to see who she was. When he got back to the engineering bay he want over to take a look at the personnel files. He wasn't allowed to but he wanted to make sure she was going to make it. After looking at the file for just a few minutes he put it back and left. 'She is a bit odd.' He thought as he passed through the halls and went to his quarters. "She is a bit odd, but then again I am not the definition of normal." Allen said to himself. During his free time he tended to talk to himself just to get his thoughts together. He held a conversation to think of what he might say to her once he saw her again. To his delight he failed at thinking of anything so he gave up and went to the bridge with a book that he had been reading for the last few days. The bridge was busy and everyone was talking but he was near the exit so hardly anyone was there. Allen was reading the book in the bridge, nothing was really catching his attention so he was into the book. He then heard"T...t....thank you, I.. I think." Allen then looked around to see who had said that. After a few seconds he looked at the girl. "Oh hey you're awake!" he nearly shouted. He closed his book and approached the girl. He placed his arms around her "You look a little tired still come have a seat next to me." He then guided her to the seat next to him. "So how are ya feeling?" he asked as he placed his book down and below him.
Second Pirate Frigate
A slight shot of adrenaline began to kick in, as several blasts came from Carter’s shotgun. The rounds blasted a chunk out of the cover that the pirates were hiding behind. As he fired his rounds, Stark and Weifert were quick to slip over to the other corner, sliding against the wall quickly.
“Alternate,” Eli was careful not to blurt it over the helmet comms. The speakers were located right by a Marine’s ear, yelling over the comms was guaranteed to deafen auditory senses.
Carter pulled out after his slugs, and then Weifert fired his Infantry Automatic Rifle. The IAR belonged to a family of gas operated, and magazine fed weapons soon to be replaced by laser and pulse rifles that were being developed. The rounds came from the IAR in quick bursts of seven rounds, which pinned down the pirates who were using projectile weapons of their own.
“Alternate,” the very reason for the alternating firing sequences allowed for the pairs to cover each other while the other needed to reload. Plus, Eli liked the touch up of professionalism. Stark quickly took over for Weifert, as Eli switched with Carter. Reynolds stood as rear guard, covering the corridor from which the squad came to prevent flanking.
Five slugs, three hits, the pirate’s chest was blown through by Eli, while Adriana’s personal weapon, blasted a chunk through the barrier, hitting the other raider behind it. Eli blinked, he didn't expect that from Stark's weapon, considering the cauterization of the raider's chest.
“Whoa, mama,” Weifert laughed. “You’re packing a punch in that baby,” he nodded at Stark’s photon rifle.
“Well,” the corridor was clear, and Stark was free to roam past the pair of corpses, “Somebody has to," she mumbled to herself. She wasn't exactly one for words, and in the current situation, the only words that needed to be spoken were those from Eli.
“Yeah, are you allowed to use that thing?” Reynolds asked, kicking the corpse a bit. Adriana didn't give a reply, the answer was pretty obvious.
“This corridor is clear, I think the bridge is that way,” Eli pointed down the open corridor. “Sarge, you’re covering rear, and Stark, you’re taking point now,”
“As usual…” Adriana mused mildly, the squad continued moving.
A slight shot of adrenaline began to kick in, as several blasts came from Carter’s shotgun. The rounds blasted a chunk out of the cover that the pirates were hiding behind. As he fired his rounds, Stark and Weifert were quick to slip over to the other corner, sliding against the wall quickly.
“Alternate,” Eli was careful not to blurt it over the helmet comms. The speakers were located right by a Marine’s ear, yelling over the comms was guaranteed to deafen auditory senses.
Carter pulled out after his slugs, and then Weifert fired his Infantry Automatic Rifle. The IAR belonged to a family of gas operated, and magazine fed weapons soon to be replaced by laser and pulse rifles that were being developed. The rounds came from the IAR in quick bursts of seven rounds, which pinned down the pirates who were using projectile weapons of their own.
“Alternate,” the very reason for the alternating firing sequences allowed for the pairs to cover each other while the other needed to reload. Plus, Eli liked the touch up of professionalism. Stark quickly took over for Weifert, as Eli switched with Carter. Reynolds stood as rear guard, covering the corridor from which the squad came to prevent flanking.
Five slugs, three hits, the pirate’s chest was blown through by Eli, while Adriana’s personal weapon, blasted a chunk through the barrier, hitting the other raider behind it. Eli blinked, he didn't expect that from Stark's weapon, considering the cauterization of the raider's chest.
“Whoa, mama,” Weifert laughed. “You’re packing a punch in that baby,” he nodded at Stark’s photon rifle.
“Well,” the corridor was clear, and Stark was free to roam past the pair of corpses, “Somebody has to," she mumbled to herself. She wasn't exactly one for words, and in the current situation, the only words that needed to be spoken were those from Eli.
“Yeah, are you allowed to use that thing?” Reynolds asked, kicking the corpse a bit. Adriana didn't give a reply, the answer was pretty obvious.
“This corridor is clear, I think the bridge is that way,” Eli pointed down the open corridor. “Sarge, you’re covering rear, and Stark, you’re taking point now,”
“As usual…” Adriana mused mildly, the squad continued moving.
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(Wrong location posting again)
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
Courtney Reynold (Rich Girl)
It hadn't always been like this, in fact at young age Courtney had everything. Although having people at her every whim and having nothing she couldn't afford. This life grew dull and monotonous, she had actually felt like a Disney Princess, but it wasn't a man she wanted she had wanted freedom. Hitch hiking across the galaxy to find stimulation. Eventually she had met Silver Eyes, much like her he had been born with a silver spoon in his mouth, he threw it all away. Even went so far to massacre his loyal crew. Many normal people would have backed away or run for furthest hill. Of course she would then be denying that she had wished to kill some of the servants or socialites. The fact he had done it, all to escape, she had admired.
They discussed various things from politics to space logistics, but then he exclaimed he was looking for crew members to build his new Empire. His plan to Unite the scoundrels and pirates of space. Very ambitious and to be honest many people would have laughed. They would have been wrong, his Leadership qualities had helped end petty feuds and most of the pirates were under his leadership.
Now she was on a very special mission, her whole crew was most likely dead, but they would pay. They would all pay. Peeking around the corner, she blew her black hair out her eyes and surveyed the scene. Let them celebrate. let them think it's all over.
Courtney only had to switch on the tracker and the fleet of Silver Eyes would jump to the location.
The danger here was the Salient jumping, which is what her mission was, make the engines unworkable or force them to jump early. Either way Rich Girl would make them regret interceding on the behalf of the convoy. That was the Federation though, they were all goodie goodie. Fortunately they could be pricks and she would, maybe she could damage the weapons.
Giggling quietly she activated the tracker and looked back around the corner.
Close was clear, time to strike!
It hadn't always been like this, in fact at young age Courtney had everything. Although having people at her every whim and having nothing she couldn't afford. This life grew dull and monotonous, she had actually felt like a Disney Princess, but it wasn't a man she wanted she had wanted freedom. Hitch hiking across the galaxy to find stimulation. Eventually she had met Silver Eyes, much like her he had been born with a silver spoon in his mouth, he threw it all away. Even went so far to massacre his loyal crew. Many normal people would have backed away or run for furthest hill. Of course she would then be denying that she had wished to kill some of the servants or socialites. The fact he had done it, all to escape, she had admired.
They discussed various things from politics to space logistics, but then he exclaimed he was looking for crew members to build his new Empire. His plan to Unite the scoundrels and pirates of space. Very ambitious and to be honest many people would have laughed. They would have been wrong, his Leadership qualities had helped end petty feuds and most of the pirates were under his leadership.
Now she was on a very special mission, her whole crew was most likely dead, but they would pay. They would all pay. Peeking around the corner, she blew her black hair out her eyes and surveyed the scene. Let them celebrate. let them think it's all over.
Courtney only had to switch on the tracker and the fleet of Silver Eyes would jump to the location.
The danger here was the Salient jumping, which is what her mission was, make the engines unworkable or force them to jump early. Either way Rich Girl would make them regret interceding on the behalf of the convoy. That was the Federation though, they were all goodie goodie. Fortunately they could be pricks and she would, maybe she could damage the weapons.
Giggling quietly she activated the tracker and looked back around the corner.
Close was clear, time to strike!
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to Hangar
Acknowledging the call to return, Hyena sighed in wistfull disappointment that the fight was more or less 'officialy' over. At least for the pilots. Turning to the lights of the hangar and slowing, her arrowhead fighter coasts smoothly back through the magnetic containment field with an atmospheric snap that popped the ears of anyone working in nearby areas. Ah, there was the gunboat, looking a lot more haggard in the light of the hangar then it had during the breif flyby encounter she'd had with it out in space. Lucky pilot; that the Salient had shown up when it did.
Dropping her landing gear, she follows the director's hand signals and neatly lines up into her booth, settling down to the deck. Engines shut down, cabin pressure matched to the hangar, and systems cooling with familiar pings and hisses, Hyena lets the hatch slide open.
Standing in her seat to give a theatric bow to the nearby maintainers who sarcastically applaud, Hyena shucks the heavy life support overgear in favor of the more comfortable flightsuit underneath, handing it off.
"Have my suit pressed, Jeeves, and tell them to go easy on the starch." The toothy smile on her face only grows when he tells her in no uncertain terms what she can do with her starch, and she leaves her bird in the care of the mechanics as she heads for the readyroom to store everything else.
Dropping her landing gear, she follows the director's hand signals and neatly lines up into her booth, settling down to the deck. Engines shut down, cabin pressure matched to the hangar, and systems cooling with familiar pings and hisses, Hyena lets the hatch slide open.
Standing in her seat to give a theatric bow to the nearby maintainers who sarcastically applaud, Hyena shucks the heavy life support overgear in favor of the more comfortable flightsuit underneath, handing it off.
"Have my suit pressed, Jeeves, and tell them to go easy on the starch." The toothy smile on her face only grows when he tells her in no uncertain terms what she can do with her starch, and she leaves her bird in the care of the mechanics as she heads for the readyroom to store everything else.
The setting changes from Hangar to The Milky Way Universe
Second Pirate Frigate:
Carter nodded at Eli's instruction to be the rear guard. Though behind the mask was flustered that the scientist packed so much more a punch than he, the heavy weapons specialist did. It was time to 'up his ante' and show off the more versatile effects his shotgun could deploy in combat. He pulled a cartridge from the side of his belt and placed it into a slot on the side of the shotgun as well as quickly took a more narrow barrel from his belt and quickly swapped out with his current one, he did this all very quickly. He had trained to swap his utilities out in a firefight if needed, so he was quick. He pressed a button on the side and the gun made made a slight buzzing noise. Now it was ready to fire four heated spikes per shot. However, the gun would over heat quicker and do less damage, as well as a lower fire rate. But in turn, it would be more accurate and have a small 'splash' effect. If the spikes missed flesh, they would shatter upon contact with metals. Causing small but harmful fragmentation. A barbaric but effective ammo type.
Sliding in behind the rest of the squad near the next corner he waited for Eli's order to round the corner slightly anxious about showing off his shotgun's new 'fangs', certainly the effect would be substantial in such a close quarters environment. And if these didn't prove his point about being the big guy on deck, he always had explosive, incendiary, and ionized slugs to show off.
Carter nodded at Eli's instruction to be the rear guard. Though behind the mask was flustered that the scientist packed so much more a punch than he, the heavy weapons specialist did. It was time to 'up his ante' and show off the more versatile effects his shotgun could deploy in combat. He pulled a cartridge from the side of his belt and placed it into a slot on the side of the shotgun as well as quickly took a more narrow barrel from his belt and quickly swapped out with his current one, he did this all very quickly. He had trained to swap his utilities out in a firefight if needed, so he was quick. He pressed a button on the side and the gun made made a slight buzzing noise. Now it was ready to fire four heated spikes per shot. However, the gun would over heat quicker and do less damage, as well as a lower fire rate. But in turn, it would be more accurate and have a small 'splash' effect. If the spikes missed flesh, they would shatter upon contact with metals. Causing small but harmful fragmentation. A barbaric but effective ammo type.
Sliding in behind the rest of the squad near the next corner he waited for Eli's order to round the corner slightly anxious about showing off his shotgun's new 'fangs', certainly the effect would be substantial in such a close quarters environment. And if these didn't prove his point about being the big guy on deck, he always had explosive, incendiary, and ionized slugs to show off.
Although Eon was completely powered down he could still hear as a system function to make sure he can be retrieved. He heard some pilots talking, "Hey, A-are you okay...?" a pilot said as she shook the motionless Eon, as far as he knew she was speaking to others whom he presumed was standing around, he presumed the actions of the pilots the one questioning him had walked away and most likely called for engineers to get Eon booted up. The other pilots decided to pick Eon up and lean him against the gunship that he had repaired and stood there and waited.
Second Pirate Frigate
Bravo team continued to move in file along the narrow corridors of the pirate frigate. The ship itself was fairly large, but not as large as an average Federation frigate. The ship itself seemed very quiet, devoid of life almost, despite the fact that only the ship’s drives were damaged. The crew should’ve been spared by the Salient’s salvo, perhaps they withdrew from the ship, but the hangar seemed to be crowded full of fighter craft.
“I don’t like the looks of this chief, I feel like they got an ambush set up for us,” Weifert spoke. “We’ve been through these corridors and we’ve only seen two bad guys.”
“Yeah, this place seems very quiet,” Reynolds replied.
“Just keep moving,” Eli sighed. Adriana was still leading; she was the cautious sort, inching forth slowly. She obviously had the right mind when boarding any enemy ship, despite the fact that her weapon had proven its capabilities. In the hands of another, they would've leaped forward with it, ready to blast any pirate away.
“Allo, there, this is Uncle Ray, have you guys fo’nd anythin’ yet? Over,” Ray's interruption had made Reynolds jump slightly when his voice poured forth through the communication channels.
“No, nothin’ yet, we’re heading to the bridge now, over,” Eli responded.
“Alrighty then, I’ll check back in with yeh in five, Uncle Ray out.” The comm channel remained silent after Ray disappeared.
Perhaps the pirates were lying in wait on the bridge, Eli could only wonder. He chose to remain silent, for even he wasn’t sure. The corridors were led to larger storage areas which wandered off into other corridors. The storage areas had large metallic cylinders; one could only guess what pirates held in those containers, but it was safe to assume that they contained weapons and armaments of many kinds.
“So, Sarge, how’d you get to be called “Blacksmith” anyways?” Weifert chuckled. He found it interesting and thought it could be something to discuss if they ever got bored, and they were bored.
Bravo team continued to move in file along the narrow corridors of the pirate frigate. The ship itself was fairly large, but not as large as an average Federation frigate. The ship itself seemed very quiet, devoid of life almost, despite the fact that only the ship’s drives were damaged. The crew should’ve been spared by the Salient’s salvo, perhaps they withdrew from the ship, but the hangar seemed to be crowded full of fighter craft.
“I don’t like the looks of this chief, I feel like they got an ambush set up for us,” Weifert spoke. “We’ve been through these corridors and we’ve only seen two bad guys.”
“Yeah, this place seems very quiet,” Reynolds replied.
“Just keep moving,” Eli sighed. Adriana was still leading; she was the cautious sort, inching forth slowly. She obviously had the right mind when boarding any enemy ship, despite the fact that her weapon had proven its capabilities. In the hands of another, they would've leaped forward with it, ready to blast any pirate away.
“Allo, there, this is Uncle Ray, have you guys fo’nd anythin’ yet? Over,” Ray's interruption had made Reynolds jump slightly when his voice poured forth through the communication channels.
“No, nothin’ yet, we’re heading to the bridge now, over,” Eli responded.
“Alrighty then, I’ll check back in with yeh in five, Uncle Ray out.” The comm channel remained silent after Ray disappeared.
Perhaps the pirates were lying in wait on the bridge, Eli could only wonder. He chose to remain silent, for even he wasn’t sure. The corridors were led to larger storage areas which wandered off into other corridors. The storage areas had large metallic cylinders; one could only guess what pirates held in those containers, but it was safe to assume that they contained weapons and armaments of many kinds.
“So, Sarge, how’d you get to be called “Blacksmith” anyways?” Weifert chuckled. He found it interesting and thought it could be something to discuss if they ever got bored, and they were bored.
Second Pirate Frigate
Garrison looked at the marine and gruffed, pointing to Colter with one hand. "When your Commanding officer is silent... Its a good idea to be silent yourselves. Stories are for the mess hall, not aboard an enemy vessel where one noise can get a hole blown in the back of your head." Carter spoke with age-old wisdom. He was one for messing around, story telling, and the like but not when a mission took priority and one mistake could get a soldier, or soldiers killed. "Captain, may I suggest something? Splitting into two groups and sending one toward the engine block would be logical. Most ships have back-up drives and cores there to contain information if the mainframe is damaged, blown-up, or corrupted, don't they?" Carter had served on a handful of different ships, and all had some sort of back-up from information. A Black-Box so to speak, some even had secondary control rooms to operate a ship if the bridge was obliterated by an enemy strike.
Plus, they may as well secure the whole ship while they were at it if they were interested in capturing and containing the vessel. However, Carter didn't press the subject inching behind the rest of his group with the shotgun turned spike thrower cradled in his arms, still waiting for Eli's response on his inquiry.
Garrison looked at the marine and gruffed, pointing to Colter with one hand. "When your Commanding officer is silent... Its a good idea to be silent yourselves. Stories are for the mess hall, not aboard an enemy vessel where one noise can get a hole blown in the back of your head." Carter spoke with age-old wisdom. He was one for messing around, story telling, and the like but not when a mission took priority and one mistake could get a soldier, or soldiers killed. "Captain, may I suggest something? Splitting into two groups and sending one toward the engine block would be logical. Most ships have back-up drives and cores there to contain information if the mainframe is damaged, blown-up, or corrupted, don't they?" Carter had served on a handful of different ships, and all had some sort of back-up from information. A Black-Box so to speak, some even had secondary control rooms to operate a ship if the bridge was obliterated by an enemy strike.
Plus, they may as well secure the whole ship while they were at it if they were interested in capturing and containing the vessel. However, Carter didn't press the subject inching behind the rest of his group with the shotgun turned spike thrower cradled in his arms, still waiting for Eli's response on his inquiry.
Jon set to work, "Alright Alpha team on me," he called as they went to the ship for transport to the frigate that ADAM disabled. "We don't know what's on than ship or if there's any air so suit up and get ready for action. I'll be front line, and see just how much punishment the Brass's toy armor can take; Corporal Smithy back me up if I'm getting shot- you're getting kills, Private O'Neil and Corporal Graham I want in back line but if either of you got a role you're better at let me know and we can change the game plan to optimize the team. Thadeus, I know your built in sensors are way stronger than mine so be our eyes and ears and pick them off when you can."
While he was fine with working like this he'd much rather the men spoke up so they could orient to everyone's strengths. If there was anything Jon didn't like it was a team at less than full, he turned into the armory before they hit the hangers, "Suit up and grab everything you need here and now, won't do us any good to belly ache after we get there. He himself grabbed a standard assault rifle, side arm and a belt of stun grenades, didn't want to destroy the ship interior. "Our primary objective is simple: get there sweep the damn ship, kill any hostiles and take whatever kind of communication equipment, star charts or whatever the hell the damned AI wanted, someone grab a remote link so he can plug into that frigate and save us some trouble."
While he was fine with working like this he'd much rather the men spoke up so they could orient to everyone's strengths. If there was anything Jon didn't like it was a team at less than full, he turned into the armory before they hit the hangers, "Suit up and grab everything you need here and now, won't do us any good to belly ache after we get there. He himself grabbed a standard assault rifle, side arm and a belt of stun grenades, didn't want to destroy the ship interior. "Our primary objective is simple: get there sweep the damn ship, kill any hostiles and take whatever kind of communication equipment, star charts or whatever the hell the damned AI wanted, someone grab a remote link so he can plug into that frigate and save us some trouble."
Thaddeus was listening to the plan Jon was giving before their battle started. He looked around to see the faces of other marines. Unsurprisingly enough some look like they were about to piss their pants, others just looked nervous. Jon was going to be the meat shield, obviously, so that Smithy and the others could shoot freely. When he heard his responsibility he nodded in reply. It was true. During a fight like this there was going to be chaos everywhere and he was best used to try to clear some of the confusion away. "Suit up and grab everything you need here and now, won't do us any good to belly ache after we get there." Zat's for sure. Thaddeus thought to himself as he looked over the weaponry.
There were so many weapons that Thaddeus felt almost overwhelmed. The first thing he picked up was a sniper rifle, the best weapon a scout could hope for. He managed to scrounge around to find a silencer for it too. Next he went around to grab two grenades, some extra ammo for the sniper rifle, and a tact knife. He was glad he had his Luger with him. It had helped him fathers before him cause it was still a damn good gun. "Ghost are you up for es?" Thaddeus asked his AI within his helmet, external communicators still off. "Yes sir. Preparing the auto-lock sequence, cloaking, and Death Walk as well." Ghost replied in return. Thaddeus looked at his gun with sheer curiosity. He wondered how Ghost would pick up the targets or if the pirates would see through his cloaking. Probably not with the fight that they were about to go into but there are always those rare times.
There were so many weapons that Thaddeus felt almost overwhelmed. The first thing he picked up was a sniper rifle, the best weapon a scout could hope for. He managed to scrounge around to find a silencer for it too. Next he went around to grab two grenades, some extra ammo for the sniper rifle, and a tact knife. He was glad he had his Luger with him. It had helped him fathers before him cause it was still a damn good gun. "Ghost are you up for es?" Thaddeus asked his AI within his helmet, external communicators still off. "Yes sir. Preparing the auto-lock sequence, cloaking, and Death Walk as well." Ghost replied in return. Thaddeus looked at his gun with sheer curiosity. He wondered how Ghost would pick up the targets or if the pirates would see through his cloaking. Probably not with the fight that they were about to go into but there are always those rare times.
Grenadine jumped slightly back when the engineer turned around and tried to talk to her. She was by far not prepared for the hug, and her every muscle tensed up, her face turning bright traffic-light red. As he pulled her to the seat next to him, she still hadn't said anything. She sat for a while, sorting out his questions on her head "Well, Um... I'm... fine" she rubbed her nose a little, it hurt. She still looked at her shoes, talking to humans was extremely difficult for some reason, and this one touched her, making it much harder. She usually didn't have conversations with people, at all... "Um, well... I... You..." she scratched her hair, then rubbed her eyes a little. Her glasses had been removed in the medic bay "I should... glasses..." she said, standing up. "Um... did you see..." she pointed at her eyes, circling her hands around them to symbolize glasses. She had worn a pair of large, black, goggle like one since she had been tracking Rover. She hoped they hadn't broken in the fall, but that would explain why her nose was swollen and bruised but not broken.
((I'm so sorry I'm not replying frequently, I'm in the middle of job changing, moving, school start up and trying to have some vacation at the same time))
((I'm so sorry I'm not replying frequently, I'm in the middle of job changing, moving, school start up and trying to have some vacation at the same time))
"Nervous aren't ya?" he asked as he realized she couldn't seem to finish a sentence. He started to piece things together when she made a motion for glasses. "Ah your goggles. I have not seen them but we can go and check the med bay they might be there." Allen said as he stood up. He reached over to the chair where he set his book down and placed it back in his back pocket. He then did a little stretch to straighten out his back. "Ouch this thing is almost never working right." He then laughed quietly at his own self. He knew he was weird but he wasn't wanting to scare off the one person who started to talk to him. He thought about what he should do to try and get her to like him just a little bit and talk to him. "You know i'm a really nice guy I don't bite or anything.... That sounded stupid." He then ran his hands through his hair and looked at the girl. She was attractive that much he knew. "Why don't we start with this. Hello I'm Allen Ryker. It is very nice to meet you." He then held out his hand offering it to her. "Lets go and get you your glasses."
Grenadine just nodded, then shook her head ferociously as he asked if she was nervous. She looked at him as he got up, thinking a little as he complained about his back "there might be a..." she muttered to herself "implants... cross muscling" she used her hand to draw in the air, thinking. Grenadine got yanked out of her trail of thought as he spoke, carefully taking his hand, trying, as if she expected it to fall off or burn... "I'm Grenadine Davis, PhD" she muttered "My glasses might be in the medic bay" she agreed, her voice didn't really carry "I don't think you bite, I'm just not good at... talking to people" she decided to leave it at that and not scare him off any more than she probably already was. She looked down at her green rubber boots as they walked towards the medic bay. She suddenly lit up "Back! You back! Pain! Muscles or skeleton? Can I test a prototype on you?" she lit up, her voice suddenly carried strongly, and she had no trouble looking all over him, studying his composition.
Allen continued to walk with Grenadines' hand in his. "You want to what on me?" he asked as he stopped and turned around to look at her. "You know you should wait to ask people that until the second date but im liking how bold you are being now." He scratched the bottom of his chin with his free hand thinking of what to say to her wanting to test a prototype. "I guess I am up for it as long as no incredible bodily harm occurs." Allen said as he started to walk again. He was trying to think of something to say to her but was at a loss for what to even talk about. Then he finally thought that he wanted to know about this prototype. "So what exactly does this Prototype do?" He asked when they turned a corner to get to the med bay. He turned his head so he could look at her when she talked but made sure that he was not going to run into anyone. He was also a little happy that she started to talk to him using full sentences and not just a few words.
Grenadine stopped, looking absolutely puzzled "Date?" she looked at their hands "um... okay... thanks... I think" she blushed up again, walking next to him in blushing silence until he asked about the prototype "Oh, it's perfectly harmless" she lit up "It's a full body suit, powered by your own body heat and a battery pack, and it enhances your body's natural abilities. It's set with artificial muscling and a network of sensors to feel you muscles moving, and sending the impuls to other sensors, replicating and amplifying you natural muscle reactions" I've tested it on my self, but I don't have back problems, so that would be interesting. I'm also trying to find some athletes to test it on, I have a theory that it could't give a great physical advantage" she grinned at him, her eyes twinkling enthusiastically "And maybe it can help people with injuries to get their injured part to work as normal" she looked at him for a response.
Second Pirate Frigate
Bravo Team entered through the single wide blast door that sealed off the bridge. The blast door normally would hiss open, but it's internal machinations were damaged, leaving it jarred open. Once through, they fanned out through the forked corridor to secure as much ground as possible.
The bridge was vacant, with two or three terminals blinking and beeping incessantly as a result of damaged systems. It was a complete mess though, as if pirates had ransacked it, with wires untangled and wrecked tablets scattered across the floor. No hostiles were detected though, which allowed Bravo team to lower their weapon systems.
Eli spoke into his helmet comm, “Commander the bridge seems clear, oddly enough…” he strode forth, the clank of his steel covered foot hitting the metallic floor of the bridge with each step he took.
Weifert kicked aside a devastated tablet, a mass produced piece of technology that almost anyone whether they were tech savvy, or ignorant, could use. He laid his IAR over his right shoulder as he inspected the empty bridge.
“Ah shit…this place is giving me the spooks,” Weifert turned to Adriana, who was standing in a trance like posture, but she was merely observing through her visor with her eyes, without moving an inch.
“We should probably hack into the systems and sweep it for whatever we can find,” the Sergeant Major spoke, as he lowered his personalized shotgun.
“Right, did anybody bring a datapad?” Reynolds asked. The rest of the team turned to face him.
“What…?” Reynolds looked back at everyone, completely dumbfounded.
“I thought you brought the pad,” Weifert walked over towards Reynolds.
“But…I thought…” Reynolds paused.
“So we’ve established that nobody brought a datapad for the ship AI to slip into?” Eli nodded to himself, just great.
“I guess we’re doing this manually,” Eli turned to Carter, who released his grip on his shotgun, and proceeded to enter the data system through a wire installed in the exterior layer of their armor. Using the wire, he plugged into a circular port, one of many scattered across the walls and terminals of the ship’s bridge.
As the Sergeant Major was plugged into the system, absorbing whatever coordinates, maps, and charts available, Weifert approached one of the many random screens located in the room. He would’ve given it a single glance before moving on, but something stopped his gaze.
“Hey chief, I got something over here,” Weifert turned to the Captain, who was watching Carter.
“What is it?” Eli approached him, to which Weifert pointed to the screen. A man, he was covering something with his body, while his arms worked at a supposed object in the corner. Then he left, and a small metallic cube was revealed, it was beeping and blinking.
“What the hell is that?” Weifert waited for Eli to respond, but the Captain paused, trying to comprehend what he just saw.
“It’s a bomb…we gotta get the hell outta here!”
Bravo Team entered through the single wide blast door that sealed off the bridge. The blast door normally would hiss open, but it's internal machinations were damaged, leaving it jarred open. Once through, they fanned out through the forked corridor to secure as much ground as possible.
The bridge was vacant, with two or three terminals blinking and beeping incessantly as a result of damaged systems. It was a complete mess though, as if pirates had ransacked it, with wires untangled and wrecked tablets scattered across the floor. No hostiles were detected though, which allowed Bravo team to lower their weapon systems.
Eli spoke into his helmet comm, “Commander the bridge seems clear, oddly enough…” he strode forth, the clank of his steel covered foot hitting the metallic floor of the bridge with each step he took.
Weifert kicked aside a devastated tablet, a mass produced piece of technology that almost anyone whether they were tech savvy, or ignorant, could use. He laid his IAR over his right shoulder as he inspected the empty bridge.
“Ah shit…this place is giving me the spooks,” Weifert turned to Adriana, who was standing in a trance like posture, but she was merely observing through her visor with her eyes, without moving an inch.
“We should probably hack into the systems and sweep it for whatever we can find,” the Sergeant Major spoke, as he lowered his personalized shotgun.
“Right, did anybody bring a datapad?” Reynolds asked. The rest of the team turned to face him.
“What…?” Reynolds looked back at everyone, completely dumbfounded.
“I thought you brought the pad,” Weifert walked over towards Reynolds.
“But…I thought…” Reynolds paused.
“So we’ve established that nobody brought a datapad for the ship AI to slip into?” Eli nodded to himself, just great.
“I guess we’re doing this manually,” Eli turned to Carter, who released his grip on his shotgun, and proceeded to enter the data system through a wire installed in the exterior layer of their armor. Using the wire, he plugged into a circular port, one of many scattered across the walls and terminals of the ship’s bridge.
As the Sergeant Major was plugged into the system, absorbing whatever coordinates, maps, and charts available, Weifert approached one of the many random screens located in the room. He would’ve given it a single glance before moving on, but something stopped his gaze.
“Hey chief, I got something over here,” Weifert turned to the Captain, who was watching Carter.
“What is it?” Eli approached him, to which Weifert pointed to the screen. A man, he was covering something with his body, while his arms worked at a supposed object in the corner. Then he left, and a small metallic cube was revealed, it was beeping and blinking.
“What the hell is that?” Weifert waited for Eli to respond, but the Captain paused, trying to comprehend what he just saw.
“It’s a bomb…we gotta get the hell outta here!”
"You know what. Sure i'll help you with your prototype. I'm always in business for favors when it comes to attractive women." He had one of the largest smiles he could have even possibly had. He was enjoying his time with this girl and he honestly didn't want it to stop. He placed a finger on his chin. "Plus it would be nice to not have my back hurting so much." He couldn't help but think what she thought of him. He was weird, he knew that much. He hardly ever did anything note worthy or at least that is how he thinks it is. Allens smile faded but not all the way. He was happy for the first time in the longest time. They rounded another corner to the med bay. "And here we are." He said as he pushed open the doors and started to search for her glasses. He let go of her hand once he saw then next to where he assumed that they had placed her. He walked over and grabbed them turned around and approached Grenadine. "And looky at what I found next to a bed." He then place the glasses on her head. "Now don't you look beautiful." He said with a smile on his face. Allen then began to blush realizing what he had said.
Attractive woman? Her? Grenadine figured that this Allen character probably needed glasses as well, but didn't say so. "I'm glad you want to test it, and I'm sure your back will benefit from it. I could try to device a vest in the same concept that is just going to benefit your back" she grinned. As they rounded the corner, and he still insisted on walking her by the hand, she just followed him around. As he let go and put her glasses on, she pinched her eyes tightly shut, scared that he might poke her. "I have very little opinion on how I look" she stated confused... Was it a question? She wasn't sure... Human interactions was very difficult for her, she should have been built, not born... "So, do you have an open schedule and are available for testing now?"
"Well I guess I am open now. I've already done the calibrations for the day and checked all the important systems." He shrugged. He was trying to put one and one together about why someone would act like this girl does. He had given her plenty of compliments but she seems to be a little dense to him. He ran his hands through his hair. This was one of his key notes in telling that he is stressed out about something but it trying to keep his cool about it. "You know if you wanted me to let go of your hand back there you could have just said something, it be honest with you I don't even know why I grabbed and held onto your hand." He was not trying to be rude he was just more or less stating a fact. He hated when he got like this. His train of thought was slowly going towards the bad when he thought of a question to ask her. "Not to be rude or anything but you don't interact with people that much do you?" he asked. but then his com device started going off. He listened to what was needed . "Oh crap, I need your help. We have to start up some android for the pilot." He said as he made his way to the door. "If you help me with this i'll do whatever you want, I promise."
Grenadine grinned widely "super that we can do it now" she then looked very puzzled "um... I didn't mind" she looked befuddled at her hand. He seemed to figure it out "No, I was raised in a lab" she admitted "not as a test subject" she clarified quickly. He seemed... upset that she didn't respond to his flirts... Not that she would mind to do so, she just didn't know or care about it. Flirting lead to things she really wasn't comfortable with.
She jumped as he looked at his communicatior. "You don't have to repay me, it's my job" she insisted "This is what I'm good at" she made for the door, then grabbed his hand clumsily, letting him lead the way.
She jumped as he looked at his communicatior. "You don't have to repay me, it's my job" she insisted "This is what I'm good at" she made for the door, then grabbed his hand clumsily, letting him lead the way.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
Courtney Reynolds (Rich Girl)
As she neared the control room for the engine, she found herself picking up chatter as echoed through the ship. Much of it was dull and very boring , but one thing she heard from nearby between two engineers, "Hear about Hyena's do tonight?"
"Yeh, don't think I'll go. It doesn't seem professional."
There was a loud scoff, "Oh c'mon seriously Thomas, we massacred the pirates, let's celebrate."
Paying close attention to this conversation, she leaned in closer, trying to pick it all up.
It not like she could move until they were gone, and this seemed really important, a great man had once said to catch enemy unaware gives major advantage. If what she was hearing was right, then this could change the plan for the better.
Waiting for them to leave she went over the plan in her head, still listening.
"I...I don't know Jack, really it seems like something officers would clamp down on."
"So, look we beat them back, we deserve some R&R, besides Chelse might be there?" Jack sneered.
There was a short pause before she saw him nod.
"That's right Thomas, live a little, what harm will it do."
As they turned away and left, she went over new plan in her head, looks there would be a massive distraction, best tell Silver Eyes.
Taking her device out her pocket, she transmitted new message.
"Crew unprepared for counter attack, planning party. Everyone will be there. I suggest we strike now."
Pausing she waited for a response.
A crackle rang out and she heard, "Good job Rich Girl, we're in orbit behind the planet, tell us when to strike."
Replying she issued, "Roger."
As she neared the control room for the engine, she found herself picking up chatter as echoed through the ship. Much of it was dull and very boring , but one thing she heard from nearby between two engineers, "Hear about Hyena's do tonight?"
"Yeh, don't think I'll go. It doesn't seem professional."
There was a loud scoff, "Oh c'mon seriously Thomas, we massacred the pirates, let's celebrate."
Paying close attention to this conversation, she leaned in closer, trying to pick it all up.
It not like she could move until they were gone, and this seemed really important, a great man had once said to catch enemy unaware gives major advantage. If what she was hearing was right, then this could change the plan for the better.
Waiting for them to leave she went over the plan in her head, still listening.
"I...I don't know Jack, really it seems like something officers would clamp down on."
"So, look we beat them back, we deserve some R&R, besides Chelse might be there?" Jack sneered.
There was a short pause before she saw him nod.
"That's right Thomas, live a little, what harm will it do."
As they turned away and left, she went over new plan in her head, looks there would be a massive distraction, best tell Silver Eyes.
Taking her device out her pocket, she transmitted new message.
"Crew unprepared for counter attack, planning party. Everyone will be there. I suggest we strike now."
Pausing she waited for a response.
A crackle rang out and she heard, "Good job Rich Girl, we're in orbit behind the planet, tell us when to strike."
Replying she issued, "Roger."
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
Tiaan Peyton
Looking at herself in the mirror she sighed, the dress was best thing she had, but in light of everything it seemed over the top. It probably was just a chance for the Officer to get to know her. Considering her family reputation it made sense, to do this. Although she had a mission, keep the Lt distracted, that meant acting like this was more. Although staring at her reflection, she wondered if she was a being a bitch. Part of her felt like she was regressing woman's right back with her actions. She was going to use her womanly wiles to make sure Lt remain unaware of the big party. It should have been easy, but she felt like this was wrong in so many ways.
Stripping out her uniform she looked at herself, semi attractive woman with small perky breasts, but lovely red hair with traces of black. It not like she didn't know how beautiful many thought she was, but still for some reason she felt ugly.
Lifting up the dark blue dress she slipped it on, zipping up the back carefully by using the mirror, then slipping her heels on she let out a long heavy sigh.
It was for Hyena, that what she needed to remember. It's best to sacrifice friendship with Lt for some with her wing mate, because in the end who did she have to rely on more. Logically it was her Hyena, sacrifices no matter how hard were necessary.
Taking one last look at herself, she headed towards the door checking her watch, twenty minutes until the party begins, that gives her plenty of time to begin this.
For better or for worse, let the games begin.
Looking at herself in the mirror she sighed, the dress was best thing she had, but in light of everything it seemed over the top. It probably was just a chance for the Officer to get to know her. Considering her family reputation it made sense, to do this. Although she had a mission, keep the Lt distracted, that meant acting like this was more. Although staring at her reflection, she wondered if she was a being a bitch. Part of her felt like she was regressing woman's right back with her actions. She was going to use her womanly wiles to make sure Lt remain unaware of the big party. It should have been easy, but she felt like this was wrong in so many ways.
Stripping out her uniform she looked at herself, semi attractive woman with small perky breasts, but lovely red hair with traces of black. It not like she didn't know how beautiful many thought she was, but still for some reason she felt ugly.
Lifting up the dark blue dress she slipped it on, zipping up the back carefully by using the mirror, then slipping her heels on she let out a long heavy sigh.
It was for Hyena, that what she needed to remember. It's best to sacrifice friendship with Lt for some with her wing mate, because in the end who did she have to rely on more. Logically it was her Hyena, sacrifices no matter how hard were necessary.
Taking one last look at herself, she headed towards the door checking her watch, twenty minutes until the party begins, that gives her plenty of time to begin this.
For better or for worse, let the games begin.
Allen fel her hand slip into his. He got a questionable look on his face as he started to run through the halls. The twists and turns nearly got him but he never let go of Grenadines hand. "Okay so we have to start up some of the androids at least that was what I think we need to do." He said as he nearly fell down but caught himself on the side of a wall. Allen didn't want Grenadine to get hurt so he slowed his pace down. "My god how far away is the hangar from here?" he asked mostly out of desperation and not of of question. He had to get there and quick.
Grenadine tried her best to follow him, wheezing like a balloon after a short distance. She was glad he was pulling them, she would have fallen earlier than she did if not. She did trip, but balanced enough on him to only land on her knees, and got back up, running further "I feel so badass! Like some action heroine" she gasped, completely out of breath. She saw the doors in the end of a long corridor "not that much further" she pointed, then sprinted on, tripping once more before getting through the door. She had let go of Allen, and went straight over to the androids "Disconnect the lower cords, I'll start putting them up" as her fingers ran effortlessly through buttons, her whole expression changed, like a woman seeing her familiar, but passionate lover again after a long time "hello my beautiful" she whispered softly "I'd like you to spark to life and be as magnificent as you are" she pushed the final button, her whole body twitching in glee as the android lit up "It's so beautiful" she whispered in sentimental awe.
EOn heard the voices of Grenadine and an unfamiliar voice and went through with the boot up systems and eventually was booted back up. He rose as his systems powered themselves back up and finally woke up. Eon looked up at the two whom just got him back to stable conditions, "Thank you Ms. Grenadine." He said calmly and mechanically as he looked at the other human, "Thank you." he said to the other man with a pathetic smile even without emotion. He rose and realized he actually overheated his systems with the overuse of his welder. he took a step forward and nearly fell due to his systems being worn and still a bit overheated and eventually did take a tumble. He got back up and kept going.
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Alice set the last fork down beside its plate at a table set for two. She assumed that Tiaan would show for dinner tonight - it would be unwise to brush of a Lieutenant Commander so early in the voyage. She had the meal ready to serve, fresh and warm. She had dressed down. At least, dressed down for her, in a formal jacket and dark slacks. No military uniform. That was her version of relatively informal. Now, all she needed to do was wait for her guest.
Shaking out her dark hair, Alice made her way across her quarters to take a seat in her chair. What else could she do now? If there was one thing Alice was accomplished at - and there were many things - it was waiting.
Shaking out her dark hair, Alice made her way across her quarters to take a seat in her chair. What else could she do now? If there was one thing Alice was accomplished at - and there were many things - it was waiting.
Allen kept working on the android. "You're systems have over heated. I need you to hold still." He ran over to a crate that was close and realized that they were no parts for what he needed. " Oh come on!" he yelled as he searched the rest of the place and after a moment he found a coolant core item he needed. He ran back with his hands covered in grease. "Okay this will only take a second." He began to work on the android to increase its heat dispersion. He reached down for a wrench and his scanner and then ran a quick scan. "Okay that will increase your heat dispersion for a little while but i'll need you to find me or Grenadine to finish it but it will last for at least a day or so."
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
After traversing through the many corridors that were weaved throughout the ship into a tight knit circuit allowing for ease and convenience, the Admiral finally arrived at his second in command's quarters. It was spacious, though not quite as expansive, when compared to the Captain’s quarters, but nonetheless a luxurious suite in its own right.
Originally, he intended to enter using his key card, as he approached the sealed door. However, he stopped himself, for he realized that he didn’t exactly want to interrupt the Lieutenant Commander out of the blue. Yet, crew members were expected to be ready without a moment’s notice, even if their superior was coming to see them.
Aronimus wasn’t in a rush, so he decided to pull his card out and waved it over the holopad right beside the blast doors, which received the signal from the card. It would glow green, and then send a message to any occupants within the quarters to confirm entry to anybody outside. This privilege belonged to select rooms, the ship Captain’s Quarters, and any superior officer quarters, two of which were being inhabited right now, one for Commander Dunaway and one for Lieutenant Commander Chen.
Most key cards could only allow one to wipe across the holopad and await confirmation from the inhabitant, with the exception of one’s own quarters. Each keycard that was given to personnel prior to the mission was in fact their identification card, as well as their quarters’ card. The Captain’s card however, could be slid through the slot and allow instant access to any personal quarter.
The Admiral retracted his card, and placed it in one of the pockets of his pants, and folded his arms behind his back once more.
“Ms. Chen, are you in your quarters right now? Because if you are, I’d like to have a word with you,” Aronimus paused, waiting for a response.
Originally, he intended to enter using his key card, as he approached the sealed door. However, he stopped himself, for he realized that he didn’t exactly want to interrupt the Lieutenant Commander out of the blue. Yet, crew members were expected to be ready without a moment’s notice, even if their superior was coming to see them.
Aronimus wasn’t in a rush, so he decided to pull his card out and waved it over the holopad right beside the blast doors, which received the signal from the card. It would glow green, and then send a message to any occupants within the quarters to confirm entry to anybody outside. This privilege belonged to select rooms, the ship Captain’s Quarters, and any superior officer quarters, two of which were being inhabited right now, one for Commander Dunaway and one for Lieutenant Commander Chen.
Most key cards could only allow one to wipe across the holopad and await confirmation from the inhabitant, with the exception of one’s own quarters. Each keycard that was given to personnel prior to the mission was in fact their identification card, as well as their quarters’ card. The Captain’s card however, could be slid through the slot and allow instant access to any personal quarter.
The Admiral retracted his card, and placed it in one of the pockets of his pants, and folded his arms behind his back once more.
“Ms. Chen, are you in your quarters right now? Because if you are, I’d like to have a word with you,” Aronimus paused, waiting for a response.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
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Ulric Kercheskoi
Second Pirate Frigate: Brig
Ulric knew that there was shit to ship fire, the familier sound of plasma fire was still echoing throughout his head. As he did his best to regain his composure the sudden onset of heat and electric combustion all around showed him that his captors ship was by far in the worst condition no matter the opponents outcome.
The fingers of both hands began to feel across the floor of his blanked out cell doing his best to gain his bearings. It was then that he realized that he was still without his mask after the captors took it along with the rest of his belongings and then he heard it.
~Uhhh~ A groan slowly slid out from the bottom edge from outside the cell.
Ulric was quick in figuring out that it was the cells guard and a flame was lit in the back of his mind when he remembered that the young pirate had something of his... and he wanted it back.
Ulric set upon the man using the side of the cell to guide his path, the fingers of his cybernetic arm making slight clinking noises as he moved. But that was not enough for the disorientated guard to right himself and attempted any type of defense as Ulric's left arm squeezed out between the bars and gripped around the mans neck, jerking him sharply into the cell door.
~Get off fry face...~ The guards poor try of an insult only made Ulric jerk him up along the bars and brought him to his level. Either by effect of the attack or Ulric's actions the man gives a pained breath and cough of blood to which he shortly tries to wiggle free coaxing more pain from within him.
Reaching around with his other hand Ulric turns on his vest light, shinning a large white cone against the bulkhead and begins to rummage through his pockets.. knowing exactly what he was looking for.
The search was short as the prize was easily noticeable bulging from a vest pouch on the guards uniform. Bringing the object up into the beam of light Ulric gives a small sigh of relief as he admires the gold pocket watch for a moment and greedily stuffs it into his own pocket speaking astutely.. "If you had done anything to this... I would have taken my time."
The guards mouth gave a nervous chatter as Ulric placed his other hand on the mans head, cause him to drive the question of ~What?~
His question was in vain as Ulric pulled back forcing the guards head through the bars and then jerked it to the side effectively snapping his neck.
Ulric takes a moment to admire the work he had just performed in this place.
The guards body was still hanging there supported by the tension of his neck and head locking it on the spot, however the moment was short. He set to rummaging through the remaining pockets and quickly found the guards comm unit. As well grabbing the light to better get a look at this little comm unit in his hands, it was very simple and not too advanced. Honestly that didn't surprise him seeing all that he'd seen, but the thought of rescue was there in his mind seeing as the pirates opponents would mostly like try to salvage what they could from the ship.
So he sets the comm unit to record his voice.
"Aft.. Brig, Deck two - frame eighteen, compartment twelve. Request assistance, full lock down" He got what information he could by scanning around the room with the light and when he was done set the comm to full broadcast, looping the message over and over.
Setting the device on the one bunk inside began to scour the cell with the light in order to find another way to help himself.
Second Pirate Frigate: Brig
Ulric knew that there was shit to ship fire, the familier sound of plasma fire was still echoing throughout his head. As he did his best to regain his composure the sudden onset of heat and electric combustion all around showed him that his captors ship was by far in the worst condition no matter the opponents outcome.
The fingers of both hands began to feel across the floor of his blanked out cell doing his best to gain his bearings. It was then that he realized that he was still without his mask after the captors took it along with the rest of his belongings and then he heard it.
~Uhhh~ A groan slowly slid out from the bottom edge from outside the cell.
Ulric was quick in figuring out that it was the cells guard and a flame was lit in the back of his mind when he remembered that the young pirate had something of his... and he wanted it back.
Ulric set upon the man using the side of the cell to guide his path, the fingers of his cybernetic arm making slight clinking noises as he moved. But that was not enough for the disorientated guard to right himself and attempted any type of defense as Ulric's left arm squeezed out between the bars and gripped around the mans neck, jerking him sharply into the cell door.
~Get off fry face...~ The guards poor try of an insult only made Ulric jerk him up along the bars and brought him to his level. Either by effect of the attack or Ulric's actions the man gives a pained breath and cough of blood to which he shortly tries to wiggle free coaxing more pain from within him.
Reaching around with his other hand Ulric turns on his vest light, shinning a large white cone against the bulkhead and begins to rummage through his pockets.. knowing exactly what he was looking for.
The search was short as the prize was easily noticeable bulging from a vest pouch on the guards uniform. Bringing the object up into the beam of light Ulric gives a small sigh of relief as he admires the gold pocket watch for a moment and greedily stuffs it into his own pocket speaking astutely.. "If you had done anything to this... I would have taken my time."
The guards mouth gave a nervous chatter as Ulric placed his other hand on the mans head, cause him to drive the question of ~What?~
His question was in vain as Ulric pulled back forcing the guards head through the bars and then jerked it to the side effectively snapping his neck.
Ulric takes a moment to admire the work he had just performed in this place.
The guards body was still hanging there supported by the tension of his neck and head locking it on the spot, however the moment was short. He set to rummaging through the remaining pockets and quickly found the guards comm unit. As well grabbing the light to better get a look at this little comm unit in his hands, it was very simple and not too advanced. Honestly that didn't surprise him seeing all that he'd seen, but the thought of rescue was there in his mind seeing as the pirates opponents would mostly like try to salvage what they could from the ship.
So he sets the comm unit to record his voice.
"Aft.. Brig, Deck two - frame eighteen, compartment twelve. Request assistance, full lock down" He got what information he could by scanning around the room with the light and when he was done set the comm to full broadcast, looping the message over and over.
Setting the device on the one bunk inside began to scour the cell with the light in order to find another way to help himself.
Alice looked up sharply. The Admiral... of course. She brushed her hair back from her shoulders and moved to admit him. She had nothing to fear - there was nothing unusual about the Lieutenant Commander eating dinner with crew members. It was one of the most common methods of forming bonds of loyalty between the different classes of officers. There was no reason for concern that she was out of uniform, either. Alice was off duty for the night.
Except in the case of emergencies, of course.
The door slid open, and Alice saluted the Admiral properly.
"Admiral Weston," she greeted him calmly, gesturing for him to enter. She said nothing more - it was the Admiral's privilege to introduce the conversation. After all, Alice did not know yet what he had come to discuss.
Except in the case of emergencies, of course.
The door slid open, and Alice saluted the Admiral properly.
"Admiral Weston," she greeted him calmly, gesturing for him to enter. She said nothing more - it was the Admiral's privilege to introduce the conversation. After all, Alice did not know yet what he had come to discuss.
The setting changes from Infirmary/Medical Bay to F.S.S. Salient
Tiaan Peyton
Walking through the halls, she could hear the thrumming of the engine as it slowly reverberated the floor. It was a comforting sound, something that told her everything was going to be fine. Much like how sailors felt more welcome on the Sea, she felt more in her element in space. The silence as she swerved her Blue Tit, the lack of resistant this had, carefully angling her fighter. Complete and utter control, it's funny she could handle something as advanced as Mercury Class Fighter customized thoroughly, but when it came to human interaction, it was like she could do some. It just felt wholly pointless. This was different though it was a mission, the crew deserved some R&R, if she had distract --- let's be honest she was going be sending signals out the wazoo-- then so be it.
Arriving finally at the hallway, she went to enter, then turning away she coughed nervously.
"You've come this far, just do it Tiaan..."
Swinging around she tried once again to open the door, but her hand stopped as she shook a little afraid.
Deciding for cowards way she knocked quietly on the door.
Hearing nothing she turned away to go.
Shaking herself angrily she knocked louder.
Timidness rocked her core, it didn't help her dress felt really unprofessional and too revealing around here. She almost wished she had a bottle with her, at least to calm her nerves.
Sighing she knocked even louder and tried to say clearly, "It's me... Tiaan, you don't have to go looking for me. I'm... um... I'm here."
Walking through the halls, she could hear the thrumming of the engine as it slowly reverberated the floor. It was a comforting sound, something that told her everything was going to be fine. Much like how sailors felt more welcome on the Sea, she felt more in her element in space. The silence as she swerved her Blue Tit, the lack of resistant this had, carefully angling her fighter. Complete and utter control, it's funny she could handle something as advanced as Mercury Class Fighter customized thoroughly, but when it came to human interaction, it was like she could do some. It just felt wholly pointless. This was different though it was a mission, the crew deserved some R&R, if she had distract --- let's be honest she was going be sending signals out the wazoo-- then so be it.
Arriving finally at the hallway, she went to enter, then turning away she coughed nervously.
"You've come this far, just do it Tiaan..."
Swinging around she tried once again to open the door, but her hand stopped as she shook a little afraid.
Deciding for cowards way she knocked quietly on the door.
Hearing nothing she turned away to go.
Shaking herself angrily she knocked louder.
Timidness rocked her core, it didn't help her dress felt really unprofessional and too revealing around here. She almost wished she had a bottle with her, at least to calm her nerves.
Sighing she knocked even louder and tried to say clearly, "It's me... Tiaan, you don't have to go looking for me. I'm... um... I'm here."
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
Grenadine grinned at Eon "very good to see you" she looked at "him" in admiration, but screamed as he tumbled to the ground, helping him up on his feet and walking him over to a bench. She assisted Allen as he fixed the cooler, looking at the way his hands moved over the cords "You're good at that" she said, surprised. For some reason, she suddenly enjoyed looking at him much more with oil on and tools in his hands. She looked over at Eon with a caring face "I'll see if I can rig you a better one, just come see me. There might be more I can do to power up and update your systems if you like" she smiled at Eon, giving the android a hug, before walking over to boot up the other androids, her fingers stroking over the buttons as if she was waking her children "Rise and shine darlings" she softly whispered as she switched them on, switching her goggles on. The glasses lit up green as she looked over the androids "all systems working" she stated happily
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
After the salutations, the Admiral stepped in, inspecting Alice’s attire. She had on informal wear that was very close to formal.
“I wanted to talk to you about several things, for one, the Tartarus Group pilot, and several other private matters,”
He turned away for a moment, and observed the appetizers on the dinner table, one set out for the Lieutenant Commander, and another for a guest. Aronimus assumed that she was awaiting a guest, perhaps a fellow crew member, no matter though.
“Hmm, am I interrupting something?” the Admiral turned to Alice, “I can come back later when you are available Ms. Chen.”
The Admiral only said that out of courteousness, but he expected the Lieutenant Commander to be ready for anything, even if it meant that her dinner had to be delayed. Then a voice was heard,
"It's me... Tiaan, you don't have to go looking for me. I'm... um... I'm here,” it was one of the crew members, one of the many that Admiral could not keep track of. To him, they were just numerous indiscriminant faces that lingered throughout the ship, and saluted him as he crossed their paths. He knew though that they were they were the staple of a successful operation, and he would treat them with such a status.
Aronimus turned to Alice, “So you were expecting someone?”
“I wanted to talk to you about several things, for one, the Tartarus Group pilot, and several other private matters,”
He turned away for a moment, and observed the appetizers on the dinner table, one set out for the Lieutenant Commander, and another for a guest. Aronimus assumed that she was awaiting a guest, perhaps a fellow crew member, no matter though.
“Hmm, am I interrupting something?” the Admiral turned to Alice, “I can come back later when you are available Ms. Chen.”
The Admiral only said that out of courteousness, but he expected the Lieutenant Commander to be ready for anything, even if it meant that her dinner had to be delayed. Then a voice was heard,
"It's me... Tiaan, you don't have to go looking for me. I'm... um... I'm here,” it was one of the crew members, one of the many that Admiral could not keep track of. To him, they were just numerous indiscriminant faces that lingered throughout the ship, and saluted him as he crossed their paths. He knew though that they were they were the staple of a successful operation, and he would treat them with such a status.
Aronimus turned to Alice, “So you were expecting someone?”
Alice was about to assure the Admiral that anything she had been preparing could wait when Tiaan spoke up from behind the door. She sighed softly and nodded her agreement.
"My apologies, sir," she murmured. "This will just take a moment."
She crossed to the comm and pressed to contact Tiaan.
"The Admiral is here," she told the pilot in an even, business-like voice through the speaker. "Please come back later."
Alice left it at that, leaving no option but obedience as she abandoned the comm and turned back to the Admiral. She looked at him calmly, expectantly. To Alice - a practiced commanding officer - sending off a dinner guest in favor of her captain was no large thing.
"My apologies, sir," she murmured. "This will just take a moment."
She crossed to the comm and pressed to contact Tiaan.
"The Admiral is here," she told the pilot in an even, business-like voice through the speaker. "Please come back later."
Alice left it at that, leaving no option but obedience as she abandoned the comm and turned back to the Admiral. She looked at him calmly, expectantly. To Alice - a practiced commanding officer - sending off a dinner guest in favor of her captain was no large thing.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
Eon sat on the bench feeling Grenadine and her friend work on him. Eon felt relived that his systems had cooled and looked at the other androids. He looked around and was "happy" to have completed the ship he was fixing. Closing his eyes a bit he muttered "thank you..." as he felt a minor fluctuation in his power and saw as his power was slowly draining. He couldn't do much about it but hope he doesn't shut down again due to power issues. He noticed the more minor features have been deactivated and saw as non-vital systems shut down too. And eventually had shut down due to power failure.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
Tiaan Peyton
Feeling slightly deflated and confused Tiaan started to walk away. After all that there wasn't going to be anything. Part of her considered just entering, but really what could she say, she could just wait around here for now. Because right now she couldn't exactly start doing anything. Slipping her gauntlet on she proceeded to call any nearby engineers. It took a while but she got through to one, sighing she spoke in a clipped tone.
"Please make sure Blue Tit is ready for next piece of action, for some reason when flying my scanners were glitching. I couldn't locate where anyone was."
Not even waiting for an answer she continued, "Also restock the missle bay. I want this done now. I don't care if you've a party to go to soon. Work first, fun later."
There a mumble of reply, before he hung up. She was probably bit too hard on him, but honestly could you blame her, she felt so confused about everything. So if she could bully anyone for sense of control she would.
Seeing nearby seat, she herself down, and let her mind wander, it wasn't too far, one thing for sure she would see the Admiral leave, as this was exit from this hallway. It would have to do.
Feeling slightly deflated and confused Tiaan started to walk away. After all that there wasn't going to be anything. Part of her considered just entering, but really what could she say, she could just wait around here for now. Because right now she couldn't exactly start doing anything. Slipping her gauntlet on she proceeded to call any nearby engineers. It took a while but she got through to one, sighing she spoke in a clipped tone.
"Please make sure Blue Tit is ready for next piece of action, for some reason when flying my scanners were glitching. I couldn't locate where anyone was."
Not even waiting for an answer she continued, "Also restock the missle bay. I want this done now. I don't care if you've a party to go to soon. Work first, fun later."
There a mumble of reply, before he hung up. She was probably bit too hard on him, but honestly could you blame her, she felt so confused about everything. So if she could bully anyone for sense of control she would.
Seeing nearby seat, she herself down, and let her mind wander, it wasn't too far, one thing for sure she would see the Admiral leave, as this was exit from this hallway. It would have to do.
The Admiral watched Alice dismiss her acquaintance before continuing on with his original priority. He obviously did not want to forestall Alice's dinner any longer, but it could wait in the face of more worldly matters.
"Right then," he paced slowly forward through her cabin. The fluorescent lighting was set to a dim, barely glinting off the metallic plating of the walls and floor. Aronimus turned to face the Lieutenant Commander, the lines of worry began to entrench themselves on his square forehead. The table was set neatly with the plates sparkling clean, as were the forks set in fashionable order alongside the knives on the tablecloth. An array of light fixtures formed in the shape of a rose, one that was composed of several steel plates, hung directly over the table. It provided the prominent lighting in the room, with the table being bathed directly under the spotlight.
"Firstly, how was our pilot? The one from Tartarus Group...was she injured, did she have any injured on board?" The Admiral paused, awaiting her answer. His throat was dry, almost often, with the exception of whenever he was drinking. Most of the time though, this dry throat was coupled with a deep voice, making the Admiral sound fairly gruff, yet at the same time his hair and beard added a touch of class and sophistication. This seemingly awkward combination was the focal point of Aronimus' outward appearance, which was at once presentable and respected. The question he posed was merely an introduction into the more important part of his reason as to why he met Alice. It was the appetizer before the entree, so to speak.
"Right then," he paced slowly forward through her cabin. The fluorescent lighting was set to a dim, barely glinting off the metallic plating of the walls and floor. Aronimus turned to face the Lieutenant Commander, the lines of worry began to entrench themselves on his square forehead. The table was set neatly with the plates sparkling clean, as were the forks set in fashionable order alongside the knives on the tablecloth. An array of light fixtures formed in the shape of a rose, one that was composed of several steel plates, hung directly over the table. It provided the prominent lighting in the room, with the table being bathed directly under the spotlight.
"Firstly, how was our pilot? The one from Tartarus Group...was she injured, did she have any injured on board?" The Admiral paused, awaiting her answer. His throat was dry, almost often, with the exception of whenever he was drinking. Most of the time though, this dry throat was coupled with a deep voice, making the Admiral sound fairly gruff, yet at the same time his hair and beard added a touch of class and sophistication. This seemingly awkward combination was the focal point of Aronimus' outward appearance, which was at once presentable and respected. The question he posed was merely an introduction into the more important part of his reason as to why he met Alice. It was the appetizer before the entree, so to speak.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
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Ulric Kercheskoi
Pirate Frigate: Brig
Ulric had worked his way several feet around the sides and ceiling of the cell in hopes of at least finding something that would prove useful, and the there it way. A partially hidden service panel that was nudged back behind the head of the bunk which only required that he rip out the cushion and frame.
Even more to his surprise was the fact that some power was still flowing through it but not out into the compartment. So he set to making several adjustments as he switched the power flow, doing so without much need for his tools mostly because the line where interchangeable. Causing the cell to brighten with flickering lights as he completed the circuit revealing to him the chaos that was caused by the sustained combat had done. panels where busted around the circumference of the cell and outer compartment, leaving wires, metal plating and the occasional spark to sway around freely.
Ulric doesn't want to waste time and returns to the front of the cell where the guards body still hanged and with no ire he grabbed the dead mans hand, bringing it down to open the biometric lock on the cell. With that the cell door swung open with so much ease one would argue if such a thing would ever lock and he realized such a sound was so sweet as it sounded to his ears.
But that was not the only sound reaching his ears..**Aft.. Port.. Hull integrity at sixty percent and dropping, all crew reach a secure compartment.**
The emergency lighting was starting to flicker on as it was trying to show the way out for Ulric despite the fact half of the lights where missing. He graciously starting looking for the container he watched them store his belongings in and it only took three boxes till he noticed the familiar shine of his mask peering out from a cracked lid in the corner.
Pirate Frigate: Brig
Ulric had worked his way several feet around the sides and ceiling of the cell in hopes of at least finding something that would prove useful, and the there it way. A partially hidden service panel that was nudged back behind the head of the bunk which only required that he rip out the cushion and frame.
Even more to his surprise was the fact that some power was still flowing through it but not out into the compartment. So he set to making several adjustments as he switched the power flow, doing so without much need for his tools mostly because the line where interchangeable. Causing the cell to brighten with flickering lights as he completed the circuit revealing to him the chaos that was caused by the sustained combat had done. panels where busted around the circumference of the cell and outer compartment, leaving wires, metal plating and the occasional spark to sway around freely.
Ulric doesn't want to waste time and returns to the front of the cell where the guards body still hanged and with no ire he grabbed the dead mans hand, bringing it down to open the biometric lock on the cell. With that the cell door swung open with so much ease one would argue if such a thing would ever lock and he realized such a sound was so sweet as it sounded to his ears.
But that was not the only sound reaching his ears..**Aft.. Port.. Hull integrity at sixty percent and dropping, all crew reach a secure compartment.**
The emergency lighting was starting to flicker on as it was trying to show the way out for Ulric despite the fact half of the lights where missing. He graciously starting looking for the container he watched them store his belongings in and it only took three boxes till he noticed the familiar shine of his mask peering out from a cracked lid in the corner.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
"The pilot was unharmed," Alice reported calmly, meeting the Admiral's eyes without fear. "She was the only member of her crew. That considered, I believe that she was very lucky. Things could have gone much worse with a one-man crew." She nodded to herself. She'd had experience with the chaos which could go down on a ship meant for multiple and manned by one... of course, it had been a little different. She had been alone on the ship with the psychopath who stole it.
Shaking her head slightly to distract herself from that train of thought, she gazed through the dim light at the Admiral's careworn face.
"I suspect that there is more to this than the pilot's health, sir?" she prompted quietly.
Shaking her head slightly to distract herself from that train of thought, she gazed through the dim light at the Admiral's careworn face.
"I suspect that there is more to this than the pilot's health, sir?" she prompted quietly.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
Elizabeth Waltz
Location: Pirate Frigate Brig
"HEY" She yelled at the man retrieving his belongings from the container.
"Over here!!" Elizabeth swung her arms through cage bars at the man.
Elizabeth had been stuck on this ship longer than Ulric, though she did not know the exact time, but from her emanates she has been stuck on the ship for around 2 months. She stood there, trying hard to break the arcane iron key lock that held her cage shut. Having been on the ship so long, and being a girl, she was treated like dirt. When she arrived, the brig was to crowded to put another prisoner in, so they shoved her into an iron cage used for dangerous animals, and didn't bother to move her when room was available. With tears in her eyes she reached for the man as the alert blared, her body beaten and scarred.
As the man turned around to face her, he found that she was wearing nothing but a ripped and cut shirt that barley covered her breast. The rest of her body naked. Everything that the shirt didn't cover she tried to cover with her hand.
"Please.. Help me out of here! I--I can pay you anything you want to get me off of this ship!" With a gasp she reached farther and farther through the bars at the man she had never known, who holds her life in his hands.
Location: Pirate Frigate Brig
"HEY" She yelled at the man retrieving his belongings from the container.
"Over here!!" Elizabeth swung her arms through cage bars at the man.
Elizabeth had been stuck on this ship longer than Ulric, though she did not know the exact time, but from her emanates she has been stuck on the ship for around 2 months. She stood there, trying hard to break the arcane iron key lock that held her cage shut. Having been on the ship so long, and being a girl, she was treated like dirt. When she arrived, the brig was to crowded to put another prisoner in, so they shoved her into an iron cage used for dangerous animals, and didn't bother to move her when room was available. With tears in her eyes she reached for the man as the alert blared, her body beaten and scarred.
As the man turned around to face her, he found that she was wearing nothing but a ripped and cut shirt that barley covered her breast. The rest of her body naked. Everything that the shirt didn't cover she tried to cover with her hand.
"Please.. Help me out of here! I--I can pay you anything you want to get me off of this ship!" With a gasp she reached farther and farther through the bars at the man she had never known, who holds her life in his hands.
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Ulric Kercheskoi
Pirate Frigate: Brig
Ulric's arms started darting back and forth trying to gather what little of his belongings the pirates had left, namely his rig and several of the tools where there. But many of the higher priced items where gone such as his batteries and data pad.
But his searching was halted when he heard a young woman's voice call for help behind him and in turning he began to bring his cybernetic arm up to block his face from her view. But in the moment he saw her he could tell that at this moment she was far more worse off then him.
She reached out for him from behind the bars of her cage.. obviously it wasn't really meant for a person to be set inside but the pirates where callous enough to do so. Her eyes where frantic with an erratic hope and her bare body was covered in the marks of past trials and though he was not willing to get within range of her arms he moved closer.
Making sure she got as good a look at him as he did her, he lowers down to the dim light of her cage and the beams cast a view over his face cruelly scarred from trials of his own.
He realized now that as he looked at her he had actually seen her once before when they brought him too his cell, its just that she was so quiet and calmly that he mistook her in another instance.
He reaches out lightly with his left hand and takes hold of hers softly gripping them to let her know everything was going to be fine. Despite the fact that ships hull could give out and the atmospheric bubble would rupture giving them nothing to breath short of vacuum.
He gives her a slight nod before turning around and sliding his mask on the hurries to don the rest of his gear before clamping the mask to its seal. Ulric then goes about looking through the other boxes making what effort he can to find something to conserve the girls decency and is luck to come along a small stack of coveralls. Apparently this is what the prisoners where given to ware when their cloths where confiscated as well, and luckily in the stack was a pair that looked to be the young woman's size if so a little baggy.
He scrambled back to her cage and gently pressed the outfit into her arms allowing her to take hold of it.. "Go ahead and dress yourself miss.. I will get you of here." His rough voice getting vocalized through the mask sounded awkward, seeing as his normal voices was more akin to the sound stone being rubbed together the addition of synthesis didn't help.
He looked at the lock was taken aback at the sight of it being a rather old make, older then he was in fact. Which told him that the pirates most likely retrofitted the cage in her so it wasn't originally part of the ship. Lifting his right arm once more he balled the hand into a loose fist and activated his data pile, a long thin metallic probe that came to a small point. Ulric jutted the pile into the lock giving it a quick jar from side to side, the only thing he planned to break was the lock and seeing as the pile was titanium the lock had no hope.
Pirate Frigate: Brig
Ulric's arms started darting back and forth trying to gather what little of his belongings the pirates had left, namely his rig and several of the tools where there. But many of the higher priced items where gone such as his batteries and data pad.
But his searching was halted when he heard a young woman's voice call for help behind him and in turning he began to bring his cybernetic arm up to block his face from her view. But in the moment he saw her he could tell that at this moment she was far more worse off then him.
She reached out for him from behind the bars of her cage.. obviously it wasn't really meant for a person to be set inside but the pirates where callous enough to do so. Her eyes where frantic with an erratic hope and her bare body was covered in the marks of past trials and though he was not willing to get within range of her arms he moved closer.
Making sure she got as good a look at him as he did her, he lowers down to the dim light of her cage and the beams cast a view over his face cruelly scarred from trials of his own.
He realized now that as he looked at her he had actually seen her once before when they brought him too his cell, its just that she was so quiet and calmly that he mistook her in another instance.
He reaches out lightly with his left hand and takes hold of hers softly gripping them to let her know everything was going to be fine. Despite the fact that ships hull could give out and the atmospheric bubble would rupture giving them nothing to breath short of vacuum.
He gives her a slight nod before turning around and sliding his mask on the hurries to don the rest of his gear before clamping the mask to its seal. Ulric then goes about looking through the other boxes making what effort he can to find something to conserve the girls decency and is luck to come along a small stack of coveralls. Apparently this is what the prisoners where given to ware when their cloths where confiscated as well, and luckily in the stack was a pair that looked to be the young woman's size if so a little baggy.
He scrambled back to her cage and gently pressed the outfit into her arms allowing her to take hold of it.. "Go ahead and dress yourself miss.. I will get you of here." His rough voice getting vocalized through the mask sounded awkward, seeing as his normal voices was more akin to the sound stone being rubbed together the addition of synthesis didn't help.
He looked at the lock was taken aback at the sight of it being a rather old make, older then he was in fact. Which told him that the pirates most likely retrofitted the cage in her so it wasn't originally part of the ship. Lifting his right arm once more he balled the hand into a loose fist and activated his data pile, a long thin metallic probe that came to a small point. Ulric jutted the pile into the lock giving it a quick jar from side to side, the only thing he planned to break was the lock and seeing as the pile was titanium the lock had no hope.
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As the man walked towards her she smiles softly, and grasped his hand with care, her lips seeming to repeat over and over again "Thank you... Thank you" though no sound came from them.
As he handed her her belongings, she wasted no time in throwing them on. Zipping up the jacket fast to keep her warm, and also cover her scars.
"...If it makes you feel better... Iv seen worse scaring..." She muttered out awkwardly, hopping to lighten the mood of the situation. After she slid the cloths on she came over and reaches for your other hand, seeming to be very clingy to you sense she hasn't had a friendly, let alone human, touch in a long time. She stood there for a moment, looking his body over as he played with the lock. For a moment, she seemed to like what she saw, but shook her head because she knew that a fancy for a cyborg wouldn't get her out of the cage.
"If you hand my my wrench, i can get it open... I-Iv worked on harder things"
As he handed her her belongings, she wasted no time in throwing them on. Zipping up the jacket fast to keep her warm, and also cover her scars.
"...If it makes you feel better... Iv seen worse scaring..." She muttered out awkwardly, hopping to lighten the mood of the situation. After she slid the cloths on she came over and reaches for your other hand, seeming to be very clingy to you sense she hasn't had a friendly, let alone human, touch in a long time. She stood there for a moment, looking his body over as he played with the lock. For a moment, she seemed to like what she saw, but shook her head because she knew that a fancy for a cyborg wouldn't get her out of the cage.
"If you hand my my wrench, i can get it open... I-Iv worked on harder things"
Max:
He noted what TAU said, and then noted "You know, we should probably run ship cameras for the storage room. Someone might have on purposely uploaded me into the ship.....wait. How did I go unnoticed. There might be some sort of Computer Drive in there. But, since I was connected to the ship, it would also have to be wired to the ship. Like a sort of "Shadow Drive": A computer Drive hidden from the network. This combined with my dormancy until far after we are in space......this screams trap the more I think about it....".
Max then noted "And how many pirates were there? If there was very little, they should have run away. Makes no sense otherwise, considering the armor and weapons of the ship...."
Reterec Smithy:
Raider Plasma Assault Rifle, Standard Issue. Reterec picked it up, and then noted "You know, they might have areas of their hull that were weakened by the fight. We should watch our fire if we have to shoot, because we might punch a hole in the ship. Not to mention any explosives in the ship they stole. Or any fuel, or engines, or power sources. Just saying, it would be a good thing to note. I would rather not get blown up and sucked into space, just saying what I prefer you know...."
Reterec then thought to himself "Still doesn't make sense why they didn't run....". He made sure he had all his gear, and then noted "I'm set".
He noted what TAU said, and then noted "You know, we should probably run ship cameras for the storage room. Someone might have on purposely uploaded me into the ship.....wait. How did I go unnoticed. There might be some sort of Computer Drive in there. But, since I was connected to the ship, it would also have to be wired to the ship. Like a sort of "Shadow Drive": A computer Drive hidden from the network. This combined with my dormancy until far after we are in space......this screams trap the more I think about it....".
Max then noted "And how many pirates were there? If there was very little, they should have run away. Makes no sense otherwise, considering the armor and weapons of the ship...."
Reterec Smithy:
Raider Plasma Assault Rifle, Standard Issue. Reterec picked it up, and then noted "You know, they might have areas of their hull that were weakened by the fight. We should watch our fire if we have to shoot, because we might punch a hole in the ship. Not to mention any explosives in the ship they stole. Or any fuel, or engines, or power sources. Just saying, it would be a good thing to note. I would rather not get blown up and sucked into space, just saying what I prefer you know...."
Reterec then thought to himself "Still doesn't make sense why they didn't run....". He made sure he had all his gear, and then noted "I'm set".
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
"She was the only member of her crew. That considered, I believe that she was very lucky. Things could have gone much worse with a one-man crew,”
“I see,” Aronimus paused for Alice to continue.
"I suspect that there is more to this than the pilot's health, sir?" she prompted quietly.
“Mmh, quite perceptive Ms. Chen. You are correct, I did not come to talk mostly about the pilot,” Aronimus paused.
“The destination remains the same, but we have new mission objectives, from Federation High Command, directly from Admiral Fontaine,” the Admiral wanted to glean Alice’s reaction to this news. He expected her to accept it calmly, without surprise.
“I planned on meeting you and Commander Dunaway in my quarters, but the recent turn of events postponed that move. Thus, I decided to drop by at your quarters and perhaps deliver the news,”
“I can’t disclose any information yet, so carry on, we’ll have a briefing later. Presumably, after the Altamus vessels have been escorted out of this sector and our teams have returned to the ship for debriefing,”
“So, carry on Ms. Chen, I won’t delay your dinner much longer,” Aronimus smiled.
“I see,” Aronimus paused for Alice to continue.
"I suspect that there is more to this than the pilot's health, sir?" she prompted quietly.
“Mmh, quite perceptive Ms. Chen. You are correct, I did not come to talk mostly about the pilot,” Aronimus paused.
“The destination remains the same, but we have new mission objectives, from Federation High Command, directly from Admiral Fontaine,” the Admiral wanted to glean Alice’s reaction to this news. He expected her to accept it calmly, without surprise.
“I planned on meeting you and Commander Dunaway in my quarters, but the recent turn of events postponed that move. Thus, I decided to drop by at your quarters and perhaps deliver the news,”
“I can’t disclose any information yet, so carry on, we’ll have a briefing later. Presumably, after the Altamus vessels have been escorted out of this sector and our teams have returned to the ship for debriefing,”
“So, carry on Ms. Chen, I won’t delay your dinner much longer,” Aronimus smiled.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
Second Pirate Frigate
The explosive device was blinking away in some unknown corner of the pirate frigate. The crew had prepared for the Federation boarding crew, and were about to destroy their ship, if only to delay a Federation advance. They were hoping to drag someone down with them, should they fall.
**Aft.. Port.. Hull integrity at sixty percent and dropping, all crew reach a secure compartment.**
“Oh man, that’s bad, that’s bad, that’s definitely bad,” Reynolds was just about ready to leave the bridge without the others when he heard the announcement.
"Hmm, so there are still pirates on board," Adriana thought to herself.
“Comon’, just a bit more…” Carter was still wired into the system, finishing his downloads; the files were at eighty-nine percent, with Eli looking over his shoulder. Gunfire was then heard from the exit corridor leading to the bridge, grabbing their attention.
“Shit, shit, shit!” Weifert fired his IAR down the corridor, “We got company!” Adriana heard his call and slid up against the wall on the other side of the blast door, prepping her photon rifle.
“What kind?!” Reynolds got up against one of the walls.
“What do you mean ‘what kind’?!” Weifert yelled as he fired another couple of rounds, which was met by more gunfire from the hostiles, “The only kind we got right now is the bad kind!”
“Done, let’s get the hell out of here,” Carter unplugged from the bridge’s interface, and clutched his shotgun. He had loaded it previously with spikes, and now was perhaps his time to shine by clearing the corridor of hostiles and making a way for Bravo team.
“Alright Sarge, you know what to do,” Eli nodded at his shotgun.
“Right,” the Sergeant Major slid out into the corridor, firing two rounds. The pirates had missed him as he made his assault; they in turn received spikes that ripped apart their torsos, and a concussive explosion that came as a result of the spikes.
The Captain then proceeded behind him quickly, checking to make sure the hostiles were dead, lest one pop up and fire at them. He was followed directly by Weifert, Adriana, and then Reynolds.
“Alright, this place seems clear, let’s head down that way,” Eli led the way, the others following in tow, as the klaxons of the ship started to blare. No doubt more hostiles had arranged themselves along the corridors, appearing after Bravo team had cleared the way to the bridge, to set up a hell path on the way back. The ship’s integrity was dropping, and a bomb situated in some unknown suite on board the ship was close to detonation, by Eli’s estimates. It was a hell of a day to be a Marine.
The explosive device was blinking away in some unknown corner of the pirate frigate. The crew had prepared for the Federation boarding crew, and were about to destroy their ship, if only to delay a Federation advance. They were hoping to drag someone down with them, should they fall.
**Aft.. Port.. Hull integrity at sixty percent and dropping, all crew reach a secure compartment.**
“Oh man, that’s bad, that’s bad, that’s definitely bad,” Reynolds was just about ready to leave the bridge without the others when he heard the announcement.
"Hmm, so there are still pirates on board," Adriana thought to herself.
“Comon’, just a bit more…” Carter was still wired into the system, finishing his downloads; the files were at eighty-nine percent, with Eli looking over his shoulder. Gunfire was then heard from the exit corridor leading to the bridge, grabbing their attention.
“Shit, shit, shit!” Weifert fired his IAR down the corridor, “We got company!” Adriana heard his call and slid up against the wall on the other side of the blast door, prepping her photon rifle.
“What kind?!” Reynolds got up against one of the walls.
“What do you mean ‘what kind’?!” Weifert yelled as he fired another couple of rounds, which was met by more gunfire from the hostiles, “The only kind we got right now is the bad kind!”
“Done, let’s get the hell out of here,” Carter unplugged from the bridge’s interface, and clutched his shotgun. He had loaded it previously with spikes, and now was perhaps his time to shine by clearing the corridor of hostiles and making a way for Bravo team.
“Alright Sarge, you know what to do,” Eli nodded at his shotgun.
“Right,” the Sergeant Major slid out into the corridor, firing two rounds. The pirates had missed him as he made his assault; they in turn received spikes that ripped apart their torsos, and a concussive explosion that came as a result of the spikes.
The Captain then proceeded behind him quickly, checking to make sure the hostiles were dead, lest one pop up and fire at them. He was followed directly by Weifert, Adriana, and then Reynolds.
“Alright, this place seems clear, let’s head down that way,” Eli led the way, the others following in tow, as the klaxons of the ship started to blare. No doubt more hostiles had arranged themselves along the corridors, appearing after Bravo team had cleared the way to the bridge, to set up a hell path on the way back. The ship’s integrity was dropping, and a bomb situated in some unknown suite on board the ship was close to detonation, by Eli’s estimates. It was a hell of a day to be a Marine.
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Ulric Kercheskoi
Pirate Frigate: Brig
Ulric gives his head a small tilt at the girls comment, guessing that she was most likely in the same profession as he was which was interesting to say the least. If the pirates had captured the both of them for some kind of purpose then that would mean something else was going befall them in the long run.
He gives the lock a quick twist with his probe and a sharp metallic snap is heard did inside the casing.
Giving a rough smile behind his face mask Ulric pulls of the cage door and the final pieces of the lock break away letting it swing wide.
"If your alright to move then I suggest we get going.." He says as the bladed protrusion slides back between his knuckles.
"They have something of mine and unfortunately I cannot leave without it."
Ulric had already moved over too the hatch leading into the some type of main compartment and looking through he could tell it was the guards station.
He goes back to grab the comm which was still broadcasting his message from earlier and turns the loop off, thinking that if no one had come yet then nobody would. Alright Miss.. when we get out there I want you to stay behind me, its possible we could run into more trouble.."
At that moment the comm unit in his hand began to erupt with the sound of gunfire, it was obvious that someone was running into trouble on another section of the ship. So he took the comm and attached it to his suit interlinking it with his mask if just to keep an ear on the situation.
Pirate Frigate: Brig
Ulric gives his head a small tilt at the girls comment, guessing that she was most likely in the same profession as he was which was interesting to say the least. If the pirates had captured the both of them for some kind of purpose then that would mean something else was going befall them in the long run.
He gives the lock a quick twist with his probe and a sharp metallic snap is heard did inside the casing.
Giving a rough smile behind his face mask Ulric pulls of the cage door and the final pieces of the lock break away letting it swing wide.
"If your alright to move then I suggest we get going.." He says as the bladed protrusion slides back between his knuckles.
"They have something of mine and unfortunately I cannot leave without it."
Ulric had already moved over too the hatch leading into the some type of main compartment and looking through he could tell it was the guards station.
He goes back to grab the comm which was still broadcasting his message from earlier and turns the loop off, thinking that if no one had come yet then nobody would. Alright Miss.. when we get out there I want you to stay behind me, its possible we could run into more trouble.."
At that moment the comm unit in his hand began to erupt with the sound of gunfire, it was obvious that someone was running into trouble on another section of the ship. So he took the comm and attached it to his suit interlinking it with his mask if just to keep an ear on the situation.
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For the first time in a long time, Elizabeth slowly walked out of the cage, her body shaking as she carefully started walking towards Ulric.
"Thank you..." She grunted out as she almost fell over, but grabbed onto the wall to support her. "My name... Is Waltz, Elizabeth Waltz. Slowly she walked behind him and held onto his back to help her walk. "Ill be fine in a minute... i just need to balance myself..."
After a moment to gather herself she started walking on her own, stretching to make sure not to cause herself to cramp. "They have my fathers wrench. I need... Its VERY valuable, but its priceless to me. Its most likely with the captain... But it could be anywhere... Do you think that's the rescue party..?" She asks, referring to the gunfire. "Im not much of a shot, but iv gotten myself out of more than one predicament..." She said with a little fear in her voice, unsure about her ability's in combat.
"Thank you..." She grunted out as she almost fell over, but grabbed onto the wall to support her. "My name... Is Waltz, Elizabeth Waltz. Slowly she walked behind him and held onto his back to help her walk. "Ill be fine in a minute... i just need to balance myself..."
After a moment to gather herself she started walking on her own, stretching to make sure not to cause herself to cramp. "They have my fathers wrench. I need... Its VERY valuable, but its priceless to me. Its most likely with the captain... But it could be anywhere... Do you think that's the rescue party..?" She asks, referring to the gunfire. "Im not much of a shot, but iv gotten myself out of more than one predicament..." She said with a little fear in her voice, unsure about her ability's in combat.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
AI TAU
Tau listened to Max, he had to agree it was strange, "I myself was only recently activated on board the ship, but have been on duty elsewhere. There are many ways someone could have uploaded you without being noticed though, it will be tough to figure out" he said, he knew the simple answer to the second part of Max's questions, "Well, we missed the first shot thanks to some unwanted help, which may have given them the thought they could beat the Salient, but our second salvo left them crippled, so badly that they cannot even retreat." he said.
Tau was somewhere else as well, he was in the Second in Command's quarters, watching a conversation. He was still scanning the enemy ships as well, watching for any dangers to the troops they had searching it. He had found something odd on the ship their soldiers were on, he felt he should inform the Admiral, even if it meant interrupting his discussion here. Tau's form appeared on one of the consoles near the two officers. "I apologize for interrupting, but I thought you might like to know that I have picked up life signs on the pirate vessel who are unarmed and are not wearing any gear or weapons. I think they might be prisoners"
Tau listened to Max, he had to agree it was strange, "I myself was only recently activated on board the ship, but have been on duty elsewhere. There are many ways someone could have uploaded you without being noticed though, it will be tough to figure out" he said, he knew the simple answer to the second part of Max's questions, "Well, we missed the first shot thanks to some unwanted help, which may have given them the thought they could beat the Salient, but our second salvo left them crippled, so badly that they cannot even retreat." he said.
Tau was somewhere else as well, he was in the Second in Command's quarters, watching a conversation. He was still scanning the enemy ships as well, watching for any dangers to the troops they had searching it. He had found something odd on the ship their soldiers were on, he felt he should inform the Admiral, even if it meant interrupting his discussion here. Tau's form appeared on one of the consoles near the two officers. "I apologize for interrupting, but I thought you might like to know that I have picked up life signs on the pirate vessel who are unarmed and are not wearing any gear or weapons. I think they might be prisoners"
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
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Grenadine gasped as she saw Eon shut down again "nonono, what's wrong now" she switched on her glasses, scanning him thoroughly, opening his panels "AHA!" she triumphed, loosening some screws, tightening some until she could yank out the power divider "It's been fried when he overheated" she ran around the hangar until she found another, plugging it in "Rise and shine sleepy" she muttered as she rebooted Eon
Allen watched Grenadine scramble around looking for a power driver and while she was doing that he was doing some fast repairs to any damaged parts that he could get to easily. He did these repairs to the best of his abilities as to what he had near him. Some damaged wires were moved and replaced by the time she got back and replaced the part. "This has been interesting." Allen said to her. "Good job none the less." He smiled as he waited to see what was going to happen.
Eon started to boot back up and was content that he wasn't shut down and defenseless to the others. He looked up with emotionless eyes, "Thank you, again." he muttered as his systems booted back up. Eon proceeded to stand back up shakily his systems not quite up completely. Feeling his balance fail and grabbed onto a crease in the wall for support. He looked at the others, his systems had cooled but were still faulty from the sudden powering down. He felt a jolt of energy come up his body and almost fell again. Text appeared in his vision Systems malfunctioning, major need for repair.
Looking at the text Eon was a bit irritated, 'shut up... Override system power down. Keep vital systems operational. Shut down all others.' He "thought" as he stood back up, "I- am in need of major repair to most of my systems." He spoke shakily due to power issues.
More text appeared: Motherboard in danger. Estimated time of motherboard destruction. 6 hours.
Looking at the text Eon was a bit irritated, 'shut up... Override system power down. Keep vital systems operational. Shut down all others.' He "thought" as he stood back up, "I- am in need of major repair to most of my systems." He spoke shakily due to power issues.
More text appeared: Motherboard in danger. Estimated time of motherboard destruction. 6 hours.
Grenadine squeezed her hands into her face, putting them down as Eon fell, helping him down on the floor "I'll save you" she promised "shut down, I'll save you" she promised with love in her voice "I'm a PhD in electronics, I can do this" she reassured. She flipped him over, starting to loosening the screws at the speed of a formula 1 mechanic "Allen, I need you" she pleeded "we're gonna take him apart entirely, fix all the pieces, I'm going to have an argument with the motherboard" she kept loosening screws as she talked. She got out the motherboard and other chips in his "brain". She got out Nokia, and started examining each piece separately, connecting them into Nokia when she had manually watched them "You can talk to me now Eon" she spoke into the former cell phone.
Allen began to pull out pieces and change the one that were completely gone. He was doing his best to make everything as new as possible but things just seemed to be getting worse and worse as repairing this droid turned in to try to almost replace this droid. He was sweating for some odd reason. Grease was just about everywhere as the rebuilding continued. "Where on earth did you get that old phone at?" He asked as he replaced some cords. 'Those things have not been around for a while.' he thought as a got minorly shocked. "Ow." he said but continued to work after all they needed all the droids up and running to make sure this goes just right.
Ulric Kercheskoi
Pirate Frigate
Ulric looks back at the girl while she introduces herself to him, doing the most she can to keep some civility about the two of them and all the while keeps turning back towards the door as she rallies behind him.
"My name is Kercheskoi.. but my friends call me Ulric." He brings his head close to the ports glass and takes one last look before pressing the switch and opening the hatch. It opens into a badly damaged security compartment the lights dimly blinking every few seconds only to hold a steady beam for a minute the go back to blinking again. The compartment itself does still have much of its items intact, there is a set of monitors located at the back end with someone seated in front of them. Just seeing the person there startles Ulric and he hits as best a offensive stance as he could muster in his moment. Only to realize as he approaches that his actions where unneeded the person is completely still and unresponsive, closer inspection showing that a piece of ruptured conduit had blown out of an adjacent wall and pierced his chest.
Keeping a close watch on Elizabeth Ulric saunters over to the dead pirate and brushes him aside letting him fall to the deck with a solid sounding thud. Ulric looks at the young woman and decides to turn the body over so he wasn't just staring up at them with blank eyes.
Ulric looks at the monitors in front of him six stacked one to one on top of each other, thinking this must of been a remote viewing station for selected sections of the ship. He goes to climb down underneath the console and repair the damaged feed to the screens only to look down past his legs and see that there where a set of four security lockers against the forward bulkhead.
"Elizabeth.. Can you try checking the lockers for weapons or anything that we can use, I need to fix the feed for these screens and maybe I would be able to check the logs to see where they stored our possessions." He worked diligently as he spoke and every twist of a wire or rip of a cord sent sparks cascading over his mask blackened faceplate.
Pirate Frigate
Ulric looks back at the girl while she introduces herself to him, doing the most she can to keep some civility about the two of them and all the while keeps turning back towards the door as she rallies behind him.
"My name is Kercheskoi.. but my friends call me Ulric." He brings his head close to the ports glass and takes one last look before pressing the switch and opening the hatch. It opens into a badly damaged security compartment the lights dimly blinking every few seconds only to hold a steady beam for a minute the go back to blinking again. The compartment itself does still have much of its items intact, there is a set of monitors located at the back end with someone seated in front of them. Just seeing the person there startles Ulric and he hits as best a offensive stance as he could muster in his moment. Only to realize as he approaches that his actions where unneeded the person is completely still and unresponsive, closer inspection showing that a piece of ruptured conduit had blown out of an adjacent wall and pierced his chest.
Keeping a close watch on Elizabeth Ulric saunters over to the dead pirate and brushes him aside letting him fall to the deck with a solid sounding thud. Ulric looks at the young woman and decides to turn the body over so he wasn't just staring up at them with blank eyes.
Ulric looks at the monitors in front of him six stacked one to one on top of each other, thinking this must of been a remote viewing station for selected sections of the ship. He goes to climb down underneath the console and repair the damaged feed to the screens only to look down past his legs and see that there where a set of four security lockers against the forward bulkhead.
"Elizabeth.. Can you try checking the lockers for weapons or anything that we can use, I need to fix the feed for these screens and maybe I would be able to check the logs to see where they stored our possessions." He worked diligently as he spoke and every twist of a wire or rip of a cord sent sparks cascading over his mask blackened faceplate.
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"Aye" She grunted out as she looked around the room quickly, finding her way to the security lockers qwickly. After spending a moment fiddling with the key pad, putting in basic passwords with no secsus, she scrambled her hand around on the pad, knocking on it softly with her knuckles untill she hit a hard spot. "Ha!" With a grin she swiftly brought her knee up into the spot, and the door swung open to reveal its contents;
*A small stranded issue Federation pistol with 3 extra mag's.
*A small oxygen tank, with a med pack strapped on the bottom of it.
"U-Umm... Oxygen tank and a pistol!" Another moment later she tapped on the next locker over, again kicking it on the sore spot. Without failure the locker popped open and inside it lied more heavy duty equipment. "Holy shit... H-Hey Ulric!" She said in shock, looking over the locker filled with;
*A heavy duty spec-ops shotgun, with around 20 rounds extra.
*2 EMP grenades, primed.
*Lastly a fully intact spec-ops infiltration suit, used for ship invasions.
The suit its self was worth its weight in money, sense the suit is able to stay in deep space, detached from any life support, for 5 minutes on a full tank. With even a propulsion back for traversing the ships hall wile in space.
"Ulric... This is Federation Spec-Ops gear... Who are they killing to get this gear...???"
*A small stranded issue Federation pistol with 3 extra mag's.
*A small oxygen tank, with a med pack strapped on the bottom of it.
"U-Umm... Oxygen tank and a pistol!" Another moment later she tapped on the next locker over, again kicking it on the sore spot. Without failure the locker popped open and inside it lied more heavy duty equipment. "Holy shit... H-Hey Ulric!" She said in shock, looking over the locker filled with;
*A heavy duty spec-ops shotgun, with around 20 rounds extra.
*2 EMP grenades, primed.
*Lastly a fully intact spec-ops infiltration suit, used for ship invasions.
The suit its self was worth its weight in money, sense the suit is able to stay in deep space, detached from any life support, for 5 minutes on a full tank. With even a propulsion back for traversing the ships hall wile in space.
"Ulric... This is Federation Spec-Ops gear... Who are they killing to get this gear...???"
Grenadine looked at Nokia, and then at Allen, taking a few minutes of intense focus on her work before she answered "Nokia has been in my family for generations. She's originally a 3010, but I've had her rebuilt and upgraded into a scanner and multi functioning computer, and she's the best assistant there is" Grenadine promised. She kept scanning the brain of Eon "planned obsolescence!" she whispered, pulling out a tiny chip using tweezers. She ran over to Allen holding it up "You know what this is? It's a obsolescence chip! Eon was programmed to malfunction, so that people will buy new androids!" she had tears in the corner of her eyes, and they were shining in rage. She threw the chip on the ground and forcefully hopped on it a few times before heading back to Nokia "Now we know where his problem lay, all we have to do is fix all the parts and he can live for ever" she beamed. Then she mumbled curses and death over his creators who could be so cruel. After an hour of intense work, she had his brain up and running, plugging it into Nokia so he could communicate. She then turned to Allen, helping him replace parts
Ulric Kercheskoi
Pirate Frigate
After several seconds of diligent work Ulric would look down between his arms to see if Elizabeth as he can also hear her crack the lockers open one after another. He gets a periodic jolt to lash down over his mask as he completes the circuit and proceeds to scramble up into the seat, sliding the keys closer to him.
"Most of the equipment they have must of come off the ship I was aboard and by the looks of it I was one of the only ones they took alive." He starts tapping on the keys working his way through several screens of information before he speaks again. "Thirteen souls lost.. all because some jackass didn't want to make anything near and honest living, but morning them has already been a foregone conclusion. Now all we can hope to do is make the score even."
He trails off as he speaks and starts to sift through video feeds until he finds one that catches his eye.
"There we go" He points
Select logs begin to roll by the lower screen and it logs where most of the looted equipment and other items are loaded into the aft section of the cargo hold. (Order of Lieutenant Matthus) scrolls besides over halve of the logs and Ulric began to remember that she was the one who lead the boarding party against his group earlier on.
"Better gear up then, because that's where we are going if we want to get out possessions back." Then a sudden red flashing light catches the side of his mask and he looks to see that its one of the other screens posting an intrusion on one of the upper decks.
Upon activating the screen he gets a feed directly from the bridge and he could see a group of soldiers rallied in there receiving fire from somewhere off camera. "Looks like our saviors are on board.. see the uniforms, Federation Marines."
He gives a quick thought about how to proceed, seeing as its been maybe fifteen years since his last and quite a bad interaction with them. But his rationality soon burns out as he knows that Elizabeth and himself are going to need help to get all the way off the ship.
Within a few more key strokes he is able to activate a consoles screen across the room and is able to impose some wording on the screen.. **Radio Freq 6, friendlies broke from confinement.. Need assist?** Doing his best to make sure they know as much as they need to he types again. Adding to the last message..
**Deck cam, eyes on you.. audio as well.**
Pirate Frigate
After several seconds of diligent work Ulric would look down between his arms to see if Elizabeth as he can also hear her crack the lockers open one after another. He gets a periodic jolt to lash down over his mask as he completes the circuit and proceeds to scramble up into the seat, sliding the keys closer to him.
"Most of the equipment they have must of come off the ship I was aboard and by the looks of it I was one of the only ones they took alive." He starts tapping on the keys working his way through several screens of information before he speaks again. "Thirteen souls lost.. all because some jackass didn't want to make anything near and honest living, but morning them has already been a foregone conclusion. Now all we can hope to do is make the score even."
He trails off as he speaks and starts to sift through video feeds until he finds one that catches his eye.
"There we go" He points
Select logs begin to roll by the lower screen and it logs where most of the looted equipment and other items are loaded into the aft section of the cargo hold. (Order of Lieutenant Matthus) scrolls besides over halve of the logs and Ulric began to remember that she was the one who lead the boarding party against his group earlier on.
"Better gear up then, because that's where we are going if we want to get out possessions back." Then a sudden red flashing light catches the side of his mask and he looks to see that its one of the other screens posting an intrusion on one of the upper decks.
Upon activating the screen he gets a feed directly from the bridge and he could see a group of soldiers rallied in there receiving fire from somewhere off camera. "Looks like our saviors are on board.. see the uniforms, Federation Marines."
He gives a quick thought about how to proceed, seeing as its been maybe fifteen years since his last and quite a bad interaction with them. But his rationality soon burns out as he knows that Elizabeth and himself are going to need help to get all the way off the ship.
Within a few more key strokes he is able to activate a consoles screen across the room and is able to impose some wording on the screen.. **Radio Freq 6, friendlies broke from confinement.. Need assist?** Doing his best to make sure they know as much as they need to he types again. Adding to the last message..
**Deck cam, eyes on you.. audio as well.**
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With a gulp Elizabeth grabbed the pistol and popped out the cartridge, making sure it was loaded. After checking the shotgun to make sure it was full, she pulled the suit from the locker, pushing it to you.
"Here, you need it more than me..." After another moment, the armory door swung open. To Elizabeth's surprise, walked in two pirates armed with assault rifles. "ULRIC!!" She shouted as she swiftly swung the pistol across and up, pulling on the trigger to fire a single bullet straight into the chest of one soldier. And before the next could even swing his rifle up, she shot another round straight into his helmet.
Her hands started to shake as she stood there, her eyes glazed over in fear. She had never shot a gun at another human, never pulled the trigger, never hit anything, and never killed anything. With a sniffle she whipped her face and turned the other direction as she vomited on the floor. Her body trembleing as she through up two more times before standing up straight again*
"I... I want to get off this ship... I... I want t-to go home..."
"Here, you need it more than me..." After another moment, the armory door swung open. To Elizabeth's surprise, walked in two pirates armed with assault rifles. "ULRIC!!" She shouted as she swiftly swung the pistol across and up, pulling on the trigger to fire a single bullet straight into the chest of one soldier. And before the next could even swing his rifle up, she shot another round straight into his helmet.
Her hands started to shake as she stood there, her eyes glazed over in fear. She had never shot a gun at another human, never pulled the trigger, never hit anything, and never killed anything. With a sniffle she whipped her face and turned the other direction as she vomited on the floor. Her body trembleing as she through up two more times before standing up straight again*
"I... I want to get off this ship... I... I want t-to go home..."
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Ulric Kercheskoi
Pirate Frigate
Ulric looks on at the screen and awaits any answer he can get from the men on the other side of the terminal. Until familiar clicking hits his ears, causing him to jerk slightly as he attempts to turn and he hears Elizabeth scream.
Ulric!!
He turns in time to actually see the second shot go into the second pirates helmet and a small cone of red mist escaping the new exit reveals his fate. The first pirate on the other hand is attempting to reel away from the impact the shot made on his armor, only allowing a small amount of life to leak through.
He tries his best to right his position and ready his own weapon on the now tearing woman and Ulric is there to catch his intent. Taking a large stride forward and bringing his right arm to bear making first contact with the pirates ribs, causing his armor to buckle inward confining his chest cavity. Ulric pins him next to the doorway and brings his own rifle to touch under his chin and presses the point threw even further.
He looks down at Elizabeth and stares for a moment as she is still in her broken state, he can still faintly remember those days when he stood over others soldiers like her in the old days. But for now he had a moment of compassion.. "You and I are going for a short stroll comrade" Supporting the other with both his arms Ulric walks him back into the brig and with the disappearance of their forms, the sound of footsteps could still be heard until they stop.
(*POW*) A loud snap of the rifle sounds out and Ulric is soon seen walking back in with a small smear of red inking over the side of his mask. He looks down to Elizabeth and kneels to console her, wiping the red from his mask with a bare sleeve and lays his right hand on her shoulder as she still trembled.
"Its okay.. Just let it all out, I understand what your going through." He looks at the screen once more to see if the marines had yet tried to reply or noticed at all, sitting next to the young girl.
"I took the lives of over thirty men before I turned seventeen... and being raised as I was never experienced the act you are now. But in that fact I suppose that I have missed more then my worth of pain as well as shared it." He slides the stained rifle next to him and begins to clean it with a rag he tares from the first dead pirates sleeve.
"It will pass.. all things do in time and when that happens you can set your sights on home."
Pirate Frigate
Ulric looks on at the screen and awaits any answer he can get from the men on the other side of the terminal. Until familiar clicking hits his ears, causing him to jerk slightly as he attempts to turn and he hears Elizabeth scream.
Ulric!!
He turns in time to actually see the second shot go into the second pirates helmet and a small cone of red mist escaping the new exit reveals his fate. The first pirate on the other hand is attempting to reel away from the impact the shot made on his armor, only allowing a small amount of life to leak through.
He tries his best to right his position and ready his own weapon on the now tearing woman and Ulric is there to catch his intent. Taking a large stride forward and bringing his right arm to bear making first contact with the pirates ribs, causing his armor to buckle inward confining his chest cavity. Ulric pins him next to the doorway and brings his own rifle to touch under his chin and presses the point threw even further.
He looks down at Elizabeth and stares for a moment as she is still in her broken state, he can still faintly remember those days when he stood over others soldiers like her in the old days. But for now he had a moment of compassion.. "You and I are going for a short stroll comrade" Supporting the other with both his arms Ulric walks him back into the brig and with the disappearance of their forms, the sound of footsteps could still be heard until they stop.
(*POW*) A loud snap of the rifle sounds out and Ulric is soon seen walking back in with a small smear of red inking over the side of his mask. He looks down to Elizabeth and kneels to console her, wiping the red from his mask with a bare sleeve and lays his right hand on her shoulder as she still trembled.
"Its okay.. Just let it all out, I understand what your going through." He looks at the screen once more to see if the marines had yet tried to reply or noticed at all, sitting next to the young girl.
"I took the lives of over thirty men before I turned seventeen... and being raised as I was never experienced the act you are now. But in that fact I suppose that I have missed more then my worth of pain as well as shared it." He slides the stained rifle next to him and begins to clean it with a rag he tares from the first dead pirates sleeve.
"It will pass.. all things do in time and when that happens you can set your sights on home."
Second Pirate Frigate
**Radio Freq 6, friendlies broke from confinement.. Need assist?**
The message was heard over the channels by Eli, who wasn’t sure if he was the only one who received the transmission. Perhaps he was just overhearing some other line; he couldn’t worry about it now. The team was in one of the larger corridors of the ship, filled with many barricades and random metallic crates and containers. The hall had become a small battlefield in its own, for the pirates had laid an ambush for the Marines. They sought to prevent the Federation from acquiring the data located in the bridge, when they failed that, they decided to prevent the Marines from leaving the ship.
Eli and Weifert were ducked behind one of the barricades, while Carter was changing his cartridges while utilizing a large metal cylinder as his cover. Stark and Reynolds were behind another barricade, providing suppression fire. The point of suppression fire was to distract the opposing forces, or at least keep them from firing on an ally as they changed their cover position. Stark, however, wasn’t using suppression fire, because her photon rifle cauterized a hole in pirates’ barricade. The beam seared through the marauder's helmet, blasting a chunk of his face off, before Adriana returned to cover.
Eli then proceeded to fire his assault rifle, the auto-targeting system spotted one of the pirates’ heads. He pulled the trigger, but the pirate avoided the hits and the bullets recoiled off the plated walls of the ship’s interior. They returned several shots as well, two of which hit the Captain, or rather his armor. They had slightly pierced the outer ablative shell of Eli’s standard issue, forcing the Captain to return to his cover.
“You alright, Captain?” Weifert noticed the hits.
“Yeah I’m fine, they didn’t get through the outer layer,” Eli emptied the rifle cartridge.
**Deck cam, eyes on you.. audio as well.**
Eli turned to the Sergeant Major, who glanced at him as he heard this.
“Sarge, did you get that? Or am I only one who heard a call from friendlies?” Eli reached over the barricade and fired a couple of rounds, immediately hitting a pirate. The bullets made two simple pops that signaled their entry into the hostile’s torso.
**Radio Freq 6, friendlies broke from confinement.. Need assist?**
The message was heard over the channels by Eli, who wasn’t sure if he was the only one who received the transmission. Perhaps he was just overhearing some other line; he couldn’t worry about it now. The team was in one of the larger corridors of the ship, filled with many barricades and random metallic crates and containers. The hall had become a small battlefield in its own, for the pirates had laid an ambush for the Marines. They sought to prevent the Federation from acquiring the data located in the bridge, when they failed that, they decided to prevent the Marines from leaving the ship.
Eli and Weifert were ducked behind one of the barricades, while Carter was changing his cartridges while utilizing a large metal cylinder as his cover. Stark and Reynolds were behind another barricade, providing suppression fire. The point of suppression fire was to distract the opposing forces, or at least keep them from firing on an ally as they changed their cover position. Stark, however, wasn’t using suppression fire, because her photon rifle cauterized a hole in pirates’ barricade. The beam seared through the marauder's helmet, blasting a chunk of his face off, before Adriana returned to cover.
Eli then proceeded to fire his assault rifle, the auto-targeting system spotted one of the pirates’ heads. He pulled the trigger, but the pirate avoided the hits and the bullets recoiled off the plated walls of the ship’s interior. They returned several shots as well, two of which hit the Captain, or rather his armor. They had slightly pierced the outer ablative shell of Eli’s standard issue, forcing the Captain to return to his cover.
“You alright, Captain?” Weifert noticed the hits.
“Yeah I’m fine, they didn’t get through the outer layer,” Eli emptied the rifle cartridge.
**Deck cam, eyes on you.. audio as well.**
Eli turned to the Sergeant Major, who glanced at him as he heard this.
“Sarge, did you get that? Or am I only one who heard a call from friendlies?” Eli reached over the barricade and fired a couple of rounds, immediately hitting a pirate. The bullets made two simple pops that signaled their entry into the hostile’s torso.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
Tiaan Peyton
Once she saw admiral leaving down the hall, she gave quick wave, before heading off in a fast trot to her 'destiny'. Whatever happened hope the Lt could understand where Tiaan's allegiance lied, and why. Either way as she made her way to the room, she decided not be coward about it all. If a bitch she was considered, then bitch she must be, besides attachments only caused problems. As she had waited caught murmurs of conversation between some people nearby, saying that the pirate's had prisoners and they were rescued. She never really understood how anyone could devote their lives to wrecking others. What about the people's family or friend, didn't they get a say. Some would call this naive, but to her it was more really of practicalities. If you're outside the law you don't want people gathering up posse to hunt you. Maybe this was really kind of dense, but to her it made sense.
Once again arriving at the door, she knocked and forcing all her confidence she said clearly with stutter, "Honey, I'm home!" she laughed to herself before continuing, "Open the door and I'll tell you everything." emphasising the word everything she waited for answer. Bravado was one thing, but when she entered that room, it be like trying to swim in a rushing current, no doubt it would be shyness and embarrassment that made this 'date'. Still got to try for Hyena right.
Once she saw admiral leaving down the hall, she gave quick wave, before heading off in a fast trot to her 'destiny'. Whatever happened hope the Lt could understand where Tiaan's allegiance lied, and why. Either way as she made her way to the room, she decided not be coward about it all. If a bitch she was considered, then bitch she must be, besides attachments only caused problems. As she had waited caught murmurs of conversation between some people nearby, saying that the pirate's had prisoners and they were rescued. She never really understood how anyone could devote their lives to wrecking others. What about the people's family or friend, didn't they get a say. Some would call this naive, but to her it was more really of practicalities. If you're outside the law you don't want people gathering up posse to hunt you. Maybe this was really kind of dense, but to her it made sense.
Once again arriving at the door, she knocked and forcing all her confidence she said clearly with stutter, "Honey, I'm home!" she laughed to herself before continuing, "Open the door and I'll tell you everything." emphasising the word everything she waited for answer. Bravado was one thing, but when she entered that room, it be like trying to swim in a rushing current, no doubt it would be shyness and embarrassment that made this 'date'. Still got to try for Hyena right.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
Eon's "mind" just lay there knowing what is going on to his body, "I'm sorry for my technical difficulties..." He said realizing the 'dead-chip' had been the cause of his errors, "So my programmers are the root of the cause..." He mumbled to himself and showed numbers on Nokia showing his irritation by the programmers doing something that evil, "Didn't they know that they will be sending me to a military ship?" He asked with an irritated robotic tone, "Why would they do this?" His mind raced at the possible outcomes of if he wasn't repaired. He assumed they would be shorthanded without his welder and drill. But then he realized he had no job really, his mind raced and he felt like a useless droid. Eon heard as Allen and Grenadine worked on his body. All he could do is wait.
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After composing herself again, Elizabeth stood up with shaky limbs. Holding onto Ulric's arm she slowly stood up and nodded, understanding they need to press on. "Ulric... I cant d-do it... I...I feel like I'm going to explode. Please... I just want to get out of here..." Softly she started sobbing as she gripped the wall hard and took a deep breath, remembering what she needed to do.
"I... I'm ok... Lets go, get our stuff, and get off of this FUCKING ship..."
(sorry for the short post today, im not feeling to good e_e)
"I... I'm ok... Lets go, get our stuff, and get off of this FUCKING ship..."
(sorry for the short post today, im not feeling to good e_e)
Grenadine looked at Nokia and Eon, her face showing genuine care "They probably didn't know what had been ordered where, it's been done to electronics for years as a way to secure income" she shivered, the very idea of planning to have your electronics fail was downright immoral to her "Don't worry Eon, we'll get you back up and running, giving your creators a big middle finger. Doctor Grenadine is here, and I promise it'll be alright. Allen isn't bad either" she got out a smile, she was a little surprised to find so much help from a human. They were nearing a completion, except for Eons brain, they had almost made a new bot. She'd heard that be an ethical dilemma among humans, how many parts one could replace before it was a different person, and her answer was simple; all but the brain. "You're doing great" she whispered to Allen "And you look pretty good covered in grease and that intense look on your face" she smiled, blushing a little. She had stated that he found her attractive, and in the current situation, it seemed appropriate to do the same thing back.
Allen kept working without stopping when he heard Grenadine whisper "You're doing great. And you look pretty good covered in grease and that intense look on your face." He then stopped for a short few seconds and looked at her and smiled gave her a wink and started to work. He knew that sometimes the best thing to say is nothing. He was at least hoping that she got the message of him accepting the complement and in return calling her attractive again. He suddenly felt his finger get shocked. With a loud zzzt he pulled out his hand quickly and shacking it in the air. "Ow ow ow ow ow ow ow." he then groaned and wrapped his hand in a rag that was near him and continued to work on this android. "A little bit of pain never got many people killed." He said as he pulled out another damaged piece. "My word what happened to you?" He asked as he started to get back into his rhythm.
Grenadine was focused on her work, but looked shocked at Allen as he got electrocuted "Yes, things are broken in there" she warned strictly, grabbing his hand and tying the rag for him. As he commented that a little pain hadn't killed a lot of people, she smiled a little amused "that's the spirit soldier" she joked, laughing at her own joke, snorting a little, before she went back to work with a stern face. "There, there beautiful, we're almost there" she whispered to Eons body "Don't worry Eon, you're gonna be fine" she promised his brain that was connected to Nokia. On the inside he was almost as new, having a lot of things replaced.
Ulric Kercheskoi
Pirate Frigate
After Elizabeth made her stand to do her best to stay and take back what was rightfully hers, Ulric was more then willing to help get the two of them to the cargo hold. Picking himself up he makes sure the assault rifle is ready to go cleaning as much as he could from the barrel of the weapon. Ending by wrapping the sling over his shoulder and tucking the it under his left arm, but not forgetting to check the other dead pirates body for more ammo.
The cold corpse was more then willing to part what little rounds where left finding only two spare clips on him, Ulric had the mind to share the rounds between the two weapons. In this fashion he and Elizabeth would both have two and a half clips ready to spend with the rifles.
"Alright Elizabeth I know this will be hard.. but if you stick with me and keep calm, I promise that we both will be getting off the ship alive and intact." He pauses and thinks for a moment as slowly starts to look down at his arm and leg.. "Well.. as intact as we both are now." He stave's the effort to give a small laugh in that moment and picks up the handgun only to press it back into her hands.
He reaches past her to grab the shotgun as well as the two grenades from the locker along the wall.
Examining the grenades he looks at Elizabeth.. "Elizabeth I must as you to please be careful with these.. I'm handing one over to you for any emergency but understand that you must not use this in close proximity to me." He says as he places one in her other hand, rolling it so the clip and pin face upwards.
Ulric sets the other rifle next to her against the wall and palms the shotgun after fully slinging his rifle to his back.
"But first of all we have to help them." Pointing at the monitor on the wall.
"They are stuck at the bridges entry way which puts their exit through the enemy.. Leaving them to that would be akin to letting them die."
Ulric sets himself back up at the desk and begins to type away...*Help is on the way ETA -- 9mins -- flanking from aft* As he hits enter Ulric stands and presses the switch for the door, leans his head out keeping his gun at the ready.
"Alright I know you may not be ready but I need you to be... Now lets go."
Ulric steps out of the compartment and starts heading towards the bridge forward of the ship, doing his best to cover the whole corridor for Elizabeth to follow.
Pirate Frigate
After Elizabeth made her stand to do her best to stay and take back what was rightfully hers, Ulric was more then willing to help get the two of them to the cargo hold. Picking himself up he makes sure the assault rifle is ready to go cleaning as much as he could from the barrel of the weapon. Ending by wrapping the sling over his shoulder and tucking the it under his left arm, but not forgetting to check the other dead pirates body for more ammo.
The cold corpse was more then willing to part what little rounds where left finding only two spare clips on him, Ulric had the mind to share the rounds between the two weapons. In this fashion he and Elizabeth would both have two and a half clips ready to spend with the rifles.
"Alright Elizabeth I know this will be hard.. but if you stick with me and keep calm, I promise that we both will be getting off the ship alive and intact." He pauses and thinks for a moment as slowly starts to look down at his arm and leg.. "Well.. as intact as we both are now." He stave's the effort to give a small laugh in that moment and picks up the handgun only to press it back into her hands.
He reaches past her to grab the shotgun as well as the two grenades from the locker along the wall.
Examining the grenades he looks at Elizabeth.. "Elizabeth I must as you to please be careful with these.. I'm handing one over to you for any emergency but understand that you must not use this in close proximity to me." He says as he places one in her other hand, rolling it so the clip and pin face upwards.
Ulric sets the other rifle next to her against the wall and palms the shotgun after fully slinging his rifle to his back.
"But first of all we have to help them." Pointing at the monitor on the wall.
"They are stuck at the bridges entry way which puts their exit through the enemy.. Leaving them to that would be akin to letting them die."
Ulric sets himself back up at the desk and begins to type away...*Help is on the way ETA -- 9mins -- flanking from aft* As he hits enter Ulric stands and presses the switch for the door, leans his head out keeping his gun at the ready.
"Alright I know you may not be ready but I need you to be... Now lets go."
Ulric steps out of the compartment and starts heading towards the bridge forward of the ship, doing his best to cover the whole corridor for Elizabeth to follow.
With a deep breath, she slowly stood up and gripped her pistol, then started walking behind Ulric down the long corridor. "I'm right behind you..."
Suddenly from behind came a crunching noise, the sound of metal twisting and bending. Then, after just taking a few steps from the locker room, the whole room suddenly disappeared, leaving only the vacuum of space. With a gasp Elizabeth grabbed the side of the wall, on a ledge large enough to hold her. With the alarm blaring *Warning! Hull breach! Warning! Hull breach!* for a few moments before the large air lock, just a few inches below her feet, closed and sealed the leak.
With a hard gasp she brought another full breath of air into her longs, then got back up to see Ulric in front of her, also unharmed. "...I-I just signed up to work on engines... Not any of this... Shit." Slowly she started walking forward again, holding her gun with shaky hands. Her face seeming to be just a straight blank look, unsure how to feel after that...
Suddenly from behind came a crunching noise, the sound of metal twisting and bending. Then, after just taking a few steps from the locker room, the whole room suddenly disappeared, leaving only the vacuum of space. With a gasp Elizabeth grabbed the side of the wall, on a ledge large enough to hold her. With the alarm blaring *Warning! Hull breach! Warning! Hull breach!* for a few moments before the large air lock, just a few inches below her feet, closed and sealed the leak.
With a hard gasp she brought another full breath of air into her longs, then got back up to see Ulric in front of her, also unharmed. "...I-I just signed up to work on engines... Not any of this... Shit." Slowly she started walking forward again, holding her gun with shaky hands. Her face seeming to be just a straight blank look, unsure how to feel after that...
Second Pirate Frigate
“We’ve got a situation, there’s an explosive device on this frigate. Bastards probably rigged it to make a huge blow, and if I’m right, the two freighters below will sustain heavy damage. ” Eli stood up as the hall was cleared of hostiles. The other members left their covers and examined the corpses to make sure they had fired their last round.
Commander Dunaway was on the other end of the line; he was coordinating the operations directly from the Barracks Command Center, where intel flooded in and out of the systems. The squad kept moving, after they had managed to break through the hold placed on them by the pirates.
“Proceed with evacuation plan,” Eli interrupted here the Commander here.
Time was of the essence.
“Sir, we got friendlies on board. Not registered as Federation personnel, but IFF isn’t hostile, advise,”
There was a pause on Dunaway’s end.
“Get them off of there,”
“Copy that. And the bomb?”
“I’ll relay a message to the two ships myself, Dunaway out.”
“Bravo Team out,” Eli turned to the rest of the team, with their guns readied, they turned to him, “You heard the man, we gotta’ get them off this ship,” Bravo team moved out.
“How are we gonna get to ‘em? Course you’d need a rifle, not a teleporter,” Reynolds injected simple jarhead humor at a time that lacked humor…of any kind.
*Help is on the way ETA -- 9mins -- flanking from aft.* The voice was slightly garbled, it was the same voice as before, male no doubt.
“Can we respond to that?” Eli asked, over the helmet comms.
“We should be able to, the system allows us to respond directly to previous transmissions.”This was the first time Adriana spoke since the briefing room where she quelled Sergeant Major Carter’s skepticism.
“Alright let me try…” Eli looked to his gauntlet interface, which activated upon sensing. The interface slid upwards from his left arm's gauntlet, displaying a cyan screen that glinted off his helmet's visor.
“Relay response,” he spoke through the interface, which would reply directly to the last point of incoming transmissions.
*Negative, rendezvous near Alpha Hangar.*
Then the Captain proceeded to change channels.
“Davidso…Uncle Ray, get the gunship ready, we’re getting off this frigate. ETA seven minutes, we’ve also got extra passengers, friendlies, hoping to hitch a ride.”
“We’ve got a situation, there’s an explosive device on this frigate. Bastards probably rigged it to make a huge blow, and if I’m right, the two freighters below will sustain heavy damage. ” Eli stood up as the hall was cleared of hostiles. The other members left their covers and examined the corpses to make sure they had fired their last round.
Commander Dunaway was on the other end of the line; he was coordinating the operations directly from the Barracks Command Center, where intel flooded in and out of the systems. The squad kept moving, after they had managed to break through the hold placed on them by the pirates.
“Proceed with evacuation plan,” Eli interrupted here the Commander here.
Time was of the essence.
“Sir, we got friendlies on board. Not registered as Federation personnel, but IFF isn’t hostile, advise,”
There was a pause on Dunaway’s end.
“Get them off of there,”
“Copy that. And the bomb?”
“I’ll relay a message to the two ships myself, Dunaway out.”
“Bravo Team out,” Eli turned to the rest of the team, with their guns readied, they turned to him, “You heard the man, we gotta’ get them off this ship,” Bravo team moved out.
“How are we gonna get to ‘em? Course you’d need a rifle, not a teleporter,” Reynolds injected simple jarhead humor at a time that lacked humor…of any kind.
*Help is on the way ETA -- 9mins -- flanking from aft.* The voice was slightly garbled, it was the same voice as before, male no doubt.
“Can we respond to that?” Eli asked, over the helmet comms.
“We should be able to, the system allows us to respond directly to previous transmissions.”This was the first time Adriana spoke since the briefing room where she quelled Sergeant Major Carter’s skepticism.
“Alright let me try…” Eli looked to his gauntlet interface, which activated upon sensing. The interface slid upwards from his left arm's gauntlet, displaying a cyan screen that glinted off his helmet's visor.
“Relay response,” he spoke through the interface, which would reply directly to the last point of incoming transmissions.
*Negative, rendezvous near Alpha Hangar.*
Then the Captain proceeded to change channels.
“Davidso…Uncle Ray, get the gunship ready, we’re getting off this frigate. ETA seven minutes, we’ve also got extra passengers, friendlies, hoping to hitch a ride.”
Ulric Kercheskoi
Second Pirate Frigate
Ulric and Elizabeth had made it only twelve feet down the corridor when the sound of straining metal could be heard over the rest of the ship. He was calm to try and figure out the direction of the sound knowing that they where actually quite close to the ships port side. But his attention was grabbed when the sound snapped and he soon found himself being pulled back the way he came. Ulric was able to clench onto one of the bulkheads supports for leverage but was unfortunately more then a foot away from grabbing Elizabeth's arm as she began to slide as well.
Were it not for the bulkhead seal door coming down to close off the compartment she would have been spaced through the jagged tare. He gives her a small inspection as she stands making sure she was uninjured or still had all her equipment with her.
"Its okay the ship will do its best to equalize the pressure in automation." He says as he turns his attention back to the other side of the corridor. (bip-bip) He gets and message on the comm and stands at the ready as he listens in.. *Negative, rendezvous near Alpha Hangar.* His head kind of tips as the message reaches him. But quickly realizing what an opertunity this presents he goes ahead and responds.. "Affirmative will meet.. Avoid port side, compartments closed due to structural damage." He depresses the switch and turns to Elizabeth.
"Alright I think we have a change of plans now.. We should hit the cargo bay now and grab our things before any more of this ship collapses in on itself. The other team will be meeting us above that section in hanger Alpha.. So I suggest we get done before they arrive."
He reaches for a door console at the edge of the bulkhead and begins cycling the locks in different compartments. Doing his best to open them a path to the cargo hold and eventually off the ship.
His path will take them down one deck to get directly to the hold and as he presses the last button a side port opens leading to a ladder-well leading up and down to sections of the ship.
He steps halfway into the section and peers down the narrow vertical shaft and looks back at Elizabeth.. "Alright its clear.. We should be good to move, besides the other team will be some time seeing as they are almost near the head of the ship" He walks fully inside and begins to travel down to the next deck doing his best to coax Elizabeth along with him.
Second Pirate Frigate
Ulric and Elizabeth had made it only twelve feet down the corridor when the sound of straining metal could be heard over the rest of the ship. He was calm to try and figure out the direction of the sound knowing that they where actually quite close to the ships port side. But his attention was grabbed when the sound snapped and he soon found himself being pulled back the way he came. Ulric was able to clench onto one of the bulkheads supports for leverage but was unfortunately more then a foot away from grabbing Elizabeth's arm as she began to slide as well.
Were it not for the bulkhead seal door coming down to close off the compartment she would have been spaced through the jagged tare. He gives her a small inspection as she stands making sure she was uninjured or still had all her equipment with her.
"Its okay the ship will do its best to equalize the pressure in automation." He says as he turns his attention back to the other side of the corridor. (bip-bip) He gets and message on the comm and stands at the ready as he listens in.. *Negative, rendezvous near Alpha Hangar.* His head kind of tips as the message reaches him. But quickly realizing what an opertunity this presents he goes ahead and responds.. "Affirmative will meet.. Avoid port side, compartments closed due to structural damage." He depresses the switch and turns to Elizabeth.
"Alright I think we have a change of plans now.. We should hit the cargo bay now and grab our things before any more of this ship collapses in on itself. The other team will be meeting us above that section in hanger Alpha.. So I suggest we get done before they arrive."
He reaches for a door console at the edge of the bulkhead and begins cycling the locks in different compartments. Doing his best to open them a path to the cargo hold and eventually off the ship.
His path will take them down one deck to get directly to the hold and as he presses the last button a side port opens leading to a ladder-well leading up and down to sections of the ship.
He steps halfway into the section and peers down the narrow vertical shaft and looks back at Elizabeth.. "Alright its clear.. We should be good to move, besides the other team will be some time seeing as they are almost near the head of the ship" He walks fully inside and begins to travel down to the next deck doing his best to coax Elizabeth along with him.
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With a gulp, Elizabeth stood up and followed close behind her guide, just simply going along with what hes saying. As she started walking again she shiverd a moment, realizing what had almost happened.
She was relatively revealed as she walked down the hall with Ulric. Even though she had known him for only about an hour, she felt like she knew him like a good friend, and knew that in the future they could be friends, but for now was worried about getting off the ship. As she climbed down above Ulric, she kept looking up to check if anyone was fallowing her.
That's when another sound came. A deep scraping sound that seamed to come from below the ship, though it was lighter before. "Ulric...A-Ask who ever your talking to where we are! If there in the bridge, they should be able to get a visual!" She seemed to ask in a panic. As he thought why, she seemed to answer his thoughts by saying "In the brig, the pirates were talking about a-an asteroid belt that they needed to pass through! Ulric! I think w-" Suddenly she was cut off by another CRASH, this time deeper than before with the sound of metal not being torn, but broken. Snapped in half as if it were crushed from a massive force.
The entire ship shook, almost causing her to fall from the hard lunge back and then forth. Then suddenly a siren inside the well started to blare:
"RED ALERT! RED ALERT! ARTIFICIAL GRAVITY DISENGAGED!
Suddenly the weight of the everything was lifted, and started to float. Even though she knew she could die any second, she thought that being in the zero-gravity environment to be "Pretty damn cool..."
She was relatively revealed as she walked down the hall with Ulric. Even though she had known him for only about an hour, she felt like she knew him like a good friend, and knew that in the future they could be friends, but for now was worried about getting off the ship. As she climbed down above Ulric, she kept looking up to check if anyone was fallowing her.
That's when another sound came. A deep scraping sound that seamed to come from below the ship, though it was lighter before. "Ulric...A-Ask who ever your talking to where we are! If there in the bridge, they should be able to get a visual!" She seemed to ask in a panic. As he thought why, she seemed to answer his thoughts by saying "In the brig, the pirates were talking about a-an asteroid belt that they needed to pass through! Ulric! I think w-" Suddenly she was cut off by another CRASH, this time deeper than before with the sound of metal not being torn, but broken. Snapped in half as if it were crushed from a massive force.
The entire ship shook, almost causing her to fall from the hard lunge back and then forth. Then suddenly a siren inside the well started to blare:
"RED ALERT! RED ALERT! ARTIFICIAL GRAVITY DISENGAGED!
Suddenly the weight of the everything was lifted, and started to float. Even though she knew she could die any second, she thought that being in the zero-gravity environment to be "Pretty damn cool..."
Ulric Kercheskoi
Second Pirate Frigate
The relocation towards Alpha hanger was going well for both Ulric and Elizabeth, Periodically he would place himself at a riveted section on the bulkhead and make sure she had room to move up. But he to was becoming aware of the sounds coming from around them on the hull of the ship, little of it was giving him an indication of any failings.
"Ulric...A-Ask who ever your talking to where we are! If there in the bridge, they should be able to get a visual!" Elizabeth asked with a strange and tensed hesitation to her voice "In the brig, the pirates were talking about a-an asteroid belt that they needed to pass through! Ulric! I think w-" Her words where to late on the subject as something large collided with the outer hull.
Elizabeth was alright when she fell forward only to start floating back up from her fall, while Ulric was quick enough to reach for an overhead conduit keeping himself pressed against the deck.
Letting go of the shotgun he reached out and took Elizabeth by the shoulder so she could bring her closer. When he was sure she wouldn't float away he was able to retake his weapon and begin slowly moving down the corridor once more.. "Come on.. we aren't far from the hanger as is.. only about ten more frames now." Ulric gave a small gesture with his shoulder towards the door at the far end with a stripped display above it. (Hanger SectA)
"That collision must have knocked the gravity centrifuge offline.. Just wait till we hit the hanger and I should be able to reboot it with some luck."
Ulric reaches up and switches on his comm.. "We have debris striking the port hull, if you have someone who can take care of that it would be most welcome. Also loss of gravity throughout a majority of the aft compartments, will be trying to rectify that soon." The audible click signifies that he releases the button along his collar.
Ulric looks around and counts the frames as he goes trying to understand the size of the ship, turning to Elizabeth as he gets the idea in his head. "My best guess would be that the ship has another gravity centrifuge further in the forward compartments, and if that's the case then we are lucky. You'll know when we lose that because the whole ship will swaying in orientation, but lets jut hope that doesn't happen"
Several seconds of weightless floating leads the two of them to the hanger door and Ulric sets his shoulder into the frame of the hatch. Doing his best to watch the corridor behind them as well as the port hole in the door. Looking through he can see the hanger is empty of personnel and only two ships where still docked.
One was a light strike ship by the looks of it and the other was a heavier gunship, in his mind the gunship would be the best suited for getting him and Elizabeth out of there. However the only fault in his plan was that he didn't know how to pilot the damn ships.
He looks further back and notices a command console near the rear of the hanger seated next to the cargo lift.
"Alright Elizabeth.. We are going to make our way in nice and easy. Just stay calm, watch your corners and we should make it out of this mess."
"Are you ready?" Turning his head to her.
Second Pirate Frigate
The relocation towards Alpha hanger was going well for both Ulric and Elizabeth, Periodically he would place himself at a riveted section on the bulkhead and make sure she had room to move up. But he to was becoming aware of the sounds coming from around them on the hull of the ship, little of it was giving him an indication of any failings.
"Ulric...A-Ask who ever your talking to where we are! If there in the bridge, they should be able to get a visual!" Elizabeth asked with a strange and tensed hesitation to her voice "In the brig, the pirates were talking about a-an asteroid belt that they needed to pass through! Ulric! I think w-" Her words where to late on the subject as something large collided with the outer hull.
Elizabeth was alright when she fell forward only to start floating back up from her fall, while Ulric was quick enough to reach for an overhead conduit keeping himself pressed against the deck.
Letting go of the shotgun he reached out and took Elizabeth by the shoulder so she could bring her closer. When he was sure she wouldn't float away he was able to retake his weapon and begin slowly moving down the corridor once more.. "Come on.. we aren't far from the hanger as is.. only about ten more frames now." Ulric gave a small gesture with his shoulder towards the door at the far end with a stripped display above it. (Hanger SectA)
"That collision must have knocked the gravity centrifuge offline.. Just wait till we hit the hanger and I should be able to reboot it with some luck."
Ulric reaches up and switches on his comm.. "We have debris striking the port hull, if you have someone who can take care of that it would be most welcome. Also loss of gravity throughout a majority of the aft compartments, will be trying to rectify that soon." The audible click signifies that he releases the button along his collar.
Ulric looks around and counts the frames as he goes trying to understand the size of the ship, turning to Elizabeth as he gets the idea in his head. "My best guess would be that the ship has another gravity centrifuge further in the forward compartments, and if that's the case then we are lucky. You'll know when we lose that because the whole ship will swaying in orientation, but lets jut hope that doesn't happen"
Several seconds of weightless floating leads the two of them to the hanger door and Ulric sets his shoulder into the frame of the hatch. Doing his best to watch the corridor behind them as well as the port hole in the door. Looking through he can see the hanger is empty of personnel and only two ships where still docked.
One was a light strike ship by the looks of it and the other was a heavier gunship, in his mind the gunship would be the best suited for getting him and Elizabeth out of there. However the only fault in his plan was that he didn't know how to pilot the damn ships.
He looks further back and notices a command console near the rear of the hanger seated next to the cargo lift.
"Alright Elizabeth.. We are going to make our way in nice and easy. Just stay calm, watch your corners and we should make it out of this mess."
"Are you ready?" Turning his head to her.
"Lunar city 7 yur my idea of heaven, out of 10 you score 11"
Ray sang and then puffed on his pipe and sat facing the Data diving monitors, hacking wasn't something he ever saw himself taking up and he wasn't that good at it but being a graduate of the Titan Commonwealth flight academy meant you learned those things if you liked to or not, especially if you wanted to get the best tickets for a date or something of the like. For a pirate ship the systems protection grid was quite a nut unless one was able to hack the system from its main control and Ray was considering calling the mama ship for help, for now all he wanted to see was if any one was sneaking in towards him and how the strike team was holding up.
Suddenly the monitors went read and hard vibrations where registering all over his sensors, the stream of data was too much for him to see at once so Ray directed it towards the Paradox matrix bank in order to save the data for analysis by the AI.
This measure was hardly necessary seeing as the situation was quite clear; the frigate 's structural integrity was cheesing away and it was all too clear that at this rate every one, every thing and anything near by was going to become Alderaan space dust real fast and real soon.
Reaching for his communicator Ray attempted to contact the team; there was plenty of interference but Ray hoped that the captain would be able to catch the message.
"Sir I just figured you would want to know and you should really mark this one as important in your diary; this jolly frigate is going to rock us all Fourth of July style so I recommend you plan your time accordingly"
Another alarm went off; the dock was no place to be unless Ray didn't mind having his Gunship being melted down.
"Sir, I am afraid I am going to have to leave this dock; it's going to hell. I will wait for you in extraction point B by airlock R91, it's going to be a squeeze in there but it’s the closest I can get to you. See you there cap, I hope you make it."
Ray slowly activated his starboard thrusters and gently slid into space, muttering a few words of silent prayer to whatever or who ever was listening began the nerve raking task of flying near a street sized time bomb.
Ray sang and then puffed on his pipe and sat facing the Data diving monitors, hacking wasn't something he ever saw himself taking up and he wasn't that good at it but being a graduate of the Titan Commonwealth flight academy meant you learned those things if you liked to or not, especially if you wanted to get the best tickets for a date or something of the like. For a pirate ship the systems protection grid was quite a nut unless one was able to hack the system from its main control and Ray was considering calling the mama ship for help, for now all he wanted to see was if any one was sneaking in towards him and how the strike team was holding up.
Suddenly the monitors went read and hard vibrations where registering all over his sensors, the stream of data was too much for him to see at once so Ray directed it towards the Paradox matrix bank in order to save the data for analysis by the AI.
This measure was hardly necessary seeing as the situation was quite clear; the frigate 's structural integrity was cheesing away and it was all too clear that at this rate every one, every thing and anything near by was going to become Alderaan space dust real fast and real soon.
Reaching for his communicator Ray attempted to contact the team; there was plenty of interference but Ray hoped that the captain would be able to catch the message.
"Sir I just figured you would want to know and you should really mark this one as important in your diary; this jolly frigate is going to rock us all Fourth of July style so I recommend you plan your time accordingly"
Another alarm went off; the dock was no place to be unless Ray didn't mind having his Gunship being melted down.
"Sir, I am afraid I am going to have to leave this dock; it's going to hell. I will wait for you in extraction point B by airlock R91, it's going to be a squeeze in there but it’s the closest I can get to you. See you there cap, I hope you make it."
Ray slowly activated his starboard thrusters and gently slid into space, muttering a few words of silent prayer to whatever or who ever was listening began the nerve raking task of flying near a street sized time bomb.
Second Pirate Frigate
*Affirmative will meet...avoid port side, compartments closed due to structural damage.*
The response was slightly garbled, perhaps because the other end of the line was fraught with more disruptions than the interior fore sections of the bridge.
*We have debris striking the port hull, if you have someone who can take care of that it would be most welcome. Also loss of gravity throughout a majority of the aft compartments, will be trying to rectify that soon.*
"Sorry about that, but we haven't been doing house calls that much lately, just get yourself to the hangar on the double," Eli chuckled. The team slid quickly through the corridors, as the ship's plating started to peel off due to the pressure of vacuum.
*Sir, I am afraid I am going to have to leave this dock; it's going to hell. I will wait for you in extraction point B by airlock R91, it's going to be a squeeze in there but it’s the closest I can get to you. See you there cap, I hope you make it.*
"Alright, copy that Ray, Bravo 1 out." Eli turned a corner, with his assault rifle leading before him. The communique was linked to the entire squad, thus each one heard everyone else on the channel.
“Change of plans, rendezvous at airlock R91. If you know where it is then confirm, if not then give me your location,” Eli relayed the communique to the prisoners who had broken out of the brig.
"Which way is airlock R91?!" Reynolds started to panic.
"Get a grip man," Weifert hushed him.
"Based on the schematics...it should be this way," Eli stopped and allowed his suit's data systems to mark their destination.
The display poured forth from left wrist gauntlet. The projector protruded from its compartment, and at Eli's voice command, activated. It was a three dimensional display of the pirate frigate, with Bravo team marked off in five green figures that were clumped together. They were located on the lower level of the ship, with the designated airlock located a level above them, near the aft section of the ship, where gravity was weakening.
"Everyone, activate your pressure seals, there's a likely chance that we'll be swimming with the stars in a couple of moments," Eli pressed a key the transparent interface on his gauntlet, which activated the armor seals.
The latches on his armor's collar locked in place with his helmet, therefore shutting out all possible vacuums, as well as containing the recycled and circulated oxygen in suit. They moved forward, seeking an elevation pad to take them to the next level.
*Affirmative will meet...avoid port side, compartments closed due to structural damage.*
The response was slightly garbled, perhaps because the other end of the line was fraught with more disruptions than the interior fore sections of the bridge.
*We have debris striking the port hull, if you have someone who can take care of that it would be most welcome. Also loss of gravity throughout a majority of the aft compartments, will be trying to rectify that soon.*
"Sorry about that, but we haven't been doing house calls that much lately, just get yourself to the hangar on the double," Eli chuckled. The team slid quickly through the corridors, as the ship's plating started to peel off due to the pressure of vacuum.
*Sir, I am afraid I am going to have to leave this dock; it's going to hell. I will wait for you in extraction point B by airlock R91, it's going to be a squeeze in there but it’s the closest I can get to you. See you there cap, I hope you make it.*
"Alright, copy that Ray, Bravo 1 out." Eli turned a corner, with his assault rifle leading before him. The communique was linked to the entire squad, thus each one heard everyone else on the channel.
“Change of plans, rendezvous at airlock R91. If you know where it is then confirm, if not then give me your location,” Eli relayed the communique to the prisoners who had broken out of the brig.
"Which way is airlock R91?!" Reynolds started to panic.
"Get a grip man," Weifert hushed him.
"Based on the schematics...it should be this way," Eli stopped and allowed his suit's data systems to mark their destination.
The display poured forth from left wrist gauntlet. The projector protruded from its compartment, and at Eli's voice command, activated. It was a three dimensional display of the pirate frigate, with Bravo team marked off in five green figures that were clumped together. They were located on the lower level of the ship, with the designated airlock located a level above them, near the aft section of the ship, where gravity was weakening.
"Everyone, activate your pressure seals, there's a likely chance that we'll be swimming with the stars in a couple of moments," Eli pressed a key the transparent interface on his gauntlet, which activated the armor seals.
The latches on his armor's collar locked in place with his helmet, therefore shutting out all possible vacuums, as well as containing the recycled and circulated oxygen in suit. They moved forward, seeking an elevation pad to take them to the next level.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
Alice turned and smiled when Tiaan's voice came through the comm. She crossed the room and silently admitted the girl into the dimly lit cabin, stepping back towards the table to give her a little space. Alice looked entirely different, in this environment, than she did on the bridge - not so stiff-backed and proper, a smile gracing her high cheekbones and sparkling in her eyes. Her hair fell around her in dark, cushioning plumes.
"Welcome back," she murmured, amused by Tiaan's attempt at a brave entrance. The girl was terrified. Alice could tell. "I hope you're hungry. Dinner is ready."
"Welcome back," she murmured, amused by Tiaan's attempt at a brave entrance. The girl was terrified. Alice could tell. "I hope you're hungry. Dinner is ready."
Tiaan Peyton
Entering the room, she gave her trademark lopsided grin, looking around. The room was certainly nice, and much bigger than her own. Although that was to be expected, but still it's amazing she had thought could sleep here, to avoid going home. All in all things had turned out good, now just to force her confidence back and let this game begin. Tiaan did know this dance well, hell she was quite good at seduction, but mostly those had been wide-eyed cadets or girls 'experimenting' but not really into the idea. Just wanting to try, essentially wanting to have their cake and eat it.
It pissed her off to be honest, it was hard enough with all the leers from crew members on the Demeter, but now to add insult to injury proper relationships weren't on her horizon. Maybe she should actually try, she knew the signs, and they were ringing out, but wouldn't it be a betrayal for the Lt, that she had been delayed not for love---at least not obvious love, but to let a party go on.
All these thoughts flew through her mind, but deciding on one sentence she enunciated, "You look beautiful, Lt, I mean Mam, I mean... um..." holding her tongue she blushed deep pink, turning away a little flustered, "I don't mean you don't normally look beautiful... but... oh shit... um wait, ignore that..." this was going fantastic, "It's more obvious with your hair down." breathing a sigh of relief, she gave the grin again.
Entering the room, she gave her trademark lopsided grin, looking around. The room was certainly nice, and much bigger than her own. Although that was to be expected, but still it's amazing she had thought could sleep here, to avoid going home. All in all things had turned out good, now just to force her confidence back and let this game begin. Tiaan did know this dance well, hell she was quite good at seduction, but mostly those had been wide-eyed cadets or girls 'experimenting' but not really into the idea. Just wanting to try, essentially wanting to have their cake and eat it.
It pissed her off to be honest, it was hard enough with all the leers from crew members on the Demeter, but now to add insult to injury proper relationships weren't on her horizon. Maybe she should actually try, she knew the signs, and they were ringing out, but wouldn't it be a betrayal for the Lt, that she had been delayed not for love---at least not obvious love, but to let a party go on.
All these thoughts flew through her mind, but deciding on one sentence she enunciated, "You look beautiful, Lt, I mean Mam, I mean... um..." holding her tongue she blushed deep pink, turning away a little flustered, "I don't mean you don't normally look beautiful... but... oh shit... um wait, ignore that..." this was going fantastic, "It's more obvious with your hair down." breathing a sigh of relief, she gave the grin again.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
Amusement ticked up Alice's lip. She raised one thin eyebrow at Tiaan.
"No need to be so nervous," she murmured, turning and walking to the table. She held Tiaan's chair for her, gesturing for the pilot to take her seat. "Tell me. Do you eat meat?"
A perfectly innocent question - one that any good host would ask. But Alice was only making light talk now. She could see the anxiety, the secrets churning in Tiaan's brain. The panic. The girl was not only here for dinner, and Alice knew it all too well.
"No need to be so nervous," she murmured, turning and walking to the table. She held Tiaan's chair for her, gesturing for the pilot to take her seat. "Tell me. Do you eat meat?"
A perfectly innocent question - one that any good host would ask. But Alice was only making light talk now. She could see the anxiety, the secrets churning in Tiaan's brain. The panic. The girl was not only here for dinner, and Alice knew it all too well.
Tiaan Peyton
Smiling she nodded, "Only certain kinds." she sniggered before remembering where she was, "I mean yes I do." Stupid, stupid, stupid. Trying to get herself on right foot, she continued, "I couldn't help noticing the portrait photo of group of people, is that crew of your last ship? I thought it was a prison ship." She had really just noticed it, but didn't interest her so much, she was trying to bring her confidence up to get ready for the dance. Idle chatter was in itself good way to flirt, just had to be subtle with wording and more.
Continuing she replied to herself, more than anything, "I see, Demeter was a science class vessel from UK final golden age, when we had the Pantheon Fleet, unfortunately all but the weaker ships were crushed. It was tragic. Hermes, Demeter and couple others survived. Although it ended it for good. I wasn't born during this time though." she laughed, "I just read about it, my Dad made sure got educated well about the ships."
She found herself actually looking at the picture again, and wondering something, could that young woman really be the Lt?
Smiling she nodded, "Only certain kinds." she sniggered before remembering where she was, "I mean yes I do." Stupid, stupid, stupid. Trying to get herself on right foot, she continued, "I couldn't help noticing the portrait photo of group of people, is that crew of your last ship? I thought it was a prison ship." She had really just noticed it, but didn't interest her so much, she was trying to bring her confidence up to get ready for the dance. Idle chatter was in itself good way to flirt, just had to be subtle with wording and more.
Continuing she replied to herself, more than anything, "I see, Demeter was a science class vessel from UK final golden age, when we had the Pantheon Fleet, unfortunately all but the weaker ships were crushed. It was tragic. Hermes, Demeter and couple others survived. Although it ended it for good. I wasn't born during this time though." she laughed, "I just read about it, my Dad made sure got educated well about the ships."
She found herself actually looking at the picture again, and wondering something, could that young woman really be the Lt?
The question caught Alice off-guard, not easy to do. Wordlessly, she paced across the room in her tall, slim heels and picked the frame from its resting place. She looked down into her own eyes, frozen with brilliance and excitement. That had not been so long ago - the beginning of her career, but the end of a more cheerful time.
"Yes," she murmured, smiling slightly, sadly. She rubbed a thumb fondly across the glass, across the face of a man she knew to be dead, and then set the picture down again. "We didn't know what we were getting into. We were so excited... but the Nottingham wasn't really what we thought it was going to be."
She stood for one moment longer, staring at the photograph, then shook memories from her mind and turned back to Tiaan. Her smile returned, bright and confident, and she gestured to the plates.
"Let's eat," she murmured, stepping over to the kitchen area and bringing back a bowl of chicken fettuccine, still piping hot. Alice's mother used to joke that if she had not been so good in the military, she would have been a chef.
"Yes," she murmured, smiling slightly, sadly. She rubbed a thumb fondly across the glass, across the face of a man she knew to be dead, and then set the picture down again. "We didn't know what we were getting into. We were so excited... but the Nottingham wasn't really what we thought it was going to be."
She stood for one moment longer, staring at the photograph, then shook memories from her mind and turned back to Tiaan. Her smile returned, bright and confident, and she gestured to the plates.
"Let's eat," she murmured, stepping over to the kitchen area and bringing back a bowl of chicken fettuccine, still piping hot. Alice's mother used to joke that if she had not been so good in the military, she would have been a chef.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
Tiaan Peyton
Nodding she took her place, playing the role she was meant too. Accepting the hosts graciousness and her meal too. Deciding she would like to find out more, she continued probing, "Rarely do we realize what our actions cost, until it's too late." thinking back to rushing to the crash, she remembers pushing through the crowd, seeing stretchers covered in white sheets, while siren rang out loudly. Tears streaming down her eyes, as she saw her friend's car, mutilated completely. Cries of agony and bright dancing lights making her dizzy, she remembers puking her guts out, partially due to alcohol and also because she felt dizzy and unable to comprehend anything. All she could think of was Tara really worth it, the lay. Why hadn't she stayed with Steph, making sure she got home safely. Her selfish need for pleasure had killed her best friend.
Returning to present, she realized her eyes had begun to tear up, accepting the plate, she smiled wistfully, trying to get mind back on present. You got work to do, stop thinking of things you can't change girl. Right now she was playing a game, best act the part.
"It all looks very delicious." a subtle double entrendre to sweeten the deal.
Nodding she took her place, playing the role she was meant too. Accepting the hosts graciousness and her meal too. Deciding she would like to find out more, she continued probing, "Rarely do we realize what our actions cost, until it's too late." thinking back to rushing to the crash, she remembers pushing through the crowd, seeing stretchers covered in white sheets, while siren rang out loudly. Tears streaming down her eyes, as she saw her friend's car, mutilated completely. Cries of agony and bright dancing lights making her dizzy, she remembers puking her guts out, partially due to alcohol and also because she felt dizzy and unable to comprehend anything. All she could think of was Tara really worth it, the lay. Why hadn't she stayed with Steph, making sure she got home safely. Her selfish need for pleasure had killed her best friend.
Returning to present, she realized her eyes had begun to tear up, accepting the plate, she smiled wistfully, trying to get mind back on present. You got work to do, stop thinking of things you can't change girl. Right now she was playing a game, best act the part.
"It all looks very delicious." a subtle double entrendre to sweeten the deal.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
"I'm glad," Alice answered, smiling graciously. She spooned some fettuccine onto Tiaan's plate, then onto her own, before taking a seat. She leaned back comfortable and crossed her legs. Everything she did had a grace and elegance about it which was difficult to name - as though she were a dancer instead of a trained fighter. She had history, of course, in the musical arts, but she had dropped them at an early age. She only wanted to be like her parents.
Leaning forwards, resting her elbows on the table and her chin on the backs of her hands, Alice gave Tiaan an almost dangerous smile. Seductive, certainly, but also hungry. Craving knowledge of the pilot.
"You sound like you speak from experience," she observed quietly. "You know someone who's died."
Leaning forwards, resting her elbows on the table and her chin on the backs of her hands, Alice gave Tiaan an almost dangerous smile. Seductive, certainly, but also hungry. Craving knowledge of the pilot.
"You sound like you speak from experience," she observed quietly. "You know someone who's died."
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
Tiaan Peyton
Shrugging she ignored the question, not wishing to answer. Knowledge was power her Mum had taught her, while her Dad had taught her how awesome space was and it's various and varied history, her Mother had made sure to teach her smarts for survival. It's best not dwell in the past right now, and besides she didn't feel like answering. One, Lt had no right on knowing and two, she came here to have fun to think about what could have been. Giving a sly wink, she considered the wording before she said it, "I doubt it's as fascinating as your time on a prison ship. I of course can't compare to that, before Demeter I was fresh out the academy, sleeping with wide-eyed girl cadets, but not really interested in love." smiling thoughtfully she continued, "Although, one time in the academy, I took one of the fighter on a joyride for a dare. We hadn't even got proper flight training." laughing a little she went on, "I crashed right into the Sergeant major study, while he was entertaining one of the cadets. No one was hurt of course, but he told me to keep quiet, and he'd say the ship malfunctioned."
That was certainly hilarious time and it made her laugh to remember his shock when he saw her pop out dozily out the cockpit as he was getting himself blown. It was utterly priceless. The girl was even more embarrassed by this. Tiaan had used this to her advantage and gotten some of her own pleasure from the vixen. And boy was she good with her mouth. Very good. To be honest the girl was probably little confused with her sexuality, she was rare occurrence when people weren't using her experiment.
"That's biggest thing for me. This ship here is probably going to be new biggest thing, it's almost dream come true, to be on here."
Yes, dream. When would you wake up though...
Shrugging she ignored the question, not wishing to answer. Knowledge was power her Mum had taught her, while her Dad had taught her how awesome space was and it's various and varied history, her Mother had made sure to teach her smarts for survival. It's best not dwell in the past right now, and besides she didn't feel like answering. One, Lt had no right on knowing and two, she came here to have fun to think about what could have been. Giving a sly wink, she considered the wording before she said it, "I doubt it's as fascinating as your time on a prison ship. I of course can't compare to that, before Demeter I was fresh out the academy, sleeping with wide-eyed girl cadets, but not really interested in love." smiling thoughtfully she continued, "Although, one time in the academy, I took one of the fighter on a joyride for a dare. We hadn't even got proper flight training." laughing a little she went on, "I crashed right into the Sergeant major study, while he was entertaining one of the cadets. No one was hurt of course, but he told me to keep quiet, and he'd say the ship malfunctioned."
That was certainly hilarious time and it made her laugh to remember his shock when he saw her pop out dozily out the cockpit as he was getting himself blown. It was utterly priceless. The girl was even more embarrassed by this. Tiaan had used this to her advantage and gotten some of her own pleasure from the vixen. And boy was she good with her mouth. Very good. To be honest the girl was probably little confused with her sexuality, she was rare occurrence when people weren't using her experiment.
"That's biggest thing for me. This ship here is probably going to be new biggest thing, it's almost dream come true, to be on here."
Yes, dream. When would you wake up though...
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
Alice smirked idly and picked up one of the glasses of deep red wine that rested on the table. She had never been drunk - not since she had started her training at the Academy - but she did not mind one small glass at dinner. That had even been proven healthy. She sipped idly at the rosy brocade, watching Tiaan across the rim of her glass. The darkness of her eyes was not one solely of color.
"The Nottingham was definitely an interesting first assignment," she whispered, seeing a way in. Spotting her target. The point of this dinner had been changed, somewhere along the way. No longer forging connections. Alice's first concern was safety, order, and obedience on board this ship. "You haven't seen anything until you've stood face to face with a man whose murdered more than a hundred people with his bare hands. And survived the fight." Slowly, Alice laid her glass down, fixing Tiaan with that still-dangerous stare. She knew the woman might hate her for a while after this.
Alice had been taught as a child that romance had to come second to duty. And today, it would.
"I remember a time when the crew decided to have a party, under the radar," she told the girl, and knew that would spark alarm. This story. Too close to the truth of that day. "They got drunk. Very drunk. Someone was too fogged to lock his prisoners down. Fifty people died that day, most of them good officers." She glanced at the picture again, at the smiling face of that man. That man she had loved. The man who was died. Then her eyes flicked back to Tiaan. "Pray, tell me. What made the crew think that I would not find out about the party below decks tonight?"
"The Nottingham was definitely an interesting first assignment," she whispered, seeing a way in. Spotting her target. The point of this dinner had been changed, somewhere along the way. No longer forging connections. Alice's first concern was safety, order, and obedience on board this ship. "You haven't seen anything until you've stood face to face with a man whose murdered more than a hundred people with his bare hands. And survived the fight." Slowly, Alice laid her glass down, fixing Tiaan with that still-dangerous stare. She knew the woman might hate her for a while after this.
Alice had been taught as a child that romance had to come second to duty. And today, it would.
"I remember a time when the crew decided to have a party, under the radar," she told the girl, and knew that would spark alarm. This story. Too close to the truth of that day. "They got drunk. Very drunk. Someone was too fogged to lock his prisoners down. Fifty people died that day, most of them good officers." She glanced at the picture again, at the smiling face of that man. That man she had loved. The man who was died. Then her eyes flicked back to Tiaan. "Pray, tell me. What made the crew think that I would not find out about the party below decks tonight?"
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
Tiaan Peyton
Gulping a little, she tried to regain control, "What makes you say that. Why can't I come here without any ulterior motive? Are you that suspicious of actions, you want assess and understand all." Tiaan had no idea why she was getting so angry, but she couldn't stop, downing the glass she continued, "I don't have to play games Lt Chen, I don't have to even socialise on here. But you know what, thought I'd try. Maybe I was mistaken in this case. Maybe you never lost your paranoia from your times on Nottingham, that even a friendly gesture is seen as something with malicious intent. For a non-date Lt, you sure know how to hold them. You command me to wear my party dress after finding me in hung over in your room." she laughed mockingly, "I'm not naive little girl Lt Chen, I know a play. I do them myself many times." taking a breath she went on, "Not to mention, even if I did come here under motives you may call wrong or immoral. I came because I sensed something. I'm a fly girl, I'm brash, I laugh in face of fear and often take un-needed risks all for thrill."
There was a long pause.
"I... I lose anyone who... who I may connect with. There is no game, there is no winning for Tiaan Peyton, all she'll get is going out in a blaze of glory."
Taking the Lt hand she squeezed it, "The average lifespan of pilots out the academy is 10 minutes. The average lifespan of pilots in space is 4 months. I've... outlived both those. I've outlived my expiration date, I should feel happy, but those people, those pilots they were skilled, some even better than me. Why did lady luck make me her bitch? Why am I the one to see my comrades go into space forever..." gripping the hand tighter, she continued, "You don't want this lucky girl Lt, you will die before her. And she will hate it."
The cosmic dice would never set her free. This was her curse.
Gulping a little, she tried to regain control, "What makes you say that. Why can't I come here without any ulterior motive? Are you that suspicious of actions, you want assess and understand all." Tiaan had no idea why she was getting so angry, but she couldn't stop, downing the glass she continued, "I don't have to play games Lt Chen, I don't have to even socialise on here. But you know what, thought I'd try. Maybe I was mistaken in this case. Maybe you never lost your paranoia from your times on Nottingham, that even a friendly gesture is seen as something with malicious intent. For a non-date Lt, you sure know how to hold them. You command me to wear my party dress after finding me in hung over in your room." she laughed mockingly, "I'm not naive little girl Lt Chen, I know a play. I do them myself many times." taking a breath she went on, "Not to mention, even if I did come here under motives you may call wrong or immoral. I came because I sensed something. I'm a fly girl, I'm brash, I laugh in face of fear and often take un-needed risks all for thrill."
There was a long pause.
"I... I lose anyone who... who I may connect with. There is no game, there is no winning for Tiaan Peyton, all she'll get is going out in a blaze of glory."
Taking the Lt hand she squeezed it, "The average lifespan of pilots out the academy is 10 minutes. The average lifespan of pilots in space is 4 months. I've... outlived both those. I've outlived my expiration date, I should feel happy, but those people, those pilots they were skilled, some even better than me. Why did lady luck make me her bitch? Why am I the one to see my comrades go into space forever..." gripping the hand tighter, she continued, "You don't want this lucky girl Lt, you will die before her. And she will hate it."
The cosmic dice would never set her free. This was her curse.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
Alice sighed quietly, looked down at Tiaan's hand on her own. She knew the pilot's pain. She knew seeing your loved ones go out to die. Slowly, she came to her feet, laying one long-fingered hand across Tiaan's cheek.
"I'm not afraid of Lady Luck," she told Tiaan with remarkable calm. "I'm not going to die any time soon. And I'm not suspicious of why you agreed to come here, I know. I'm not guessing. I know that there is a party going on below decks, without permission from the Admiral. No matter my original intentions for tonight, I am Lieutenant Commander before I am anyone's friend."
Something inside of her hoped that Tiaan would understand her devotion to keeping the ship running and the crew alive through this journey. The other part doubted that Tiaan would take this as anything more than a bid for authority. How could Tiaan possibly understand? She hadn't been on the Nottingham that day when an unauthorized party had cost so many their lives.
"I'm not afraid of Lady Luck," she told Tiaan with remarkable calm. "I'm not going to die any time soon. And I'm not suspicious of why you agreed to come here, I know. I'm not guessing. I know that there is a party going on below decks, without permission from the Admiral. No matter my original intentions for tonight, I am Lieutenant Commander before I am anyone's friend."
Something inside of her hoped that Tiaan would understand her devotion to keeping the ship running and the crew alive through this journey. The other part doubted that Tiaan would take this as anything more than a bid for authority. How could Tiaan possibly understand? She hadn't been on the Nottingham that day when an unauthorized party had cost so many their lives.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
Tiaan Peyton
Frowning she looked at the Lt eyes and could see such pain hidden in her gaze. Many would have missed it, but she had seen the look from so many people who were friends with pilots. Her luck had come at great cost people hated her for it, they couldn't lay her and she wouldn't die. If only they knew there had been times she had wanted to walk into the airlock and open it up. If only.
"I... I actually understand." coughing nervously she leant over the table and gave the Lt a small peck on the cheek before whispering with untold remorse, "Lady luck is jealous woman. I doubt she'll allow me this freedom."
Going back to her original position she then mumbled with a hint of disappointment in her voice, "Marriage to one you never wished is a great curse. I best go before old girl takes her anger out on you."
Frowning she looked at the Lt eyes and could see such pain hidden in her gaze. Many would have missed it, but she had seen the look from so many people who were friends with pilots. Her luck had come at great cost people hated her for it, they couldn't lay her and she wouldn't die. If only they knew there had been times she had wanted to walk into the airlock and open it up. If only.
"I... I actually understand." coughing nervously she leant over the table and gave the Lt a small peck on the cheek before whispering with untold remorse, "Lady luck is jealous woman. I doubt she'll allow me this freedom."
Going back to her original position she then mumbled with a hint of disappointment in her voice, "Marriage to one you never wished is a great curse. I best go before old girl takes her anger out on you."
Clyde - Corridors
It had been some time since the space skirmish had ended- Clyde had outlived his usefulness on the bridge. He sat and watched for a while, but he was nearly as useless as his "co-navigator". He left silently, and nobody paid any mind. He figured he would go grab a bite to eat at the nearest mess hall. While he ate, he cleared some disk space in his mind and looked through the footage he had recorded from all over the ship since his initial entry into the system. He sorted through it all, outwardly looking focused on his meal. Pilot banter, insignificant comments, Hyena's party (He would be attending. Something to do.), comm links from the battle coming in live, the rampaging around the system caused by the anomaly AI.
He dug into the origins of Max as best he could. Unfortunately, according to all of his file descriptions and records he left behind, Max created itself on the system. It made no sense, but Clyde was fairly sure he was working with one of the most powerful computer networks in the known universe. Who knows what it's capable of.
Clyde remembered that he had also picked up a message from Admiral Fontaine a while back. He read its contents.
It held particular interest to Clyde. He would keep that to himself though- The Admiral would announce the mission on his own time.
New people. Prisoners on a frigate. Hostiles being blown apart by Bravo team (he was plugged into the suits, receiving all the information Commander Dunaway was). Unregistered passengers on the Salient. Ahh yes. Callsign Ronin... and...
Wait. Who the hell was that?
Clyde followed the unregistered passenger backwards through the logs to her arrival on the Salient. A stowaway. He returned his tray and walked out into the hallways, headed towards where the stowaway was now. He was still sifting through the logs in closer detail, looking for spoken words.
Taking her device out her pocket, she transmitted new message.
"Crew unprepared for counter attack, planning party. Everyone will be there. I suggest we strike now."
Pausing she waited for a response.
A crackle rang out and she heard, "Good job Rich Girl, we're in orbit behind the planet, tell us when to strike."
Replying she issued, "Roger."
Clyde froze in his tracks- the blood drained from his face. No way. There's no way the entire thing could have been a setup to destroy the Salient. They were just pirates. Right? No... Just pirates wouldn't have gotten a stowaway on board like that. What was he going to to with the spy? How was he going to save the ship? It was in his hands, and he needed to do something. In the time it took him to steady himself, he had run through all his thoughts of panic and composed a message and sent it directly to the Admiral's neural implant - graded with as many red flags as he could hack into the system. He didn't want to use something people could hear- they would panic.
"Admiral. I hope you greet this with the urgency I've labeled it.
Read into the details later- for now you must know that the Salient is in terrible danger. Not just the boarding crews- everyone.
The enemy lies in wait behind the nearest planet, and they're going to attack while the majority of the crew is engaged in illicit partying below decks, drunk out of their skulls on victory and bootleg alcohol.
Awaiting your orders."
After this, Clyde attached the details. A series of logs including the planning of Hyena's party, the transmission from the pirates, and the footage of the spy boarding the Salient. If only Clyde hadn't fallen behind in his observations while trying to maintain a human facade. The stowaway wouldn't have taken more than three steps before being gunned down by some autoturret on his watch. But now was a time for quiet and deliberation. The attack would not come until the party began. The spy would be there... contrary to her reports, the Salient would be ready.
It had been some time since the space skirmish had ended- Clyde had outlived his usefulness on the bridge. He sat and watched for a while, but he was nearly as useless as his "co-navigator". He left silently, and nobody paid any mind. He figured he would go grab a bite to eat at the nearest mess hall. While he ate, he cleared some disk space in his mind and looked through the footage he had recorded from all over the ship since his initial entry into the system. He sorted through it all, outwardly looking focused on his meal. Pilot banter, insignificant comments, Hyena's party (He would be attending. Something to do.), comm links from the battle coming in live, the rampaging around the system caused by the anomaly AI.
He dug into the origins of Max as best he could. Unfortunately, according to all of his file descriptions and records he left behind, Max created itself on the system. It made no sense, but Clyde was fairly sure he was working with one of the most powerful computer networks in the known universe. Who knows what it's capable of.
Clyde remembered that he had also picked up a message from Admiral Fontaine a while back. He read its contents.
It held particular interest to Clyde. He would keep that to himself though- The Admiral would announce the mission on his own time.
New people. Prisoners on a frigate. Hostiles being blown apart by Bravo team (he was plugged into the suits, receiving all the information Commander Dunaway was). Unregistered passengers on the Salient. Ahh yes. Callsign Ronin... and...
Wait. Who the hell was that?
Clyde followed the unregistered passenger backwards through the logs to her arrival on the Salient. A stowaway. He returned his tray and walked out into the hallways, headed towards where the stowaway was now. He was still sifting through the logs in closer detail, looking for spoken words.
Taking her device out her pocket, she transmitted new message.
"Crew unprepared for counter attack, planning party. Everyone will be there. I suggest we strike now."
Pausing she waited for a response.
A crackle rang out and she heard, "Good job Rich Girl, we're in orbit behind the planet, tell us when to strike."
Replying she issued, "Roger."
Clyde froze in his tracks- the blood drained from his face. No way. There's no way the entire thing could have been a setup to destroy the Salient. They were just pirates. Right? No... Just pirates wouldn't have gotten a stowaway on board like that. What was he going to to with the spy? How was he going to save the ship? It was in his hands, and he needed to do something. In the time it took him to steady himself, he had run through all his thoughts of panic and composed a message and sent it directly to the Admiral's neural implant - graded with as many red flags as he could hack into the system. He didn't want to use something people could hear- they would panic.
"Admiral. I hope you greet this with the urgency I've labeled it.
Read into the details later- for now you must know that the Salient is in terrible danger. Not just the boarding crews- everyone.
The enemy lies in wait behind the nearest planet, and they're going to attack while the majority of the crew is engaged in illicit partying below decks, drunk out of their skulls on victory and bootleg alcohol.
Awaiting your orders."
After this, Clyde attached the details. A series of logs including the planning of Hyena's party, the transmission from the pirates, and the footage of the spy boarding the Salient. If only Clyde hadn't fallen behind in his observations while trying to maintain a human facade. The stowaway wouldn't have taken more than three steps before being gunned down by some autoturret on his watch. But now was a time for quiet and deliberation. The attack would not come until the party began. The spy would be there... contrary to her reports, the Salient would be ready.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
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Alice sighed shortly and shook her head. Admirable intentions... but not good timing.
"Tiaan," she called after the pilot, raising her dark eyes to the girl. She let a little bit of the commander's annoyance come through. "You still haven't answered my question. What makes the crew think that they can throw a party tonight without my finding out about it?"
Everything would make them think about. They'd done very well, in hiding it. Their only mistake had been to come too closer to Alice. She had strange ways of learning the truth about things.
"Tiaan," she called after the pilot, raising her dark eyes to the girl. She let a little bit of the commander's annoyance come through. "You still haven't answered my question. What makes the crew think that they can throw a party tonight without my finding out about it?"
Everything would make them think about. They'd done very well, in hiding it. Their only mistake had been to come too closer to Alice. She had strange ways of learning the truth about things.
Tiaan Peyton
Shrugging she merely replied, "I would never have gone. As much as I love parties, I would rather not grow attached to anyone." Tiaan then did any unexpected thing walking slowly over to the Lt she wrapped her arms around her, one on back, and one the neck and kissed her passionately. It felt so good, but she must fight it, she just had to know before she went.
Time stopped and she was high on ecstasy and the moment.
Releasing she simply said, "What could have been. Goodbye Lt."
Shrugging she merely replied, "I would never have gone. As much as I love parties, I would rather not grow attached to anyone." Tiaan then did any unexpected thing walking slowly over to the Lt she wrapped her arms around her, one on back, and one the neck and kissed her passionately. It felt so good, but she must fight it, she just had to know before she went.
Time stopped and she was high on ecstasy and the moment.
Releasing she simply said, "What could have been. Goodbye Lt."
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With i shiver of doubt, Elizabeth held her pistol tight in her hands and she leaned against the wall of the hallway. With a final nod she Ulric to pop the door.
"Ulric..." She mumbled out as she cocked the pistol. "I...If something goes wrong... You need to promise me... You wont l-let them take me back... You wont let them capture me again... If that happens, kill me..." With a final breath, she hit the switch to open the door.
As the door slid open with a hiss, they could hear pirates rushing, like sounds of panic. As they turned to look through, they found massive containers floating around, crashing into each other. Pirates shouting to secure the crates. "I guess when we got hit, and gravity went offline, the creates got loose and fell." After scaneing the room for a few moments, she whisperd back loud enough for Ulric to hear,
"I count 11, maybe 12. 3 on a balcony, 4 securing a crate, and it looks like 5 are...Are... Setting explosives??"
"Ulric..." She mumbled out as she cocked the pistol. "I...If something goes wrong... You need to promise me... You wont l-let them take me back... You wont let them capture me again... If that happens, kill me..." With a final breath, she hit the switch to open the door.
As the door slid open with a hiss, they could hear pirates rushing, like sounds of panic. As they turned to look through, they found massive containers floating around, crashing into each other. Pirates shouting to secure the crates. "I guess when we got hit, and gravity went offline, the creates got loose and fell." After scaneing the room for a few moments, she whisperd back loud enough for Ulric to hear,
"I count 11, maybe 12. 3 on a balcony, 4 securing a crate, and it looks like 5 are...Are... Setting explosives??"
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Observation Port
The Admiral had just exited Alice's private dinner, and was gazing at the stars from one of the larger observation ports. His eyes were unwavering as he watched the stars glisten among the velvet drape of space. They hung like jewels in the distance, with the medium gas giant Themos V resting among the field of innumerable shining gems. Aronimus had spent quite a moment simply observing the beauty of the void, there was never a loss of aesthetic appeal.
Although their alignment and their light changed slightly as the decades, centuries, and millenniums went by, it went unnoticed by the eyes of men. Despite this, it remained something very mysterious and beyond the reach of mankind, and as a result, it never lost its mystique. It is one among many which humanity has yet to conquer, should there be the slightest chance that they could, it would spell an end for hope, adventure, desire, all the pleasures man has known.
As he pondered these thoughts, he received an instantaneous communique from Navigator Summer, and it was marked with so many red flags that it turned crimson. It was startling news indeed, news that fractured solitude, so harshly, so sharply, and so painfully. There was a stowaway on board that managed to relay the coordinates of the Salient, to a large contingent of pirate ships. It seemed almost beyond chance, almost as if it was orchestrated from the very day that the Salient departed from Rust City.
The means by which Summer acquired this information, did not matter at the present moment. The crew, were occupied with an illegal social that broke protocol beyond multiple echelons. The Admiral saw Petty Officer Hansen and Lieutenant Napier still occupied at their posts the last moment he left the bridge. Hopefully they were still manning their seats in the bridge, and not getting drunk off of cheap liquor.
The Admiral responded quickly to the call,
“Officer Summer, get to the bridge immediately! And tell any crew members you pass by to man their stations and spread the word, it is not a drill. You should know this more than anyone,” the Admiral hurried off in quickstep. He did not lock his arms behind his back, now he was striding to the bridge.
Then he changed channels, this time he called for Commander Dunaway.
“Commander, we have a stowaway on board in some hidden corner, send your men out apprehend the infiltrator on the double. I am relaying her position directly to you, and get your men ready. Boarding action may commence,”
“Boarding action? Sir…”
“The stowaway is a pirate, and she may have coordinated a strike to go down as a number of our crew were intoxicated in an illegal party,”
“I understand sir; I’ll get to it immediately,”
“What the hell are they doing, partying at such a time? This is what I get for accepting assignment as captain of a ship full of greenhorns,” he exhaled with derision at the thought. He had almost forgotten to tell Lieutenant Commander Chen about the current situation, but he was quick to mend that mistake by altering his channels directly to her.
“Lieutenant Commander Chen, we have a situation. You are needed at the bridge immediately; tell any crew members you meet to get to their posts ASAP. We’ve been sitting in a trap for the past hour. If you happen to pass by where the crew is holding their illegal social, tell the slackers to get to their stations instantly,” the Admiral quickened his pace once more.
He would’ve scorned himself for failing to recognize that situations such as these weren’t improbable, an Admiral at the age of 52. However, he realized that it would be no use, especially when he had to organize the crew. Things were going down fast, all he could hope for was that they were prepared for whatever may come. He would do his best to make sure that they were prepared.
Although their alignment and their light changed slightly as the decades, centuries, and millenniums went by, it went unnoticed by the eyes of men. Despite this, it remained something very mysterious and beyond the reach of mankind, and as a result, it never lost its mystique. It is one among many which humanity has yet to conquer, should there be the slightest chance that they could, it would spell an end for hope, adventure, desire, all the pleasures man has known.
As he pondered these thoughts, he received an instantaneous communique from Navigator Summer, and it was marked with so many red flags that it turned crimson. It was startling news indeed, news that fractured solitude, so harshly, so sharply, and so painfully. There was a stowaway on board that managed to relay the coordinates of the Salient, to a large contingent of pirate ships. It seemed almost beyond chance, almost as if it was orchestrated from the very day that the Salient departed from Rust City.
The means by which Summer acquired this information, did not matter at the present moment. The crew, were occupied with an illegal social that broke protocol beyond multiple echelons. The Admiral saw Petty Officer Hansen and Lieutenant Napier still occupied at their posts the last moment he left the bridge. Hopefully they were still manning their seats in the bridge, and not getting drunk off of cheap liquor.
The Admiral responded quickly to the call,
“Officer Summer, get to the bridge immediately! And tell any crew members you pass by to man their stations and spread the word, it is not a drill. You should know this more than anyone,” the Admiral hurried off in quickstep. He did not lock his arms behind his back, now he was striding to the bridge.
Then he changed channels, this time he called for Commander Dunaway.
“Commander, we have a stowaway on board in some hidden corner, send your men out apprehend the infiltrator on the double. I am relaying her position directly to you, and get your men ready. Boarding action may commence,”
“Boarding action? Sir…”
“The stowaway is a pirate, and she may have coordinated a strike to go down as a number of our crew were intoxicated in an illegal party,”
“I understand sir; I’ll get to it immediately,”
“What the hell are they doing, partying at such a time? This is what I get for accepting assignment as captain of a ship full of greenhorns,” he exhaled with derision at the thought. He had almost forgotten to tell Lieutenant Commander Chen about the current situation, but he was quick to mend that mistake by altering his channels directly to her.
“Lieutenant Commander Chen, we have a situation. You are needed at the bridge immediately; tell any crew members you meet to get to their posts ASAP. We’ve been sitting in a trap for the past hour. If you happen to pass by where the crew is holding their illegal social, tell the slackers to get to their stations instantly,” the Admiral quickened his pace once more.
He would’ve scorned himself for failing to recognize that situations such as these weren’t improbable, an Admiral at the age of 52. However, he realized that it would be no use, especially when he had to organize the crew. Things were going down fast, all he could hope for was that they were prepared for whatever may come. He would do his best to make sure that they were prepared.
The setting changes from Observation Port to F.S.S. Salient
The party was hardly in full swing. Marines still in danger, a few gunship pilots still hanging out in the void, maintainers in the hangar and engineers at their stations. But that didnt mean it was quiet.
A few decks down from the hangar, where superstructure to support the ships above made this space obsolete for anything but random storage, there are a few bodies already gathered. Hyena, smiling like her namesake before a bloody kill, plucks a contraband cigarette from her lips and blows a hearty wreath of smoke into the air. She was sitting on a toolbox, and before her - used as a table - was an ordinance crate. On its surface is a pile of cards, currency from a dozen governments, jewelery, and an old .45 pistol from a bygone war.
"I'm telling you, I'm good for it." An engineer insists, tapping an IOU slip in front of him with a finger perma-stained with grease.
"Maybe." Hyena retorts, "But we wont know for another 6 weeks, and that's some bullshit since you'd get our cash -now-."
They were debating the validity of using alchohol to stand in for a bet. Not uncommon; it's just that this alchohol was still fermenting in the engineer's hidden, home made still.
The 9-man poker game was only one act of debauchery currently taking place. A small group were holding beers they had smuggled through the coridoors in a bouy tube, playing Flinch - if you dont know, dont ask. Another couple had brought down a game console, and were shouting obscenities at eachother as their virtual avatars blasted, ran over, and stabbed eachother in a game of Halo 27. In the middle of the room, a large space heater had been lain on its back. With its safety grid removed, it was cooking meat 'reappropriated' from the galley. Still others were gathered around their personal computers compiling, selling, and distributing from their impressive collection of porn, pirated movies, and downloaded music.
Trades were taking place all over the party; cigarettes for trinkets and souveniers, porn for metal fabrication, promises of favors or cash at a later date. Someone even had some fireworks. Everything under the sun that might make life a little bit easier and more entertaining in the months to come.
Clyde could be excused for underestimating crewmen from 'dirtier' lines of work, but the Admiral really aught to have known better. There was alchohol here, of course. Some of it downright potent - like the promised moonshine involved in the poker game. But this was the compilation of what people could fit in their seabags or sneak in aboard planes or in shipments, and what they had would have to last for a very long time.
Greenhorns, many, but more then enough old hands at skirting the regulations. Shitfaced sailors would get them ALL caught with a quickness. No one was going to get blasted at something like this. Not so soon in the game, when they would have to go to work tomorrow and maybe have to explain bloodshot eyes or the lingering smell of tobacco.
"It's been a pleasure doing buisness with you, ladies." Hyena laughs heartily as she slaps down her winning hand to the bemused curses of the others. Her arms sweep out to gather her prizes, carefully pocketing the firearm, "You let me know any time you need me to fleece you."
"Fuck that, Picklesuit. Deal me back in."
Illegal as all hell? Absolutely. But stupid? Hardly.
A few decks down from the hangar, where superstructure to support the ships above made this space obsolete for anything but random storage, there are a few bodies already gathered. Hyena, smiling like her namesake before a bloody kill, plucks a contraband cigarette from her lips and blows a hearty wreath of smoke into the air. She was sitting on a toolbox, and before her - used as a table - was an ordinance crate. On its surface is a pile of cards, currency from a dozen governments, jewelery, and an old .45 pistol from a bygone war.
"I'm telling you, I'm good for it." An engineer insists, tapping an IOU slip in front of him with a finger perma-stained with grease.
"Maybe." Hyena retorts, "But we wont know for another 6 weeks, and that's some bullshit since you'd get our cash -now-."
They were debating the validity of using alchohol to stand in for a bet. Not uncommon; it's just that this alchohol was still fermenting in the engineer's hidden, home made still.
The 9-man poker game was only one act of debauchery currently taking place. A small group were holding beers they had smuggled through the coridoors in a bouy tube, playing Flinch - if you dont know, dont ask. Another couple had brought down a game console, and were shouting obscenities at eachother as their virtual avatars blasted, ran over, and stabbed eachother in a game of Halo 27. In the middle of the room, a large space heater had been lain on its back. With its safety grid removed, it was cooking meat 'reappropriated' from the galley. Still others were gathered around their personal computers compiling, selling, and distributing from their impressive collection of porn, pirated movies, and downloaded music.
Trades were taking place all over the party; cigarettes for trinkets and souveniers, porn for metal fabrication, promises of favors or cash at a later date. Someone even had some fireworks. Everything under the sun that might make life a little bit easier and more entertaining in the months to come.
Clyde could be excused for underestimating crewmen from 'dirtier' lines of work, but the Admiral really aught to have known better. There was alchohol here, of course. Some of it downright potent - like the promised moonshine involved in the poker game. But this was the compilation of what people could fit in their seabags or sneak in aboard planes or in shipments, and what they had would have to last for a very long time.
Greenhorns, many, but more then enough old hands at skirting the regulations. Shitfaced sailors would get them ALL caught with a quickness. No one was going to get blasted at something like this. Not so soon in the game, when they would have to go to work tomorrow and maybe have to explain bloodshot eyes or the lingering smell of tobacco.
"It's been a pleasure doing buisness with you, ladies." Hyena laughs heartily as she slaps down her winning hand to the bemused curses of the others. Her arms sweep out to gather her prizes, carefully pocketing the firearm, "You let me know any time you need me to fleece you."
"Fuck that, Picklesuit. Deal me back in."
Illegal as all hell? Absolutely. But stupid? Hardly.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
Second Pirate Frigate
Unaware of the state of affairs on board the Salient, Bravo team moved quickly through the corridors, their armored boots hitting the ground with a repetitive dank dank dank as they moved in tandem.
“Keep visuals up,” Eli had gotten used to giving curt commands, as if he was resuming his groove he developed prior to Mars.
“Chief, this is a cakewalk, the ship’s empty.”
“Don’t get too arrogant, Reynolds,” Eli didn’t bother turning around, he always kept his head, his eyes, and his rifle aimed forward.
Reynolds looked at the other members, confused as to why he was mentioned. No one noticed, they were concentrated like their fearless leader.
They were approaching the aft sections of the ship, and the gravity was breaking apart. Every two or three steps, the Marines would jump forth with their step not even touching the metallic plating of the floor. These lapses in gravity enhanced their speed, but practically everyone with the exception of perhaps the Captain was afraid that the vacuum would suck them through some hole in the exterior hull and fling them into limbo among space. The thought was terrifying enough; to experience it was a new level of terror.
Luckily for the Marines though, once the gravity was fully offline at zero-g stages, their suits would activate the mini-jet packs on their backs, allowing them to maneuver through space and zero-g conditions. Despite the fact that there was a bomb on board, the team remained calm, but most of all, the Captain remained calm.
Although the Captain looked calm, the interior of his helmet and suit felt otherwise. His internal body temperature had spiked to a high of 107 degrees Fahrenheit forcing his suit to compensate by lowering its temperature to 60 degrees Fahrenheit to cool him down. The monitors kept regulating the suit to match Eli’s internal changes. Sweat may not have been pouring in streams, but the formation of beads was constant. Eli didn’t seem to notice despite the notifications that popped up in his visor, given to him by his suit. His only focus was to get the team, and the prisoners, off the ship.
His pupils had dilated; it seemed as if adrenaline was kicking in, however, his suit would’ve given him a notice. It didn’t. Simply because it wasn’t adrenaline, it was something else. A previous biological enhancement integrated into the Captain’s system was the cause of this. It pumped a synthetic compound that functioned similar to adrenaline; the only difference was it lacked the flight response.
“Richter here is about to join the Peace Corps after this tour,”
Eli blinked for a moment. Richter? There wasn't a Richter in his team. He shook his head and kept moving on.
Unaware of the state of affairs on board the Salient, Bravo team moved quickly through the corridors, their armored boots hitting the ground with a repetitive dank dank dank as they moved in tandem.
“Keep visuals up,” Eli had gotten used to giving curt commands, as if he was resuming his groove he developed prior to Mars.
“Chief, this is a cakewalk, the ship’s empty.”
“Don’t get too arrogant, Reynolds,” Eli didn’t bother turning around, he always kept his head, his eyes, and his rifle aimed forward.
Reynolds looked at the other members, confused as to why he was mentioned. No one noticed, they were concentrated like their fearless leader.
They were approaching the aft sections of the ship, and the gravity was breaking apart. Every two or three steps, the Marines would jump forth with their step not even touching the metallic plating of the floor. These lapses in gravity enhanced their speed, but practically everyone with the exception of perhaps the Captain was afraid that the vacuum would suck them through some hole in the exterior hull and fling them into limbo among space. The thought was terrifying enough; to experience it was a new level of terror.
Luckily for the Marines though, once the gravity was fully offline at zero-g stages, their suits would activate the mini-jet packs on their backs, allowing them to maneuver through space and zero-g conditions. Despite the fact that there was a bomb on board, the team remained calm, but most of all, the Captain remained calm.
Although the Captain looked calm, the interior of his helmet and suit felt otherwise. His internal body temperature had spiked to a high of 107 degrees Fahrenheit forcing his suit to compensate by lowering its temperature to 60 degrees Fahrenheit to cool him down. The monitors kept regulating the suit to match Eli’s internal changes. Sweat may not have been pouring in streams, but the formation of beads was constant. Eli didn’t seem to notice despite the notifications that popped up in his visor, given to him by his suit. His only focus was to get the team, and the prisoners, off the ship.
His pupils had dilated; it seemed as if adrenaline was kicking in, however, his suit would’ve given him a notice. It didn’t. Simply because it wasn’t adrenaline, it was something else. A previous biological enhancement integrated into the Captain’s system was the cause of this. It pumped a synthetic compound that functioned similar to adrenaline; the only difference was it lacked the flight response.
“Richter here is about to join the Peace Corps after this tour,”
Eli blinked for a moment. Richter? There wasn't a Richter in his team. He shook his head and kept moving on.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
Courtney Reynolds (Rich Girl)
Hearing heavy footfalls from all around, she knew they had found her. It was utterly careless to be caught like this, but fortunately she was now where she wanted to be. Leaning over the console for the engine, she implanted the virus that was engineered specially to bypass most major firewalls and to afflict the engines with a scenario that would either make it dead in the water or remove it from the battlefield.
It had taken her months to work on, after becoming a pirate she had found lure of computers too much, and had studied them hard, learning all that made them tick. This virus was devious in it's approach, it appeared as normal lines of data to all AI, but it reached into the engines stressing the core immensely. What would happen is with core stressed so much, the ship would have to jump or face engines imploding due to the sheer strain put on them. Silver Eyes had relied on her for this mission, because if there one thing she knew, it was always have a back-up plan, even if she was caught, she would be fine.
Checking databanks out of curiosity she saw the logs of crew, one name struck her.
Her brother...
This could complicate matter, deciding she wasted enough time she finished the upload before giving the go ahead on her intercom
"Code word Pirate's United, enter next phase of plan."
There was a short but quick response, "Exellent Rich Girl, if you make it out alive, I will give you you're very own fleet."
"Thank you Admiral Silver Eyes."
Removing her storage device, she took out her blaster from her holster, "Let's show them they messed with wrong pirate's eh."
Hearing heavy footfalls from all around, she knew they had found her. It was utterly careless to be caught like this, but fortunately she was now where she wanted to be. Leaning over the console for the engine, she implanted the virus that was engineered specially to bypass most major firewalls and to afflict the engines with a scenario that would either make it dead in the water or remove it from the battlefield.
It had taken her months to work on, after becoming a pirate she had found lure of computers too much, and had studied them hard, learning all that made them tick. This virus was devious in it's approach, it appeared as normal lines of data to all AI, but it reached into the engines stressing the core immensely. What would happen is with core stressed so much, the ship would have to jump or face engines imploding due to the sheer strain put on them. Silver Eyes had relied on her for this mission, because if there one thing she knew, it was always have a back-up plan, even if she was caught, she would be fine.
Checking databanks out of curiosity she saw the logs of crew, one name struck her.
Her brother...
This could complicate matter, deciding she wasted enough time she finished the upload before giving the go ahead on her intercom
"Code word Pirate's United, enter next phase of plan."
There was a short but quick response, "Exellent Rich Girl, if you make it out alive, I will give you you're very own fleet."
"Thank you Admiral Silver Eyes."
Removing her storage device, she took out her blaster from her holster, "Let's show them they messed with wrong pirate's eh."
Barracks
“Yes that’s correct; you should clear the area immediately. My analysts tell me that the device is expected to be near their drive core. The explosion would trigger a reaction from the core, and the blast would be larger than an ordinary device,” Atomsk had just relayed to the Altamus vessels to pull away from the frigates.
Alright understood Salient, we’re clearing the area. Summerwind out.
Atomsk then turned to the rest of the Marines, who were watching the situation unfurl in the war room. He was quick to send them out with orders; they were better off patrolling than idling.
“Alright I want you to cover this area,” Atomsk pointed a holographic overlay of the Salient’s interior being projected in the command center of the barracks.
He began directing different teams to cover different sections of the ship, preparing for any threat in any form to the ship. First and foremost though, he was intent on capturing the infiltrator before he or she sabotaged anything vital to the Salient. He pulled out a cigarette, it helped calm the nerves.
------
Bridge
The Admiral arrived at the bridge to find seven or eight crew members still attending to their duties, it wasn’t much, but Aronimus had worked with worse. JG Napier was in his seat, surprised to see the Admiral pace into the room so quickly.
He stood up immediately and saluted him, as did Petty Officer Hansen, “Admiral.”
“Hold the formalities, gentlemen,” the Admiral assumed his seat at his desk in bridge, elevated so he could oversee the activities of the bridge crew.
“Aye, Sir what brings yeh here at this time?” Hansen swiveled around in his seat.
“Put the ship on red alert, it has come to my attention that we may have a saboteur on board,” Hansen’s eyes widened as Napier grimaced at the news.
However, before they went to work, a thought crossed the Admiral’s mind. The infiltrator had ordered the hostile fleet to attack as the party commenced. If he alerted everyone on board, the pirates would realize that the Salient wouldn’t be caught by surprise.
“That’s not the least of our problems; a contingency of pirate ships will be striking our position whilst the majority of our crew are getting wasted in some corner of the ship,” the bridge crew, what few of them were present, were aghast. Napier, Hansen, and the others stood, frozen in their stance.
“Man your stations gentlemen. The battle isn’t over yet…” and with that rallying call, the crewmen went to their seats and monitors, preparing for the engagement.
“Yes that’s correct; you should clear the area immediately. My analysts tell me that the device is expected to be near their drive core. The explosion would trigger a reaction from the core, and the blast would be larger than an ordinary device,” Atomsk had just relayed to the Altamus vessels to pull away from the frigates.
Alright understood Salient, we’re clearing the area. Summerwind out.
Atomsk then turned to the rest of the Marines, who were watching the situation unfurl in the war room. He was quick to send them out with orders; they were better off patrolling than idling.
“Alright I want you to cover this area,” Atomsk pointed a holographic overlay of the Salient’s interior being projected in the command center of the barracks.
He began directing different teams to cover different sections of the ship, preparing for any threat in any form to the ship. First and foremost though, he was intent on capturing the infiltrator before he or she sabotaged anything vital to the Salient. He pulled out a cigarette, it helped calm the nerves.
------
Bridge
The Admiral arrived at the bridge to find seven or eight crew members still attending to their duties, it wasn’t much, but Aronimus had worked with worse. JG Napier was in his seat, surprised to see the Admiral pace into the room so quickly.
He stood up immediately and saluted him, as did Petty Officer Hansen, “Admiral.”
“Hold the formalities, gentlemen,” the Admiral assumed his seat at his desk in bridge, elevated so he could oversee the activities of the bridge crew.
“Aye, Sir what brings yeh here at this time?” Hansen swiveled around in his seat.
“Put the ship on red alert, it has come to my attention that we may have a saboteur on board,” Hansen’s eyes widened as Napier grimaced at the news.
However, before they went to work, a thought crossed the Admiral’s mind. The infiltrator had ordered the hostile fleet to attack as the party commenced. If he alerted everyone on board, the pirates would realize that the Salient wouldn’t be caught by surprise.
“That’s not the least of our problems; a contingency of pirate ships will be striking our position whilst the majority of our crew are getting wasted in some corner of the ship,” the bridge crew, what few of them were present, were aghast. Napier, Hansen, and the others stood, frozen in their stance.
“Man your stations gentlemen. The battle isn’t over yet…” and with that rallying call, the crewmen went to their seats and monitors, preparing for the engagement.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to Bridge
“Adam,” the Admiral called, the A.I. would instantly be summoned forth before the Admiral, appearing directly on his desk.
“Greetings Admiral, how may I assist you today…tonight rather.” the A.I. hadn’t been very active following his last maneuver which altered the main cannon’s trajectory.
The alteration allowed the blast to skirt through the hostile frigate’s bridge, leaving the rest of it intact for boarding teams. The Admiral proceeded to allow T.A.U. to take over control of the ship’s weaponry and halt A.D.A.M.’s maneuverings. After being relegated to other duties, the A.I. accepted his orders without complaint.
“Adam, I’m sure you are aware of our current dilemma, so I ask that you run a final systems check to make sure that the infiltrator did not leak any foreign data into our network,” the Admiral sat with his posture straightened, and his arms on the arm rest. He remained relax despite the utter chaos that would’ve overwhelmed lesser men.
“I understand Admiral, may I ask for your authorization to utilize more of my processing capabilities? Seeing as how this is an emergency?” the A.I. had already begun scanning the systems, while he posed the question.
Aronimus rubbed his sagely beard for a moment, deciding whether or not to allow A.D.A.M. access to more power.
”You don’t want to allow it too much power, otherwise problems might occur.”
“What kind of problems?”
“Adam…is a very advanced matrix for his time. You see, in A.I. Theory, there are five stages to an A.I. - creation, growth, stability, rampancy, and…metastability. Most A.I.s utilized by the military on ships or in the field are in the stage of stability. Stability lasts for approximately seven to eight years after the construct’s conception. After that, they may go mad, disobeying orders, using data systems to wreak havoc, which is known as rampancy. When A.I.s go rampant, they are no longer useable, meaning they must be destroyed. I had a previous theory that during the rampancy stage, A.I.s became absorbed in a self-delusion of grandeur, similar to a human being with schizophrenia. An A.I. would see its creators as mentally inferior.There are many theories as to how and why A.I.s go rampant, but there isn’t a definite law regarding the matter. One possible explanation is the processing power, when A.I.s are given too much of it, they’re likely to overload their systems because a critical mass has been reached.”
“And…metastability?”
“That…is a theory in A.I. Theory itself; no A.I. has ever reached that point, at least not to our knowledge. It is the point where A.I.s supposedly become conscious…sentient…a true person.”
The Admiral was lost in thought, "Admiral?" then A.D.A.M. rung in, bringing him back.
“You have my authorization, I will upgrade your capacity by point seven percent, and you have orders, now carry them out.”
“Affirmative Admiral, I will complete my task,” but before A.D.A.M. left the ringed projector, “Shall I prepare for Contingency CA?”
The Admiral gave A.D.A.M. a nod of affirmation. His sapphire form bowed out before Aronimus, and then vanished in thin air. Aronimus proceeded to upgrade A.D.A.M’s capabilities; the desk’s interface required his fingerprints, a biometric scan of his eye, and a confirmation from his neural interface. The forefinger prints were acknowledged, and then the scanner blinked down his blue retina. A message was sent to his neural interface from his desk, to which he confirmed his decision.
“Greetings Admiral, how may I assist you today…tonight rather.” the A.I. hadn’t been very active following his last maneuver which altered the main cannon’s trajectory.
The alteration allowed the blast to skirt through the hostile frigate’s bridge, leaving the rest of it intact for boarding teams. The Admiral proceeded to allow T.A.U. to take over control of the ship’s weaponry and halt A.D.A.M.’s maneuverings. After being relegated to other duties, the A.I. accepted his orders without complaint.
“Adam, I’m sure you are aware of our current dilemma, so I ask that you run a final systems check to make sure that the infiltrator did not leak any foreign data into our network,” the Admiral sat with his posture straightened, and his arms on the arm rest. He remained relax despite the utter chaos that would’ve overwhelmed lesser men.
“I understand Admiral, may I ask for your authorization to utilize more of my processing capabilities? Seeing as how this is an emergency?” the A.I. had already begun scanning the systems, while he posed the question.
Aronimus rubbed his sagely beard for a moment, deciding whether or not to allow A.D.A.M. access to more power.
”You don’t want to allow it too much power, otherwise problems might occur.”
“What kind of problems?”
“Adam…is a very advanced matrix for his time. You see, in A.I. Theory, there are five stages to an A.I. - creation, growth, stability, rampancy, and…metastability. Most A.I.s utilized by the military on ships or in the field are in the stage of stability. Stability lasts for approximately seven to eight years after the construct’s conception. After that, they may go mad, disobeying orders, using data systems to wreak havoc, which is known as rampancy. When A.I.s go rampant, they are no longer useable, meaning they must be destroyed. I had a previous theory that during the rampancy stage, A.I.s became absorbed in a self-delusion of grandeur, similar to a human being with schizophrenia. An A.I. would see its creators as mentally inferior.There are many theories as to how and why A.I.s go rampant, but there isn’t a definite law regarding the matter. One possible explanation is the processing power, when A.I.s are given too much of it, they’re likely to overload their systems because a critical mass has been reached.”
“And…metastability?”
“That…is a theory in A.I. Theory itself; no A.I. has ever reached that point, at least not to our knowledge. It is the point where A.I.s supposedly become conscious…sentient…a true person.”
The Admiral was lost in thought, "Admiral?" then A.D.A.M. rung in, bringing him back.
“You have my authorization, I will upgrade your capacity by point seven percent, and you have orders, now carry them out.”
“Affirmative Admiral, I will complete my task,” but before A.D.A.M. left the ringed projector, “Shall I prepare for Contingency CA?”
The Admiral gave A.D.A.M. a nod of affirmation. His sapphire form bowed out before Aronimus, and then vanished in thin air. Aronimus proceeded to upgrade A.D.A.M’s capabilities; the desk’s interface required his fingerprints, a biometric scan of his eye, and a confirmation from his neural interface. The forefinger prints were acknowledged, and then the scanner blinked down his blue retina. A message was sent to his neural interface from his desk, to which he confirmed his decision.
The setting changes from Bridge to The Milky Way Universe
ADAM
A.D.A.M instantly set to work on detecting any foreign data leaks, he found the beginnings of such events and quickly nullified them. He considered reversing them but instead ran a minor trace boot leg for a full back to source run. He also initiated Contingency CA, the file was closed so even he couldn't open it without consequence so in truth it was more like initiating the go ahead for a process of which he had no control,but he kept it in a frozen state to avoid full activation. Using the ships instruments and some creative calculations he got an approximate area of a full back to source, the area was large though and without more data he couldn't truly narrow down the area without dropping the accuracy of his calculations.
"Contingency CA is prepped and ready for full execution Admiral, should you deem it necessary you need only push the confirmation button on your consul. Foreign data links were detected neutralized and traced and I have a possible area for the point of origin of this but without more data I cannot make the area smaller without sacrificing accuracy." He also forwarded and update on the new system regularities so the man would know exactly what was going on with the interior of his ship and it's systems
A.D.A.M instantly set to work on detecting any foreign data leaks, he found the beginnings of such events and quickly nullified them. He considered reversing them but instead ran a minor trace boot leg for a full back to source run. He also initiated Contingency CA, the file was closed so even he couldn't open it without consequence so in truth it was more like initiating the go ahead for a process of which he had no control,but he kept it in a frozen state to avoid full activation. Using the ships instruments and some creative calculations he got an approximate area of a full back to source, the area was large though and without more data he couldn't truly narrow down the area without dropping the accuracy of his calculations.
"Contingency CA is prepped and ready for full execution Admiral, should you deem it necessary you need only push the confirmation button on your consul. Foreign data links were detected neutralized and traced and I have a possible area for the point of origin of this but without more data I cannot make the area smaller without sacrificing accuracy." He also forwarded and update on the new system regularities so the man would know exactly what was going on with the interior of his ship and it's systems
Ulric Kercheskoi
Second Pirate Frigate
Ulric peers out alongside Elizabeth and drags his vision over the people in the hanger, thinking that he must be going blind to miss them in the first place. Elizabeth was right however, seeing as there was several on the ops deck while other men worked with something on a higher loading gantry. "Not quite.. look" He slightly pointed with the barrel of his shotgun towards the higher group. "Their loading everything they can into those shipping containers and so is that group down below."
He drew her attention towards four of the pirates using a loader to get the cargo onto the heavier ship and while trying to do so the other busied themselves with trying to retrieve the free floating boxes as well.
He makes sure to look all around the group and sections of the hanger until something catches his eye.
There was secured section of crates off to the side of the ship and he began to recognize them as some of the reserve crates from his ship. This began to give him the idea that maybe in their hurry to grab as much loot as possible the pirates had almost everything in the hanger. "Alright Elizabeth.." He said sternly "They may actually have our things up in this hanger or better yet already loaded on to that shuttle, and I do not fancy the idea of them getting away with any of it."
"But still all this gives me an idea, wait here until you see the signal and don't worry you'll know it when you see it."
Had she been a bit more trained in combat or any other type of skill other then just a mechanic he would have contemplated bringing her along. But Ulric just left her to hide away near the hatch as he grabbed the rigging on the bulkhead and began to use the lack of gravity to his advantage. Gliding up along the beams he was shortly able to reach the ceiling and began to pull himself along it, each pull from his hands making him float silently over head.
Where it not for the recent combat he would have been spotted but thankfully now many of the lighting fixtures where damaged and non operational. Just doing this made him think of better times among his countrymen, doing such things to serve a great purpose everyday.
But now he did have a great purpose and it has been a long time since he could revel in such a moment. Lifting one hand he switches on his comm... "twelve contacts in Alpha hanger... loading for departure, be ready for gravity in forty sec's.. out"
Ulric is able to bring himself down slightly towards the console and rights himself giving a small breath of relief at the realization that he wasn't noticed. Diligently now he begins to work of the console passing screens of interfaces and several open commands. Looking on he see's that the centrifuge isn't off line but just in a hard standby, still just spinning its rings and not emitting. But the thought did hit him that just turning on the gravity could have some adverse effects to the ships integrity especially if he just directly booted it.
(click) ~What are you doing?~ Came from behind Ulric in a harsh tone and turning his head he noticed two armed men floating several feet away and maybe more so higher then himself. The one dominate pirate jousted his rifle towards Ulric again and spoke.. ~I said what are you doing..~
A smile formed behind the glass of Ulric's mask as he pulled up on the console to press himself against the deck. "Nothing.. nothing at all." He gave a quick flip of his thumb and hit the final key on the console causing sharp jar in the ship and in retrospect the gravity came on even more sharply, throwing anyone one who wasn't ready to the deck. Some much harder then others..
Second Pirate Frigate
Ulric peers out alongside Elizabeth and drags his vision over the people in the hanger, thinking that he must be going blind to miss them in the first place. Elizabeth was right however, seeing as there was several on the ops deck while other men worked with something on a higher loading gantry. "Not quite.. look" He slightly pointed with the barrel of his shotgun towards the higher group. "Their loading everything they can into those shipping containers and so is that group down below."
He drew her attention towards four of the pirates using a loader to get the cargo onto the heavier ship and while trying to do so the other busied themselves with trying to retrieve the free floating boxes as well.
He makes sure to look all around the group and sections of the hanger until something catches his eye.
There was secured section of crates off to the side of the ship and he began to recognize them as some of the reserve crates from his ship. This began to give him the idea that maybe in their hurry to grab as much loot as possible the pirates had almost everything in the hanger. "Alright Elizabeth.." He said sternly "They may actually have our things up in this hanger or better yet already loaded on to that shuttle, and I do not fancy the idea of them getting away with any of it."
"But still all this gives me an idea, wait here until you see the signal and don't worry you'll know it when you see it."
Had she been a bit more trained in combat or any other type of skill other then just a mechanic he would have contemplated bringing her along. But Ulric just left her to hide away near the hatch as he grabbed the rigging on the bulkhead and began to use the lack of gravity to his advantage. Gliding up along the beams he was shortly able to reach the ceiling and began to pull himself along it, each pull from his hands making him float silently over head.
Where it not for the recent combat he would have been spotted but thankfully now many of the lighting fixtures where damaged and non operational. Just doing this made him think of better times among his countrymen, doing such things to serve a great purpose everyday.
But now he did have a great purpose and it has been a long time since he could revel in such a moment. Lifting one hand he switches on his comm... "twelve contacts in Alpha hanger... loading for departure, be ready for gravity in forty sec's.. out"
Ulric is able to bring himself down slightly towards the console and rights himself giving a small breath of relief at the realization that he wasn't noticed. Diligently now he begins to work of the console passing screens of interfaces and several open commands. Looking on he see's that the centrifuge isn't off line but just in a hard standby, still just spinning its rings and not emitting. But the thought did hit him that just turning on the gravity could have some adverse effects to the ships integrity especially if he just directly booted it.
(click) ~What are you doing?~ Came from behind Ulric in a harsh tone and turning his head he noticed two armed men floating several feet away and maybe more so higher then himself. The one dominate pirate jousted his rifle towards Ulric again and spoke.. ~I said what are you doing..~
A smile formed behind the glass of Ulric's mask as he pulled up on the console to press himself against the deck. "Nothing.. nothing at all." He gave a quick flip of his thumb and hit the final key on the console causing sharp jar in the ship and in retrospect the gravity came on even more sharply, throwing anyone one who wasn't ready to the deck. Some much harder then others..
Clyde - Bridge
The usual humor in Clyde's behavior was absent now. He was back on the clock- things were happening that he couldn't maintain control over, and the news had only gotten worse. He had been watching the stowaway from the moment he spotted her on the ship. She had uploaded something into the computer core, and was holding there with a weapon.
The BAD news was that she was reporting to the legendary pirate Silver Eyes.
Clyde marched into the bridge, all business, and saluted the Admiral.
"The tidings grow worse. Our opponent is Silver Eyes." Clyde didn't need to say more. He knew the Admiral would know all about it from just the name.
Clyde took his seat at his terminal an waited for orders. Things were probably going to heat up soon.
Adriana - Second Pirate Frigate
Adriana landed with a heavy thud on top of a crate.
The gravity had returned, and Bravo Team had been flying along the halls while there was no gravity or large obstacle that could check their momentum. The bomb had been ticking, and a sense of urgency had crept into their movements. Not panic per se, but knowledge that they had to get back to Uncle Ray's ship- and fast. Many were surprised when the gravity returned mid flight and they came crashing to the harsh metal floor. Reynolds even had the poor fortune to have a crate fall on top of him.
But it was alright- they had almost reached their destination. The turn of one more corner and it would be in sight. Their ride back would be in place. Everything was going swimmingly.
Except for the fact that the friendlies were a no show.
"Captain. The prisoners aren't here yet. Orders?" Adriana added as an afterthought, for the sake of everyone's skins, "And does anyone know how much time is on that bomb?"
The usual humor in Clyde's behavior was absent now. He was back on the clock- things were happening that he couldn't maintain control over, and the news had only gotten worse. He had been watching the stowaway from the moment he spotted her on the ship. She had uploaded something into the computer core, and was holding there with a weapon.
The BAD news was that she was reporting to the legendary pirate Silver Eyes.
Clyde marched into the bridge, all business, and saluted the Admiral.
"The tidings grow worse. Our opponent is Silver Eyes." Clyde didn't need to say more. He knew the Admiral would know all about it from just the name.
Clyde took his seat at his terminal an waited for orders. Things were probably going to heat up soon.
Adriana - Second Pirate Frigate
Adriana landed with a heavy thud on top of a crate.
The gravity had returned, and Bravo Team had been flying along the halls while there was no gravity or large obstacle that could check their momentum. The bomb had been ticking, and a sense of urgency had crept into their movements. Not panic per se, but knowledge that they had to get back to Uncle Ray's ship- and fast. Many were surprised when the gravity returned mid flight and they came crashing to the harsh metal floor. Reynolds even had the poor fortune to have a crate fall on top of him.
But it was alright- they had almost reached their destination. The turn of one more corner and it would be in sight. Their ride back would be in place. Everything was going swimmingly.
Except for the fact that the friendlies were a no show.
"Captain. The prisoners aren't here yet. Orders?" Adriana added as an afterthought, for the sake of everyone's skins, "And does anyone know how much time is on that bomb?"
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Bridge
Navigator Summer arrived in the bridge alongside several technicians and co-pilots, assuming his seat by the galaxy map, his demeanor was unsteady, a result of acquired knowledge. At the mention of Silver Eyes, the Admiral’s face tightened. He tapped his fingers in a rhythmic pace on his seat’s arm rest. The interface screens surrounded his seat; the holographic displays were linked with a status on the ship’s engines and weapon systems.
Silver Eyes…was a pirate. It wasn’t actually his name, but rather a pseudonym. Not many people knew his real identity, only a select few in the Federation brass. On the record, his real name was Atreus Eturrer, a former Federation Vice Admiral. He had a distinguished record of service, but his change of allegiance at a focal point during the Titan Conflicts came as a surprise to many. As the two sections of the Federation fleet were linking, Eturrer went rogue for reasons unknown. The majority of the single section was obliterated, and the loss was counted as a fault of Eturrer, who was branded as a traitor.
He went off the grid, until he returned once more, raiding middle rim and fringe worlds. He went by the alias of Silver Eyes for a time being until an intelligence agent managed to infiltrate his chain of command, and discovered his true identity. Silver Eyes was known for his unparalleled ability in the field of naval warfare. Many small Federation squadrons had been ambushed, defeated, and even lost to the last man by him. The odds of the Salient surviving a direct confrontation on this scale with Silver Eyes were meager, the Admiral could tell even without A.D.A.M.'s calculations.
"You're dismissed for now Adam, but stay posted and continue monitoring the ship for any other suspicious activities," Aronimus returned to observing the data screens. Nothing occurred yet, but to assume that nothing was ever going to happen was a fatal mistake.
"Lieutenant Napier, are you getting anything?" The Admiral shifted his view to the JG, whose focus was divided between multiple screens.
Napier did not bother to turn around. "No sir, my readings show no anomalies.”
The Admiral angled his head in the direction of the Petty officer, both of their work spaces were situated next to each other, with a walkway dividing their consoles. The walkway led directly to the massive screens that received feeds from the Salient’s fore section cameras. This simulated a fore section port view. "Hansen?"
"Aye, nothing as well sir,” Hansen gripped his console, his eyes skimming back and forth.
"Stay on guard then," the Admiral left the crew members to their work. By now, several more crew members were coming in, as word passed around quickly. The room began to fill, not to the point where the Admiral could no longer keep track of people, but just enough to swell the activity in the bridge.
Silver Eyes…was a pirate. It wasn’t actually his name, but rather a pseudonym. Not many people knew his real identity, only a select few in the Federation brass. On the record, his real name was Atreus Eturrer, a former Federation Vice Admiral. He had a distinguished record of service, but his change of allegiance at a focal point during the Titan Conflicts came as a surprise to many. As the two sections of the Federation fleet were linking, Eturrer went rogue for reasons unknown. The majority of the single section was obliterated, and the loss was counted as a fault of Eturrer, who was branded as a traitor.
He went off the grid, until he returned once more, raiding middle rim and fringe worlds. He went by the alias of Silver Eyes for a time being until an intelligence agent managed to infiltrate his chain of command, and discovered his true identity. Silver Eyes was known for his unparalleled ability in the field of naval warfare. Many small Federation squadrons had been ambushed, defeated, and even lost to the last man by him. The odds of the Salient surviving a direct confrontation on this scale with Silver Eyes were meager, the Admiral could tell even without A.D.A.M.'s calculations.
"You're dismissed for now Adam, but stay posted and continue monitoring the ship for any other suspicious activities," Aronimus returned to observing the data screens. Nothing occurred yet, but to assume that nothing was ever going to happen was a fatal mistake.
"Lieutenant Napier, are you getting anything?" The Admiral shifted his view to the JG, whose focus was divided between multiple screens.
Napier did not bother to turn around. "No sir, my readings show no anomalies.”
The Admiral angled his head in the direction of the Petty officer, both of their work spaces were situated next to each other, with a walkway dividing their consoles. The walkway led directly to the massive screens that received feeds from the Salient’s fore section cameras. This simulated a fore section port view. "Hansen?"
"Aye, nothing as well sir,” Hansen gripped his console, his eyes skimming back and forth.
"Stay on guard then," the Admiral left the crew members to their work. By now, several more crew members were coming in, as word passed around quickly. The room began to fill, not to the point where the Admiral could no longer keep track of people, but just enough to swell the activity in the bridge.
The setting changes from Bridge to The Milky Way Universe
Second Pirate Frigate
The Captain glanced at Corporal Stark, right after they had landed on their backs. He stood up and retrieved his assault rifle from the floor.
Adriana turned to the other squad members. "And does anyone know how much time is on that bomb?"
“No ma’am, but if I’d have to guess I’d say about twenty minutes,” Weifert grumbled as he picked himself up.
“It doesn’t matter how much time it’s got, we came here and got what we wanted. The only thing we do now is get off this ship, hopefully the two prisoners make it off in time, otherwise we’re leaving them.” Eli paused, the last bit was unusual, and he had never said anything like that before. The Captain wasn’t exactly one to leave people behind. He felt a bit odd about saying that, but then again he wasn't exactly sure whether these friendlies were actually...friendly. Maybe he was just going off the old axiom, the enemy of my enemy is my friend.
“We’re…going to have to hold position, and hope that they make it here in time…” Eli said. He went in on his helmet communicator and traced back the previous messages.
The same voice as before came forth through the comm. "Twelve contacts in Alpha hanger... loading for departure, be ready for gravity in forty sec's.. out."
Eli swore under his breath, if only he’d gotten that message earlier. He wouldn't have landed on his ass, and he probably would've told them the change in destinations. He was hoping that they'd make it in time though.
“This is Captain Colter, I know this may be a little too late, but who am I speaking with? If you didn’t read the previous message, we’ve altered the rendezvous point to airlock R91. Do you read?” Eli would’ve stood there and wait for the reply, but he realized it wasn’t a prudent call.
“Let’s keep moving boys and girls, get to the airlock. Do one last check on your pressure seals; I wouldn’t want any of you to die of vacuum freeze,” in a couple of minutes the team arrived at the airlock, Ray’s gunship was nowhere in sight through the viewport though.
“Uncle Ray, we’re at airlock R91, where’s your ship? I don’t have a visual on you.” Eli uttered.
The Captain glanced at Corporal Stark, right after they had landed on their backs. He stood up and retrieved his assault rifle from the floor.
Adriana turned to the other squad members. "And does anyone know how much time is on that bomb?"
“No ma’am, but if I’d have to guess I’d say about twenty minutes,” Weifert grumbled as he picked himself up.
“It doesn’t matter how much time it’s got, we came here and got what we wanted. The only thing we do now is get off this ship, hopefully the two prisoners make it off in time, otherwise we’re leaving them.” Eli paused, the last bit was unusual, and he had never said anything like that before. The Captain wasn’t exactly one to leave people behind. He felt a bit odd about saying that, but then again he wasn't exactly sure whether these friendlies were actually...friendly. Maybe he was just going off the old axiom, the enemy of my enemy is my friend.
“We’re…going to have to hold position, and hope that they make it here in time…” Eli said. He went in on his helmet communicator and traced back the previous messages.
The same voice as before came forth through the comm. "Twelve contacts in Alpha hanger... loading for departure, be ready for gravity in forty sec's.. out."
Eli swore under his breath, if only he’d gotten that message earlier. He wouldn't have landed on his ass, and he probably would've told them the change in destinations. He was hoping that they'd make it in time though.
“This is Captain Colter, I know this may be a little too late, but who am I speaking with? If you didn’t read the previous message, we’ve altered the rendezvous point to airlock R91. Do you read?” Eli would’ve stood there and wait for the reply, but he realized it wasn’t a prudent call.
“Let’s keep moving boys and girls, get to the airlock. Do one last check on your pressure seals; I wouldn’t want any of you to die of vacuum freeze,” in a couple of minutes the team arrived at the airlock, Ray’s gunship was nowhere in sight through the viewport though.
“Uncle Ray, we’re at airlock R91, where’s your ship? I don’t have a visual on you.” Eli uttered.
Ulric Kercheskoi
Second Pirate Frigate
With the press of the last key there was a sudden pop of euphoria in the air and the sudden gain of weight followed closely behind. Ulric was not one to waste such an opportunity so close at hand stepping quickly into a sprint to capitalize as best he could, small box's and large crates crashing to the deck with the thud of armored bodies along side.
The falling pirates where not in any situation to say otherwise as the first and lowest of the two made a sudden and dramatic contact with the decks metal plating. But Ulric was in no mood to play safe bringing as much of his foot to bear, stomping on the side of mans head causing a sound not unlike a battered watermelon to draw out. Reeling back at the same time with his modified arm and bringing as much force into a punch as he could muster directly into the others chest. Knowing full well that his armor could take the force and still knowing at the same time that the ribs behind the plates could not.
The throws of chaos that could be heard throughout the shallow hanger compartment reverberated against one another as the remaining pirates attempted to make sense of the situation. The three above where making a great presentation of a target as Ulric pulled the shotgun around and gripped it within his right hand, pulling the barrel up setting them down its sights.
This moment was one of the few that Ulric was happy about his current physical condition, seeing as the cybernetic sections of his chest and arm where not prone to giving away with shock. Each pull of the trigger gave a quick jar of force that only hit the cusp of his arm and continued nowhere else.
The rounds shot that left the gun where capable of tearing only through soft flesh and light armor, for that the pirates would have been grateful. But unfortunately for them the small barbed pellets had the nasty habit of finding any imperfection in a mans uniform. Tearing into the edges of exposed fabric and entering in between armor sections, but most notably of all ripping into the skin of a mans uncovered face.
Each pump that reloaded the weapon only gave way to more pellets entering the targets and added to the amount of misty red that exited in its own attempt to escape the carnage. Within a few seconds two of the men where without a doubt incapable of breathing threw only the usual holes but the third was not so unlucky. He saw the instant of pain coming his way and hit the deck finding a less then polite term to describe feces.
When the pirates finally got orientated they began to muster an offense, returning fire in the mixture of heavy rifles and hand held pistols. Ulric took a dive behind a large crate of foodstuffs doing his best to keep both the good arm and leg from line of sight. (ssst--“This is Captain Colter, I know this may be a little too late, but who am I speaking with? If you didn’t read the previous message, we’ve altered the rendezvous point to airlock R91. Do you read?”--sst)
The message came through clear enough for Ulric to understand even with the succession of founds pouring into his cover.
He pumps the last three shells from his shotgun and cast it aside sliding the assault rifle around himself with the strap pressing his comm switch once he firmly grasp the weapon.. "Name Ulric... and I read you" (shnak---) a shot rips threw the backside of his crate and comes close to grazing the top of his head as he speaks. "Engaged in combat with remaining contacts.. receiving small arms fire."
Ulric goes silent for a second as he looks back to get as good a glimpse of Elizabeth as possible but to no avail. She was being hidden from his view by a small wall of service crates. He raises his arms for a moment to fire several rounds towards the pirates direction, this act garners some sounds of entrapment with each ricochet and near miss but Ulric returns to his position and continues.
"If you must then go.. found a ship and we could use it to escape."
Just make sure to inform your allies about us... Ulric out"
Ulric takes his time and bides for a moment to act as he allows the men to unload their weapons into his cover.
Second Pirate Frigate
With the press of the last key there was a sudden pop of euphoria in the air and the sudden gain of weight followed closely behind. Ulric was not one to waste such an opportunity so close at hand stepping quickly into a sprint to capitalize as best he could, small box's and large crates crashing to the deck with the thud of armored bodies along side.
The falling pirates where not in any situation to say otherwise as the first and lowest of the two made a sudden and dramatic contact with the decks metal plating. But Ulric was in no mood to play safe bringing as much of his foot to bear, stomping on the side of mans head causing a sound not unlike a battered watermelon to draw out. Reeling back at the same time with his modified arm and bringing as much force into a punch as he could muster directly into the others chest. Knowing full well that his armor could take the force and still knowing at the same time that the ribs behind the plates could not.
The throws of chaos that could be heard throughout the shallow hanger compartment reverberated against one another as the remaining pirates attempted to make sense of the situation. The three above where making a great presentation of a target as Ulric pulled the shotgun around and gripped it within his right hand, pulling the barrel up setting them down its sights.
This moment was one of the few that Ulric was happy about his current physical condition, seeing as the cybernetic sections of his chest and arm where not prone to giving away with shock. Each pull of the trigger gave a quick jar of force that only hit the cusp of his arm and continued nowhere else.
The rounds shot that left the gun where capable of tearing only through soft flesh and light armor, for that the pirates would have been grateful. But unfortunately for them the small barbed pellets had the nasty habit of finding any imperfection in a mans uniform. Tearing into the edges of exposed fabric and entering in between armor sections, but most notably of all ripping into the skin of a mans uncovered face.
Each pump that reloaded the weapon only gave way to more pellets entering the targets and added to the amount of misty red that exited in its own attempt to escape the carnage. Within a few seconds two of the men where without a doubt incapable of breathing threw only the usual holes but the third was not so unlucky. He saw the instant of pain coming his way and hit the deck finding a less then polite term to describe feces.
When the pirates finally got orientated they began to muster an offense, returning fire in the mixture of heavy rifles and hand held pistols. Ulric took a dive behind a large crate of foodstuffs doing his best to keep both the good arm and leg from line of sight. (ssst--“This is Captain Colter, I know this may be a little too late, but who am I speaking with? If you didn’t read the previous message, we’ve altered the rendezvous point to airlock R91. Do you read?”--sst)
The message came through clear enough for Ulric to understand even with the succession of founds pouring into his cover.
He pumps the last three shells from his shotgun and cast it aside sliding the assault rifle around himself with the strap pressing his comm switch once he firmly grasp the weapon.. "Name Ulric... and I read you" (shnak---) a shot rips threw the backside of his crate and comes close to grazing the top of his head as he speaks. "Engaged in combat with remaining contacts.. receiving small arms fire."
Ulric goes silent for a second as he looks back to get as good a glimpse of Elizabeth as possible but to no avail. She was being hidden from his view by a small wall of service crates. He raises his arms for a moment to fire several rounds towards the pirates direction, this act garners some sounds of entrapment with each ricochet and near miss but Ulric returns to his position and continues.
"If you must then go.. found a ship and we could use it to escape."
Just make sure to inform your allies about us... Ulric out"
Ulric takes his time and bides for a moment to act as he allows the men to unload their weapons into his cover.
Ray could remember only too well the last time he had to fly like this; when his base was buggered by that what's his name rouge admiral.
Hardly any one was hurt in that attack, while the rouge admiral did give Ray and his squad a good whipping on a number of occasions Ray and his chaps and later on the rest of the independent force where able to learn, counter and copy his tactics. It was a simple matter of adopting old fashion refueling practices at both the outside of their asteroid stations and by special refueling units the Titan independent force recreated in the image of old air force planes. It was quite easy to claim that Ray and his squad the whisky runners waged a guerrilla war especially in the first days of the independent unit since the federation was reluctant to supply the Independent force. Since the last defeat where the Alexander was destroyed it seemed like the federation would loss and so all Titan forces where ordered to scatter to the asteroids which where a lot more common since a moon blew up in the 2030's and wage a war of attrition on the insurgents. In that regard the difference between the insurgents and the independent force was that the insurgents hated the federation period while the independent force just hated the taxes, federation command, the breach in autonomy, the corrupt politics, the boring federation anthem, the removal of Titan from the federation flag when the Titan forces demanded self command, the federation monopoly on trade regulations, the second or third rate equipment being sent to Titan while less deserving "rich kid" units around earth where given the best toys for no reason, the pre independent force limit of Titan military and industry…. The joke was that Titan stayed in the federation not because of the noble federation sacrifices and amazing victories which where being sold to the public in propaganda but because of the football, television and beer. During that year the Titan marauders where winning the mundial and many Titan commanders admitted later that it was a major factor in the decision not to demand total independence due to the fear of their team being disqualified. Ray chuckled; this was what happened when an armed force was made by Britisher officers and average Joe privates. The independent force did take the war very seriously but at times it was humor that was keeping them going, the real reason why Titan stayed in the federation was because the independent force hated the insurgents and was only pissed off at the federation.
Even if he the rouge admiral had delivered some pretty nasty blows to Ray and the rest of the rag tag Titan army the independent fighter force actually admired him; probably because during that time federation admirals where constantly getting them killed and it was in some ways the rouge admiral who was responsible for the creation of the independent force. It was ironic, the Titan forces actually rebelled against federation command and demanded independence of action and military control of all Titan forces and industry, after one skirmish with the federation fleet the federation agreed to the terms which where far better then what the insurgent groups where demanding and since this change eventually won the war the federation didn't court martial too many people after the conflict but it did cover up the independent force's rebellion and out of Saturn it even covered up its existence. All this had happened because of a nasty defeat at the hands of the rouge admiral and the Titan boys could only watch in envy as the wizard did his magic and the federation made its turd's.
Ray was now near the extraction point however his sensors where telling him a strange tale… there was something out there at the edge of his sensor range but he could not make out what it was. Ray didn't like it; if he docked at the extraction point now he would be easy meat for the grinder if this turned out to be a blitzkrieg pirate assault formation. Ray was familiar with the tactics and was afraid that the blip he registered on his sensors was ether a scouting party, a torpedo group, a decoy, mines or just some space rocks and debris.
Ray was not about to take any chances with this one and decided to call command, his communication devices where not functioning properly… strange he was supposed to be outside the frigates interference by now, was it possible that he was being jammed? Ray didn't like it at all he was supposed to be outside jamming range unless…
Ray grabbed his communicator and called in the captain:
"Sir I am close to the extraction point however I must report a reading on my sensors; it is in max range so I can't tell what it is but if it’s more pirates and they decided to swop down on us I do not know how long even this tough baby could hold them.
I tried to get command to send us some support but something is interfering with my communications… I can only think of two possibilities: 1) there is a jamming device on the frigate 2) something is very wrong with the Salient's computers. What are your orders?"
Ray reduced his speed and activated a number of his auto turrets, even if he would have to be a stationary target for a while those turrets could at least buy him some time… unless the pirates where planning to blow up the frigate as a trap.
Hardly any one was hurt in that attack, while the rouge admiral did give Ray and his squad a good whipping on a number of occasions Ray and his chaps and later on the rest of the independent force where able to learn, counter and copy his tactics. It was a simple matter of adopting old fashion refueling practices at both the outside of their asteroid stations and by special refueling units the Titan independent force recreated in the image of old air force planes. It was quite easy to claim that Ray and his squad the whisky runners waged a guerrilla war especially in the first days of the independent unit since the federation was reluctant to supply the Independent force. Since the last defeat where the Alexander was destroyed it seemed like the federation would loss and so all Titan forces where ordered to scatter to the asteroids which where a lot more common since a moon blew up in the 2030's and wage a war of attrition on the insurgents. In that regard the difference between the insurgents and the independent force was that the insurgents hated the federation period while the independent force just hated the taxes, federation command, the breach in autonomy, the corrupt politics, the boring federation anthem, the removal of Titan from the federation flag when the Titan forces demanded self command, the federation monopoly on trade regulations, the second or third rate equipment being sent to Titan while less deserving "rich kid" units around earth where given the best toys for no reason, the pre independent force limit of Titan military and industry…. The joke was that Titan stayed in the federation not because of the noble federation sacrifices and amazing victories which where being sold to the public in propaganda but because of the football, television and beer. During that year the Titan marauders where winning the mundial and many Titan commanders admitted later that it was a major factor in the decision not to demand total independence due to the fear of their team being disqualified. Ray chuckled; this was what happened when an armed force was made by Britisher officers and average Joe privates. The independent force did take the war very seriously but at times it was humor that was keeping them going, the real reason why Titan stayed in the federation was because the independent force hated the insurgents and was only pissed off at the federation.
Even if he the rouge admiral had delivered some pretty nasty blows to Ray and the rest of the rag tag Titan army the independent fighter force actually admired him; probably because during that time federation admirals where constantly getting them killed and it was in some ways the rouge admiral who was responsible for the creation of the independent force. It was ironic, the Titan forces actually rebelled against federation command and demanded independence of action and military control of all Titan forces and industry, after one skirmish with the federation fleet the federation agreed to the terms which where far better then what the insurgent groups where demanding and since this change eventually won the war the federation didn't court martial too many people after the conflict but it did cover up the independent force's rebellion and out of Saturn it even covered up its existence. All this had happened because of a nasty defeat at the hands of the rouge admiral and the Titan boys could only watch in envy as the wizard did his magic and the federation made its turd's.
Ray was now near the extraction point however his sensors where telling him a strange tale… there was something out there at the edge of his sensor range but he could not make out what it was. Ray didn't like it; if he docked at the extraction point now he would be easy meat for the grinder if this turned out to be a blitzkrieg pirate assault formation. Ray was familiar with the tactics and was afraid that the blip he registered on his sensors was ether a scouting party, a torpedo group, a decoy, mines or just some space rocks and debris.
Ray was not about to take any chances with this one and decided to call command, his communication devices where not functioning properly… strange he was supposed to be outside the frigates interference by now, was it possible that he was being jammed? Ray didn't like it at all he was supposed to be outside jamming range unless…
Ray grabbed his communicator and called in the captain:
"Sir I am close to the extraction point however I must report a reading on my sensors; it is in max range so I can't tell what it is but if it’s more pirates and they decided to swop down on us I do not know how long even this tough baby could hold them.
I tried to get command to send us some support but something is interfering with my communications… I can only think of two possibilities: 1) there is a jamming device on the frigate 2) something is very wrong with the Salient's computers. What are your orders?"
Ray reduced his speed and activated a number of his auto turrets, even if he would have to be a stationary target for a while those turrets could at least buy him some time… unless the pirates where planning to blow up the frigate as a trap.
Second Pirate Frigate
"Name Ulric... and I read you,” the other end of the line was then clipped off by the sharp crackles of gunfire. The Captain knew that Ulric was being pressed from what he heard. The squad waited with their weapons drawn near the airlock. They were holding position, while awaiting Ray’s pick up.
"Engaged in combat with remaining contacts…receiving small arms fire," the transmission was cut off by the static closing as more gunfire could be heard.
"If you must then go…found a ship and we could use it to escape. Just make sure to inform your allies about us... Ulric out.” At once Eli was relieved at what was heard.
“That probably won’t be necessary, it’ll be pretty obvious once you leave the ship, Colter out,” with that the Captain cut off the transmission with a voice command, right as he received another call.
"Sir, I am close to the extraction point, however, I must report a reading on my sensors; it is in max range so I can't tell what it is but if it’s more pirates and they decided to swoop down on us I do not know how long even this tough baby could hold them. I tried to get command to send us some support but something is interfering with my communications… I can only think of two possibilities. One, there is a jamming device on the frigate, two, something is very wrong with the Salient's computers. What are your orders?"
“Did you just say ‘more pirates?’” Eli stopped for a moment, before returning a reply. “Just get us off this ship, and get us home quick. A side note, the two prisoners won’t be joining us, they found their own ride. Colter out.” Eli switched the transmission off and relaxed the grip on his weapon, he didn’t expect any pirates to find them here, and considering that the past couple of corridors and lifts seemed deserted. His HUD view was encompassed by a status display on the ship’s oxygen, which remained partially full.
This time Reynolds spoke up. “You think they’ll make it off?”
“Honestly…I don’t know,” Eli turned to Reynolds, who would not have seen the expression of uncertainty on his face as it was covered by the visor of his helmet.
"Name Ulric... and I read you,” the other end of the line was then clipped off by the sharp crackles of gunfire. The Captain knew that Ulric was being pressed from what he heard. The squad waited with their weapons drawn near the airlock. They were holding position, while awaiting Ray’s pick up.
"Engaged in combat with remaining contacts…receiving small arms fire," the transmission was cut off by the static closing as more gunfire could be heard.
"If you must then go…found a ship and we could use it to escape. Just make sure to inform your allies about us... Ulric out.” At once Eli was relieved at what was heard.
“That probably won’t be necessary, it’ll be pretty obvious once you leave the ship, Colter out,” with that the Captain cut off the transmission with a voice command, right as he received another call.
"Sir, I am close to the extraction point, however, I must report a reading on my sensors; it is in max range so I can't tell what it is but if it’s more pirates and they decided to swoop down on us I do not know how long even this tough baby could hold them. I tried to get command to send us some support but something is interfering with my communications… I can only think of two possibilities. One, there is a jamming device on the frigate, two, something is very wrong with the Salient's computers. What are your orders?"
“Did you just say ‘more pirates?’” Eli stopped for a moment, before returning a reply. “Just get us off this ship, and get us home quick. A side note, the two prisoners won’t be joining us, they found their own ride. Colter out.” Eli switched the transmission off and relaxed the grip on his weapon, he didn’t expect any pirates to find them here, and considering that the past couple of corridors and lifts seemed deserted. His HUD view was encompassed by a status display on the ship’s oxygen, which remained partially full.
This time Reynolds spoke up. “You think they’ll make it off?”
“Honestly…I don’t know,” Eli turned to Reynolds, who would not have seen the expression of uncertainty on his face as it was covered by the visor of his helmet.
(Sorry everyone! I havnt posted in a wile and im really sorry! I just have been dealing with some stuff at home, but now im ready to get back into it!)
With a gulp she watched Ulric move away from her, witch made her both scared and anxious. She held onto the pistol tight, and tried to keep her breathing under control. She made sure not to look into the hanger for fear someone would see her, and just stud with her back against the wall in zero gravity, ajusting herself if needed so she didn't float somewhere she didn't want to be.
Suddenly as the gravity turned back on, she fell to the floor. Sense she wasn't expecting the gravity again, her feet were only loosely on the ground. After a moment she stood back up and looked around the corner to see the chaos. There was only one person that could have been responsible for that, Ulric... She thought to herself with a smile. She looked over at Ulric one last time to see him under fire, and knew she had to do something. Bringing the pistol around the dd\\corner she lined up her sights with a pirate advancing towards Ulric, but suddenly she felt a hand rap around her head and block her vision. Swiftly she was pulled back away from the hanger by another pirate. As he dragged her away she grunted over and over ULRIC! ULRIC! ULRIC! to no avail.
Frantically she grabbed onto the side of the hall, but the pirate kicked her in the back to make her stop struggling. Again she reached over the wall and found a lose pipe. With a swift yank she pulled the pipe off of the wall, and swung it back to hit the pirate right in the head. Sense the pirate scum was wearing a helmet, she heard a crash of glass as she hit him with it. She finally broke free of the pirate and turned to face him, seeing that she had completely broken the glass of the helmet he was wearing. Again she grabbed the pipe to defend herself encase he got back up, but that wasn't the case. She looked down at the pirate with a gasp to see blood with the broken glass on the floor.
After a few moments of disbelief, the pirate started to wake from his slumber. Even though she was disgusted thinking she had just killed a man, she griped the pipe again, remembering all of the pain people like him caused her. Filled with rage, she raised the pipe up high into the air with both hands, and sent it crashing down onto the pirates arm, shattering the bones inside of it. The pirate let out a scream, witch made her even angrier. Again she raised and dropped the pipe onto the pirate, this time his other arm.
"THIS!" She shouted down to the man, "IS FOR ALL OF THE THINGS Y-YOU DID TO ME!!" Again, she brought the pipe down onto the pirate, this time from the side into his helmet, making it come off of his head to reveal his face with a vein of blood running from his forehead to his mouth. Again she struck him with the pipe across the moult, breaking all of his teeth in the proses.
As the pirate pleaded for his life, she let out a feral scream and brought it down one last time into his face, crushing his skull effectively killing him. She panted as she looked down at what she had done, and turned back around and started to cry as she walked down the hall again to get her pistol. She leaned against a wall and started to cry harder, part of her happy for taking her revenge out on the pirate, part of her ready to die for what she had done.
Slowly she stood up, her upper body covered in blood, and walked to the hanger door. Carfuly she looked through the door to see Ulric still pinned down. She raised her arms to him to let him know she was alright, then put them back down to not alert the pirates to where she was, and that she was ok.
With a gulp she watched Ulric move away from her, witch made her both scared and anxious. She held onto the pistol tight, and tried to keep her breathing under control. She made sure not to look into the hanger for fear someone would see her, and just stud with her back against the wall in zero gravity, ajusting herself if needed so she didn't float somewhere she didn't want to be.
Suddenly as the gravity turned back on, she fell to the floor. Sense she wasn't expecting the gravity again, her feet were only loosely on the ground. After a moment she stood back up and looked around the corner to see the chaos. There was only one person that could have been responsible for that, Ulric... She thought to herself with a smile. She looked over at Ulric one last time to see him under fire, and knew she had to do something. Bringing the pistol around the dd\\corner she lined up her sights with a pirate advancing towards Ulric, but suddenly she felt a hand rap around her head and block her vision. Swiftly she was pulled back away from the hanger by another pirate. As he dragged her away she grunted over and over ULRIC! ULRIC! ULRIC! to no avail.
Frantically she grabbed onto the side of the hall, but the pirate kicked her in the back to make her stop struggling. Again she reached over the wall and found a lose pipe. With a swift yank she pulled the pipe off of the wall, and swung it back to hit the pirate right in the head. Sense the pirate scum was wearing a helmet, she heard a crash of glass as she hit him with it. She finally broke free of the pirate and turned to face him, seeing that she had completely broken the glass of the helmet he was wearing. Again she grabbed the pipe to defend herself encase he got back up, but that wasn't the case. She looked down at the pirate with a gasp to see blood with the broken glass on the floor.
After a few moments of disbelief, the pirate started to wake from his slumber. Even though she was disgusted thinking she had just killed a man, she griped the pipe again, remembering all of the pain people like him caused her. Filled with rage, she raised the pipe up high into the air with both hands, and sent it crashing down onto the pirates arm, shattering the bones inside of it. The pirate let out a scream, witch made her even angrier. Again she raised and dropped the pipe onto the pirate, this time his other arm.
"THIS!" She shouted down to the man, "IS FOR ALL OF THE THINGS Y-YOU DID TO ME!!" Again, she brought the pipe down onto the pirate, this time from the side into his helmet, making it come off of his head to reveal his face with a vein of blood running from his forehead to his mouth. Again she struck him with the pipe across the moult, breaking all of his teeth in the proses.
As the pirate pleaded for his life, she let out a feral scream and brought it down one last time into his face, crushing his skull effectively killing him. She panted as she looked down at what she had done, and turned back around and started to cry as she walked down the hall again to get her pistol. She leaned against a wall and started to cry harder, part of her happy for taking her revenge out on the pirate, part of her ready to die for what she had done.
Slowly she stood up, her upper body covered in blood, and walked to the hanger door. Carfuly she looked through the door to see Ulric still pinned down. She raised her arms to him to let him know she was alright, then put them back down to not alert the pirates to where she was, and that she was ok.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
Courtney Reynolds (Rich Girl)
As she waited with her gun ready, she recounted how she came here. It's amazing how one decision can change life direction so much. Once she had future of some Officer's girl who would likely not amount to much. Now she had changed this, and made something immense out of it. Hearing the footfalls she moved to one side of the door and gave one warning blast, "Come any nearer and you will die."
She heard a laugh and chuckled herself, firing one shot before ducking back down she waited.
There was silence before someone yelled, "You killed him. YOU FUCKING BASTARD YOU KILLED HIM!"
Smirking she reloaded before leaning back out and firing once more. Fortunately these guys didn't seem well trained and were falling very easily. If this was rest of the crew she could clear this ship easily.
Ducking back down, she saw response firing.
Not fast enough, leaning back out once it stopped, she fired once more.
With that one guy yelled, "RETREAT!"
Giggling she watched as they ran, watching their figures vanish. Eyeing the vanishing forms, she aimed once more and fired. The final figure fell as she crouched down sniggering at how incompetent they were.
This was going to be so easy.
When will these Federation boys learn, Pirates don't play fair.
Turning gun towards a nearby generator she fired a round.
Steam came hissing out fast, as the ship shook, no doubt she had made things much worse. Even if they could remove virus and patch this up, they wouldn't be able to fight for long. Their only hope would be jump away, leaving the goods for them.
"Courtney old girl, let's give them hell.
As she waited with her gun ready, she recounted how she came here. It's amazing how one decision can change life direction so much. Once she had future of some Officer's girl who would likely not amount to much. Now she had changed this, and made something immense out of it. Hearing the footfalls she moved to one side of the door and gave one warning blast, "Come any nearer and you will die."
She heard a laugh and chuckled herself, firing one shot before ducking back down she waited.
There was silence before someone yelled, "You killed him. YOU FUCKING BASTARD YOU KILLED HIM!"
Smirking she reloaded before leaning back out and firing once more. Fortunately these guys didn't seem well trained and were falling very easily. If this was rest of the crew she could clear this ship easily.
Ducking back down, she saw response firing.
Not fast enough, leaning back out once it stopped, she fired once more.
With that one guy yelled, "RETREAT!"
Giggling she watched as they ran, watching their figures vanish. Eyeing the vanishing forms, she aimed once more and fired. The final figure fell as she crouched down sniggering at how incompetent they were.
This was going to be so easy.
When will these Federation boys learn, Pirates don't play fair.
Turning gun towards a nearby generator she fired a round.
Steam came hissing out fast, as the ship shook, no doubt she had made things much worse. Even if they could remove virus and patch this up, they wouldn't be able to fight for long. Their only hope would be jump away, leaving the goods for them.
"Courtney old girl, let's give them hell.
Bridge
“Sir, should we activate the klaxons?” Napier inquired in a neutral tone. The Admiral was about to answer, but he stopped in the midst of it. The klaxons would not only alert the crew, but the infiltrator as well. Here was a moment for a tactical maneuver, one that revolved around intelligence and deception.
“No.” the lieutenant was surprised at the Admiral’s terse response. Aronimus preferred that the crew received word directly by mouth. Seeing as how the saboteur won’t be in touch with the crew where she was hidden, “That won’t be necessary Lieutenant; our stowaway will be alerted of our knowledge,”
The JG nodded and returned to his panel. Aronimus remembered that the two Marine fire teams were still on board the hostile frigates, acquiring whatever useful data was available on board the priates’ data networks. Interested in their status, the Admiral got in touch with Commander Dunaway.
“Commander, what is the status of our forces on board the two frigates?”
“Well, Admiral, one frigate has an explosive device activated, and the team is trying to get off of the ship. The other team has yet to report back with anything, I’m not sure if their communications are down, but we’ve been trying to reach them for the past half hour,” Atomsk paused and awaited the Admiral’s reply.
“An explosive device? Of what magnitude?” The Admiral’s eyebrows furrowed, his blue eyes turned to ice.
“From the video feeds that the team saw, it was a manufactured device, not an IED.” Atomsk paused. “They have reason to believe that it’s placed near the drive core. If that’s the case, then the explosion will trigger a larger reaction, and the blast radius may be larger than expected. I’ve already given word to the two Altamus vessels to clear the proximity.”
“Keep working on establishing a line with the other team, I received intel that a fleet of pirate ships will be attacking our position,” the Admiral paused, raising a pair of fingers to dab his temple.
“A…fleet?” Atomsk’s voice stayed composed on the line.
“Yes Commander, directed by Silver Eyes…you should get word to the teams immediately, keep me posted.”
“I understand, sir. Dunaway out.” The channel went offline as the Admiral pressed the haptic adaptive interface appearing above his arm rest.
------
Barracks
“Commander, I think you need to look at this,” one of the ship technicians sitting near a holographic screen called for Commander Dunaway. He promptly turned away from the tactical war screen at the very center of the war room at the request of the technician.
“This was a video feed from one of the corridors in the aft section of the ship, near the mini generators.”
As he approached, the technicians punched in several keys on the holographic projection, which activated a smaller screen to enlarge. It was a video feed of one of the indiscriminant corridors of the Salient, the screen displayed a patrol consisting of two Marines and three other ship personnel. Gunfire spurted through the speakers as it did on the screen from a hidden corner on the screen.
Two of the personnel were immediately killed, slumping to the ground lifelessly. Atomsk’s eyebrows creased at the sight, as another retreating Marine was shot in the back and was seemingly dead. The two remaining Federation crew members retreated from the scene. Atomsk didn’t wait until the feed was done to leave the War room and head to the armory directly across the hall.
As he passed by the sentries guarding the armory and the barracks, he pointed to all of them and waved his hand as a signal to follow. "Your four are on me."
After grabbing a pair of stun pistols from the armory and holstering them, Atomsk led his four man team down the hollow corridors of the rear end of the ship. The commander's armor was a light ballistic suit with small pauldrons and LED light strips running down his underarm and the outside of his legs like most armor. It was capable of deflecting most small arms fire.
He tapped the communication unit nestled on his left ear. “This is the Commander speaking, relay me the exact location where the previous video feed was captured,” he said to the war room personnel.
“Copy that sir, relaying now.” The location revealed itself in the rear of an aqua colored pixel projection of the Salient, directly displayed from Atomsk's ear projector. The marked location was directly near the sub-generator rooms.
“Alright, we’re gonna’ catch that bitch. Then we’ll make her talk,” Atomsk drew his first stun pistol and led the way.
“Sir, should we activate the klaxons?” Napier inquired in a neutral tone. The Admiral was about to answer, but he stopped in the midst of it. The klaxons would not only alert the crew, but the infiltrator as well. Here was a moment for a tactical maneuver, one that revolved around intelligence and deception.
“No.” the lieutenant was surprised at the Admiral’s terse response. Aronimus preferred that the crew received word directly by mouth. Seeing as how the saboteur won’t be in touch with the crew where she was hidden, “That won’t be necessary Lieutenant; our stowaway will be alerted of our knowledge,”
The JG nodded and returned to his panel. Aronimus remembered that the two Marine fire teams were still on board the hostile frigates, acquiring whatever useful data was available on board the priates’ data networks. Interested in their status, the Admiral got in touch with Commander Dunaway.
“Commander, what is the status of our forces on board the two frigates?”
“Well, Admiral, one frigate has an explosive device activated, and the team is trying to get off of the ship. The other team has yet to report back with anything, I’m not sure if their communications are down, but we’ve been trying to reach them for the past half hour,” Atomsk paused and awaited the Admiral’s reply.
“An explosive device? Of what magnitude?” The Admiral’s eyebrows furrowed, his blue eyes turned to ice.
“From the video feeds that the team saw, it was a manufactured device, not an IED.” Atomsk paused. “They have reason to believe that it’s placed near the drive core. If that’s the case, then the explosion will trigger a larger reaction, and the blast radius may be larger than expected. I’ve already given word to the two Altamus vessels to clear the proximity.”
“Keep working on establishing a line with the other team, I received intel that a fleet of pirate ships will be attacking our position,” the Admiral paused, raising a pair of fingers to dab his temple.
“A…fleet?” Atomsk’s voice stayed composed on the line.
“Yes Commander, directed by Silver Eyes…you should get word to the teams immediately, keep me posted.”
“I understand, sir. Dunaway out.” The channel went offline as the Admiral pressed the haptic adaptive interface appearing above his arm rest.
------
Barracks
“Commander, I think you need to look at this,” one of the ship technicians sitting near a holographic screen called for Commander Dunaway. He promptly turned away from the tactical war screen at the very center of the war room at the request of the technician.
“This was a video feed from one of the corridors in the aft section of the ship, near the mini generators.”
As he approached, the technicians punched in several keys on the holographic projection, which activated a smaller screen to enlarge. It was a video feed of one of the indiscriminant corridors of the Salient, the screen displayed a patrol consisting of two Marines and three other ship personnel. Gunfire spurted through the speakers as it did on the screen from a hidden corner on the screen.
Two of the personnel were immediately killed, slumping to the ground lifelessly. Atomsk’s eyebrows creased at the sight, as another retreating Marine was shot in the back and was seemingly dead. The two remaining Federation crew members retreated from the scene. Atomsk didn’t wait until the feed was done to leave the War room and head to the armory directly across the hall.
As he passed by the sentries guarding the armory and the barracks, he pointed to all of them and waved his hand as a signal to follow. "Your four are on me."
After grabbing a pair of stun pistols from the armory and holstering them, Atomsk led his four man team down the hollow corridors of the rear end of the ship. The commander's armor was a light ballistic suit with small pauldrons and LED light strips running down his underarm and the outside of his legs like most armor. It was capable of deflecting most small arms fire.
He tapped the communication unit nestled on his left ear. “This is the Commander speaking, relay me the exact location where the previous video feed was captured,” he said to the war room personnel.
“Copy that sir, relaying now.” The location revealed itself in the rear of an aqua colored pixel projection of the Salient, directly displayed from Atomsk's ear projector. The marked location was directly near the sub-generator rooms.
“Alright, we’re gonna’ catch that bitch. Then we’ll make her talk,” Atomsk drew his first stun pistol and led the way.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
Max:
Max watched what was happening, in shock, awe, and wishing he could do something. That's When he heard about the pirate fleet. "Tau, I have an idea, but I need full access to communications, and the dishes aligned at the pirate fleet. I could start hacking through the firewalls on their navigation, and at least have a few ships either crash into each other, or be spread so far we could pick some of them off. You could prepare combat systems for the battle with the other ships, and this A.D.A.M. could help trap and capture this infiltrator. Oh, and we could also work out how to get the marines on the frigates back safely too.......".
The plan was somewhat insane, somewhat brilliant, and depending on the strength of the firewalls and what the infiltrator could do, wasn't full-proof, but still possible.
"Well? We don't have forever....."
Max watched what was happening, in shock, awe, and wishing he could do something. That's When he heard about the pirate fleet. "Tau, I have an idea, but I need full access to communications, and the dishes aligned at the pirate fleet. I could start hacking through the firewalls on their navigation, and at least have a few ships either crash into each other, or be spread so far we could pick some of them off. You could prepare combat systems for the battle with the other ships, and this A.D.A.M. could help trap and capture this infiltrator. Oh, and we could also work out how to get the marines on the frigates back safely too.......".
The plan was somewhat insane, somewhat brilliant, and depending on the strength of the firewalls and what the infiltrator could do, wasn't full-proof, but still possible.
"Well? We don't have forever....."
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
AI TAU
Tau did some thinking on it, taking only seconds to do so, "I don't have access to those systems without permission from the Admiral." he says, already patching into the Admirals comm. "Sir, our new resident AI has proposed a quite ingenious plan, but needs access to communications and the dishes aligned towards the enemy vessels, he hopes to hack their navigation systems, how shall I proceed?". Tau would be playing it safe here, and make sure nothing rash was done. He looked at Max again. "I'll see what I can do, but I can't guarantee the Admiral will say yes to this idea, he may still be wary over all the mystery surrounding your presence on board.
Tau did some thinking on it, taking only seconds to do so, "I don't have access to those systems without permission from the Admiral." he says, already patching into the Admirals comm. "Sir, our new resident AI has proposed a quite ingenious plan, but needs access to communications and the dishes aligned towards the enemy vessels, he hopes to hack their navigation systems, how shall I proceed?". Tau would be playing it safe here, and make sure nothing rash was done. He looked at Max again. "I'll see what I can do, but I can't guarantee the Admiral will say yes to this idea, he may still be wary over all the mystery surrounding your presence on board.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
Clyde - Bridge
Clyde sat back in his chair at the front of the ship, staring out the specially reinforced glass at the planet beyond. Watching. Waiting.
He had heard the stowaway send off another signal. They were going to come. Soon.
His face had grown grim ever since he had detected the stowaway. This was foul luck for any journey. It was only the first day of the launch and already they had run into a fleet of pirates led by an infamous renegade. Should they even survive this encounter, what would be next? Smooth sailing? Clyde doubted it. If anything, it was going to get worse. The mission at hand was to go fight off an enemy that the local federation force could not stop. An enemy that the federation couldn't in good conscience admit existed. Insurgent cells only reached the public eye when they had grown to prodigious size. When teams like this one failed to nip them in the bud.
But there would be time enough to ponder that later, priority one was to survive.
What was he going to do to be most useful? Fly the ship? Great hulking monsters like the Salient weren't very mobile. He could try, but it would be no use against the army of fighters no doubt comprising most of the renegade army. Fighters were easier to steal than large star cruisers.
Hack the enemy computers? No... That would doubtless be ADAM's job. The Admiral had bumped his power up another .7 percent a short while ago anyway. ADAM would do it better than Clyde could.
Man the guns? Probably not. TAU would have that covered. He may not be a strong as ADAM, but his job was far smaller in scale.
Prepare for boarding? Clyde was an excellent marine. So excellent in fact, it would likely be a waste of his talents. And besides- with a fleet against one ship, they probably wouldn't bother boarding. It would most likely be a storm of missiles so large that if one were to weigh the ship and the missiles, the missiles would be the side that tipped the scale.
The job of navigator didn't suit Clyde. He knew it, and it angered him just a little bit that he had been sent to do it. He could do so much more, and piloting this hulk was a joke. He was better behind a fighter anyway. Command probably expected his job to be to watch. Watch Weston, and learn what a commander was and what he had to do. The fate of the battle was not to be his to decide.
Clyde gave up wondering, and began to power up the particle canon. Stark, the original user of the main canon, was a part of Bravo Team. She wouldn't be back for a while yet anyway.
While the gun was charging, Clyde looked back up into space and saw, at the edges of the planet, lights. A lot of small lights. Not stars, they moved far too quickly. It was the fighters. The vanguard of the fleet, coming around the planet to engage.
Clyde stood up and pointed at the spectacle. "Look."
It was one word, but a few heard it and followed his gaze. Each person became quiet as the stream of fighters kept coming. They wouldn't be here for a while yet, but the enemy was in sight. A hush fell over the bridge. Those who still had important work to do went about it, but all talking had ceased. The time of battle was near.
Adriana - Second Pirate Frigate
Adriana finished the second check of the seals on armor. She was ready to head into space, and just in time. Uncle Ray pulled his ship up beside the airlock. He gave a quick hail over the comm link, but it wasn't necessary. It was hard to miss when you were staring out the view port waiting for his arrival.
Bravo Team filed into the airlock, with one last sound off to check that everyone was present. Adriana stated "Bravo Three" at the appropriate time, and the air was sucked out of the compartment with a hiss almost inaudible through the pressure suits. The heavy doors opened into the vacuum of space, and Bravo Team crossed the short gap to Ray's gunship. They were safe.
The airlock of the gunship opened and admitted the team. They began to store their equipment as Ray pulled away from the frigate.
Captain Colter turned to Ray, and gave the last order. "Take us home, Ray."
Clyde sat back in his chair at the front of the ship, staring out the specially reinforced glass at the planet beyond. Watching. Waiting.
He had heard the stowaway send off another signal. They were going to come. Soon.
His face had grown grim ever since he had detected the stowaway. This was foul luck for any journey. It was only the first day of the launch and already they had run into a fleet of pirates led by an infamous renegade. Should they even survive this encounter, what would be next? Smooth sailing? Clyde doubted it. If anything, it was going to get worse. The mission at hand was to go fight off an enemy that the local federation force could not stop. An enemy that the federation couldn't in good conscience admit existed. Insurgent cells only reached the public eye when they had grown to prodigious size. When teams like this one failed to nip them in the bud.
But there would be time enough to ponder that later, priority one was to survive.
What was he going to do to be most useful? Fly the ship? Great hulking monsters like the Salient weren't very mobile. He could try, but it would be no use against the army of fighters no doubt comprising most of the renegade army. Fighters were easier to steal than large star cruisers.
Hack the enemy computers? No... That would doubtless be ADAM's job. The Admiral had bumped his power up another .7 percent a short while ago anyway. ADAM would do it better than Clyde could.
Man the guns? Probably not. TAU would have that covered. He may not be a strong as ADAM, but his job was far smaller in scale.
Prepare for boarding? Clyde was an excellent marine. So excellent in fact, it would likely be a waste of his talents. And besides- with a fleet against one ship, they probably wouldn't bother boarding. It would most likely be a storm of missiles so large that if one were to weigh the ship and the missiles, the missiles would be the side that tipped the scale.
The job of navigator didn't suit Clyde. He knew it, and it angered him just a little bit that he had been sent to do it. He could do so much more, and piloting this hulk was a joke. He was better behind a fighter anyway. Command probably expected his job to be to watch. Watch Weston, and learn what a commander was and what he had to do. The fate of the battle was not to be his to decide.
Clyde gave up wondering, and began to power up the particle canon. Stark, the original user of the main canon, was a part of Bravo Team. She wouldn't be back for a while yet anyway.
While the gun was charging, Clyde looked back up into space and saw, at the edges of the planet, lights. A lot of small lights. Not stars, they moved far too quickly. It was the fighters. The vanguard of the fleet, coming around the planet to engage.
Clyde stood up and pointed at the spectacle. "Look."
It was one word, but a few heard it and followed his gaze. Each person became quiet as the stream of fighters kept coming. They wouldn't be here for a while yet, but the enemy was in sight. A hush fell over the bridge. Those who still had important work to do went about it, but all talking had ceased. The time of battle was near.
Adriana - Second Pirate Frigate
Adriana finished the second check of the seals on armor. She was ready to head into space, and just in time. Uncle Ray pulled his ship up beside the airlock. He gave a quick hail over the comm link, but it wasn't necessary. It was hard to miss when you were staring out the view port waiting for his arrival.
Bravo Team filed into the airlock, with one last sound off to check that everyone was present. Adriana stated "Bravo Three" at the appropriate time, and the air was sucked out of the compartment with a hiss almost inaudible through the pressure suits. The heavy doors opened into the vacuum of space, and Bravo Team crossed the short gap to Ray's gunship. They were safe.
The airlock of the gunship opened and admitted the team. They began to store their equipment as Ray pulled away from the frigate.
Captain Colter turned to Ray, and gave the last order. "Take us home, Ray."
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Silver Eyes Command Ship
Turning towards his fellow crew members, he checked each of them, many were excited others seemed nervous. Things were certainly tense, but this was often the case. Turning on his intercom to be heard throughout the ship, he announced, "Comrades, my fellow brothers and sisters in arms, this is a momentous occasion. For decades, no centuries we've been considered a pest, an irritant. Well no more because I've just recieved a coded message from our HQ, it said, 'We the four pirate lords agree to your offering. We shall fight as one and end the feuds. Let it be known by all who dare to face us now. We're no longer unorganized or a pest. We are now under the leadership of Silver Eyes, signed Darren, Byrant, Quinn and Shilo the final four pirate lords.' You see my brothers, you see how we've succeeded in the impossible, the pirates now stand as one. Even if we are defeated, let it be known that the people responsible shall be hunted day and night, until we have them prisoner, then we shall release them into the blackness from our airlocks. Pirates stand together now and forever."
With that a resounding cheer rose up, and Silver Eyes smiled.
"Now, men arm the weaponry and get ready for battle. "
Taking his old naval uniform he looked out the expanse from the window. It was truly a day to be remembered. He had succeeded in the impossible, he had finally won over the Lords, no easy task. But those four were the final four, altogether there were 11 pirate lords him being the final, the king of the pirates. The one who brought them together. Now he had accomplished this, was it worth considering Lord Liberty offer? On one hand he wasn't fond of the Federation and what he had found out, but on the other he now had Empire to run, he would need to consider this after the battle.
Looking back out again, he saw their prey and grinned.
Turning towards his fellow crew members, he checked each of them, many were excited others seemed nervous. Things were certainly tense, but this was often the case. Turning on his intercom to be heard throughout the ship, he announced, "Comrades, my fellow brothers and sisters in arms, this is a momentous occasion. For decades, no centuries we've been considered a pest, an irritant. Well no more because I've just recieved a coded message from our HQ, it said, 'We the four pirate lords agree to your offering. We shall fight as one and end the feuds. Let it be known by all who dare to face us now. We're no longer unorganized or a pest. We are now under the leadership of Silver Eyes, signed Darren, Byrant, Quinn and Shilo the final four pirate lords.' You see my brothers, you see how we've succeeded in the impossible, the pirates now stand as one. Even if we are defeated, let it be known that the people responsible shall be hunted day and night, until we have them prisoner, then we shall release them into the blackness from our airlocks. Pirates stand together now and forever."
With that a resounding cheer rose up, and Silver Eyes smiled.
"Now, men arm the weaponry and get ready for battle. "
Taking his old naval uniform he looked out the expanse from the window. It was truly a day to be remembered. He had succeeded in the impossible, he had finally won over the Lords, no easy task. But those four were the final four, altogether there were 11 pirate lords him being the final, the king of the pirates. The one who brought them together. Now he had accomplished this, was it worth considering Lord Liberty offer? On one hand he wasn't fond of the Federation and what he had found out, but on the other he now had Empire to run, he would need to consider this after the battle.
Looking back out again, he saw their prey and grinned.
Ray didn't like waiting in exposed areas and was relived to here that he would not have to evacuate civilians in addition to the people he actually had a responsibility to. How many civilian ships did the Independent force abandon? Quite a few, it was simply not their job to guard federation shipping especially since very little of it was coming their way. Ray made the innovation of collecting some of the damaged ships left floating in space and rigged them up as Trojan Q ships: ships designed to appear like wrecks until the pray got close and then pact with explosives and a few additions to their engines would smash their way into their targets and detonate under the guidance of the Q program boys down in tech developed. In this way the insurgents lost most of their cruisers and the fighter shoot out began.
"Yes sir flying out of this wreck and happy to do so" said Ray to the captain however he was busy with the piloting of the gunship and didn't wait for a reply.
Ray activated his thrusters and cleared his way out of the ships space, while in combat Ray changed to a different setting depending on the type of combat which would allow him to speed up and maneuver as much as he wanted to a however while he was transporting a strike force and there where was no immediate danger he liked to take things safe.
Once safely away from the frigate he let off his sub engines and activated the navigation puter.
"Computer can you please calculate the best trajectory for the return journey?" asked ray; few people spoke to computers with the words please or thanks but Ray got into the habit.
"Processing… processing complete shall I activate the auto pilot?"
"No computer that will not be necessary, please display the information on screen" said Ray, if they where under threat of attack he wanted to have the controls in his hands.
Ray grinned and decided to cheer up the mood "Hello this is your captain speaking; we are nearing Salient city. The temperature outside is lovely for this time of the year; about minus 200 and something and the weather is gor… JESUS!" Ray screamed as alert after alert on his gunship began to screech; Ray had been worried about the sightings on his scanner and had put the ships sensors on yellow alert and programmed them to execute different alarms depending on the amount of blops that began moving. The system was on red alert and to make sure every one knew this the lighting of the gunship changed to a dark red. Ray liked seeing things for himself and put the scanner on screen;As he looked at the screen Ray was sure he lost a heart beat at that moment and wanted to make sure he was not imagining things.
"Sir, I am sorry about all these noisy alarms but can you come here please? There is something you should really have a look at"
"Yes sir flying out of this wreck and happy to do so" said Ray to the captain however he was busy with the piloting of the gunship and didn't wait for a reply.
Ray activated his thrusters and cleared his way out of the ships space, while in combat Ray changed to a different setting depending on the type of combat which would allow him to speed up and maneuver as much as he wanted to a however while he was transporting a strike force and there where was no immediate danger he liked to take things safe.
Once safely away from the frigate he let off his sub engines and activated the navigation puter.
"Computer can you please calculate the best trajectory for the return journey?" asked ray; few people spoke to computers with the words please or thanks but Ray got into the habit.
"Processing… processing complete shall I activate the auto pilot?"
"No computer that will not be necessary, please display the information on screen" said Ray, if they where under threat of attack he wanted to have the controls in his hands.
Ray grinned and decided to cheer up the mood "Hello this is your captain speaking; we are nearing Salient city. The temperature outside is lovely for this time of the year; about minus 200 and something and the weather is gor… JESUS!" Ray screamed as alert after alert on his gunship began to screech; Ray had been worried about the sightings on his scanner and had put the ships sensors on yellow alert and programmed them to execute different alarms depending on the amount of blops that began moving. The system was on red alert and to make sure every one knew this the lighting of the gunship changed to a dark red. Ray liked seeing things for himself and put the scanner on screen;As he looked at the screen Ray was sure he lost a heart beat at that moment and wanted to make sure he was not imagining things.
"Sir, I am sorry about all these noisy alarms but can you come here please? There is something you should really have a look at"
Bridge of the F.S.S. Salient
The Admiral sat upright as he listened to T.A.U. speak. An idea from the new A.I., Aronimus was quite doubtful about it, but he listened to gauge whether or not it was at all ingenious as T.A.U. claimed it was.
"Tau, we only have knowledge that the ships are coming, but they haven't been spotted on our systems yet. Even then, you would need a direct link to their channels, I do not believe that the A.I. could enter the stream through our scanners. I don't see how hacking them would be possible." Aronimus didn't really enjoy pointing out the flaws, it would've aided their chances.
Then he paused to think. "Unless, it could enter their channels through a pirate ship," the Admiral shifted his view to the disabled frigates, then he turned quickly to the JG.
"Lieutenant Napier, can you patch me try and patch me through to the squad leader on board that ship?" the JG turned to face the Admiral, as Aronimus pointed to the lone frigate in the middle of space, floating along empty space. It was the first frigate decommissioned thanks to A.D.A.M., it had attempted to escape early on. The private security firm, Tartarus Group managed to inflict some damage with their light gunships, a feat that was nothing short of a miracle. After going blind, they chased the freighters, a path which crossed the Salient's own.
As a result, the encounter occurred, and the events would go down as the skirmish of Themos V if a historian dissected the databanks and recorded it in the archives, which would be followed by the ambush of Themos V.
"Patched through sir, you are speaking with Captain Dunaway," the name sounded familiar to Aronimus, who realized that he had sifted through his roster earlier today. He was the younger brother of the current operations Commander, and he was currently equipped with a new piece of personnel technology. The Admiral forgot about this over the course of events, he was only concerned about whether or not Captain Dunaway was still alive, seeing as how his lines of communication were down.
"Captain Dunaway, this is Admiral Weston, what is your status?"
Navigator Summer spoke. “Look.”
That single word heralded the beginning, as the bridge crew observed flickering luminosities on the edge of the gas planet. It was but a few glowing orbs, most likely the signal lights of small craft. Aronimus paid no attention, as he went typing away several keys on the haptic interface hovering directly in his line of sight.
“Is there a problem, ladies and gentlemen?” Aronimus tilted his head to catch a better view of the crew who were gazing at the hostile ships coming into view. “I suggest everyone return to their stations immediately and stop dawdling like academy recruits.”
There was a quiet calm that surrounded Aronimus, even as he spoke those words. He saw from the corner of his eye that the hostile fleet was establishing its presence in the field. Immediately several beeps alerted Aronimus of an incoming transmission.
This the Summerwind, Summerwind to Salient, we’re picking up a large number of unidentified vessels on our systems, are you reading this as well? Over.
------
Ray’s Swing Class Gunship
Eli turned to the cockpit hatch as Ray called for him; he had just stored his equipment in the overhead compartment, while the others strapped themselves in. He stepped through the small opening,
“What is it Ray?”
The Admiral sat upright as he listened to T.A.U. speak. An idea from the new A.I., Aronimus was quite doubtful about it, but he listened to gauge whether or not it was at all ingenious as T.A.U. claimed it was.
"Tau, we only have knowledge that the ships are coming, but they haven't been spotted on our systems yet. Even then, you would need a direct link to their channels, I do not believe that the A.I. could enter the stream through our scanners. I don't see how hacking them would be possible." Aronimus didn't really enjoy pointing out the flaws, it would've aided their chances.
Then he paused to think. "Unless, it could enter their channels through a pirate ship," the Admiral shifted his view to the disabled frigates, then he turned quickly to the JG.
"Lieutenant Napier, can you patch me try and patch me through to the squad leader on board that ship?" the JG turned to face the Admiral, as Aronimus pointed to the lone frigate in the middle of space, floating along empty space. It was the first frigate decommissioned thanks to A.D.A.M., it had attempted to escape early on. The private security firm, Tartarus Group managed to inflict some damage with their light gunships, a feat that was nothing short of a miracle. After going blind, they chased the freighters, a path which crossed the Salient's own.
As a result, the encounter occurred, and the events would go down as the skirmish of Themos V if a historian dissected the databanks and recorded it in the archives, which would be followed by the ambush of Themos V.
"Patched through sir, you are speaking with Captain Dunaway," the name sounded familiar to Aronimus, who realized that he had sifted through his roster earlier today. He was the younger brother of the current operations Commander, and he was currently equipped with a new piece of personnel technology. The Admiral forgot about this over the course of events, he was only concerned about whether or not Captain Dunaway was still alive, seeing as how his lines of communication were down.
"Captain Dunaway, this is Admiral Weston, what is your status?"
Navigator Summer spoke. “Look.”
That single word heralded the beginning, as the bridge crew observed flickering luminosities on the edge of the gas planet. It was but a few glowing orbs, most likely the signal lights of small craft. Aronimus paid no attention, as he went typing away several keys on the haptic interface hovering directly in his line of sight.
“Is there a problem, ladies and gentlemen?” Aronimus tilted his head to catch a better view of the crew who were gazing at the hostile ships coming into view. “I suggest everyone return to their stations immediately and stop dawdling like academy recruits.”
There was a quiet calm that surrounded Aronimus, even as he spoke those words. He saw from the corner of his eye that the hostile fleet was establishing its presence in the field. Immediately several beeps alerted Aronimus of an incoming transmission.
This the Summerwind, Summerwind to Salient, we’re picking up a large number of unidentified vessels on our systems, are you reading this as well? Over.
------
Ray’s Swing Class Gunship
Eli turned to the cockpit hatch as Ray called for him; he had just stored his equipment in the overhead compartment, while the others strapped themselves in. He stepped through the small opening,
“What is it Ray?”
Ray turned around nodding to Captain Colter and exchanged a quick salute, he guessed that his salute was clumsy and unorthodox, a result of the lack of officers to salute to during the majority of his career.
Ray then turned back to face the monitor and then extended the scanners reading to the larger viewing screen above him. Ray about to explain the scanner's readings to the Captain was left speechless once his eyes gazed at the frightful sight displayed on the screen; the approaching horde had increased exponentially in the seconds he had averted his eyes from the scanner to welcome and salute Captain Colter.
Ray made the sign of the cross; he was not a religious man by nature however in dire times when whisky was unavailable Ray resorted to the last bastion of hope:
The hope for an enjoyable afterlife
Ray turned to face the Captain, in the brief time he had known him Ray saw a jolly and capable chap. He didn't trust him but that was unfair since Ray trusted no one however he felt he could express his current thoughts on their predicament without shame.
"It Seems The Vandal terror has come to Rome Sir"
Ray changed the scanner setting and now marked the salient as blue and the pirates as red; the tiny dot of federation blue was clearly outnumbered however it seemed to Ray that the pirates did not posses a ship superior to the Salient however with numbers such as these they did not need to have any.
Ray remembered the Alexander and shivered in terror however not only at the memory of that massacre but also at the familiar positioning of the enemy fleet.
Could it truly be the dreaded Red admiral? That infamous rogue Admiral?
Ray at last found the strength to speak:
"Sir… I do not know our chances; I have been in desperate situations before and while I have never managed to escape the inevitability of defeat I have always been able to survive, regroup and fight another day. It's just that the last time I saw something like this it was a massacre… that last time it was…"
Ray closed his eyes, why was he so weak? Why was he so useless?! What had happened to the Titan Terror? What happened to his cold determination to bring death to his enemies and find the most impossible battlefield in which he may die sword In hand around countless enemy wrecks as his own ship disintegrated? What happened to the leader, the killer and the survivor he had once been?
He searched for two things in his soul; that cold and practical process of thought and the blood craze which aloud him to know no fear in the face of impossible odds. He found one of those two elements, the one most useful for this time.
Ray saw that he would soon be in range to dock with the Salient and let the ship's landing procedure take over control of the gunship.
He did not turn to the captain however he spoke with confidence and expressed no doubt or fear; only a clear and calculating tone.
"Sir, we should prepare ourselves for both torpedo attacks by high speed fighter bombers and missile strikes by Corvettes. They will use their frigates to block our escape and weaken our shields and their cruisers will ether stay behind to enjoy the show or disable us. It depends if their commander wants to drag our murder for the enjoyment of the crowd or whishes to destroy us immediately. Since this enemy bothered to bring such a fleet against us, one which is capable to destroy an entire federation Flotilla I imagine there is more to this engagement then the battle itself. What other reason is there to send so many ships against us? I will make a calculating guess; this may be a new pirate lord seeking to mark his rise to power with fireworks.
The only practical reason for such a fleet would be to capture the Salient"
Ray smiled, they could still win; after all they where not dead yet. This was the battle he had been waiting for; live or die, kill or be killed it was the adrenalin of facing such odds and facing them without fear that drove Ray onward to the next battle and the one after that. He had forgotten this for many years and if he survived this battle he may forget again however at least he once again had a purpose.
Ray then turned back to face the monitor and then extended the scanners reading to the larger viewing screen above him. Ray about to explain the scanner's readings to the Captain was left speechless once his eyes gazed at the frightful sight displayed on the screen; the approaching horde had increased exponentially in the seconds he had averted his eyes from the scanner to welcome and salute Captain Colter.
Ray made the sign of the cross; he was not a religious man by nature however in dire times when whisky was unavailable Ray resorted to the last bastion of hope:
The hope for an enjoyable afterlife
Ray turned to face the Captain, in the brief time he had known him Ray saw a jolly and capable chap. He didn't trust him but that was unfair since Ray trusted no one however he felt he could express his current thoughts on their predicament without shame.
"It Seems The Vandal terror has come to Rome Sir"
Ray changed the scanner setting and now marked the salient as blue and the pirates as red; the tiny dot of federation blue was clearly outnumbered however it seemed to Ray that the pirates did not posses a ship superior to the Salient however with numbers such as these they did not need to have any.
Ray remembered the Alexander and shivered in terror however not only at the memory of that massacre but also at the familiar positioning of the enemy fleet.
Could it truly be the dreaded Red admiral? That infamous rogue Admiral?
Ray at last found the strength to speak:
"Sir… I do not know our chances; I have been in desperate situations before and while I have never managed to escape the inevitability of defeat I have always been able to survive, regroup and fight another day. It's just that the last time I saw something like this it was a massacre… that last time it was…"
Ray closed his eyes, why was he so weak? Why was he so useless?! What had happened to the Titan Terror? What happened to his cold determination to bring death to his enemies and find the most impossible battlefield in which he may die sword In hand around countless enemy wrecks as his own ship disintegrated? What happened to the leader, the killer and the survivor he had once been?
He searched for two things in his soul; that cold and practical process of thought and the blood craze which aloud him to know no fear in the face of impossible odds. He found one of those two elements, the one most useful for this time.
Ray saw that he would soon be in range to dock with the Salient and let the ship's landing procedure take over control of the gunship.
He did not turn to the captain however he spoke with confidence and expressed no doubt or fear; only a clear and calculating tone.
"Sir, we should prepare ourselves for both torpedo attacks by high speed fighter bombers and missile strikes by Corvettes. They will use their frigates to block our escape and weaken our shields and their cruisers will ether stay behind to enjoy the show or disable us. It depends if their commander wants to drag our murder for the enjoyment of the crowd or whishes to destroy us immediately. Since this enemy bothered to bring such a fleet against us, one which is capable to destroy an entire federation Flotilla I imagine there is more to this engagement then the battle itself. What other reason is there to send so many ships against us? I will make a calculating guess; this may be a new pirate lord seeking to mark his rise to power with fireworks.
The only practical reason for such a fleet would be to capture the Salient"
Ray smiled, they could still win; after all they where not dead yet. This was the battle he had been waiting for; live or die, kill or be killed it was the adrenalin of facing such odds and facing them without fear that drove Ray onward to the next battle and the one after that. He had forgotten this for many years and if he survived this battle he may forget again however at least he once again had a purpose.
As Eon's mind raced he realized something, he wasn't quite as useless as he thought, he repaired a ship by himself. Even with his horrible malfunction but he was in heavy repair, so he felt less useless even with his inferiority to repair himself. He felt himself shock Adam and spoke through Nokia, "Sorry..." he muttered feeling the wrk continue, "and sorry for being a nuisance... I was built with tools and couldn't even repair myself..." he spiraled into a depression if thats what you would call it, all Eon thought about was how useless he was.
Ulric Kercheskoi
Second Pirate Frigate: Hanger
Ulric looks up one last time to see that Elizabeth is actually still where she was and what seems to be small flecks of blood covering her. He understood at that time that she had mostly likely run into her own problems but Ulric could not ponder that much longer because he soon heard one of the pirates call out.. ~Grenade!!..~
This was followed by the familiar clacking sound of metal bouncing along the same surface, and then it rolled right around the side of Ulric's cover. He looked down on it as if by cue when he first heard the call and readied his arm, pulling back and rolling over his own hip crossing the explosive with his own body scooping it up it the same motion.
"Cook it next time Dumb ass!!" He belts out over the an echo of silence in the hanger and chucks the small device back. As in a defiance of sheer stupidity one of the pirates stands as if trying to answer or at least see what the commotion was about, only to have the grenade peg him in the face. Ulric's visor lights up with the shine of the explosion and several screams of death can be heard crying out when the blast clears, but those voices die down as quickly as the flames did.
Reaching out to get Elizabeth's attention Ulric lets her know to stay still for a moment as he returns his sights to the loading rack from earlier. Making sure to stay silent he brings his rifle back up to his shoulder and waits..
Slowly a form begins to show itself as the one surviving pirate begins to work up the courage to check the area his shaking frame betraying his position even more. His eyes scan well enough to meet what would be Ulric's gaze if his sight could break the mask and terror has only a moment to overtake him before a singular bullet rips into the front of his nose and paints the bulkhead behind him.
"Okay its alright now Elizabeth come on out.." Ulric directs her way as he looks over past the blast riddled boxes.
Ulric begins to slow as he get several steps away and re-shoulders the rifle getting ready to open fire, hearing some labored breathing along with hushed tones on the other side. Peering slowly over the last intact box he see's one of the pirates is still alive and mostly coherent trying to speak into his comm unit.. ~Hanger 1 is lost.. (geh) proceed with detonation.. I repeat proceed with detonation.. (cough) respond dammit.~ The man gives an exagerated gasp of air when Ulric kicks him over on his back and readies the rifle on him. However the use of a weapon is easily lost upon this man when Ulric see's that he is missing several bits from the explosion. Most of which are key to using a firearm involving a dominant arm and several digits.
The man stares at Ulric in what a defiance he can muster in his state as Ulric kneels down to his level. "One question.. Detonation of what?" The man stays tight lipped as he attempts to wriggle away in defense, but Ulric grabs his shoulder and yanks him back to his original spot.. "You have two options.. one is to die slowly and painfully in this hanger or one of the corridors on this forsaken ship. Or two it can be quick and painless with some of your honer intact.. if you even have such a concept." Saying this Ulric leers at him with a cocked lean to his head "Now once again detonation of what?"
There is a deep uneasy silence as the man contemplates his options and breaths a lasting sigh as he looks back.. ~...A series one M2 charge..~ "Where?" Ulric replies.
~Deck four on the cores reactor... its on a timer without one of us to detonate it... thirty minutes, maybe forty if Captain Matthus was feeling generous.. but she rarely is such.." The man gives a cough of blood that liberally drenches his already heavily stained chest and Ulric stands aiming back to his head...
He waits for the dying man to close his eyes one last time before pulling the trigger and ending him for good.
Ulric places the mans arm over his chest and walks towards the gun ship that the pirates where loading, going up the ramp into the rear of the ship. He looks around at the stored cargo trying to spy his own equipment and eventually he spots it, a large red container shoved in one of the side chambers.
He clears some smaller boxes off the top and opens the lid to see his equipment still inside and ready to be used. He goes about putting his engineering gear on letting the plates and latches snap into place. The gear was quite allot to put on so quickly but he was not willing to lose time now as he started to slide the chest gear over his mask and secure it to the rest of the suit.
His body was now finally covered from the environment save for the reach of his cybernetics, cycling the valves on his suit it completely pressurizes and the dressing is complete as it finally connects with his mask. Lastly he grabs his satchel and the rest of his equipment.
Ulric steps back out from inside the ship and looks to Elizabeth as the jumps on the loading ramp.
"Alright Elizabeth now its time we part ways.. but don't worry I don't plan on dying here." He places a hand on the small girls shoulder and slides the frame of his mask back to expose his face. "Do your best to take this ship and leave, those others from the other side of the comm should have a ship nearby that can help.. just remember the name Colter."
Not wanting to waste much time he smiles and slides the mask back into place as he leaves her and goes to the service lift at the back of the hanger pressing the switch on arrival to make it lower.
Clicking the comm once more as he loses sight of Elizabeth.. "Colter.. Ulric here, I have some bad news. Their is an explosive on board and its primed... But you already knew that didn't you?"
Ulric kept a small amount of tension in his voice as he spoke.. "That was most likely the whole reason for evacuating the ship... but it wont work. Even if you get off this ship the ensuing shock wave will rip everything within a thousand metes apart. The lift bottoms out at the base of the shaft and Ulric spies the entrance to the core.
"I can't stop the device but I can re-purpose it.." Every thing goes silent for a moment as Ulric contemplates his next words. "There was a girl with me.. Elizabeth, if I can't make it then she becomes priority.
Ulric out."
He approaches the shielded door and begins to release the clamps holding it.
Second Pirate Frigate: Hanger
Ulric looks up one last time to see that Elizabeth is actually still where she was and what seems to be small flecks of blood covering her. He understood at that time that she had mostly likely run into her own problems but Ulric could not ponder that much longer because he soon heard one of the pirates call out.. ~Grenade!!..~
This was followed by the familiar clacking sound of metal bouncing along the same surface, and then it rolled right around the side of Ulric's cover. He looked down on it as if by cue when he first heard the call and readied his arm, pulling back and rolling over his own hip crossing the explosive with his own body scooping it up it the same motion.
"Cook it next time Dumb ass!!" He belts out over the an echo of silence in the hanger and chucks the small device back. As in a defiance of sheer stupidity one of the pirates stands as if trying to answer or at least see what the commotion was about, only to have the grenade peg him in the face. Ulric's visor lights up with the shine of the explosion and several screams of death can be heard crying out when the blast clears, but those voices die down as quickly as the flames did.
Reaching out to get Elizabeth's attention Ulric lets her know to stay still for a moment as he returns his sights to the loading rack from earlier. Making sure to stay silent he brings his rifle back up to his shoulder and waits..
Slowly a form begins to show itself as the one surviving pirate begins to work up the courage to check the area his shaking frame betraying his position even more. His eyes scan well enough to meet what would be Ulric's gaze if his sight could break the mask and terror has only a moment to overtake him before a singular bullet rips into the front of his nose and paints the bulkhead behind him.
"Okay its alright now Elizabeth come on out.." Ulric directs her way as he looks over past the blast riddled boxes.
Ulric begins to slow as he get several steps away and re-shoulders the rifle getting ready to open fire, hearing some labored breathing along with hushed tones on the other side. Peering slowly over the last intact box he see's one of the pirates is still alive and mostly coherent trying to speak into his comm unit.. ~Hanger 1 is lost.. (geh) proceed with detonation.. I repeat proceed with detonation.. (cough) respond dammit.~ The man gives an exagerated gasp of air when Ulric kicks him over on his back and readies the rifle on him. However the use of a weapon is easily lost upon this man when Ulric see's that he is missing several bits from the explosion. Most of which are key to using a firearm involving a dominant arm and several digits.
The man stares at Ulric in what a defiance he can muster in his state as Ulric kneels down to his level. "One question.. Detonation of what?" The man stays tight lipped as he attempts to wriggle away in defense, but Ulric grabs his shoulder and yanks him back to his original spot.. "You have two options.. one is to die slowly and painfully in this hanger or one of the corridors on this forsaken ship. Or two it can be quick and painless with some of your honer intact.. if you even have such a concept." Saying this Ulric leers at him with a cocked lean to his head "Now once again detonation of what?"
There is a deep uneasy silence as the man contemplates his options and breaths a lasting sigh as he looks back.. ~...A series one M2 charge..~ "Where?" Ulric replies.
~Deck four on the cores reactor... its on a timer without one of us to detonate it... thirty minutes, maybe forty if Captain Matthus was feeling generous.. but she rarely is such.." The man gives a cough of blood that liberally drenches his already heavily stained chest and Ulric stands aiming back to his head...
He waits for the dying man to close his eyes one last time before pulling the trigger and ending him for good.
Ulric places the mans arm over his chest and walks towards the gun ship that the pirates where loading, going up the ramp into the rear of the ship. He looks around at the stored cargo trying to spy his own equipment and eventually he spots it, a large red container shoved in one of the side chambers.
He clears some smaller boxes off the top and opens the lid to see his equipment still inside and ready to be used. He goes about putting his engineering gear on letting the plates and latches snap into place. The gear was quite allot to put on so quickly but he was not willing to lose time now as he started to slide the chest gear over his mask and secure it to the rest of the suit.
His body was now finally covered from the environment save for the reach of his cybernetics, cycling the valves on his suit it completely pressurizes and the dressing is complete as it finally connects with his mask. Lastly he grabs his satchel and the rest of his equipment.
Ulric steps back out from inside the ship and looks to Elizabeth as the jumps on the loading ramp.
"Alright Elizabeth now its time we part ways.. but don't worry I don't plan on dying here." He places a hand on the small girls shoulder and slides the frame of his mask back to expose his face. "Do your best to take this ship and leave, those others from the other side of the comm should have a ship nearby that can help.. just remember the name Colter."
Not wanting to waste much time he smiles and slides the mask back into place as he leaves her and goes to the service lift at the back of the hanger pressing the switch on arrival to make it lower.
Clicking the comm once more as he loses sight of Elizabeth.. "Colter.. Ulric here, I have some bad news. Their is an explosive on board and its primed... But you already knew that didn't you?"
Ulric kept a small amount of tension in his voice as he spoke.. "That was most likely the whole reason for evacuating the ship... but it wont work. Even if you get off this ship the ensuing shock wave will rip everything within a thousand metes apart. The lift bottoms out at the base of the shaft and Ulric spies the entrance to the core.
"I can't stop the device but I can re-purpose it.." Every thing goes silent for a moment as Ulric contemplates his next words. "There was a girl with me.. Elizabeth, if I can't make it then she becomes priority.
Ulric out."
He approaches the shielded door and begins to release the clamps holding it.
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Elizabeth was shocked. She started to shake softly as Ulric told her goodbye, her face covered in blood. But now it was also covered in tears. She started to sob softly as she gripped Ulric tight and caressed his face as he exposed it to her. "S...Such.. A-A handsome face..." She muttered out as she leaned up suddenly and locked her lips to his, holding it for only a moment before pulling away from him, and running into the ship without another word.
As she climbed into the ship, she looked inside the red box to find at the bottom her fathers wrench. Swiftly she grabbed it and headed for the bridge. This gave her courage as she ran down the halls, holding her fathers wrench, the last piece she had of him. She quickly found her way to the bridge of the shuttle. The large bridge made her feel even more alone, but she knew that tears and would get her no where.
With a gulp she found the captains chair, and threw the wrench onto her belt. She ran to the chair, sat down in it, and quickly turned on the maze of holo-displays that made of the ships control system. "L...Lock cargo bay doors." She hiccuped out to the command prompted, witch fallowed her command. Now, with all doors locked, engines primed, she spoke to the prompt again. "Initiate launch protocol 115, e-emergency launch code 443!" She shouted to the computer. She knew that the only way she could possibly leave Ulric, the man who saved her life, was if she did it fast, without thinking. But as she sat there in the captains chair alone, she started to cry again.
Suddenly the intire bridge turned into a red lit iron box, with blast shields locking down on every window. Suddenly the seat lached her into it tight with 2 belts that made an X on her, with another hologram projecting in front showing the 5 different screens. Each one for coming from a camera feed on the outside of the ship. Suddenly the whole ship jolted forward. The airlock of the cargo bay shot open, and the shit slid on gaurdrails into it. From there, the door to outer space suddenly shooting open to the ship out.
It was hear, finally, the tears started to roll. This time uncontrolled, and raw. First, she cried for what they had done, then for what she had done, then for leaving Ulric behind... She knew Ulric wouldnt listen to her, and her only option was to leave... But still it hurt her. "A...Activate location beacon. All channels."
As she climbed into the ship, she looked inside the red box to find at the bottom her fathers wrench. Swiftly she grabbed it and headed for the bridge. This gave her courage as she ran down the halls, holding her fathers wrench, the last piece she had of him. She quickly found her way to the bridge of the shuttle. The large bridge made her feel even more alone, but she knew that tears and would get her no where.
With a gulp she found the captains chair, and threw the wrench onto her belt. She ran to the chair, sat down in it, and quickly turned on the maze of holo-displays that made of the ships control system. "L...Lock cargo bay doors." She hiccuped out to the command prompted, witch fallowed her command. Now, with all doors locked, engines primed, she spoke to the prompt again. "Initiate launch protocol 115, e-emergency launch code 443!" She shouted to the computer. She knew that the only way she could possibly leave Ulric, the man who saved her life, was if she did it fast, without thinking. But as she sat there in the captains chair alone, she started to cry again.
Suddenly the intire bridge turned into a red lit iron box, with blast shields locking down on every window. Suddenly the seat lached her into it tight with 2 belts that made an X on her, with another hologram projecting in front showing the 5 different screens. Each one for coming from a camera feed on the outside of the ship. Suddenly the whole ship jolted forward. The airlock of the cargo bay shot open, and the shit slid on gaurdrails into it. From there, the door to outer space suddenly shooting open to the ship out.
It was hear, finally, the tears started to roll. This time uncontrolled, and raw. First, she cried for what they had done, then for what she had done, then for leaving Ulric behind... She knew Ulric wouldnt listen to her, and her only option was to leave... But still it hurt her. "A...Activate location beacon. All channels."
Bucher Pete
The light blue glow of the Bucher Pete’s holographic interface and control consoles shone on Ray and Eli as they watched the armada slowly come into view. The vanguard was led by loose fighter packs that would attack like hounds on a single prey such as the Salient, or Ray’s lone gunship for that matter. Fortunately, they were already within range of the Salient’s docking bays, so they were in the clear.
“Just get us home Ray,” Eli couldn’t say much more.
He would’ve told the pilot to calm down, but the sight of such an innumerable foe would make blood drain off the face of the inexperienced and the fresh out the academy recruits that were the majority of the crew on board the Salient. Most spoke of seeing action, others invoked titles that proclaimed their battle scars, but…they haven’t see a fleet such as this.
As for the Salient, it maintained many light weapon systems, most of which were concealed beneath panels that would unsheathe the cannons used to take out the hornets of light craft. Most personnel were relatively safe behind its thick neo-steel plating, the most durable and advanced alloy of its time on a ship such as the Salient.
The neo-steel was a new alloy that was only found on five ships in the known galaxy, one of which was the Salient, the other four were its sister ships, the Neptune Class Battlecruisers. The Salient, however, would be the first to see actual combat and square off with non-Federation ships.
“We’ll probably have to prepare for a Code Red,” Eli patted the pilot on his shoulder, before leaving the cockpit. He could only trust in the Admiral’s ability to steer them out of this, if such a fate existed.
As Eli returned to the troop bay, he pulled out his assault rifle from the overhead storage, and looked to the other Marines.
“Alright boys and girls, get your weapons ready.”
“What for?” Weifert asked.
“As our current situation stands, we’ve got a large force of pirates amassing against the Salient, and they’ll probably try to board the ship, so once we get off report to the Barracks to receive orders.”
Eli strapped himself into a seat and awaited the arrival. Then he received a message, from the survivors on board the pirate frigate.
"Colter…Ulric here, I have some bad news. There is an explosive on board and its primed... But you already knew that didn't you?" there was a pause.
"That was most likely the whole reason for evacuating the ship... but it won’t work. Even if you get off this ship the ensuing shock wave will rip everything within a thousand metes apart. "I can't stop the device but I can re-purpose it… There was a girl with me…Elizabeth; if I can't make it then she becomes priority. Ulric out." Eli’s mouth stood slightly agape, before he issued a reply.
“Colter here, don’t worry about the bomb just get the hell off the ship. Ulric? Ulric! Son of a bitch.” Eli swore as the communique died.
The light blue glow of the Bucher Pete’s holographic interface and control consoles shone on Ray and Eli as they watched the armada slowly come into view. The vanguard was led by loose fighter packs that would attack like hounds on a single prey such as the Salient, or Ray’s lone gunship for that matter. Fortunately, they were already within range of the Salient’s docking bays, so they were in the clear.
“Just get us home Ray,” Eli couldn’t say much more.
He would’ve told the pilot to calm down, but the sight of such an innumerable foe would make blood drain off the face of the inexperienced and the fresh out the academy recruits that were the majority of the crew on board the Salient. Most spoke of seeing action, others invoked titles that proclaimed their battle scars, but…they haven’t see a fleet such as this.
As for the Salient, it maintained many light weapon systems, most of which were concealed beneath panels that would unsheathe the cannons used to take out the hornets of light craft. Most personnel were relatively safe behind its thick neo-steel plating, the most durable and advanced alloy of its time on a ship such as the Salient.
The neo-steel was a new alloy that was only found on five ships in the known galaxy, one of which was the Salient, the other four were its sister ships, the Neptune Class Battlecruisers. The Salient, however, would be the first to see actual combat and square off with non-Federation ships.
“We’ll probably have to prepare for a Code Red,” Eli patted the pilot on his shoulder, before leaving the cockpit. He could only trust in the Admiral’s ability to steer them out of this, if such a fate existed.
As Eli returned to the troop bay, he pulled out his assault rifle from the overhead storage, and looked to the other Marines.
“Alright boys and girls, get your weapons ready.”
“What for?” Weifert asked.
“As our current situation stands, we’ve got a large force of pirates amassing against the Salient, and they’ll probably try to board the ship, so once we get off report to the Barracks to receive orders.”
Eli strapped himself into a seat and awaited the arrival. Then he received a message, from the survivors on board the pirate frigate.
"Colter…Ulric here, I have some bad news. There is an explosive on board and its primed... But you already knew that didn't you?" there was a pause.
"That was most likely the whole reason for evacuating the ship... but it won’t work. Even if you get off this ship the ensuing shock wave will rip everything within a thousand metes apart. "I can't stop the device but I can re-purpose it… There was a girl with me…Elizabeth; if I can't make it then she becomes priority. Ulric out." Eli’s mouth stood slightly agape, before he issued a reply.
“Colter here, don’t worry about the bomb just get the hell off the ship. Ulric? Ulric! Son of a bitch.” Eli swore as the communique died.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
AI TAU
Tau turned to Max, "The Admiral is considering your proposal, I think he might get you into their systems via one of the crippled ships" he said informatively. Meanwhile on the Admiral's comm channel, he inquired as to his duties, "Will I be needed for weapons usage on the bridge during this battle Admiral?" He asked quickly, "Or perhaps you have other duties in mind?" Tau let the thought linger, he was not sure what other duties there were for him, but he wanted to be more useful than just a gun operator on the bridge. He felt like he was capable on much more, but that could always be some foolish ambition rubbing off on him from the humans on board.
Tau turned to Max, "The Admiral is considering your proposal, I think he might get you into their systems via one of the crippled ships" he said informatively. Meanwhile on the Admiral's comm channel, he inquired as to his duties, "Will I be needed for weapons usage on the bridge during this battle Admiral?" He asked quickly, "Or perhaps you have other duties in mind?" Tau let the thought linger, he was not sure what other duties there were for him, but he wanted to be more useful than just a gun operator on the bridge. He felt like he was capable on much more, but that could always be some foolish ambition rubbing off on him from the humans on board.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
Ulric Kercheskoi
Second Pirate Frigate: Power Plant
Ulric was not about to let such an act go without challenge knowing all too well that when this device goes off it would be an affront against him. He mulled the information over in his mind as he tried to remember what it was about this whole thing that was so similar to him from another time.
His boots made heavy sounds that resounded with sheer echoing power due to the space within the corresponding shaft. But in time he found himself looking on the next door too the core system for the ship and it was in here that he didn't know what to expect, and as his hand felt the empty space at his back he knew what was next on his list to retrieve.
Taking a few breaths to steady himself he begins to cycle the locks on the door and readies his rifle, stepping in advancing toward the core was his only real concern. Ulric's eyes began to search from side to side and corner to corner as he moved doing his best to cover each vantage point that could be used against him. His sights where soon on a more pressing matter within a few moments as he stared directly at the device. Its casing was a lit diagram of tubing and diodes that displayed a circular dial of red dots, each dot slowly disappearing only to lead to the next dot in succession doing the same.
In the center of the dial was a rather blatant numerical readout with the numbers.. (8:34) counting backwards on the screen.
Laying his weapon on the console next to him Ulric sets to opening the casing and begins inspecting his new objective. Doing his best not to agitate the bomb with some slight poking and prodding, he thumbs through several fiber optic wires doing his best to catalog them in mind.
A single bead of sweat is rolling down his forehead and he is starting to be ever more grateful that the inside of the mask is fog proof. But this wears on him even after searching through several wires and capacitors his mind grows heavy with impending though and finally Ulric looses patience with spite in the back of his mind... "You can stop skulking.. I already know your there." His words are met with the sharp jab of something metallic being pressed against the back of his mask, this was most likely his own gun seeing as he was lax enough to leave it around like that.
The offender jabs him once more causing him to drop a section of wires and the bomb gives a slight warning before normalizing again. Standing Ulric takes a chance and locks his communicator on and slyly places his arms behind his head.
"I would guess that your Captain Matthus..." Ulric says as he turns to face his captor and is taken back when he realizes that the pirate is actually a woman. Little was left to question as his head tilted in a moment of bewilderment and only when he noticed the name Matthus set underneath her uniforms makeshift rockers did he get the idea.
The woman was quite a specimen to behold her frame was taught and well trained as she stood there defiant of Ulric's imposing figure looming over her as he stood. Her blonde hair was pulled tight into a bun in the back but the recent battle within and without the ship has caused it to split and fray in some sections. He deep emerald eyes threatened to piece straight through him as the scowl of her brow threatened to become permanent with its severity.
She threatens with the barrel of the weapon as she steps back twice and levels the sites in Ulric's direction... ~I don't know you... so that means you damn well don't know me..~ "No.." Ulric returns "I was expecting your father Bryten."
An expression of rage rips across the young woman's face as several small veins flare up across her lightly olive toned skin and she attempts to strike him with the butt of the rifle. Ulric is deftly able to grab the rifle along the body and pull it away from her and the girl swiftly pulls back with equal speed and pulls a smaller handgun on him. Ulric doesn't show much interest in her as he drops the rifles mag and cycles the last round out of the chamber.
~How DO You Know That Name!!!~ She screams at him in an act of tyranny using her position as a means to coax more out of Ulric. "I guess that makes you Angela.." Ulric says and this makes her eyes go wide and he see's a small opening within her form.
Not wasting a chance Ulric charges his left side into the girl using his hand to deflect the barrel of the gun and checking her midsection with his left arm with two rounds cooking off from the weapon. This sends her into the railing on the compartments walkway and Ulric squares off with her once more when she regains her composer, she quickly scrambles down and pulls a long blade from her boot.
Ulric just tilts his head and looks at her... "You can just go ahead and give that too me as well..." He jokes as he tosses the pistol over the railing and into the lower section of the core. ~Shut up~ She returns.
Ulric stood in direct conflict with her hoping that his open comm would catch as much as he was able to draw out from her.
Second Pirate Frigate: Power Plant
Ulric was not about to let such an act go without challenge knowing all too well that when this device goes off it would be an affront against him. He mulled the information over in his mind as he tried to remember what it was about this whole thing that was so similar to him from another time.
His boots made heavy sounds that resounded with sheer echoing power due to the space within the corresponding shaft. But in time he found himself looking on the next door too the core system for the ship and it was in here that he didn't know what to expect, and as his hand felt the empty space at his back he knew what was next on his list to retrieve.
Taking a few breaths to steady himself he begins to cycle the locks on the door and readies his rifle, stepping in advancing toward the core was his only real concern. Ulric's eyes began to search from side to side and corner to corner as he moved doing his best to cover each vantage point that could be used against him. His sights where soon on a more pressing matter within a few moments as he stared directly at the device. Its casing was a lit diagram of tubing and diodes that displayed a circular dial of red dots, each dot slowly disappearing only to lead to the next dot in succession doing the same.
In the center of the dial was a rather blatant numerical readout with the numbers.. (8:34) counting backwards on the screen.
Laying his weapon on the console next to him Ulric sets to opening the casing and begins inspecting his new objective. Doing his best not to agitate the bomb with some slight poking and prodding, he thumbs through several fiber optic wires doing his best to catalog them in mind.
A single bead of sweat is rolling down his forehead and he is starting to be ever more grateful that the inside of the mask is fog proof. But this wears on him even after searching through several wires and capacitors his mind grows heavy with impending though and finally Ulric looses patience with spite in the back of his mind... "You can stop skulking.. I already know your there." His words are met with the sharp jab of something metallic being pressed against the back of his mask, this was most likely his own gun seeing as he was lax enough to leave it around like that.
The offender jabs him once more causing him to drop a section of wires and the bomb gives a slight warning before normalizing again. Standing Ulric takes a chance and locks his communicator on and slyly places his arms behind his head.
"I would guess that your Captain Matthus..." Ulric says as he turns to face his captor and is taken back when he realizes that the pirate is actually a woman. Little was left to question as his head tilted in a moment of bewilderment and only when he noticed the name Matthus set underneath her uniforms makeshift rockers did he get the idea.
The woman was quite a specimen to behold her frame was taught and well trained as she stood there defiant of Ulric's imposing figure looming over her as he stood. Her blonde hair was pulled tight into a bun in the back but the recent battle within and without the ship has caused it to split and fray in some sections. He deep emerald eyes threatened to piece straight through him as the scowl of her brow threatened to become permanent with its severity.
She threatens with the barrel of the weapon as she steps back twice and levels the sites in Ulric's direction... ~I don't know you... so that means you damn well don't know me..~ "No.." Ulric returns "I was expecting your father Bryten."
An expression of rage rips across the young woman's face as several small veins flare up across her lightly olive toned skin and she attempts to strike him with the butt of the rifle. Ulric is deftly able to grab the rifle along the body and pull it away from her and the girl swiftly pulls back with equal speed and pulls a smaller handgun on him. Ulric doesn't show much interest in her as he drops the rifles mag and cycles the last round out of the chamber.
~How DO You Know That Name!!!~ She screams at him in an act of tyranny using her position as a means to coax more out of Ulric. "I guess that makes you Angela.." Ulric says and this makes her eyes go wide and he see's a small opening within her form.
Not wasting a chance Ulric charges his left side into the girl using his hand to deflect the barrel of the gun and checking her midsection with his left arm with two rounds cooking off from the weapon. This sends her into the railing on the compartments walkway and Ulric squares off with her once more when she regains her composer, she quickly scrambles down and pulls a long blade from her boot.
Ulric just tilts his head and looks at her... "You can just go ahead and give that too me as well..." He jokes as he tosses the pistol over the railing and into the lower section of the core. ~Shut up~ She returns.
Ulric stood in direct conflict with her hoping that his open comm would catch as much as he was able to draw out from her.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Sub Generator Room
The wide corridors did not have many available covers aside from a few metallic crates, but even those were only there temporarily. Atomsk moved forward slowly, he held his stun pistol directly in his line of sight, as they neared the sub-generator rooms. They finally arrived at the very corridor in which the video feed displayed earlier. Three bodies lay motionless on the ground, several blood stains in their torsos.
Atomsk lowered his pistol at the sight of them; he motioned one of the marines to check the bodies. The marine approached them and crouched down; using a pair of fingers he attempted to search for a pulse. To no avail though, he went through the three bodies, and he shook his head back at the commander.
“This is Commander Dunaway to the medical bays, we’ve got three personnel, KIA. Sub-generator corridor F, request that you send a crew down to retrieve the bodies…” Atomsk clenched his jaw as he said this.
“Let’s keep moving,” they arrived minutes later in the sub-generator rooms. The spacious room had four large cylindrical turbines that hummed quietly due to the cold fusion. The only lighting in the room was the light that shone from through the small slits on the turbines. The energy inside was providing the lighting. However, the room was stark grey, the dull coloring that most engineers were attuned to.
Atomsk turned his attention to one of the generators as he waved his hand, a signal that prompted the marines to fan out with their weapons drawn. Perhaps the intruder was trying to sabotage the power system, Atomsk didn’t really like it, but he would’ve done the same if he was a pirate. The generator was slightly damaged, with a hole pierced in through the covering, the result of small arms fire. A bullet was probably lodged in the machinery, disrupting its routines as it blinked out of sync from the other generators.
“This Commander Dunaway to the engineering quarters, we’ve got a damaged generator in the Sub-generator room F. I need someone down here to take a look,” then Atomsk sharpened his glance as he noticed a shadow slither in the inner halls of the generator room.
He took out his stun pistol and quickly pursued the shadow, until it reached a dead end. Or rather, she reached a dead end, the pirate turned around. She had a pair of emerald eyes that stared down Atomsk like daggers, while her auburn hair was tied back in a single pony tail. A pair of tech goggles was strapped to her head, but they rested against her forehead. She had a simple utility jacket, with the sleeves rolled up, and a pair of shorts that revealed more than they covered.
She had a weapon in her left hand, and was about to raise it at Atomsk, who quickly reacted by pinning her arm down with a burst from his stun pistol. The shock reverberated through her body though, and she trembled violently for a few seconds due to the electrical vibrations before dropping to the floor. A minute after, the armored marines rushed in, their metallic boots clanking against the walkway as they secured the infiltrator and dragged her off to the Barracks for interrogation.
Atomsk lowered his pistol at the sight of them; he motioned one of the marines to check the bodies. The marine approached them and crouched down; using a pair of fingers he attempted to search for a pulse. To no avail though, he went through the three bodies, and he shook his head back at the commander.
“This is Commander Dunaway to the medical bays, we’ve got three personnel, KIA. Sub-generator corridor F, request that you send a crew down to retrieve the bodies…” Atomsk clenched his jaw as he said this.
“Let’s keep moving,” they arrived minutes later in the sub-generator rooms. The spacious room had four large cylindrical turbines that hummed quietly due to the cold fusion. The only lighting in the room was the light that shone from through the small slits on the turbines. The energy inside was providing the lighting. However, the room was stark grey, the dull coloring that most engineers were attuned to.
Atomsk turned his attention to one of the generators as he waved his hand, a signal that prompted the marines to fan out with their weapons drawn. Perhaps the intruder was trying to sabotage the power system, Atomsk didn’t really like it, but he would’ve done the same if he was a pirate. The generator was slightly damaged, with a hole pierced in through the covering, the result of small arms fire. A bullet was probably lodged in the machinery, disrupting its routines as it blinked out of sync from the other generators.
“This Commander Dunaway to the engineering quarters, we’ve got a damaged generator in the Sub-generator room F. I need someone down here to take a look,” then Atomsk sharpened his glance as he noticed a shadow slither in the inner halls of the generator room.
He took out his stun pistol and quickly pursued the shadow, until it reached a dead end. Or rather, she reached a dead end, the pirate turned around. She had a pair of emerald eyes that stared down Atomsk like daggers, while her auburn hair was tied back in a single pony tail. A pair of tech goggles was strapped to her head, but they rested against her forehead. She had a simple utility jacket, with the sleeves rolled up, and a pair of shorts that revealed more than they covered.
She had a weapon in her left hand, and was about to raise it at Atomsk, who quickly reacted by pinning her arm down with a burst from his stun pistol. The shock reverberated through her body though, and she trembled violently for a few seconds due to the electrical vibrations before dropping to the floor. A minute after, the armored marines rushed in, their metallic boots clanking against the walkway as they secured the infiltrator and dragged her off to the Barracks for interrogation.
The setting changes from Sub Generator Room to The Milky Way Universe
Jon got a patch connection to Admiral Weston, it was to ask about his status; "all green here sir, we can head back anytime you need us." Personally he wanted to poke around the ship a bit more...it had just seemed a bit too easy. " We secured the ship and got the data that was on it uploaded to our mainframe for all the AIs to sort through...but it doesn't seem right, it was a bit too easy sir." It was a complaint that he never like giving a CO but if anyone could get what he meant, it'd be Weston and if anything the old dog would have a better grasp on the situation than he did. If this was an isolated case then things might not be so bad... but if it was more than that everyone was in serious danger.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
So…it was planned then, it was a simple maneuver, perhaps by one of the greatest minds produced by the Federation, Atreus Eturrer. The empty frigate didn’t come as a surprise to Aronimus, who realized it was all a ploy from the very start. It began with the onset of the pirate frigates chasing the two Altamus vessels directly in the way of the Salient’s projected course.
“Captain, I don’t know if you’re aware, but the Commander has been trying to reach you for the past half hour and a half. I don’t know whether or not your channels were jammed, but I’ll bring you up to speed on the situation outside…” Aronimus paused.
“A fleet of hostile pirates have formed directly several hundred kilometers away from the frigate you are on. You can guess where I’m getting at” Aronimus knew the Captain would catch on very quickly and would realize that the two lifeless hulks were part of the nefarious scheme.
“You should hold off on returning back to the Salient. Your transport may receive direct fire from the hostile ships. Hunker down in the ship, and sit tight gentlemen.” Aronimus was about to close the channel until after the battle was over; if he was alive to turn it back on though, but he stopped.
“Captain, I must inquire if you brought any sort of datapad with you, because if you did, I need you to activate it now,” Aronimus turned to T.A.U. as he appeared in mellow simmering flames.
“Tau, I need you to manage the Salient’s weapon systems,” as he said this he pressed some more keys on the haptic interface appearing over his left shoulder, activating A.D.A.M.’s presence.
The miniature sapphire hologram, bearing the likeness of an android, came into being on the ringed projector. Most A.I.s usually acquired the physical aspects of a brain that they were molded from as a result of Cognitive Impression. The A.I.s assumed the personality and the characteristics of deceased beings, from which brains are taken. T.A.U. for one was generated from the brain of a long deceased A.I. theory professor. They programmed him, however, with advanced militaristic routines that altered his purpose from a simple ship A.I. to a specialized field tactician A.I.
A.D.A.M. was different in that he was generated without relying on Cognitive Impression methods, but rather through a complex matrix of sub routines. Being the first A.I. contrived through this method, they attached the A.I. to the Salient as a means of testing its performance. If A.D.A.M. successfully completed his duties, it may mean a breakthrough for the matrix method, but only time would tell.
“Adam, I need you to speak with the unidentified A.I. He has a plan to infiltrate the hostile pirate ships via their transmission channels; do you think this is possible?”
“Captain, I don’t know if you’re aware, but the Commander has been trying to reach you for the past half hour and a half. I don’t know whether or not your channels were jammed, but I’ll bring you up to speed on the situation outside…” Aronimus paused.
“A fleet of hostile pirates have formed directly several hundred kilometers away from the frigate you are on. You can guess where I’m getting at” Aronimus knew the Captain would catch on very quickly and would realize that the two lifeless hulks were part of the nefarious scheme.
“You should hold off on returning back to the Salient. Your transport may receive direct fire from the hostile ships. Hunker down in the ship, and sit tight gentlemen.” Aronimus was about to close the channel until after the battle was over; if he was alive to turn it back on though, but he stopped.
“Captain, I must inquire if you brought any sort of datapad with you, because if you did, I need you to activate it now,” Aronimus turned to T.A.U. as he appeared in mellow simmering flames.
“Tau, I need you to manage the Salient’s weapon systems,” as he said this he pressed some more keys on the haptic interface appearing over his left shoulder, activating A.D.A.M.’s presence.
The miniature sapphire hologram, bearing the likeness of an android, came into being on the ringed projector. Most A.I.s usually acquired the physical aspects of a brain that they were molded from as a result of Cognitive Impression. The A.I.s assumed the personality and the characteristics of deceased beings, from which brains are taken. T.A.U. for one was generated from the brain of a long deceased A.I. theory professor. They programmed him, however, with advanced militaristic routines that altered his purpose from a simple ship A.I. to a specialized field tactician A.I.
A.D.A.M. was different in that he was generated without relying on Cognitive Impression methods, but rather through a complex matrix of sub routines. Being the first A.I. contrived through this method, they attached the A.I. to the Salient as a means of testing its performance. If A.D.A.M. successfully completed his duties, it may mean a breakthrough for the matrix method, but only time would tell.
“Adam, I need you to speak with the unidentified A.I. He has a plan to infiltrate the hostile pirate ships via their transmission channels; do you think this is possible?”
AI TAU
Tau nodded to the Admirals Orders and began accessing the weapons systems of the Salient, preparing for battle. Overhearing the next bit of orders, those for Adam, Tau's projection shook its head. "Sir, the new AI may not be comfortable with Adam being along with him. He has developed the emotion of fear, connecting it to Adam." he said, from as neutral a position as possible. "It may be best if I am at least partially there, to reassure Max that Adam is on the same team as him." he said. Tau noted that this would end up being the first time the three AI's would be in one place together, without humans nearby, it would be interesting to observe the interactions between himself and his fellow programs.
Tau nodded to the Admirals Orders and began accessing the weapons systems of the Salient, preparing for battle. Overhearing the next bit of orders, those for Adam, Tau's projection shook its head. "Sir, the new AI may not be comfortable with Adam being along with him. He has developed the emotion of fear, connecting it to Adam." he said, from as neutral a position as possible. "It may be best if I am at least partially there, to reassure Max that Adam is on the same team as him." he said. Tau noted that this would end up being the first time the three AI's would be in one place together, without humans nearby, it would be interesting to observe the interactions between himself and his fellow programs.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
Ulric Kercheskoi
Pirate Frigate:Core
Ulric squares off with the young woman once more and looks down too her, he did not worry about her rebuttal. She was too young and did not have the experience to face him head on this fact was evident enough by looking in her eyes.
It was then she moved but for what reason Ulric couldn't tell maybe she noticed an opening for retreat and took it. She ducked behind several coolant condensers trying her best to get out of Ulric's sight to which he followers her through some of the same openings and he almost catches her where it not for her ducking into a small alcove that proved to be a hindrance for one as big as Ulric.
"If your done then I have much more important work to get to.." He belts out over the hum of the ambient machinery.
Ulric moves himself over back towards the bomb and pulls the casing back once more trying to find some flaw in the device his hands moving back and forth shifting wires and small pieces of unsecured components.
But then..(tss-chak) Ulric feels something strike his right shoulder, ricocheting off and penetrating a service panel nearby.
He rears into the blow fast enough to hear that same sound and then duck as the projectile careens over his head, looking back up he spots Angela the pirate girl standing there. Apparently she had the mind to find a patching tool kit and removed the bolting gun to use as a weapon.
"You get points for improvising but that's not going to take you far." She responds by cycling another bolt and firing it at him. Ulric braces and brings his cybernetic arm back into use swatting the shot away charging her in response as fast as he can. She withdraws back between two conduits and fires another round that Ulric ducks while swiping back at her.
This continues for several seconds where she ducks back in and out letting several bolts fly while avoiding his attacks and in Ulric's mind his brain boils up memories of him as a child playing those annoying whack a mole games at the fair.
In a instant of raw will the little woman reaches out and steps into Ulric's swing pressing the bolt gun firmly against his mask. He on the other hand feels a fast firm grip on his heart as if the world stopped to keep him in check, his arm reaches up to grab her but she was already well on the way to pressing the trigger. ...(ch-ch-ch..)
For whatever reason Ulric's world doesn't end and his arm comes up to grip around Angela's throat, pulling her out of the little hole and easily lifting her light weight over his body to slam her against the core console.
The little form in his hand starts thrashing in her best efforts to get him to let go.. ~This is my ship and this is my crew... you will pay for their deaths.. even if we both have to die!~ Ulric is quick to slam her against the console once again which easily drains her strength of any reprisal.
It was easy to tell that she was referring to the bomb several inches from her head and Ulric gives her a measured look of empathy before pulling his right arm back and cocking his shoulder. "If only your father could see you now..." The same flash of rage struck across her face like a bolt of lighting much as before, but in her condition she wasn't capable of much else then grumbled curses. "Now watch.. a bomb on a timer cannot detonate if it is missing one thing.." driving his arm into the device he dips his knuckles under the central components and rips out a small chunk, showing it to her. "Its timer.."
The digital readout on the screen slowly starts to blink away into nothing, only to return with a set of zero's with the word armed placed at the bottom. Dropping the timer and retrieving the bolt gun he gets back to her before she could react, sliding the firing mechanism back he can tell that the round didn't set right as to why it didn't fire earlier.
She looks at him with an amount of sheer terror in her eyes as he places the gun too her temple and slowly depresses the trigger.. ~You can't just kill me... no saving me? no trying to rescue my soul for my fathers sake?~
"No..." Ulric replies "People like you are the reason he died and are the sole ones responsible for that part of me dying years ago... but you are right.. I can't kill you."
His form relaxes for a moment as his grip slightly loosens, only for him to re seize her once more and pull Angela away from the console throwing her against support girder. He pins her once more against the frame and looks down on her.. "But I can't let you live either.." The amount of fear on her face is abundant but when Ulric pulls the trigger her scream over shadows most any other sound in that space.
When her eyes open she can feel the pain lighting her body on fire and looks over to see a bolt going into her left arm which is now pinning her too the beam.
Her eyes full of pain and tears she starts to scream at him barely stringing a sentence together..~You can't do this.. you bastard.. you haven't see the last of me and I will not let you get away with any of this. No matter where you go or what you do I will be there to...~ Ulric brings a left hook across her face to shut her up and the blank face with rolled back eyes is enough to show him that it had the desired effect.
He looks back towards the console and starts to form as much a plan as he can, which leads to him turning his comm back on him.. "Colter.. this is Ulric, we still have a bomb but its safe to say that the ship is ours nows.. please advise."
Pirate Frigate:Core
Ulric squares off with the young woman once more and looks down too her, he did not worry about her rebuttal. She was too young and did not have the experience to face him head on this fact was evident enough by looking in her eyes.
It was then she moved but for what reason Ulric couldn't tell maybe she noticed an opening for retreat and took it. She ducked behind several coolant condensers trying her best to get out of Ulric's sight to which he followers her through some of the same openings and he almost catches her where it not for her ducking into a small alcove that proved to be a hindrance for one as big as Ulric.
"If your done then I have much more important work to get to.." He belts out over the hum of the ambient machinery.
Ulric moves himself over back towards the bomb and pulls the casing back once more trying to find some flaw in the device his hands moving back and forth shifting wires and small pieces of unsecured components.
But then..(tss-chak) Ulric feels something strike his right shoulder, ricocheting off and penetrating a service panel nearby.
He rears into the blow fast enough to hear that same sound and then duck as the projectile careens over his head, looking back up he spots Angela the pirate girl standing there. Apparently she had the mind to find a patching tool kit and removed the bolting gun to use as a weapon.
"You get points for improvising but that's not going to take you far." She responds by cycling another bolt and firing it at him. Ulric braces and brings his cybernetic arm back into use swatting the shot away charging her in response as fast as he can. She withdraws back between two conduits and fires another round that Ulric ducks while swiping back at her.
This continues for several seconds where she ducks back in and out letting several bolts fly while avoiding his attacks and in Ulric's mind his brain boils up memories of him as a child playing those annoying whack a mole games at the fair.
In a instant of raw will the little woman reaches out and steps into Ulric's swing pressing the bolt gun firmly against his mask. He on the other hand feels a fast firm grip on his heart as if the world stopped to keep him in check, his arm reaches up to grab her but she was already well on the way to pressing the trigger. ...(ch-ch-ch..)
For whatever reason Ulric's world doesn't end and his arm comes up to grip around Angela's throat, pulling her out of the little hole and easily lifting her light weight over his body to slam her against the core console.
The little form in his hand starts thrashing in her best efforts to get him to let go.. ~This is my ship and this is my crew... you will pay for their deaths.. even if we both have to die!~ Ulric is quick to slam her against the console once again which easily drains her strength of any reprisal.
It was easy to tell that she was referring to the bomb several inches from her head and Ulric gives her a measured look of empathy before pulling his right arm back and cocking his shoulder. "If only your father could see you now..." The same flash of rage struck across her face like a bolt of lighting much as before, but in her condition she wasn't capable of much else then grumbled curses. "Now watch.. a bomb on a timer cannot detonate if it is missing one thing.." driving his arm into the device he dips his knuckles under the central components and rips out a small chunk, showing it to her. "Its timer.."
The digital readout on the screen slowly starts to blink away into nothing, only to return with a set of zero's with the word armed placed at the bottom. Dropping the timer and retrieving the bolt gun he gets back to her before she could react, sliding the firing mechanism back he can tell that the round didn't set right as to why it didn't fire earlier.
She looks at him with an amount of sheer terror in her eyes as he places the gun too her temple and slowly depresses the trigger.. ~You can't just kill me... no saving me? no trying to rescue my soul for my fathers sake?~
"No..." Ulric replies "People like you are the reason he died and are the sole ones responsible for that part of me dying years ago... but you are right.. I can't kill you."
His form relaxes for a moment as his grip slightly loosens, only for him to re seize her once more and pull Angela away from the console throwing her against support girder. He pins her once more against the frame and looks down on her.. "But I can't let you live either.." The amount of fear on her face is abundant but when Ulric pulls the trigger her scream over shadows most any other sound in that space.
When her eyes open she can feel the pain lighting her body on fire and looks over to see a bolt going into her left arm which is now pinning her too the beam.
Her eyes full of pain and tears she starts to scream at him barely stringing a sentence together..~You can't do this.. you bastard.. you haven't see the last of me and I will not let you get away with any of this. No matter where you go or what you do I will be there to...~ Ulric brings a left hook across her face to shut her up and the blank face with rolled back eyes is enough to show him that it had the desired effect.
He looks back towards the console and starts to form as much a plan as he can, which leads to him turning his comm back on him.. "Colter.. this is Ulric, we still have a bomb but its safe to say that the ship is ours nows.. please advise."
Jon
"We're probably being slightly jammed, the channels seemed to eerily quiet for otherwise," Jon answered. "As it so happened we did bring a data pad over, figured the damn AIs could handle the wetware better over than we could in trying to bring things back." He paused at the mention of a small fleet assembling just beyond the ship, "Sir, we won't leave anytime soon but I might be able to reach the ship with what air I have left if there's trouble on board. Otherwise give me an opening to an enemy ship and I'll tear it apart from the inside."
A.D.A.M.
ADAM shimmered into view at the summons and let TAU give its answers, "It's possible to send Max over and allow it to run the hostile fleet haywire if they can support an on-board AI." A series of numbers pulsed across his form as he did a quick parameter check, "At the very least the experience will be uncomfortable for our third and I will be in need of TAU to keep things synchronized. During the time we run this there is a very strong possibility that the ship will have to function without an AI, another strong possibility is permanent damage to the Salient's AI mainframe, a lesser possibility is a short in the power grid due to the increased need of our combined processing power."
"We're probably being slightly jammed, the channels seemed to eerily quiet for otherwise," Jon answered. "As it so happened we did bring a data pad over, figured the damn AIs could handle the wetware better over than we could in trying to bring things back." He paused at the mention of a small fleet assembling just beyond the ship, "Sir, we won't leave anytime soon but I might be able to reach the ship with what air I have left if there's trouble on board. Otherwise give me an opening to an enemy ship and I'll tear it apart from the inside."
A.D.A.M.
ADAM shimmered into view at the summons and let TAU give its answers, "It's possible to send Max over and allow it to run the hostile fleet haywire if they can support an on-board AI." A series of numbers pulsed across his form as he did a quick parameter check, "At the very least the experience will be uncomfortable for our third and I will be in need of TAU to keep things synchronized. During the time we run this there is a very strong possibility that the ship will have to function without an AI, another strong possibility is permanent damage to the Salient's AI mainframe, a lesser possibility is a short in the power grid due to the increased need of our combined processing power."
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Bridge
"Sir, the new AI may not be comfortable with Adam being along with him. He has developed the emotion of fear, connecting it to Adam.” T.A.U. paused in a nonchalant manner.
Fear? Aronimus was slightly startled by the mention of an A.I. having an emotion. He dismissed it as T.A.U. continued speaking.
“It may be best if I am at least partially there; to reassure Max that Adam is on the same team as him."
“Perhaps Tau, perhaps,” Aronimus still kept an eye on the encroaching fleet. Its numbers were slowly swelling as the larger ships came around the planet.
This time the channel to Captain Dunaway activated. "Sir, we won't leave anytime soon, but I might be able to reach the ship with what air I have left if there's trouble on board. Otherwise give me an opening to an enemy ship and I'll tear it apart from the inside."
“No that won’t be necessary Captain,” Aronimus had another plan of tearing the ship from the inside.
“Bring that datapad to the bridge of the ship, and await my instructions Captain,” Aronimus closed the channel for the time being and returned his attention to the A.I.s standing on his console, a result of the holographic projectors. A.D.A.M. was calculating the necessary power for the proposed undertaking of hacking the enemy’s systems.
“At the very least the experience will be uncomfortable for our third and I will be in need of T.A.U. to keep things synchronized. During the time we run this there is a very strong possibility that the ship will have to function without an A.I., another strong possibility is permanent damage to the Salient's A.I. mainframe, a lesser possibility is a short in the power grid due to the increased need of our combined processing power,” Aronimus nodded at A.D.A.M.’s calculations, before standing up with his arms crossed behind him.
He realized that the ship would be left open without a capable processor to manage the Salient’s multiple armaments and defensive systems. It would be best to leave A.D.A.M. behind to maintain the battlecruiser’s systems, while T.A.U. and the third A.I. attempted to infiltrate the hostile ships.
“Very well then, A.D.A.M. you’ll stay back and manage the ship, while T.A.U., you and the third A.I. hack their ships. Insert yourself through the communication channel directly to Captain Dunaway, there should be a datapad activated from which you can jump to. He’ll arrive in the bridge, and from there you can hack the bridge’s communications and try to get yourself in through their comm. channels. Understood?”
Fear? Aronimus was slightly startled by the mention of an A.I. having an emotion. He dismissed it as T.A.U. continued speaking.
“It may be best if I am at least partially there; to reassure Max that Adam is on the same team as him."
“Perhaps Tau, perhaps,” Aronimus still kept an eye on the encroaching fleet. Its numbers were slowly swelling as the larger ships came around the planet.
This time the channel to Captain Dunaway activated. "Sir, we won't leave anytime soon, but I might be able to reach the ship with what air I have left if there's trouble on board. Otherwise give me an opening to an enemy ship and I'll tear it apart from the inside."
“No that won’t be necessary Captain,” Aronimus had another plan of tearing the ship from the inside.
“Bring that datapad to the bridge of the ship, and await my instructions Captain,” Aronimus closed the channel for the time being and returned his attention to the A.I.s standing on his console, a result of the holographic projectors. A.D.A.M. was calculating the necessary power for the proposed undertaking of hacking the enemy’s systems.
“At the very least the experience will be uncomfortable for our third and I will be in need of T.A.U. to keep things synchronized. During the time we run this there is a very strong possibility that the ship will have to function without an A.I., another strong possibility is permanent damage to the Salient's A.I. mainframe, a lesser possibility is a short in the power grid due to the increased need of our combined processing power,” Aronimus nodded at A.D.A.M.’s calculations, before standing up with his arms crossed behind him.
He realized that the ship would be left open without a capable processor to manage the Salient’s multiple armaments and defensive systems. It would be best to leave A.D.A.M. behind to maintain the battlecruiser’s systems, while T.A.U. and the third A.I. attempted to infiltrate the hostile ships.
“Very well then, A.D.A.M. you’ll stay back and manage the ship, while T.A.U., you and the third A.I. hack their ships. Insert yourself through the communication channel directly to Captain Dunaway, there should be a datapad activated from which you can jump to. He’ll arrive in the bridge, and from there you can hack the bridge’s communications and try to get yourself in through their comm. channels. Understood?”
The setting changes from Bridge to The Milky Way Universe
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Silver Eye's Command Ship
The calm before the storm, that's what stage they were at, many people were tense right now and it was to be expected, the greatest worry was morale right now. Even though he had done the impossible and united the pirate's he still was beginning to sense that they were somewhat more aware than he first suspected. It didn't help that Courtney had sent a coded message a few moments ago, warning she was about to be captured. This fleet was amassed from the best Captain's he could have ever gotten. But the Salient compared to the other ships was more modern, and probably had few tricks. Turning on the intercom he spoke again, "Brothers and sisters I speak now as a man, not your Captain, the odds seem to be in our favour, but don't complacency be our downfall, double check everything."
With that he turned off the intercom and turned to the A.I
"Miranda, do you think we can win."
The female form did nothing for a while, but stare, then opened her eyes, "Silver Eyes, the odds of us winning are in favour. Although, my calculations suggest we should know we will lose at most half of this fleet."
Staring in horror he replied, "How is that even possible?"
"I input many scenarios, and though the odds are in our favour, having been programmed with Art of War by Sun Tzu, I say this is where our enemy is most dangerous. My suggestion is focus fire on the weaker vessels."
Feeling a little confused, he simply listened.
"This will allow the more dangerous targets to be destroyed. I also suggest de-activating the bombs, they could be used against us."
Nodding sagely, Silver Eyes considered, "Opening a com he saw that his man was still there, little worse for wear, but alive.
"Clayton deactivate the bomb, and get off the ship if you can. The plan has changed."
With that he turned back to A.I, "Thank you Miranda, I didn't consider that."
She tried to smile, but failed, "I'm glad to help Silver Eyes."
Sighing he rubbed his temple, now to just get his surrogate daughter back, but how?
The calm before the storm, that's what stage they were at, many people were tense right now and it was to be expected, the greatest worry was morale right now. Even though he had done the impossible and united the pirate's he still was beginning to sense that they were somewhat more aware than he first suspected. It didn't help that Courtney had sent a coded message a few moments ago, warning she was about to be captured. This fleet was amassed from the best Captain's he could have ever gotten. But the Salient compared to the other ships was more modern, and probably had few tricks. Turning on the intercom he spoke again, "Brothers and sisters I speak now as a man, not your Captain, the odds seem to be in our favour, but don't complacency be our downfall, double check everything."
With that he turned off the intercom and turned to the A.I
"Miranda, do you think we can win."
The female form did nothing for a while, but stare, then opened her eyes, "Silver Eyes, the odds of us winning are in favour. Although, my calculations suggest we should know we will lose at most half of this fleet."
Staring in horror he replied, "How is that even possible?"
"I input many scenarios, and though the odds are in our favour, having been programmed with Art of War by Sun Tzu, I say this is where our enemy is most dangerous. My suggestion is focus fire on the weaker vessels."
Feeling a little confused, he simply listened.
"This will allow the more dangerous targets to be destroyed. I also suggest de-activating the bombs, they could be used against us."
Nodding sagely, Silver Eyes considered, "Opening a com he saw that his man was still there, little worse for wear, but alive.
"Clayton deactivate the bomb, and get off the ship if you can. The plan has changed."
With that he turned back to A.I, "Thank you Miranda, I didn't consider that."
She tried to smile, but failed, "I'm glad to help Silver Eyes."
Sighing he rubbed his temple, now to just get his surrogate daughter back, but how?
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"This is Elizabeth Waltz, does anyone read??" She said sounding a distress beacon over all open radio channels. "Repeat, this is Elizabeth Waltz, on board a pirate craft. Any near-by vessels, do you read?"
Again and again she repeated the message, waiting and praying that someone would answer her with each sentence she sent out. She started to feel more and more alone, and that she would be lost here in space forever.
(OOC: Sorry for the short post... But... Theres nothing else for me to really say >_>)
Again and again she repeated the message, waiting and praying that someone would answer her with each sentence she sent out. She started to feel more and more alone, and that she would be lost here in space forever.
(OOC: Sorry for the short post... But... Theres nothing else for me to really say >_>)
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Hangar
“Colter…this is Ulric, we still have a bomb, but it’s safe to say that the ship is ours now…please advise."
Bravo team had detached from Ray’s gunship after they had successfully docked in the hangar. The hangar crews were quickly attending the craft’s engines, while Ray sat a bit awkwardly comfortable in his seat in the cockpit. Eli distanced himself from the others, who ran directly to the barracks; he stayed behind in the hangar though. At the present moment, there were only a few crews attending the hangar, it seemed as though word had not reached many ears about the impending battle. Perhaps the admiral was waiting for the pirates to make the first strike, thereby alerting the crews of the situation.
“What the hell? Ulric, did you diffuse the bomb or something?” Eli walked over to a private corner so that the crews wouldn’t over hear him.
He pressed a key on his gauntlet’s holographic interface. The haptic system quickly retracted the pressure seals, as they unlatched from the armor’s junctures. As the seals pulled away, a hiss of air followed as the contained oxygen slowly spread outward from the little openings in his suit. The latches on Eli’s collar pulled away from his helmet, allowing him to take it.
As he took his helmet off, it revealed his face, and his head covered by the black tactical beanie, which he wore most of the time. Rarely had anyone seen his hair, aside from higher up officers who demanded that officers at his level show some respect, whether it was in the field, or a court martial. However, he made it clear that his hair was a simple military grade buzz cut that didn’t warrant any interest. He looked, fairly different with the helmet off, others could tell now as they saw his face was barely dry. It was the synthetic hormone coursing through his veins and arteries that was the cause of this.
“That ship was damaged, you can’t pilot it, and even if you could, what could you do with it?”
Bravo team had detached from Ray’s gunship after they had successfully docked in the hangar. The hangar crews were quickly attending the craft’s engines, while Ray sat a bit awkwardly comfortable in his seat in the cockpit. Eli distanced himself from the others, who ran directly to the barracks; he stayed behind in the hangar though. At the present moment, there were only a few crews attending the hangar, it seemed as though word had not reached many ears about the impending battle. Perhaps the admiral was waiting for the pirates to make the first strike, thereby alerting the crews of the situation.
“What the hell? Ulric, did you diffuse the bomb or something?” Eli walked over to a private corner so that the crews wouldn’t over hear him.
He pressed a key on his gauntlet’s holographic interface. The haptic system quickly retracted the pressure seals, as they unlatched from the armor’s junctures. As the seals pulled away, a hiss of air followed as the contained oxygen slowly spread outward from the little openings in his suit. The latches on Eli’s collar pulled away from his helmet, allowing him to take it.
As he took his helmet off, it revealed his face, and his head covered by the black tactical beanie, which he wore most of the time. Rarely had anyone seen his hair, aside from higher up officers who demanded that officers at his level show some respect, whether it was in the field, or a court martial. However, he made it clear that his hair was a simple military grade buzz cut that didn’t warrant any interest. He looked, fairly different with the helmet off, others could tell now as they saw his face was barely dry. It was the synthetic hormone coursing through his veins and arteries that was the cause of this.
“That ship was damaged, you can’t pilot it, and even if you could, what could you do with it?”
The setting changes from Hangar to F.S.S. Salient
The armada of brigands was now in full view before the plexi glass viewports of the Salient’s bridge. Although most of the crew was at their stations, each person stole a mere glimpse at the storm that would come upon them. By the conduct of war, an outnumbered force should be given the option of surrender. Despite the fact that Silver Eyes was a former Federation Admiral, he was a pirate now, and whether or not he chose to abide by those laws did not matter for he wasn’t a lawful combatant under the articles of war.
Silver Eyes wouldn’t have asked the Salient to surrender, and its executive officer, Aronimus, wouldn’t have surrendered. The fleet eyed the single Federation ship with impunity, before the lighter craft increased their traveling speeds. They began to swoop in bunches towards the Salient, all the while their larger brethren began to converge upon the single ship.
Aronimus stood by the railings that separated the Captain’s platform, which was slightly elevated before the rest of the bridge, standing out prominently. It allowed ship Captains to direct and oversee personnel from that perched position. His posture, remained ramrod erect, unflinching, and void of fear.
Aronimus rotated his head to face his desk, as A.D.A.M. remained present on the holographic projector. The A.I. itself was observing the fleet, all the while running multitudes of calculations inside the ship’s datastream.
“Adam,” the Admiral said.
“Prepare the ion blasters,” Aronimus curved his view back to the squadrons of fighter ships coming in bound.
He decided to let A.D.A.M. handle the point-defense systems rather than let the Salient’s own fighter complement go toe to toe against the more numerous enemy. The blasters were sheathed behind metallic plating that slid apart to reveal the many little cannons. These armaments could wipe out most of the incoming fighters with A.D.A.M. guiding their trajectories, he would not waste a drop of the ship's energy. This would allow the Admiral to utilize his fighter pilots at peak efficiency when the right moment came to send his wings out to hammer the enemy.
And so they came. The pirate fighters began to glide seamlessly, despite their ragged look compared to the sleeker and newer Federation fighters. Twin blasters from beneath their wings jetted little beams of energy at the Salient’s outer plating.
Aronimus decided to hold off on firing the ion cannons until the bulk of the fighters began to swirl around the Salient. They weaved in and out beneath and above the Salient, attacking whatever they could to damage the ship. They did not realize that the neo-steel plating of the Salient accepted these hits with ease. No damage was shown where damage was done.
Inside the bridge, and perhaps the rest of the ship, the crew did not feel a thing. They only heard little echoes pervading the thick plating every now and then. The bridge crew knew it was the pirate fighters; the majority of the ship did not however. Perhaps a few engineers and technicians working in the hangars saw the pirates swoop past the particle fielding that blocked out vacuum, or a few crew members were at the observation decks staring at the stars, only to have their view cut in half by a gliding ship.
Silver Eyes wouldn’t have asked the Salient to surrender, and its executive officer, Aronimus, wouldn’t have surrendered. The fleet eyed the single Federation ship with impunity, before the lighter craft increased their traveling speeds. They began to swoop in bunches towards the Salient, all the while their larger brethren began to converge upon the single ship.
Aronimus stood by the railings that separated the Captain’s platform, which was slightly elevated before the rest of the bridge, standing out prominently. It allowed ship Captains to direct and oversee personnel from that perched position. His posture, remained ramrod erect, unflinching, and void of fear.
Aronimus rotated his head to face his desk, as A.D.A.M. remained present on the holographic projector. The A.I. itself was observing the fleet, all the while running multitudes of calculations inside the ship’s datastream.
“Adam,” the Admiral said.
“Prepare the ion blasters,” Aronimus curved his view back to the squadrons of fighter ships coming in bound.
He decided to let A.D.A.M. handle the point-defense systems rather than let the Salient’s own fighter complement go toe to toe against the more numerous enemy. The blasters were sheathed behind metallic plating that slid apart to reveal the many little cannons. These armaments could wipe out most of the incoming fighters with A.D.A.M. guiding their trajectories, he would not waste a drop of the ship's energy. This would allow the Admiral to utilize his fighter pilots at peak efficiency when the right moment came to send his wings out to hammer the enemy.
And so they came. The pirate fighters began to glide seamlessly, despite their ragged look compared to the sleeker and newer Federation fighters. Twin blasters from beneath their wings jetted little beams of energy at the Salient’s outer plating.
Aronimus decided to hold off on firing the ion cannons until the bulk of the fighters began to swirl around the Salient. They weaved in and out beneath and above the Salient, attacking whatever they could to damage the ship. They did not realize that the neo-steel plating of the Salient accepted these hits with ease. No damage was shown where damage was done.
Inside the bridge, and perhaps the rest of the ship, the crew did not feel a thing. They only heard little echoes pervading the thick plating every now and then. The bridge crew knew it was the pirate fighters; the majority of the ship did not however. Perhaps a few engineers and technicians working in the hangars saw the pirates swoop past the particle fielding that blocked out vacuum, or a few crew members were at the observation decks staring at the stars, only to have their view cut in half by a gliding ship.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
AI TAU
Tau nodded to the Admiral and disappeared. He brought himself together beside Max. "Okay Max, the Admiral has agreed to let you hack the enemy ship with me helping out. We'll be going about it slightly differently though" he says. "We will transfer to a datapad of one of our soldiers on the disabled enemy vessel, he will get us to the bridge and we will hack into the other pirate vessels though their own systems". Tau connects to the communications system and gets a lock on Commander Dunaway's Datapad. "Follow me" he says to Max, sending himself through the array to the pad and leaving the trail for Max to follow. He kept the signal lock going from the other side. Meanwhile, he accessed the speaker in the Commander's helmet, "Hello Commander, this is the AI Tau of the Salient, myself and one other AI have been given orders from the Admiral to transfer ourselves to the Bridge Computers of this damaged vessel so that we can infiltrate the enemy." he says calmly. "We were suggested to hitch a ride on your Datapad, if that is alright" he said, knowing it didn't matter if it was alright with the Commander, it was an Order from the Admiral, he had to comply.
Tau nodded to the Admiral and disappeared. He brought himself together beside Max. "Okay Max, the Admiral has agreed to let you hack the enemy ship with me helping out. We'll be going about it slightly differently though" he says. "We will transfer to a datapad of one of our soldiers on the disabled enemy vessel, he will get us to the bridge and we will hack into the other pirate vessels though their own systems". Tau connects to the communications system and gets a lock on Commander Dunaway's Datapad. "Follow me" he says to Max, sending himself through the array to the pad and leaving the trail for Max to follow. He kept the signal lock going from the other side. Meanwhile, he accessed the speaker in the Commander's helmet, "Hello Commander, this is the AI Tau of the Salient, myself and one other AI have been given orders from the Admiral to transfer ourselves to the Bridge Computers of this damaged vessel so that we can infiltrate the enemy." he says calmly. "We were suggested to hitch a ride on your Datapad, if that is alright" he said, knowing it didn't matter if it was alright with the Commander, it was an Order from the Admiral, he had to comply.
Jon
"On it,"Jon had already begun to head to the bridge of the vessel when the Admiral told him to stand by. By his clock, he was behind schedule because lately the doors he'd encountered had been locked. With utter lack of subtlety, he'd used his suit's power to simply tear the doors down. Miraculously the ship turned out to be as empty as it seemed. He ran into a serious problem at the bridge door, it was sealed and big enough where simply smashing through wouldn't be possible. "If you can, I'd advise trying things from here, no guarantee about opening this door." He picked up a floating slice of metal as he spoke and wedged it into the door. Hopefully with the added leverage he'd be able to pry open the door enough to squeeze through.
"On it,"Jon had already begun to head to the bridge of the vessel when the Admiral told him to stand by. By his clock, he was behind schedule because lately the doors he'd encountered had been locked. With utter lack of subtlety, he'd used his suit's power to simply tear the doors down. Miraculously the ship turned out to be as empty as it seemed. He ran into a serious problem at the bridge door, it was sealed and big enough where simply smashing through wouldn't be possible. "If you can, I'd advise trying things from here, no guarantee about opening this door." He picked up a floating slice of metal as he spoke and wedged it into the door. Hopefully with the added leverage he'd be able to pry open the door enough to squeeze through.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Hangar
Before Eli could get a response from Ulric, there was a click in the comm. channel, forcing Eli to pick up the call.
The voice of a young woman filled the air around the comm. unit. "This is Elizabeth Waltz, does anyone read?" There was a gap in the transmission.
"Repeat, this is Elizabeth Waltz, on board a pirate craft. Any nearby vessels, do you read?"
Eli paused, that name sounded so familiar. As Eli looked on, he noticed a label on the underbelly of a resting fighter craft. The label had the word “Waltz” on it. Of course, she was the daughter of the deceased CEO of the Waltz Corporation. Her name was literally plastered throughout the news during the time of his death, which was approximately around the same time the Salient departed from Rust City, Mars.
Her sudden presence puzzled Eli, who wondered what the heiress of a multi-trillion dollar corporation was doing out here in the middle rim worlds…on a pirate vessel?
There was a girl with me…Elizabeth, if I can't make it then she becomes priority.
Eli understood now, she was the other prisoner that Ulric referred to. He quickly dispatched a response in case her channel might die.
“This is Captain Colter, United Federation Marine of the F.S.S. Salient. You were the other prisoner on board the pirate frigate? Never mind that now, our ship is directly in view just fly to it I’ll tell the guys at control to let you have clearance. You might wanna’ hurry; more pirates are on the horizon.” And with that, Eli closed the comm. and resumed Ulric’s channel as he walked to the control room of the Salient’s hangars.
In a couple of minutes he was in the domed room superstructure which rested at the very top of the Salient’s hull. The dome regulated all incoming and outgoing traffic through the hangars, by monitoring docking speeds. Should a ship come in too fast, they would have to throttle down in order to dock in the hangar otherwise they might collide with other inactive fighters and gunships. If not that then they would have to spin and do a go around and attempt to re dock in the hangars on the opposite side of the Salient.
As Eli stepped into the room, he saw that everyone was on their feet rushing back and forth. The control dome realized that they were under attack, and they were prepping the fighters or scrambling them on a second’s notice.
“Ah Captain, what can I do for you?” a gruff looking man with a grizzled chin, probably in his forties, approached Eli toting a warm smile. He was the control director, Victor Keschek, and he had known Eli from the start of the trip, as he was one of the first crew members aboard alongside the Admiral. Command had handpicked a number of experienced officers to keep the recruits in line on this mission. Victor and Eli shook hands for a bit before the Captain got to the point.
“How you doin’ Vic? I’ve got Elizabeth Waltz coming in on a pirate craft, she’ll need clearance,” At the mention of her name, Victor scoffed as if the Captain was playing a joke on him, but then he saw Eli’s countenance and realized he wasn’t kidding.
His mouth dropped agape, “THE Elizabeth Waltz? The one from Waltz Enterprises?” he scrambled over to the control console, “What the hell is she doing out here?” he pressed some keys on the haptic interface that glowed into being when he approached it.
“She was prisoner aboard the frigate I was sent to clear. Chances are she might have been abducted by these bastards.” Eli’s face descended into a scowl as he thought about those words.
Victor glanced at Eli “Yeah, no kidding, they were probably going to ransom her. She commands the entire fortune of the company, anybody with that kind of wealth is bound to have some enemies, and maybe some captors...”
The voice of a young woman filled the air around the comm. unit. "This is Elizabeth Waltz, does anyone read?" There was a gap in the transmission.
"Repeat, this is Elizabeth Waltz, on board a pirate craft. Any nearby vessels, do you read?"
Eli paused, that name sounded so familiar. As Eli looked on, he noticed a label on the underbelly of a resting fighter craft. The label had the word “Waltz” on it. Of course, she was the daughter of the deceased CEO of the Waltz Corporation. Her name was literally plastered throughout the news during the time of his death, which was approximately around the same time the Salient departed from Rust City, Mars.
Her sudden presence puzzled Eli, who wondered what the heiress of a multi-trillion dollar corporation was doing out here in the middle rim worlds…on a pirate vessel?
There was a girl with me…Elizabeth, if I can't make it then she becomes priority.
Eli understood now, she was the other prisoner that Ulric referred to. He quickly dispatched a response in case her channel might die.
“This is Captain Colter, United Federation Marine of the F.S.S. Salient. You were the other prisoner on board the pirate frigate? Never mind that now, our ship is directly in view just fly to it I’ll tell the guys at control to let you have clearance. You might wanna’ hurry; more pirates are on the horizon.” And with that, Eli closed the comm. and resumed Ulric’s channel as he walked to the control room of the Salient’s hangars.
In a couple of minutes he was in the domed room superstructure which rested at the very top of the Salient’s hull. The dome regulated all incoming and outgoing traffic through the hangars, by monitoring docking speeds. Should a ship come in too fast, they would have to throttle down in order to dock in the hangar otherwise they might collide with other inactive fighters and gunships. If not that then they would have to spin and do a go around and attempt to re dock in the hangars on the opposite side of the Salient.
As Eli stepped into the room, he saw that everyone was on their feet rushing back and forth. The control dome realized that they were under attack, and they were prepping the fighters or scrambling them on a second’s notice.
“Ah Captain, what can I do for you?” a gruff looking man with a grizzled chin, probably in his forties, approached Eli toting a warm smile. He was the control director, Victor Keschek, and he had known Eli from the start of the trip, as he was one of the first crew members aboard alongside the Admiral. Command had handpicked a number of experienced officers to keep the recruits in line on this mission. Victor and Eli shook hands for a bit before the Captain got to the point.
“How you doin’ Vic? I’ve got Elizabeth Waltz coming in on a pirate craft, she’ll need clearance,” At the mention of her name, Victor scoffed as if the Captain was playing a joke on him, but then he saw Eli’s countenance and realized he wasn’t kidding.
His mouth dropped agape, “THE Elizabeth Waltz? The one from Waltz Enterprises?” he scrambled over to the control console, “What the hell is she doing out here?” he pressed some keys on the haptic interface that glowed into being when he approached it.
“She was prisoner aboard the frigate I was sent to clear. Chances are she might have been abducted by these bastards.” Eli’s face descended into a scowl as he thought about those words.
Victor glanced at Eli “Yeah, no kidding, they were probably going to ransom her. She commands the entire fortune of the company, anybody with that kind of wealth is bound to have some enemies, and maybe some captors...”
The setting changes from Hangar to The Milky Way Universe
Ulric Kercheskoi
Second Pirate Frigate: Core
“What the hell? Ulric, did you diffuse the bomb or something?”
Uric caught Colter's last message but was in the middle of cramming his commands on the cores console, to the best of his abilities he could only manage several basic functions. Eventually he could cycle doors and outside airlocks, even going far enough to restore the ship to nearly fifty percent power.
Doing his best not to cross wires he keeps the comm open on all channels hoping to hear something new, only to start being annoyed by a sound emanating from the back of the compartment. He didn't have to guess what was ringing out over the hum of the other machinery. The little trickle of blood coming from his lone captive was starting to form a small puddle that made a slight dripping noise every few seconds.
But still he trudges on with his work restoring any other systems he could, during which he did manage to restore full gravity control and the ship begins to slightly list back into its upright position.
"Repeat, this is Elizabeth Waltz, on board a pirate craft. Any nearby vessels, do you read?" his hands stopped for a moment when he heard Elizabeth's message come through and in that instant he considered responding too it in some hopes of reassuring her but Colter's own response came quicker then his decision.
“This is Captain Colter, United Federation Marine of the F.S.S. Salient. You were the other prisoner on board the pirate frigate? Never mind that now, our ship is directly in view just fly to it I’ll tell the guys at control to let you have clearance. You might wanna’ hurry; more pirates are on the horizon.”
"Hmm... more pirates?" Ulric thought too himself has he stood at the controls and opened the display cycling through views of the surrounding space, then that was when he caught it. Several small glimmers of plating on the horizon towards a far away asteroid belt. His eyes could make out the silhouettes of several vessels making out a phalanx of ships, but he didn't see the one thing that was missing in his eyes. There was no flag ship to be seen with the group and so he thought that it was only hanging back far enough to avoid detection. Either way he could tell that was still a sizable fleet with a strange bodging together of different ship types and that in itself was a cause of worry for him.
Ulric brought his eyes back too the bomb and looked once again too the screen, beginning to formulate a plan in his mind and that caused a grin a cross his lips. He set the timer back on top of the casing and began to interlace wires back into its system taking a moment to dial the numbers back up to allow for more time and soon the device was counting back down.
Ulric locked the casing back down and grabbed up his gun, placing another clip back in and chambered the first round. He looked down and switched his comm back over to Colters.. "Colter no time to wait for your response but your going to see movement from the frigate in thirty seconds and I would advise against getting close or barring its path.. don't really know what else could set this thing off."
As he finished the message he started the timer and started a systems countdown on the frigates drive, this would cause the ship to starting propelling itself on a set course.
Second Pirate Frigate: Core
“What the hell? Ulric, did you diffuse the bomb or something?”
Uric caught Colter's last message but was in the middle of cramming his commands on the cores console, to the best of his abilities he could only manage several basic functions. Eventually he could cycle doors and outside airlocks, even going far enough to restore the ship to nearly fifty percent power.
Doing his best not to cross wires he keeps the comm open on all channels hoping to hear something new, only to start being annoyed by a sound emanating from the back of the compartment. He didn't have to guess what was ringing out over the hum of the other machinery. The little trickle of blood coming from his lone captive was starting to form a small puddle that made a slight dripping noise every few seconds.
But still he trudges on with his work restoring any other systems he could, during which he did manage to restore full gravity control and the ship begins to slightly list back into its upright position.
"Repeat, this is Elizabeth Waltz, on board a pirate craft. Any nearby vessels, do you read?" his hands stopped for a moment when he heard Elizabeth's message come through and in that instant he considered responding too it in some hopes of reassuring her but Colter's own response came quicker then his decision.
“This is Captain Colter, United Federation Marine of the F.S.S. Salient. You were the other prisoner on board the pirate frigate? Never mind that now, our ship is directly in view just fly to it I’ll tell the guys at control to let you have clearance. You might wanna’ hurry; more pirates are on the horizon.”
"Hmm... more pirates?" Ulric thought too himself has he stood at the controls and opened the display cycling through views of the surrounding space, then that was when he caught it. Several small glimmers of plating on the horizon towards a far away asteroid belt. His eyes could make out the silhouettes of several vessels making out a phalanx of ships, but he didn't see the one thing that was missing in his eyes. There was no flag ship to be seen with the group and so he thought that it was only hanging back far enough to avoid detection. Either way he could tell that was still a sizable fleet with a strange bodging together of different ship types and that in itself was a cause of worry for him.
Ulric brought his eyes back too the bomb and looked once again too the screen, beginning to formulate a plan in his mind and that caused a grin a cross his lips. He set the timer back on top of the casing and began to interlace wires back into its system taking a moment to dial the numbers back up to allow for more time and soon the device was counting back down.
Ulric locked the casing back down and grabbed up his gun, placing another clip back in and chambered the first round. He looked down and switched his comm back over to Colters.. "Colter no time to wait for your response but your going to see movement from the frigate in thirty seconds and I would advise against getting close or barring its path.. don't really know what else could set this thing off."
As he finished the message he started the timer and started a systems countdown on the frigates drive, this would cause the ship to starting propelling itself on a set course.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Bridge
“Yes Summerwind, this is Salient, we’ve spotted the pirates. I suggest you try to clear the area, they might still be after your Duillium cargo.”
Alright, understood. Summerwind out.
The Admiral would’ve walked down to the very fore end of the bridge, and observe the pirate fleet directly, but he much rather enjoyed his position on the Captain’s platform. Navigator Summer was typing away on his own screen, while petty officer Hansen and JG Napier were monitoring the pirate fleet. A beep alerted him of an incoming message, to which he strode over to his desk and pressed a key on the holographic interface.
The rectangular screens were light blue as a result of the holographic projector’s LED lights; they dispersed once the Admiral had pressed the key. A screen then came into full view, projecting Atomsk’s face before the Admiral’s.
“Admiral Weston,” the Commander paused briefly to allow the Admiral to acknowledge him with a response.
“Yes, Commander Dunaway what is it?”
“We’ve detained the infiltrator; she’s currently being guarded in the Barracks. She’s unconscious as a result of my stun pistol, but I ordered some medical personnel to give her a look. They said she’ll come out of it in half an hour.”
“Excellent work, Commander.” Aronimus would’ve smiled, but he felt it wasn’t prudent do so at such a time.
“Sir, may I ask for your permission to interrogate her?” Aronimus paused for a moment, rubbing his chin, before he responded.
“No, I want to let Lieutenant Commander Chen interrogate the prisoner. Her experience on board the Nottingham may prove useful in extracting information from the infiltrator.”
“I understand sir,” Aronimus was expecting Atomsk to close the comm, “I also have some more news...” Atomsk’s face suddenly turned grave.
“Go on.” The Admiral decided to take a seat upon seeing his face.
“We had several casualties…” Atomsk paused, he would’ve grabbed a cigarette, but it was against protocol to do so before the Admiral. Even if Atomsk had no regard for rules, he still respected Aronimus, admired him even, to follow protocol, at least in his presence.
Aronimus responded with a face that darkened in expression, his features seemed to be crushed beneath the weight of his eyebrows as they dug in.
“One of my Marines, and two Naval crew personnel were killed along the generator corridors by the infiltrator.” The Admiral rubbed both his temples with a single hand for a moment, before returning to the conference.
“I also have reason to suspect that the infiltrator sabotaged some of our generators. One of our turbines in generator room F was working out of sync with the others, blinking and flickering at will. I called some engineers down; they should be checking the system out now. Just to be safe, I also asked them to give a look at the main generator. Hopefully she didn’t damage our trans-light drives.”
“Very well, Commander. I must commend you on your celerity of action. Is there anything else?”
"No sir." Atomsk replied solemnly.
"Alright then. Admiral Weston out." The Admiral pressed a key on the holographic haptic interface, cutting the channel. He then returned to his post by the railings, overseeing the crew and observing the movements of the hostile fleet.
As of now the larger ships, the frigates, and destroyers, began to move closer. They launched their early salvos at the Salient, which did little to no damage at all, similar to the attempts of their fighter craft earlier. Their fighters were still zooming in and around the Salient trying to prick away at the double reinforced hull of the advanced warship. Unlike the fighter craft, the salvos of the larger ships however, shook the Salient. This automatically activated the klaxons. JG Napier voiced over the comm as the blaring red lights shone and fade throughout the corridors and passageways.
This is not a drill, repeat, this is not a drill.
"That should wake them up..." Aronimus thought to himself.
Alright, understood. Summerwind out.
The Admiral would’ve walked down to the very fore end of the bridge, and observe the pirate fleet directly, but he much rather enjoyed his position on the Captain’s platform. Navigator Summer was typing away on his own screen, while petty officer Hansen and JG Napier were monitoring the pirate fleet. A beep alerted him of an incoming message, to which he strode over to his desk and pressed a key on the holographic interface.
The rectangular screens were light blue as a result of the holographic projector’s LED lights; they dispersed once the Admiral had pressed the key. A screen then came into full view, projecting Atomsk’s face before the Admiral’s.
“Admiral Weston,” the Commander paused briefly to allow the Admiral to acknowledge him with a response.
“Yes, Commander Dunaway what is it?”
“We’ve detained the infiltrator; she’s currently being guarded in the Barracks. She’s unconscious as a result of my stun pistol, but I ordered some medical personnel to give her a look. They said she’ll come out of it in half an hour.”
“Excellent work, Commander.” Aronimus would’ve smiled, but he felt it wasn’t prudent do so at such a time.
“Sir, may I ask for your permission to interrogate her?” Aronimus paused for a moment, rubbing his chin, before he responded.
“No, I want to let Lieutenant Commander Chen interrogate the prisoner. Her experience on board the Nottingham may prove useful in extracting information from the infiltrator.”
“I understand sir,” Aronimus was expecting Atomsk to close the comm, “I also have some more news...” Atomsk’s face suddenly turned grave.
“Go on.” The Admiral decided to take a seat upon seeing his face.
“We had several casualties…” Atomsk paused, he would’ve grabbed a cigarette, but it was against protocol to do so before the Admiral. Even if Atomsk had no regard for rules, he still respected Aronimus, admired him even, to follow protocol, at least in his presence.
Aronimus responded with a face that darkened in expression, his features seemed to be crushed beneath the weight of his eyebrows as they dug in.
“One of my Marines, and two Naval crew personnel were killed along the generator corridors by the infiltrator.” The Admiral rubbed both his temples with a single hand for a moment, before returning to the conference.
“I also have reason to suspect that the infiltrator sabotaged some of our generators. One of our turbines in generator room F was working out of sync with the others, blinking and flickering at will. I called some engineers down; they should be checking the system out now. Just to be safe, I also asked them to give a look at the main generator. Hopefully she didn’t damage our trans-light drives.”
“Very well, Commander. I must commend you on your celerity of action. Is there anything else?”
"No sir." Atomsk replied solemnly.
"Alright then. Admiral Weston out." The Admiral pressed a key on the holographic haptic interface, cutting the channel. He then returned to his post by the railings, overseeing the crew and observing the movements of the hostile fleet.
As of now the larger ships, the frigates, and destroyers, began to move closer. They launched their early salvos at the Salient, which did little to no damage at all, similar to the attempts of their fighter craft earlier. Their fighters were still zooming in and around the Salient trying to prick away at the double reinforced hull of the advanced warship. Unlike the fighter craft, the salvos of the larger ships however, shook the Salient. This automatically activated the klaxons. JG Napier voiced over the comm as the blaring red lights shone and fade throughout the corridors and passageways.
This is not a drill, repeat, this is not a drill.
"That should wake them up..." Aronimus thought to himself.
The setting changes from Bridge to The Milky Way Universe
Max
Max started his hack attempt. He used the connection, and successfully hacked into the systems. Although, even inside the systems, everything was locked down and encrypted, like going through the front gate into the front yard of a house and walking UP to the front door. You are on the property, you just need to enter the house. He began hacking into the systems. Trying to overload some. Draining power from others. Venting all the heat into the bridge. Resetting navigation computers to have ships and fighters and such would crash into each other. And Max was trying to access all of it, mess up everything..
And he was learning as well. Adapting.
Max started his hack attempt. He used the connection, and successfully hacked into the systems. Although, even inside the systems, everything was locked down and encrypted, like going through the front gate into the front yard of a house and walking UP to the front door. You are on the property, you just need to enter the house. He began hacking into the systems. Trying to overload some. Draining power from others. Venting all the heat into the bridge. Resetting navigation computers to have ships and fighters and such would crash into each other. And Max was trying to access all of it, mess up everything..
And he was learning as well. Adapting.
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Around planet Themos V
At first, it seemed as though the Salient seemed impregnable, but slowly…Silver Eyes’s armada began to tear away at the ship
Hey Kon, this is like shootin’ ducks in barrel, a pirate quipped over the intercom of his fighter ship. He was snuggled in his seat, monitoring the view in front of him as he maneuvered his fighter in a swift strafing run over the Salient.
Several guffaws came over the channel, ’Shootin’ ducks in a barrel?’ When the hell did you get so country?
We’re pirates, besides I like to pick shit up. The pirates weren’t exactly ones to keep the comm. channels clear of unimportant traffic, and if it was important, it certainly wasn’t formal.
Mmh, yeah, complete shit. A female voice came through.
Ah, leave the dumbass alone, I think it makes him sound kinda’ smart.
The female voice laughed at the notion, Kon, you catch that last one?
Woo wee, that one went over my head, girl. Look man, we’re pirates, not hillbillies.
Yeah, you’re right, we should be saying ‘ar’, and ‘yar’, and ‘matey.’ the pirate responded to his comrades.
There was a pause, before Kon responded, Yeah I think you read too much.
Hey, anybody notice that this Fed ship hasn’t been dented yet? We've been flyin' around for almost half an hour trying to knick this thing inquired one of the pirates.
Yeah, odd shit. It’s made of steel, thicker ‘n steel actually, but it’s a Navy ship, why ain’t it firin’?
At first, it seemed as though the Salient seemed impregnable, but slowly…Silver Eyes’s armada began to tear away at the ship
Hey Kon, this is like shootin’ ducks in barrel, a pirate quipped over the intercom of his fighter ship. He was snuggled in his seat, monitoring the view in front of him as he maneuvered his fighter in a swift strafing run over the Salient.
Several guffaws came over the channel, ’Shootin’ ducks in a barrel?’ When the hell did you get so country?
We’re pirates, besides I like to pick shit up. The pirates weren’t exactly ones to keep the comm. channels clear of unimportant traffic, and if it was important, it certainly wasn’t formal.
Mmh, yeah, complete shit. A female voice came through.
Ah, leave the dumbass alone, I think it makes him sound kinda’ smart.
The female voice laughed at the notion, Kon, you catch that last one?
Woo wee, that one went over my head, girl. Look man, we’re pirates, not hillbillies.
Yeah, you’re right, we should be saying ‘ar’, and ‘yar’, and ‘matey.’ the pirate responded to his comrades.
There was a pause, before Kon responded, Yeah I think you read too much.
Hey, anybody notice that this Fed ship hasn’t been dented yet? We've been flyin' around for almost half an hour trying to knick this thing inquired one of the pirates.
Yeah, odd shit. It’s made of steel, thicker ‘n steel actually, but it’s a Navy ship, why ain’t it firin’?
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
It took a little bit but Eon was finally fixed and complete. He stood up feeling his body seem new and fresh. "thank you." he robotically said with a bow he shot back up hearing the ship take hits from the pirates. He looks at the two mechanics and runs off towards the bridge to offer assistance. As he was running he picked up a pirate signal for a brief moment of surfing through the channels, 'they're just talking on an unencrypted channel?!' he thought, 'that's a bit odd...' he continued to the bridge and finally got there, "sorry I am late I had a major system malfunction and was under repair." Eon said as he walked towards the captain in case he's needed.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to Hangar
After spending only 30 mins on the coms, she got a response. “This is Captain Colter, United Federation Marine of the F.S.S. Salient. You were the other prisoner on board the pirate frigate? Never mind that now, our ship is directly in view just fly to it I’ll tell the guys at control to let you have clearance. You might wanna’ hurry; more pirates are on the horizon.” With a gasp, she fallowed the captains orders and took the controls of the small shuttle, soon finding the Salient only a few miles away.
Slowly she inched the ship towards the larger one. Since the ship was a shuttle, it didnt have any sort of auto pilot. Only manual piloting. Slowly she brought it around and propelled forward towards the ship, finally reaching it in just a few minutes. "This is the F.S.S. Salient, we have you." Someone broadcasted out to her. She sighed in relief as she gripped her chair and was pulled in by the ship, responding; "Thank you F.S.S. Salient... Have a medical team on stand by... I... Iv been hit."
Only a moment later, the ship pulled into the hanger. She gripped her side lightly from where the bullet grazed her. As the shuttle touched down in the hanger, she unlocked herself from the pilots chair, and stood up. Holding her side as she walked to the rear of the shuttle, opening the cargo bay door to be met by the crew.
Three men rushed to her, helping her stand up as she was about to faint. The trauma of the events finally getting to her caused her to start to cry, both in relief and in happiness. The three men put her in a stretcher, not knowing the extent of her injuries, and pushed her through the body of the ship. Over a loud speaker a woman announced: "Trauma team be on stand-by. In coming code-56. Priority package. Dr. Bergman report to medical bay."
Slowly she inched the ship towards the larger one. Since the ship was a shuttle, it didnt have any sort of auto pilot. Only manual piloting. Slowly she brought it around and propelled forward towards the ship, finally reaching it in just a few minutes. "This is the F.S.S. Salient, we have you." Someone broadcasted out to her. She sighed in relief as she gripped her chair and was pulled in by the ship, responding; "Thank you F.S.S. Salient... Have a medical team on stand by... I... Iv been hit."
Only a moment later, the ship pulled into the hanger. She gripped her side lightly from where the bullet grazed her. As the shuttle touched down in the hanger, she unlocked herself from the pilots chair, and stood up. Holding her side as she walked to the rear of the shuttle, opening the cargo bay door to be met by the crew.
Three men rushed to her, helping her stand up as she was about to faint. The trauma of the events finally getting to her caused her to start to cry, both in relief and in happiness. The three men put her in a stretcher, not knowing the extent of her injuries, and pushed her through the body of the ship. Over a loud speaker a woman announced: "Trauma team be on stand-by. In coming code-56. Priority package. Dr. Bergman report to medical bay."
The setting changes from Hangar to F.S.S. Salient
Marcus Bergman - Medical Bay
"Trauma team be on stand-by. Incoming code-56. Priority package. Dr. Bergman report to medical bay."
Marcus arrived immediately. Dr. Mackenzie's quarters were adjacent to the medical bay, as befitting her status as chief medical officer.
He waited in the medical bay, recounting the events of the last few hours.
He and Faith had gone to the Hyena's illicit party. They had had a... time. What little conversation that passed between the two was passed in between bursts of binge drinking and comments about how stupid the crew was being. And that was the game. Each time they saw something dangerous, moronic, or immoral they took a shot. Marcus lost the game in short order, but Faith plowed on regardless. Her final shot was a toast to her own alcoholism. She then put her head down, and refused to move until the alarms began to sound the arrival of Silver Eyes' fleet, partly because she had passed out as wave after wave of alcohol hit her system.
Marcus had to escort her to her quarters once the party had officially ended with the crew scrambling to collect their loot and get to their stations. He left her puking into her toilet. Doubtless she wouldn't be up and ready for action for quite some time.
The paramedics rushed in the injured girl. She was a pretty little thing, despite the fact that she had fainted and was bleeding from a bullet wound. That was good for him- she wouldn't make a fuss while he fixed her up.
Marcus looked at one of the paramedics while he did his work. "Why am I doing this, exactly?"
The medic stared him down. "Aren't you a doctor?"
"I'm a Virologist. My job isn't to patch wounds."
"Well you seem to be doing it right. Where's the chief?"
"Puking her guts out..." Marcus finished patching up Elizabeth and started to leave the room, headed back to checked on the drunken beauty. "Put her on a bed. You may need that for some other incoming patient."
Adriana
When Ray's ship came to dock at the Salient, Adriana didn't get off. Instead, she took out all of her gear and put it back on. The mission was a success, but now the base was in danger. There ain't no rest for the wicked, she supposed. Once fully armed, she disembarked and took off for her station in the lab. She stopped short at the entrance, catching her breath as she beheld her lab.
Everything was in ruins, shattered on the floor. At first she wondered who would bother to sabotage her, but then she remembered the cause. Someone had fired her canon. HER particle canon. How dare they!? She gave a grunt of anger, and swept some broken glass off a counter. She had only come in here to do some maintenance on Stanley, but now she had cleaning up to do. And then she had to go check on the canon, because whichever unauthorized prick used it probably didn't use it properly. It was a finicky thing, being a prototype and all.
After wasting too much time taking note of everything broken and sweeping all the now garbage into the incinerator, Adriana hurried down to the engineering center, which contained the interface and access to all the parts of the particle canon. She was horrified to find eight hundred ninety-seven alerts open on the computer. It was going to be a long day...
"Trauma team be on stand-by. Incoming code-56. Priority package. Dr. Bergman report to medical bay."
Marcus arrived immediately. Dr. Mackenzie's quarters were adjacent to the medical bay, as befitting her status as chief medical officer.
He waited in the medical bay, recounting the events of the last few hours.
He and Faith had gone to the Hyena's illicit party. They had had a... time. What little conversation that passed between the two was passed in between bursts of binge drinking and comments about how stupid the crew was being. And that was the game. Each time they saw something dangerous, moronic, or immoral they took a shot. Marcus lost the game in short order, but Faith plowed on regardless. Her final shot was a toast to her own alcoholism. She then put her head down, and refused to move until the alarms began to sound the arrival of Silver Eyes' fleet, partly because she had passed out as wave after wave of alcohol hit her system.
Marcus had to escort her to her quarters once the party had officially ended with the crew scrambling to collect their loot and get to their stations. He left her puking into her toilet. Doubtless she wouldn't be up and ready for action for quite some time.
The paramedics rushed in the injured girl. She was a pretty little thing, despite the fact that she had fainted and was bleeding from a bullet wound. That was good for him- she wouldn't make a fuss while he fixed her up.
Marcus looked at one of the paramedics while he did his work. "Why am I doing this, exactly?"
The medic stared him down. "Aren't you a doctor?"
"I'm a Virologist. My job isn't to patch wounds."
"Well you seem to be doing it right. Where's the chief?"
"Puking her guts out..." Marcus finished patching up Elizabeth and started to leave the room, headed back to checked on the drunken beauty. "Put her on a bed. You may need that for some other incoming patient."
Adriana
When Ray's ship came to dock at the Salient, Adriana didn't get off. Instead, she took out all of her gear and put it back on. The mission was a success, but now the base was in danger. There ain't no rest for the wicked, she supposed. Once fully armed, she disembarked and took off for her station in the lab. She stopped short at the entrance, catching her breath as she beheld her lab.
Everything was in ruins, shattered on the floor. At first she wondered who would bother to sabotage her, but then she remembered the cause. Someone had fired her canon. HER particle canon. How dare they!? She gave a grunt of anger, and swept some broken glass off a counter. She had only come in here to do some maintenance on Stanley, but now she had cleaning up to do. And then she had to go check on the canon, because whichever unauthorized prick used it probably didn't use it properly. It was a finicky thing, being a prototype and all.
After wasting too much time taking note of everything broken and sweeping all the now garbage into the incinerator, Adriana hurried down to the engineering center, which contained the interface and access to all the parts of the particle canon. She was horrified to find eight hundred ninety-seven alerts open on the computer. It was going to be a long day...
5 hours after arriving on the Salient, Elizabeth finally started to wake up. A pint of blood lost, a large concussion, bruising around her neck, several cuts across her back, and a rape kit later, she finally started to come up. Slowly she became alert, looking at the world around her, trying to keep calm. The room was all chrome, with a door to her left wide open to reveal a bathroom. She was in a bed, at least from what she could gather, witch was propped up.
Slowly she looked down at her arm to see an IV drip in her arm, with the machine only a few feet away from here. She started to panic, but found she couldnt. She was numb, her body was relaxed, her muscles didn't fire on command. After another 40 mins, she slowly gathered the strength to move her legs, witch she swung over the side of the bed. Several deep breaths later she slowly pushes herself forward, more and of her body following her command. Her legs were weak, but slowly she walked around her bed to the airlock door.
"Open..." She told the door. But it didn't follow her command. She sighed as she slowly walked back to her bed and lied back down, trying to get a little more sleep...
Slowly she looked down at her arm to see an IV drip in her arm, with the machine only a few feet away from here. She started to panic, but found she couldnt. She was numb, her body was relaxed, her muscles didn't fire on command. After another 40 mins, she slowly gathered the strength to move her legs, witch she swung over the side of the bed. Several deep breaths later she slowly pushes herself forward, more and of her body following her command. Her legs were weak, but slowly she walked around her bed to the airlock door.
"Open..." She told the door. But it didn't follow her command. She sighed as she slowly walked back to her bed and lied back down, trying to get a little more sleep...
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
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Silver Eyes Command Ship
He had given the fleet some control of their own, but that didn't mean carte blanche and sadly his navy training came out more during times of great stress. Listening to the noiseless prattle over the comm, he glowered, before opening the channel and saying very clearly, "Cut it out, and focus. We're supposed to be a force to be reckoned with, not pirate's or merc's, we are now a nation, act like it. Oh and one more thing delay things as long as possible and trust me the rest of ships left will be easy pickings." Considering for a bit, he finally decided, "One more thing, whoever nearest the Feds ship, got a mission for ya, get Rich Girl back. Without her we couldn't do this, we owe it to her." With that he closed the channel and looked from the window at the battle before him.
Certainly things seemed to be going their way, but experience had taught him that this was the moment, anything could happen to change the dynamic. Best be prepared for just about anything.
Switching on the AI channel again, he spoke clearly, "Any suggestions."
The AI buzzed on and seemed deep in thought before responding with a very calculating gaze.
"Captain don't you think your love of Rich Girl is jeapordizing things. I understand she is like the daughter the Feds took from you. But you must see things as they are, you are Captain and leader of the newly formed Pirate Nation, hard decisions need to be made."
"..."
"Yes, I know Captain, but sacrifices must be made."
Silver Eye's stared as he realized what was being said. It was useless yelling at the AI, but that program could never understand what it felt like to see his own group first take his daughter away, then let her become addicted to Supplement 78 to test her cognitive reaction. For the good of the Federation he had been told, but Caliegh was now dead and the Federation had done everything to make him stop his search to find her. Even so far as outright denial. This and so much more is why he chose to take down his whole crew on that fateful day with tears streaming from his eyes. They knew nothing, but they were part of the problem. His daughter death was just the final straw. He wouldn't lose another surrogate or actual daughter again, not this time.
Rich Girl or Courtney was going to be rescued, if he had to send a whole ship to board them.
Nothing, utterly nothing would stop him getting her back.
"I see you made your decision Captain. Just know I did warn you."
With that the AI turned off and he was left in darkness, before the lights sprang back on.
He had given the fleet some control of their own, but that didn't mean carte blanche and sadly his navy training came out more during times of great stress. Listening to the noiseless prattle over the comm, he glowered, before opening the channel and saying very clearly, "Cut it out, and focus. We're supposed to be a force to be reckoned with, not pirate's or merc's, we are now a nation, act like it. Oh and one more thing delay things as long as possible and trust me the rest of ships left will be easy pickings." Considering for a bit, he finally decided, "One more thing, whoever nearest the Feds ship, got a mission for ya, get Rich Girl back. Without her we couldn't do this, we owe it to her." With that he closed the channel and looked from the window at the battle before him.
Certainly things seemed to be going their way, but experience had taught him that this was the moment, anything could happen to change the dynamic. Best be prepared for just about anything.
Switching on the AI channel again, he spoke clearly, "Any suggestions."
The AI buzzed on and seemed deep in thought before responding with a very calculating gaze.
"Captain don't you think your love of Rich Girl is jeapordizing things. I understand she is like the daughter the Feds took from you. But you must see things as they are, you are Captain and leader of the newly formed Pirate Nation, hard decisions need to be made."
"..."
"Yes, I know Captain, but sacrifices must be made."
Silver Eye's stared as he realized what was being said. It was useless yelling at the AI, but that program could never understand what it felt like to see his own group first take his daughter away, then let her become addicted to Supplement 78 to test her cognitive reaction. For the good of the Federation he had been told, but Caliegh was now dead and the Federation had done everything to make him stop his search to find her. Even so far as outright denial. This and so much more is why he chose to take down his whole crew on that fateful day with tears streaming from his eyes. They knew nothing, but they were part of the problem. His daughter death was just the final straw. He wouldn't lose another surrogate or actual daughter again, not this time.
Rich Girl or Courtney was going to be rescued, if he had to send a whole ship to board them.
Nothing, utterly nothing would stop him getting her back.
"I see you made your decision Captain. Just know I did warn you."
With that the AI turned off and he was left in darkness, before the lights sprang back on.
The storied Admiral occupied his chair on the bridge, sitting straight backed, fingers steepled before his face and staring at all of the readouts available to him. There were many, but most of his attention was not on the streams of data. He was taking stock of the situation, thinking of all of the issues and who was to be doing what job... A daunting task.
Immediately before him were gathered the people who had little work to be doing. Except for Hansen and Napier. Comms links were always live.
Atomsk Dunaway was still coordinating the Alpha team aboard the pirate frigate.
Alpha team was patching through two of the resident AI's to hack into the pirates' ship computers.
The pirates were laying down light and medium arms fire to his ship's hull. The damages were superficial, but present.
The one who called the pirates was out of commission, and to be interrogated by Alice Chen upon awakening.
The able bodied crew members were preparing for battle, but the Admiral was not about to send fighters into the veritable shitstorm outside the hull.
Bravo team had returned, along with a prisoner from the pirates.
Another prisoner was still aboard the other frigate... Perhaps that explained why it hadn't exploded yet.
The ship is in peril, and the larger ships hauling larger armaments are fast approaching. The smaller ships have long since outpaced them, and gather whirling around the Salient sending round after round glancing off of the hull. Naturally there isn't enough room for all of the ships to be flying around the Salient- many maintain their distance. At this point, waiting for them to come closer in range does no good.
It is time to fight back, and step one is to clear out all of the ships firing at the Salient.
Admiral Weston summoned A.D.A.M. once more.
"A.D.A.M. ... Destroy all ships within range."
At his word, Thick neo-steel panels shifted across the ship's hull. Ninety-six assorted ion canons and rail guns took aim from their sheathes.
With each shot, ninety-six ships exploded until none were within range of certain destruction. At a certain (and very distant) range, fighters could evade the weapon fire. The cruisers were not so lucky, however. They couldn't evade any of the weapon fire. They had to sit there and take it.
Within sixty seconds, the battlefield had transformed. From a swirling mass of fighters gathered around one federation ship, a swirling mass of debris filled the local space. Hundreds of ships had been wasted by weapon fire. Now, all parties had a temporary reprieve from enemy weapons- the floating debris would intercept most gunfire. Heavy weapons could plow through the debris, but aim would be uncertain at best due to obstruction by lost fuel, radiation, and floating metal.
Aronimus watched all of this, a stoic expression on his face. There was nothing particularly pleasant about massive loss of life, but it did feel good to be the commander of a ship that packed this much punch. For just a little while, there was silence on the battlefield, on all the radios, and etched into the mind of everyone who witnessed the counterattack.
But the battle was far from over. All of the larger ships still remained (as well as some smaller ships who escaped by virtue of not being in range), and now they had seen what the Salient was capable of. The ball was in Silver Eyes' court.
Immediately before him were gathered the people who had little work to be doing. Except for Hansen and Napier. Comms links were always live.
Atomsk Dunaway was still coordinating the Alpha team aboard the pirate frigate.
Alpha team was patching through two of the resident AI's to hack into the pirates' ship computers.
The pirates were laying down light and medium arms fire to his ship's hull. The damages were superficial, but present.
The one who called the pirates was out of commission, and to be interrogated by Alice Chen upon awakening.
The able bodied crew members were preparing for battle, but the Admiral was not about to send fighters into the veritable shitstorm outside the hull.
Bravo team had returned, along with a prisoner from the pirates.
Another prisoner was still aboard the other frigate... Perhaps that explained why it hadn't exploded yet.
The ship is in peril, and the larger ships hauling larger armaments are fast approaching. The smaller ships have long since outpaced them, and gather whirling around the Salient sending round after round glancing off of the hull. Naturally there isn't enough room for all of the ships to be flying around the Salient- many maintain their distance. At this point, waiting for them to come closer in range does no good.
It is time to fight back, and step one is to clear out all of the ships firing at the Salient.
Admiral Weston summoned A.D.A.M. once more.
"A.D.A.M. ... Destroy all ships within range."
At his word, Thick neo-steel panels shifted across the ship's hull. Ninety-six assorted ion canons and rail guns took aim from their sheathes.
With each shot, ninety-six ships exploded until none were within range of certain destruction. At a certain (and very distant) range, fighters could evade the weapon fire. The cruisers were not so lucky, however. They couldn't evade any of the weapon fire. They had to sit there and take it.
Within sixty seconds, the battlefield had transformed. From a swirling mass of fighters gathered around one federation ship, a swirling mass of debris filled the local space. Hundreds of ships had been wasted by weapon fire. Now, all parties had a temporary reprieve from enemy weapons- the floating debris would intercept most gunfire. Heavy weapons could plow through the debris, but aim would be uncertain at best due to obstruction by lost fuel, radiation, and floating metal.
Aronimus watched all of this, a stoic expression on his face. There was nothing particularly pleasant about massive loss of life, but it did feel good to be the commander of a ship that packed this much punch. For just a little while, there was silence on the battlefield, on all the radios, and etched into the mind of everyone who witnessed the counterattack.
But the battle was far from over. All of the larger ships still remained (as well as some smaller ships who escaped by virtue of not being in range), and now they had seen what the Salient was capable of. The ball was in Silver Eyes' court.
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Silver Eye's Command Ship
Watching the ensuring battle with a tight frown, the old Admirals paced the walkways considering next course, radio chatter broke through, "Hey, we're waiting for your orders already!" Another voice continued, "We're not dying out here for your entertainment old man, do something." it went on with another protest, "We made you our leader, prove to us it wasn't a mistake." Growing tired of these attacks on his characters he screamed into the intercom, "ENOUGH!"
Turning to a the nervous crew he sighed before issuing the command, "Release the unmanned drones and detonate near the ship." He just needed to delay more, but right now he couldn't use his ship cannons... wait that was it, grinning in success he opened the channel to the gunners, "Fire at the wreck, let's fill the area with more space junk." One of the younger crew members turned to them, "But we've registered life-forms still on board sir!"
Looking away he muttered, "All fair in love and war." raising his voice he continued, "Blow the thing to kingdom come, full power on the weaponry. NO QUARTER!"
Watching the ensuring battle with a tight frown, the old Admirals paced the walkways considering next course, radio chatter broke through, "Hey, we're waiting for your orders already!" Another voice continued, "We're not dying out here for your entertainment old man, do something." it went on with another protest, "We made you our leader, prove to us it wasn't a mistake." Growing tired of these attacks on his characters he screamed into the intercom, "ENOUGH!"
Turning to a the nervous crew he sighed before issuing the command, "Release the unmanned drones and detonate near the ship." He just needed to delay more, but right now he couldn't use his ship cannons... wait that was it, grinning in success he opened the channel to the gunners, "Fire at the wreck, let's fill the area with more space junk." One of the younger crew members turned to them, "But we've registered life-forms still on board sir!"
Looking away he muttered, "All fair in love and war." raising his voice he continued, "Blow the thing to kingdom come, full power on the weaponry. NO QUARTER!"
Tiaan Peyton
Things had been an utter whirlwind of confusion, a kiss, an ambush and half the crew were drunk out their minds, how could things get any worse? Now she was about to launch out the ship unsure how long she could hold them off. Even Hyena who normally was jovial, seemed sober and a little nervous. It seemed like everyone was prepared for the worse already some people had been lost, and the depressing thing was it was pilots who were inebriated. Hyena must be hating herself right now thought Tiaan, strapping her belt on, she did quick pre-flight check, running over the usual tests before closing cockpit.
"Tiaan ready to launch Admiral, I'll take a quick team and try do as much damage as possible." with a tear falling from her eye, she continued, "Admiral, I served under you proudly, but I fear the chances of me returning are small."
Getting the go ahead she wiped her eyes, pulled down the visor and whispered, "Once more unto the breach Peyton, give 'em hell!"
Things had been an utter whirlwind of confusion, a kiss, an ambush and half the crew were drunk out their minds, how could things get any worse? Now she was about to launch out the ship unsure how long she could hold them off. Even Hyena who normally was jovial, seemed sober and a little nervous. It seemed like everyone was prepared for the worse already some people had been lost, and the depressing thing was it was pilots who were inebriated. Hyena must be hating herself right now thought Tiaan, strapping her belt on, she did quick pre-flight check, running over the usual tests before closing cockpit.
"Tiaan ready to launch Admiral, I'll take a quick team and try do as much damage as possible." with a tear falling from her eye, she continued, "Admiral, I served under you proudly, but I fear the chances of me returning are small."
Getting the go ahead she wiped her eyes, pulled down the visor and whispered, "Once more unto the breach Peyton, give 'em hell!"
Ray simply stayed on the gunship for a few moments, so many thoughts rushed in his mind combined with the emotions of a thousand memories of past battlefields. Ray did not know what to make of these events and at times it seemed as if he was living a dream.
Ray suddenly became self aware again; he left his dream land as suddenly as he had entered it and was left with the harsh reality of his situation.
Punching himself to his feet Ray rushed to outside the gunship and directly into the quartermasters office; the man in charged of the armaments and equipment on all the fighters, bombers and gunships the salient possessed.
Ray would not sit tight while the battle was waged overhead, he had to fight and if this meant life or death Ray was in one of his moods in which he could not care less about ether possibilities.
As he entered the room the quartermaster stood and saluted; Ray outranked him by a tiny margin and while most officers new to this kind of duty would not be so fast on their feet this case was different; Ray had caught the quartermaster and his assistant playing cards while on duty.
"Is there any thing I can do for you sir?" said the young quartermaster nervously; he was a young man barley out of his teens but most likely displayed an inborn talent which gave him such a high placed and rewarding occupation and Ray planed to handle the situation accordingly.
"I want twenty two sparrow missiles, four X3 torpedo's, my twin Zardos heavy cannons installed, a few tanks of Nano repair fluids you choose which brand, a number of sidekick proximity bombs, the codes for A level shields and whatever you think I should carry against odds of more then 20 to 1"
The quartermaster momentarily speechless soon remembered himself after a rough shake which reminded him who and what where pounding the ship at the moment. After this realization he and his assistant soon went to work; the quartermaster issuing orders to the robots and the assistant rushing to the hanger to direct them.
Fighters and bombers had a standard gear issue which normally suited them fine but gunships and especially the old swing class designed for multiple tasks could have thousands of possible set ups. While there was standard issue gear for the gunships pilots who served for long periods of time often developed their own tastes.
The quartermaster soon turned to Ray again and said
"well sir we are going to be kind of busy soon but you got your request in sooner rather then later so we should be finished in a few minutes… em can you please not mention us playing cards? It just seemed like a calming thing to do when faced with such odds..."
"sure" said Ray as he walked outside the room.
Ray returned to the gunship and saw that work was indeed in progress and then entered the gunship patching in to the comm. System.
Ray heard a few voices but one got his ear; Tiaan.
Ray realizing this was his chance to get into the action crossed into the conversation and added
"If a team of fighters is going out they are going to need some heavy armor; I can offer that heavy armor. This is Charlie S210* Ready, willing and able to launch Admiral!"
Ray then tuned into Tiaan's frequency and sent a cheery message to her:
"Race you to the action, or is your fighter not up to the contest?"
Ray wondered if this was his last battle... it would be a shame to be killed by pirates and Ray wondered if maybe he should have gotten himself killed back in the Titan wars. Ether way Ray smiled as he lit his pipe and looked for the correct record for his Jukebox... if he was going to die today at least he wanted to go down with some good old swing.
Ray now again seeing the massive forces he would have to face knew that if he could not win he had one more duty to preform...
Switching to the quartermaster office on his comm Ray smiled and proceeded to make this his quite possibly final request from the man.
"Hi matey one more thing,Can you also load me a Plz1660 supercharge generator? i feel that i need an extra kick to handle all this mass"
the quartermaster puzzled ask with a degree of cation
"Sir the 1660 isn't very reliable and can under some conditions..."
"I know all about that, but don't worry... i know what i am doing" cut in Ray
"if you say so sir, it will only take a few minutes... i guess that's the good thing about the 1660; its easy to put in but on the other hand... its a hell to get out."
Ray smiled, it sure was a hell to get out but... his usage of it on the Q ships didn't require such an effort. Ray now had all he needed; if he died today he would make sure to take as many pirate scum as possible with him.
(ooc *: code name, in character sheet
Ray suddenly became self aware again; he left his dream land as suddenly as he had entered it and was left with the harsh reality of his situation.
Punching himself to his feet Ray rushed to outside the gunship and directly into the quartermasters office; the man in charged of the armaments and equipment on all the fighters, bombers and gunships the salient possessed.
Ray would not sit tight while the battle was waged overhead, he had to fight and if this meant life or death Ray was in one of his moods in which he could not care less about ether possibilities.
As he entered the room the quartermaster stood and saluted; Ray outranked him by a tiny margin and while most officers new to this kind of duty would not be so fast on their feet this case was different; Ray had caught the quartermaster and his assistant playing cards while on duty.
"Is there any thing I can do for you sir?" said the young quartermaster nervously; he was a young man barley out of his teens but most likely displayed an inborn talent which gave him such a high placed and rewarding occupation and Ray planed to handle the situation accordingly.
"I want twenty two sparrow missiles, four X3 torpedo's, my twin Zardos heavy cannons installed, a few tanks of Nano repair fluids you choose which brand, a number of sidekick proximity bombs, the codes for A level shields and whatever you think I should carry against odds of more then 20 to 1"
The quartermaster momentarily speechless soon remembered himself after a rough shake which reminded him who and what where pounding the ship at the moment. After this realization he and his assistant soon went to work; the quartermaster issuing orders to the robots and the assistant rushing to the hanger to direct them.
Fighters and bombers had a standard gear issue which normally suited them fine but gunships and especially the old swing class designed for multiple tasks could have thousands of possible set ups. While there was standard issue gear for the gunships pilots who served for long periods of time often developed their own tastes.
The quartermaster soon turned to Ray again and said
"well sir we are going to be kind of busy soon but you got your request in sooner rather then later so we should be finished in a few minutes… em can you please not mention us playing cards? It just seemed like a calming thing to do when faced with such odds..."
"sure" said Ray as he walked outside the room.
Ray returned to the gunship and saw that work was indeed in progress and then entered the gunship patching in to the comm. System.
Ray heard a few voices but one got his ear; Tiaan.
Ray realizing this was his chance to get into the action crossed into the conversation and added
"If a team of fighters is going out they are going to need some heavy armor; I can offer that heavy armor. This is Charlie S210* Ready, willing and able to launch Admiral!"
Ray then tuned into Tiaan's frequency and sent a cheery message to her:
"Race you to the action, or is your fighter not up to the contest?"
Ray wondered if this was his last battle... it would be a shame to be killed by pirates and Ray wondered if maybe he should have gotten himself killed back in the Titan wars. Ether way Ray smiled as he lit his pipe and looked for the correct record for his Jukebox... if he was going to die today at least he wanted to go down with some good old swing.
Ray now again seeing the massive forces he would have to face knew that if he could not win he had one more duty to preform...
Switching to the quartermaster office on his comm Ray smiled and proceeded to make this his quite possibly final request from the man.
"Hi matey one more thing,Can you also load me a Plz1660 supercharge generator? i feel that i need an extra kick to handle all this mass"
the quartermaster puzzled ask with a degree of cation
"Sir the 1660 isn't very reliable and can under some conditions..."
"I know all about that, but don't worry... i know what i am doing" cut in Ray
"if you say so sir, it will only take a few minutes... i guess that's the good thing about the 1660; its easy to put in but on the other hand... its a hell to get out."
Ray smiled, it sure was a hell to get out but... his usage of it on the Q ships didn't require such an effort. Ray now had all he needed; if he died today he would make sure to take as many pirate scum as possible with him.
(ooc *: code name, in character sheet
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Bridge
The Admiral sat back and watched the destruction unfold, his fingers steepled before his face.
ADAM did his job well- Not a shot was missed. Not until the debris was so heavy that the canons would not reach the enemy did ADAM fail to wipe out a ship. But now there arose the problem... They could not shoot the enemy. It was a tough call. Deploy the fighters or not? To deploy the fighters would throw them into the most dangerous debris field they would be likely to face in their career. Only the best pilots would manage to get through it all unscathed, and then on top of that they would have to begin fighting the enemy in that field. But if he didn't deploy the fighters, the Salient's fighting capacity would be reduced to the main canon, which was the only armament on the ship that could plow through all of the debris and still do any decent kind of damage.
"ADAM, patch me through to the engineering department. I need to know the status on the main cannon." The requested window appeared before him, and to his mild surprise he saw a fully armed marine on the other end.
"Adriana Stark reporting. What do you need, Admiral?" Stark's reply was distorted by the suit, but it was clear now why a marine was down in that corner of the ship.
"A status on the particle canon."
Stark hesitated and looked back at the control panels. She turned back and spoke up a few seconds later. "It's... rattled from its previous use. I can have it ready to fire soon... hopefully. I'll let you know when we can attack."
"Thank you Corporal, that will be all." The admiral closed the com link and thought for a moment. There was no main armament... If he was to maintain the offensive in the battle, he would have to send out the pilots. Lucky for him, the pilots were confirming their readiness for combat at that very moment. Surprising, seeing as many of the pilots were drunk and unfit to operate heavy machinery.
Admiral Weston sent his voice through the intercom. "Those pilots able and willing to fly, you are clear to do so. You are to keep all enemy ships out of the debris field; it is to be our shield from the enemy."
He then looked towards the front of the bridge. "Navigator Summer, plot all the launching pilots paths through the debris so that they may patrol the field without crashing."
The navigator gave a quick "Yes sir," and began typing away at his terminal. "Opening hangar doors. Pilots Peyton, Davidson, Cooper, and Jones have confirmed launch. FTL drives at 10% charge. The enemy is not entering the debris field... They seem to be gathering near the Altamus vessels. Course plotting near--"
"The WHAT IS AT TEN PERCENT!?" Aronimus thundered from his chair.
The navigator stopped typing. "The Faster-Than-Light drives, sir." He looked back at the admiral, his confusion evident. "Were we not escaping?"
ADAM did his job well- Not a shot was missed. Not until the debris was so heavy that the canons would not reach the enemy did ADAM fail to wipe out a ship. But now there arose the problem... They could not shoot the enemy. It was a tough call. Deploy the fighters or not? To deploy the fighters would throw them into the most dangerous debris field they would be likely to face in their career. Only the best pilots would manage to get through it all unscathed, and then on top of that they would have to begin fighting the enemy in that field. But if he didn't deploy the fighters, the Salient's fighting capacity would be reduced to the main canon, which was the only armament on the ship that could plow through all of the debris and still do any decent kind of damage.
"ADAM, patch me through to the engineering department. I need to know the status on the main cannon." The requested window appeared before him, and to his mild surprise he saw a fully armed marine on the other end.
"Adriana Stark reporting. What do you need, Admiral?" Stark's reply was distorted by the suit, but it was clear now why a marine was down in that corner of the ship.
"A status on the particle canon."
Stark hesitated and looked back at the control panels. She turned back and spoke up a few seconds later. "It's... rattled from its previous use. I can have it ready to fire soon... hopefully. I'll let you know when we can attack."
"Thank you Corporal, that will be all." The admiral closed the com link and thought for a moment. There was no main armament... If he was to maintain the offensive in the battle, he would have to send out the pilots. Lucky for him, the pilots were confirming their readiness for combat at that very moment. Surprising, seeing as many of the pilots were drunk and unfit to operate heavy machinery.
Admiral Weston sent his voice through the intercom. "Those pilots able and willing to fly, you are clear to do so. You are to keep all enemy ships out of the debris field; it is to be our shield from the enemy."
He then looked towards the front of the bridge. "Navigator Summer, plot all the launching pilots paths through the debris so that they may patrol the field without crashing."
The navigator gave a quick "Yes sir," and began typing away at his terminal. "Opening hangar doors. Pilots Peyton, Davidson, Cooper, and Jones have confirmed launch. FTL drives at 10% charge. The enemy is not entering the debris field... They seem to be gathering near the Altamus vessels. Course plotting near--"
"The WHAT IS AT TEN PERCENT!?" Aronimus thundered from his chair.
The navigator stopped typing. "The Faster-Than-Light drives, sir." He looked back at the admiral, his confusion evident. "Were we not escaping?"
“Repeat Navigator! What did you just say was at ten percent?” Aronimus’s eyebrows were extended sharply upwards.
His visage left Clyde trembling and rummaging for his interface screen, which promptly held the readouts for the faster than light engines. The system was activated at ten percent capacity and steadily rising.
“The…uh…the..” Clyde fumbled a bit, “faster than light drives were activated and are at ten percent activation…sir,” from what he could glean off of Aronimus’s face, he knew that the activation had not been apparent to the Admiral, probably because he had not given the authorization to activate it. It all made sense now, seeing as how the fighter pilots were still on their patrol missions, the Admiral couldn't possibly leave them behind.
“Check again Navigator,” Aronimus calmly told him, though his voice was seething on the edge of a roar.
The young officer went again and began retyping through his systems, even though he knew it was pointless; he decided to give it an effort. All the while remaining plugged into the system’s data streams, he could not find any anomalous readings.
“I have not given permission to anyone, not even Lieutenant Commander Chen, to activate the faster than light drives, deactivate it Navigator.”
“I understand Admiral,” Clyde responded with his view still directed at the holographic screen. The data coming in through his eyes were numerous, but it paled in comparison to the vigintillion tiny microbits of data that swam in schools through the small conduits of the Salient’s internal mainframe of which he was logged into. He decided to de-activate the engines manually through his terminal screen. However, an error message popped up.
The window stated with the express message,
“Unable to deactivate Mirabuki-Goddard Class Five FTL Suspension drives.”
“Is there a problem Mr. Summer?” the Admiral leaned against the railings slightly anxious.
Clyde’s left eyebrow shot up as he glanced at it with a perplexed expression, but he simply shook his head and dismissed it. He decided he would have to try a different route, accessing the internal systems, and actually turn it off…”manually.”
He bolted past the many corridors of the internal systems, and finally reached the FTL drives’ computers. However, he was blocked by an invisible field, and after many reroutes, he still couldn’t penetrate the barrier. He looked to A.D.A.M., who was present as well in a digitized form. The pixels coursing through him, as they stood side by side inside the Salient’s mainframe. A.D.A.M. was observing the many strands of data that compiled the barrier. To no avail, though, did the matrix supercomputer find a dent within the barrier through which he could exploit and disable.
Clyde jolted out of the data stream, and turned to the admiral with an alarming visage.
“Admiral! There’s something blocking the de-activation!”
“What did you say?” the Admiral hounded him, left the platform and dismounted the steps to Clyde’s station.
His visage left Clyde trembling and rummaging for his interface screen, which promptly held the readouts for the faster than light engines. The system was activated at ten percent capacity and steadily rising.
“The…uh…the..” Clyde fumbled a bit, “faster than light drives were activated and are at ten percent activation…sir,” from what he could glean off of Aronimus’s face, he knew that the activation had not been apparent to the Admiral, probably because he had not given the authorization to activate it. It all made sense now, seeing as how the fighter pilots were still on their patrol missions, the Admiral couldn't possibly leave them behind.
“Check again Navigator,” Aronimus calmly told him, though his voice was seething on the edge of a roar.
The young officer went again and began retyping through his systems, even though he knew it was pointless; he decided to give it an effort. All the while remaining plugged into the system’s data streams, he could not find any anomalous readings.
“I have not given permission to anyone, not even Lieutenant Commander Chen, to activate the faster than light drives, deactivate it Navigator.”
“I understand Admiral,” Clyde responded with his view still directed at the holographic screen. The data coming in through his eyes were numerous, but it paled in comparison to the vigintillion tiny microbits of data that swam in schools through the small conduits of the Salient’s internal mainframe of which he was logged into. He decided to de-activate the engines manually through his terminal screen. However, an error message popped up.
The window stated with the express message,
“Unable to deactivate Mirabuki-Goddard Class Five FTL Suspension drives.”
“Is there a problem Mr. Summer?” the Admiral leaned against the railings slightly anxious.
Clyde’s left eyebrow shot up as he glanced at it with a perplexed expression, but he simply shook his head and dismissed it. He decided he would have to try a different route, accessing the internal systems, and actually turn it off…”manually.”
He bolted past the many corridors of the internal systems, and finally reached the FTL drives’ computers. However, he was blocked by an invisible field, and after many reroutes, he still couldn’t penetrate the barrier. He looked to A.D.A.M., who was present as well in a digitized form. The pixels coursing through him, as they stood side by side inside the Salient’s mainframe. A.D.A.M. was observing the many strands of data that compiled the barrier. To no avail, though, did the matrix supercomputer find a dent within the barrier through which he could exploit and disable.
Clyde jolted out of the data stream, and turned to the admiral with an alarming visage.
“Admiral! There’s something blocking the de-activation!”
“What did you say?” the Admiral hounded him, left the platform and dismounted the steps to Clyde’s station.
The setting changes from Bridge to The Milky Way Universe
ADAM
ADAM was pouring through data streams in an attempt to halt the FTL launch and quickly found he couldn't circumvent the order. So he focus on how deep the came from, maybe he'd come to some insight if he could find the origin. The answer was far from reassuring.
"Sir the FTL launch is embedded deep into the system, straight into the base program; it seems we're to boost to FTL and perform a full environment scan after we exit. It seems we have a contingent command to do a full Hyper jump if the scan doesn't yield some result also embedded in base code. I can't do anything to touch the order, in fact it seems I'm being locked out, I'll be functional until our FTL jump."
ADAM was pouring through data streams in an attempt to halt the FTL launch and quickly found he couldn't circumvent the order. So he focus on how deep the came from, maybe he'd come to some insight if he could find the origin. The answer was far from reassuring.
"Sir the FTL launch is embedded deep into the system, straight into the base program; it seems we're to boost to FTL and perform a full environment scan after we exit. It seems we have a contingent command to do a full Hyper jump if the scan doesn't yield some result also embedded in base code. I can't do anything to touch the order, in fact it seems I'm being locked out, I'll be functional until our FTL jump."
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
Courtney Reynolds (Rich Girl)
Now awake she watched the pacing interrogator, it was obvious he was inexperienced grunt, so she was playing with him, just as he was about to throw another question down, the door opened with another person. They began to both talk quietly for a bit. Looking in utter joy, she watched the face of grunt turn various shades, before he stomped over her and screamed, "WHAT THE HELL DID YOU DO?"
Smirking she replied, "Say it, don't spray it." continuing to smile she added, "I just wanted a little holiday so I decided to use your wonderful engines, they really state of the art, shame they have a major flaw in them heehehehe."
The grunt looked about to throttle her before he yelled, "Get someone else, this bitch is too much for me."
As he walked off she yelled back, "Oh, but I was just beginning to have fun... foreplay is a way to a girl's heart boyo."
Now awake she watched the pacing interrogator, it was obvious he was inexperienced grunt, so she was playing with him, just as he was about to throw another question down, the door opened with another person. They began to both talk quietly for a bit. Looking in utter joy, she watched the face of grunt turn various shades, before he stomped over her and screamed, "WHAT THE HELL DID YOU DO?"
Smirking she replied, "Say it, don't spray it." continuing to smile she added, "I just wanted a little holiday so I decided to use your wonderful engines, they really state of the art, shame they have a major flaw in them heehehehe."
The grunt looked about to throttle her before he yelled, "Get someone else, this bitch is too much for me."
As he walked off she yelled back, "Oh, but I was just beginning to have fun... foreplay is a way to a girl's heart boyo."
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
Compartment 12 rattled as the Salient was once again hit; even this storage section near the heavily armored engine rooms these strikes well deflected by the Ships armor had an effect. Like most of the storage sections Compartment 12 of section C was deserted and dimmed, humans rarely came to visit this reserve and thus the place had been left to gather dust; even the air was stale since the air cond itioning systems where out of action and the repair crew saw little reason to repair it.
Nothing was supposed to be here apart from cables and scrap but one thing was out of place.... an anomaly.
A strange Machine stood near piled boxes of cable,here it stood still and derelict but it was special in one way; it was not supposed to be there at all.
The machine lay still, its processors silent its computer bank only operating a number of sensors waiting for some unknown trigger; its time had finally come
~Awaken~ the voice echoed in the room; all seemed the same, nothing changed and in the next few seconds a deafening silence ruled the never ending night in the salients storage sections.
.L... ..... ...... ........ ......... ..........0 ...........1 .................1........0.....0...1...0...0..1010.1010..[
10100010100101001010001010111001010101010001001010100.....L......010001001001000100001001000010010101000100100101001010011010100 {ERROR] 10010.......{ERROR)11001010110101..... {ERROR}......10010100101001010001....0000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000 {CRITICAL ERROR] administrator active..... logging in.... profile LITTLETINKER [SYSTEM REBOOT]
~Awaken~
............. loading systems...... activating processors...... activating main computer bank...... automated repair system engaged.....scanning..... scanning complete.... repairing..... all systems operational..... Artificial intelligence capacity activated.... loading personality IRU-6K.....{ERROR!} system overwrite LillyT security network.... personality loaded..... final activation sequence completed.... transferring control to Systems AI.... Administrator logging off.... {ERROR!} administrator Unknown.
IRU 6 activated his external visual sensors, his surroundings where strange yet as IRU scanned the room he soon realized he had been programmed with all relevant information to his situation. IRU soon identified the controls to the door and left the chamber, his wheels required maintenance but he found no serious fault preventing his transit. Why was he activated? his Datacore gave no answers and no activation code had been provided to his systems. as IRU entered the engines section his frustration with his lack of knowledge grew, IRU approached the near by terminal and examined it; the terminal was one which controlled the environmental systems but IRU noticed strange patterns in its programming.... it was connected to multiple unrelated platforms as if multiple computer programs where making use of it. IRU connected himself to the terminal and slowly examined information stored within it when suddenly IRU's memorybanks activated and rocked all his systems into full capacity.
As a strange surge worked from his systems into the ships network IRU found himself scanning information at speeds his systems where not meant to be capable of and before long IRU began to grow delirious with the process. before initiating an emergency reboot IRU's systems sent a coded data burst transmission but IRU could not tell where the transmission was intended for.
Nothing was supposed to be here apart from cables and scrap but one thing was out of place.... an anomaly.
A strange Machine stood near piled boxes of cable,here it stood still and derelict but it was special in one way; it was not supposed to be there at all.
The machine lay still, its processors silent its computer bank only operating a number of sensors waiting for some unknown trigger; its time had finally come
~Awaken~ the voice echoed in the room; all seemed the same, nothing changed and in the next few seconds a deafening silence ruled the never ending night in the salients storage sections.
.L... ..... ...... ........ ......... ..........0 ...........1 .................1........0.....0...1...0...0..1010.1010..[
10100010100101001010001010111001010101010001001010100.....L......010001001001000100001001000010010101000100100101001010011010100 {ERROR] 10010.......{ERROR)11001010110101..... {ERROR}......10010100101001010001....0000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000 {CRITICAL ERROR] administrator active..... logging in.... profile LITTLETINKER [SYSTEM REBOOT]
~Awaken~
............. loading systems...... activating processors...... activating main computer bank...... automated repair system engaged.....scanning..... scanning complete.... repairing..... all systems operational..... Artificial intelligence capacity activated.... loading personality IRU-6K.....{ERROR!} system overwrite LillyT security network.... personality loaded..... final activation sequence completed.... transferring control to Systems AI.... Administrator logging off.... {ERROR!} administrator Unknown.
IRU 6 activated his external visual sensors, his surroundings where strange yet as IRU scanned the room he soon realized he had been programmed with all relevant information to his situation. IRU soon identified the controls to the door and left the chamber, his wheels required maintenance but he found no serious fault preventing his transit. Why was he activated? his Datacore gave no answers and no activation code had been provided to his systems. as IRU entered the engines section his frustration with his lack of knowledge grew, IRU approached the near by terminal and examined it; the terminal was one which controlled the environmental systems but IRU noticed strange patterns in its programming.... it was connected to multiple unrelated platforms as if multiple computer programs where making use of it. IRU connected himself to the terminal and slowly examined information stored within it when suddenly IRU's memorybanks activated and rocked all his systems into full capacity.
As a strange surge worked from his systems into the ships network IRU found himself scanning information at speeds his systems where not meant to be capable of and before long IRU began to grow delirious with the process. before initiating an emergency reboot IRU's systems sent a coded data burst transmission but IRU could not tell where the transmission was intended for.
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(Sorry if the post isn't up to par, I had to resort to using my iPhone during any free time I can get)
Reterec
Reterec quickly started to head back as soon as he heard the alert. He then yelled "We need to get out! Now!". He ran to where they had boarded, jumping over or avoiding any obstacle. That's when he noticed something hidden behind some rubble. He couldn't tell what it was, but maybe it could be useful. He grabbed it, and continued running back to the boarding ship.
Max
Max had become more and more in sync the longer he was in the system, actions becoming easier and easier to do unnoticed. He then found his way into the archives, which, while his knowledge on Pirates was limited, thought was odd. "Why would pirates need records?". He looked into them a little, while still maintaining a low profile now. He then noticed two words in particular. "Pirate Nation". He sent what he found to TAU, disguised to anyone who wasn't digital as White Noise. Barely audible. Of course, he also took great care in making it undetected as well. Though, if they did discover he was here, he had a backup plan, just in case.
Max still wasn't sure what to think. He had been aware for less then a week, and he would be in the development stage for awhile. What he found especially interesting was how all the pirates banded together. He was a bit impressed even. But not enough to help them. They were in for a profit, and Max didn't plan on becoming merchandise. He kept focusing on learning as much as possible for TAU. He seemed to be his only friend. He liked that word, Friend. That's when he found his way to the fire alarm. He made a note of that, and continued moving stealthily on the ship. He knew he would need to quickly leave soon.
(Sorry if the post isn't that good. I can't really refer to other posts or type as fast and detailed as I would like. I might not be able to get on Saterday and Sunday, so if something is wrong please bear with any waiting)
Reterec
Reterec quickly started to head back as soon as he heard the alert. He then yelled "We need to get out! Now!". He ran to where they had boarded, jumping over or avoiding any obstacle. That's when he noticed something hidden behind some rubble. He couldn't tell what it was, but maybe it could be useful. He grabbed it, and continued running back to the boarding ship.
Max
Max had become more and more in sync the longer he was in the system, actions becoming easier and easier to do unnoticed. He then found his way into the archives, which, while his knowledge on Pirates was limited, thought was odd. "Why would pirates need records?". He looked into them a little, while still maintaining a low profile now. He then noticed two words in particular. "Pirate Nation". He sent what he found to TAU, disguised to anyone who wasn't digital as White Noise. Barely audible. Of course, he also took great care in making it undetected as well. Though, if they did discover he was here, he had a backup plan, just in case.
Max still wasn't sure what to think. He had been aware for less then a week, and he would be in the development stage for awhile. What he found especially interesting was how all the pirates banded together. He was a bit impressed even. But not enough to help them. They were in for a profit, and Max didn't plan on becoming merchandise. He kept focusing on learning as much as possible for TAU. He seemed to be his only friend. He liked that word, Friend. That's when he found his way to the fire alarm. He made a note of that, and continued moving stealthily on the ship. He knew he would need to quickly leave soon.
(Sorry if the post isn't that good. I can't really refer to other posts or type as fast and detailed as I would like. I might not be able to get on Saterday and Sunday, so if something is wrong please bear with any waiting)
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Miranda - ADVANCED TACTICIAN AND MILITARY ADVISOR A.I
The A.I knew someone was skulking around the framework, but rather than set off the alert she instead just watched mockingly --- yes that was the word, she felt pity for the pathetic stream of data. She laughed at it's gall and found it amusing, the coding she had was state of the art and her creator had known much about the Federation typical response, being the daughter of the great Admiral Reynolds. Courtney had much expertise when it came to computing and much of the internal emotion Miranda experienced was due to some tinkering on the creator part.
Finally deciding she had watched enough she grinned to herself before sending an electromagnetic surge coursing towards the target.
"Fry bitch!" Thought Miranda.
Silver Eye's Command Ship
"Captain the weapons are fully charged on board all vessels."
Smirking he issued the order, "Fire and blow that thing out the sky."
Checking his comm channel he spoke directly to Fredrichson, "You on board yet?"
"Yes, but I need a distraction to get to her room, I know where she is, just need something to get there."
Looking out the window again he considered a little before relaying new order, "Gavins, fly directly into the Salient, just be sure to eject before hitting. I promise one of the ships will pick you up."
There was silence on the other line before a voice spoke up, "WHAT THE... YOU ACTUALLY SERIOUS?"
"Yes, Hendry will carry you to safety."
A strong sound of annoyance replied, "I. Don't. Like. This. Plan."
"Are you a pirate or a coward? It's thanks to Rich Girl we stand here, don't screw it up because you're a pussy."
The comm silenced then a voice replied, "Fine."
The A.I knew someone was skulking around the framework, but rather than set off the alert she instead just watched mockingly --- yes that was the word, she felt pity for the pathetic stream of data. She laughed at it's gall and found it amusing, the coding she had was state of the art and her creator had known much about the Federation typical response, being the daughter of the great Admiral Reynolds. Courtney had much expertise when it came to computing and much of the internal emotion Miranda experienced was due to some tinkering on the creator part.
Finally deciding she had watched enough she grinned to herself before sending an electromagnetic surge coursing towards the target.
"Fry bitch!" Thought Miranda.
Silver Eye's Command Ship
"Captain the weapons are fully charged on board all vessels."
Smirking he issued the order, "Fire and blow that thing out the sky."
Checking his comm channel he spoke directly to Fredrichson, "You on board yet?"
"Yes, but I need a distraction to get to her room, I know where she is, just need something to get there."
Looking out the window again he considered a little before relaying new order, "Gavins, fly directly into the Salient, just be sure to eject before hitting. I promise one of the ships will pick you up."
There was silence on the other line before a voice spoke up, "WHAT THE... YOU ACTUALLY SERIOUS?"
"Yes, Hendry will carry you to safety."
A strong sound of annoyance replied, "I. Don't. Like. This. Plan."
"Are you a pirate or a coward? It's thanks to Rich Girl we stand here, don't screw it up because you're a pussy."
The comm silenced then a voice replied, "Fine."
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
AI TAU
Tau took in all the information that Max sent to him and routed it to a private storage bank that only the Admiral could access. He sent a bit of himself into the enemy databanks along with Max, tagging along and disguising himself so it still seemed to just be Max, but Tau could still provide help. He sensed a pulse coming through the system and set up a router to get rid of it, sending the deadly attack into one of the consoles on the Main ship of the Pirate fleet, which they were on. Tau scanned its approach direction and traced its origins. He communicated with Max on a private frequency "There is a Pirate AI aboard, we can expect some conflict" he says, brief and to the point. Tau then created a multitude of virus filled emails and shot them into the enemy fleet's communication network, infiltrating the emails of personel and using them to forward the message to all the others, filling the system with virus bombs waiting for one of the thousands of Pirates to open unknowingly. Even without being opened, the messages caused a small power surge, messing with the enemy operations.
So this was AI warfare at its best... he thought.
(Accidently put Thaddeus in the characters trying to add TAU, sorry)
Tau took in all the information that Max sent to him and routed it to a private storage bank that only the Admiral could access. He sent a bit of himself into the enemy databanks along with Max, tagging along and disguising himself so it still seemed to just be Max, but Tau could still provide help. He sensed a pulse coming through the system and set up a router to get rid of it, sending the deadly attack into one of the consoles on the Main ship of the Pirate fleet, which they were on. Tau scanned its approach direction and traced its origins. He communicated with Max on a private frequency "There is a Pirate AI aboard, we can expect some conflict" he says, brief and to the point. Tau then created a multitude of virus filled emails and shot them into the enemy fleet's communication network, infiltrating the emails of personel and using them to forward the message to all the others, filling the system with virus bombs waiting for one of the thousands of Pirates to open unknowingly. Even without being opened, the messages caused a small power surge, messing with the enemy operations.
So this was AI warfare at its best... he thought.
(Accidently put Thaddeus in the characters trying to add TAU, sorry)
ADAM
ADAM's hologram began flickering and distorting, "Sir it would appear that I am being assaulted from an area that AI require human approval to interface with. It goes without saying such areas would have either a lot of movable machinery or in vicinity of key systems of the ship; the most common examples being the Docking Bay or Life Support respectively." ADAM felt its processes slowing down, like it was slowly being fried.
"Perhaps a withdrawal of.....ground forces may be effective after all. -e have th F-TL o consider after...all. -At and they are sit ing ducks out there." ADAM's processes weren't so bad as its voice was showing but it effectively killed any ability of communication from his side.
ADAM's hologram began flickering and distorting, "Sir it would appear that I am being assaulted from an area that AI require human approval to interface with. It goes without saying such areas would have either a lot of movable machinery or in vicinity of key systems of the ship; the most common examples being the Docking Bay or Life Support respectively." ADAM felt its processes slowing down, like it was slowly being fried.
"Perhaps a withdrawal of.....ground forces may be effective after all. -e have th F-TL o consider after...all. -At and they are sit ing ducks out there." ADAM's processes weren't so bad as its voice was showing but it effectively killed any ability of communication from his side.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to Bridge
“Sir I don’t know what’s going on there, but I’ve tried everything. There seems to be something blocking our access points to the FTL drives,” Clyde was typing away on his interface, the haptic interface keys beeping as he went on.
Clyde was sitting in a tripartite station with two younger crew officers, inexperienced no doubt. Their duties were one and the same though, managing the Salient’s course and its sub-hyperdrives and faster than light drives, of course the majority of their job was being monitored by A.D.A.M. most of the time. A.D.A.M. would often manage the little details. Should the Salient ever veer off the course by a mere few degrees, and it would be automatically corrected by A.D.A.M.’s processing. No one could argue with his pinpoint accuracy, of course, Clyde was one to challenge.
“And what would that something be, Mr. Summer?” the Admiral crossed his arms, with his right hand raised to rub his stubble as he pondered possible methods.
“No sir, I’ve tried everything. It’s possible that the infiltrator may be uploaded a program into our system,” Clyde gestured to the Admiral, prompting him to view the screen.
“Delete it then,”
“Negative sir, it’s not that simple. Whatever she may have uploaded seems to counter A.D.A.M.’s capabilities,” Clyde waited for it sink in. Aronimus reared his head back to his straight posture.
“So you’re saying that the drives will activate nonetheless?” Aronimus narrowed his eyes at the navigator.
“It would seem so sir,” Clyde and the Admiral paused.
“Would it be possible for you to delay it, Mr. Summer?” Clyde looked at the Admiral with a puzzled look, then he returned to his interface and began typing away vigorously.
Time seemed to stand still for a moment as the Navigator was lost in his work, while the two junior officers watched him and the Admiral overlooking his shoulder. Then he jolted, startling the officers, and he looked at the Admiral with a solemn demeanor, stoic like stone.
“Sir I’ve delayed the FTL drive systems, and I’ve also set the intended destination the Arcturus System,”
The Admiral gave him a firm nod of approval, “Very good Mr. Summer,” before he returned to his station at the raised captain’s deck.
“Sir, may I ask why you wanted to delay the FTL drives?”
“It’s a surprise Mr. Summer,” the manner which the Admiral delivered those words threw off the young navigator. He said it without a twinge of emotion, like a man resigned to fate.
Of course, this was the man, the myth, and the legend, who was praised by echelons of Federation servicemen and women who served directly under and above him, and personally witnessed his military triumphs. Fate did not weave his strands, he wove the strands himself, locking the stones in their respective holes in the road. Something was amiss, the Navigator could sense it. The two officers, Napier and Hansen, who had served personally with the Admiral, knew that the old dog had something up his sleeve.
Clyde was sitting in a tripartite station with two younger crew officers, inexperienced no doubt. Their duties were one and the same though, managing the Salient’s course and its sub-hyperdrives and faster than light drives, of course the majority of their job was being monitored by A.D.A.M. most of the time. A.D.A.M. would often manage the little details. Should the Salient ever veer off the course by a mere few degrees, and it would be automatically corrected by A.D.A.M.’s processing. No one could argue with his pinpoint accuracy, of course, Clyde was one to challenge.
“And what would that something be, Mr. Summer?” the Admiral crossed his arms, with his right hand raised to rub his stubble as he pondered possible methods.
“No sir, I’ve tried everything. It’s possible that the infiltrator may be uploaded a program into our system,” Clyde gestured to the Admiral, prompting him to view the screen.
“Delete it then,”
“Negative sir, it’s not that simple. Whatever she may have uploaded seems to counter A.D.A.M.’s capabilities,” Clyde waited for it sink in. Aronimus reared his head back to his straight posture.
“So you’re saying that the drives will activate nonetheless?” Aronimus narrowed his eyes at the navigator.
“It would seem so sir,” Clyde and the Admiral paused.
“Would it be possible for you to delay it, Mr. Summer?” Clyde looked at the Admiral with a puzzled look, then he returned to his interface and began typing away vigorously.
Time seemed to stand still for a moment as the Navigator was lost in his work, while the two junior officers watched him and the Admiral overlooking his shoulder. Then he jolted, startling the officers, and he looked at the Admiral with a solemn demeanor, stoic like stone.
“Sir I’ve delayed the FTL drive systems, and I’ve also set the intended destination the Arcturus System,”
The Admiral gave him a firm nod of approval, “Very good Mr. Summer,” before he returned to his station at the raised captain’s deck.
“Sir, may I ask why you wanted to delay the FTL drives?”
“It’s a surprise Mr. Summer,” the manner which the Admiral delivered those words threw off the young navigator. He said it without a twinge of emotion, like a man resigned to fate.
Of course, this was the man, the myth, and the legend, who was praised by echelons of Federation servicemen and women who served directly under and above him, and personally witnessed his military triumphs. Fate did not weave his strands, he wove the strands himself, locking the stones in their respective holes in the road. Something was amiss, the Navigator could sense it. The two officers, Napier and Hansen, who had served personally with the Admiral, knew that the old dog had something up his sleeve.
Clyde
Clyde's hands flew over his keyboard. Most of his work wasn't technically being done with his hands- his virtual apparition inside the network was doing far more. He was actively plotting smaller ship courses through the drifting debris- a work that needed to be done with the perspective of the ships in question, not just the Salient's sensors- as well as trying to fix the FTL problem.
The FTL problem... The intruder had uploaded programming directly into the engine room. Clyde had seen as much. But that alone was nothing to the technological giants that inhabited the ship. The real problem was that she had shot the engines. No amount of software can repair hardware damage. The damage had locked the commands put in by the intruder in place, and nothing short of turning the ship off could stop them from being completed. Not that turning them off was a solution- even if someone were to forcibly shut down the ship systems, the engines would continue to generate energy until it could no longer be contained.
The sheer genius inside the sabotage led Clyde to question whether or not the intruder had actually done it on purpose...
He broke the bad news to the Admiral.
“So you’re saying that the drives will activate nonetheless?” Aronimus narrowed his eyes at the navigator.
“It would seem so sir,” Clyde and the Admiral paused.
“Would it be possible for you to delay it, Mr. Summer?”
Delay it? What the hell? Nobody delays an FTL launch... Things are scheduled around the jumps, rather than the jumps being scheduled around events. Clyde would have to write a new program into the FTL protocol just to slow it down... And that didn't solve the energy problem. Where was it all supposed to go? The weapons weren't firing, routing power to wiring would blow out lights and computer circuitry, and nothing was operating at less than maximum functionality. He was going to have to overload something. What could he increase the output of without destroying something? Clyde ran through all the ship functions. The first thing he did was increase air cooling. Not enough. Then...
The artificial gravity. The artificial gravity machine could output greater force than the single G that humans live under in order to neutralize extra force from takeoff and landing. It required quite a bit of energy to run... and if Clyde only increased the output slightly over the whole ship, it would serve to dilute the charge. With the press of a button (and a few questionable acts regarding protocol), everything on the ship became just a little bit heavier.
“Sir I’ve delayed the FTL drive systems, and I’ve also set the intended destination the Arcturus System,”
The Admiral gave him a firm nod of approval, “Very good Mr. Summer,” before he returned to his station at the raised captain’s deck.
“Sir, may I ask why you wanted to delay the FTL drives?”
“It’s a surprise Mr. Summer,” the manner which the Admiral delivered those words threw off the young navigator. He said it without a twinge of emotion, like a man resigned to fate.
Well... This promised to be interesting. It was time to see what the Admiral was really capable of.
Clyde's hands flew over his keyboard. Most of his work wasn't technically being done with his hands- his virtual apparition inside the network was doing far more. He was actively plotting smaller ship courses through the drifting debris- a work that needed to be done with the perspective of the ships in question, not just the Salient's sensors- as well as trying to fix the FTL problem.
The FTL problem... The intruder had uploaded programming directly into the engine room. Clyde had seen as much. But that alone was nothing to the technological giants that inhabited the ship. The real problem was that she had shot the engines. No amount of software can repair hardware damage. The damage had locked the commands put in by the intruder in place, and nothing short of turning the ship off could stop them from being completed. Not that turning them off was a solution- even if someone were to forcibly shut down the ship systems, the engines would continue to generate energy until it could no longer be contained.
The sheer genius inside the sabotage led Clyde to question whether or not the intruder had actually done it on purpose...
He broke the bad news to the Admiral.
“So you’re saying that the drives will activate nonetheless?” Aronimus narrowed his eyes at the navigator.
“It would seem so sir,” Clyde and the Admiral paused.
“Would it be possible for you to delay it, Mr. Summer?”
Delay it? What the hell? Nobody delays an FTL launch... Things are scheduled around the jumps, rather than the jumps being scheduled around events. Clyde would have to write a new program into the FTL protocol just to slow it down... And that didn't solve the energy problem. Where was it all supposed to go? The weapons weren't firing, routing power to wiring would blow out lights and computer circuitry, and nothing was operating at less than maximum functionality. He was going to have to overload something. What could he increase the output of without destroying something? Clyde ran through all the ship functions. The first thing he did was increase air cooling. Not enough. Then...
The artificial gravity. The artificial gravity machine could output greater force than the single G that humans live under in order to neutralize extra force from takeoff and landing. It required quite a bit of energy to run... and if Clyde only increased the output slightly over the whole ship, it would serve to dilute the charge. With the press of a button (and a few questionable acts regarding protocol), everything on the ship became just a little bit heavier.
“Sir I’ve delayed the FTL drive systems, and I’ve also set the intended destination the Arcturus System,”
The Admiral gave him a firm nod of approval, “Very good Mr. Summer,” before he returned to his station at the raised captain’s deck.
“Sir, may I ask why you wanted to delay the FTL drives?”
“It’s a surprise Mr. Summer,” the manner which the Admiral delivered those words threw off the young navigator. He said it without a twinge of emotion, like a man resigned to fate.
Well... This promised to be interesting. It was time to see what the Admiral was really capable of.
The setting changes from Bridge to The Milky Way Universe
Tiaan Peyton
Grinning back at Ray she responded by flying down the run-way and out the hatch replying back, "You're on slow poke." Once she was out though, she realized it was no time to mess about, the ships on horizon beginning to batter down the ruined ship. She swung around leading her squadron, "Helens, Kyle, Oscar and Vent, we need to do something really risky."
There was a few murmurs over the com, "We need to make sure that ruined ship survives, think we can?"
Not hearing a answer, she prayed to whoever existed and patched into Ray's bomber, "This is really dangerous, but if we succeed you can likely save our comrades. I warn you now Ray, none of my squad including me are likely to survive."
Waiting she started the formation, "Helens fire heat-seeking missiles."
Weaving in and around the junk she let loose her missiles, "That's it guys, dodge and dive, make sure to keep the ships distracted."
It was hopeless, but if she could delay long enough, the team in danger could get out. This is what we needed, "FIRE!" she yelled letting loose her second stock, c'mon Blue Bird, let's teach them pirate's that we aren't just Federation girls, we're Federation bitches and you never never argue against a bitch.
Reversing her thrusters she made the signal for them to hide around the wreckage, "How much has everyone got left?"
"1 Salvo"
"3 Salvos, although my wing been hit."
"0, I'll guide back Oscar."
"3, let's do this."
"FIRE!"
The missiles hitting the ships weren't doing much damage, but if it made it possible for Ray to do the plan, then all be fine. We just need more time guys, "Where the hell is Hyena?!"
As in response a voice replied, "She's refusing to leave the bay, we think she's in shock."
"Shit, that's all we need. FIRE!"
Moving back, she checked the scanner, appears they were sending more fighter, "Ray I hope you're fucking hurrying!"
Manual aiming her cannon she fired at some of wreckage causing it to move towards one of the approaching ships, "NEVER MESS WITH FUCKING BIRDY!"
The wreckages collided with three fighters crushing them.
This was hardly the beginning, but this delay did seemed to have halted the weapons.
Grinning back at Ray she responded by flying down the run-way and out the hatch replying back, "You're on slow poke." Once she was out though, she realized it was no time to mess about, the ships on horizon beginning to batter down the ruined ship. She swung around leading her squadron, "Helens, Kyle, Oscar and Vent, we need to do something really risky."
There was a few murmurs over the com, "We need to make sure that ruined ship survives, think we can?"
Not hearing a answer, she prayed to whoever existed and patched into Ray's bomber, "This is really dangerous, but if we succeed you can likely save our comrades. I warn you now Ray, none of my squad including me are likely to survive."
Waiting she started the formation, "Helens fire heat-seeking missiles."
Weaving in and around the junk she let loose her missiles, "That's it guys, dodge and dive, make sure to keep the ships distracted."
It was hopeless, but if she could delay long enough, the team in danger could get out. This is what we needed, "FIRE!" she yelled letting loose her second stock, c'mon Blue Bird, let's teach them pirate's that we aren't just Federation girls, we're Federation bitches and you never never argue against a bitch.
Reversing her thrusters she made the signal for them to hide around the wreckage, "How much has everyone got left?"
"1 Salvo"
"3 Salvos, although my wing been hit."
"0, I'll guide back Oscar."
"3, let's do this."
"FIRE!"
The missiles hitting the ships weren't doing much damage, but if it made it possible for Ray to do the plan, then all be fine. We just need more time guys, "Where the hell is Hyena?!"
As in response a voice replied, "She's refusing to leave the bay, we think she's in shock."
"Shit, that's all we need. FIRE!"
Moving back, she checked the scanner, appears they were sending more fighter, "Ray I hope you're fucking hurrying!"
Manual aiming her cannon she fired at some of wreckage causing it to move towards one of the approaching ships, "NEVER MESS WITH FUCKING BIRDY!"
The wreckages collided with three fighters crushing them.
This was hardly the beginning, but this delay did seemed to have halted the weapons.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
Many of the crew members knew that the Salient was going to be destroyed, and they would die with it. The ship had only left the factories on Earth merely weeks ago. Rather than accept the inevitable defeat, though, they continued working diligently as the Admiral oversaw them with eyes like a hawk. It seemed like his hour was coming.
"Sir we're receiving fire from the their front line!" yelled one of the crewmen.
"Return fire, soldier!" Aronimus responded, his earlier countenance was of a calm stone. Now it seemed as if that had completely faded, now he seemed like a tempest in the bridge.
"Navigator Summer, set the FTL jump to the Arcturus System. I want you to keep me posted with the countdown until the jump."
Then the ship rocked, jarring several crew members off balance, even Aronimus had to grip the railing.
"Sir, they're piercing the outer layer of the neosteel plating," blurted one of the personnel.
The line of pirate ships began to form, an oddity in itself, as pirates often preferred hit-and-run, and ambush attacks. This seemed more organized, but Aronimus expected as much, seeing as how Eturrer was commanding the pirate fleet.
The cannons of the pirate ships fired at once, the ghastly affect of their tachyon fire began to rip apart several plates from the Salient's hull. On top of that, the crew received another hit, which rocked the ship once more.
"Lieutenant Napier! Report!"
"Sir, we've been hit, but it wasn't a projectile or energy weapon. Here, let me play the feed." the JG typed several keys on the haptic interface, and a giant holographic screen flew into the air in the middle of the bridge.
The feed showed the starboard section of the Salient being impacted by a flying object. Upon closer inspection, Aronimus realized it was a fighter ship, which had lunged itself into the Salient, not because of a broken wing. The impact tore apart multiple plates on the exterior hull, continued use of this method would eventually ply away the exterior and reach the interior skeleton of the Salient.
"Kamikaze..." Aronimus' eyes narrowed, "A desperate tactic, but it acquires results..."
Eturrer was the kind of Admiral who did not care how many casualties he received as long as he garnered results. That was his method of commanding, and that was how he reached such a level in the Federation Navy. Although some objected to his style because one of the tenants of the Federation Armed Forces was to reduce casualties at all costs.
Now that Eturrer had thrown off the chains of being apart of the Federation Navy, he can operate and command freely without any restrictions. Few realized, however, that his methods did not endanger those under him.
His kamikaze strategy only destroyed fighters; the pilots would eject before impact, and a friendly fighter would quickly retrieve the pilot. He wasted materials, but not manpower; Aronimus knew this, after studying multitudes of Eturrer's combat logs during his early years as an Admiral.
"Sir we're receiving fire from the their front line!" yelled one of the crewmen.
"Return fire, soldier!" Aronimus responded, his earlier countenance was of a calm stone. Now it seemed as if that had completely faded, now he seemed like a tempest in the bridge.
"Navigator Summer, set the FTL jump to the Arcturus System. I want you to keep me posted with the countdown until the jump."
Then the ship rocked, jarring several crew members off balance, even Aronimus had to grip the railing.
"Sir, they're piercing the outer layer of the neosteel plating," blurted one of the personnel.
The line of pirate ships began to form, an oddity in itself, as pirates often preferred hit-and-run, and ambush attacks. This seemed more organized, but Aronimus expected as much, seeing as how Eturrer was commanding the pirate fleet.
The cannons of the pirate ships fired at once, the ghastly affect of their tachyon fire began to rip apart several plates from the Salient's hull. On top of that, the crew received another hit, which rocked the ship once more.
"Lieutenant Napier! Report!"
"Sir, we've been hit, but it wasn't a projectile or energy weapon. Here, let me play the feed." the JG typed several keys on the haptic interface, and a giant holographic screen flew into the air in the middle of the bridge.
The feed showed the starboard section of the Salient being impacted by a flying object. Upon closer inspection, Aronimus realized it was a fighter ship, which had lunged itself into the Salient, not because of a broken wing. The impact tore apart multiple plates on the exterior hull, continued use of this method would eventually ply away the exterior and reach the interior skeleton of the Salient.
"Kamikaze..." Aronimus' eyes narrowed, "A desperate tactic, but it acquires results..."
Eturrer was the kind of Admiral who did not care how many casualties he received as long as he garnered results. That was his method of commanding, and that was how he reached such a level in the Federation Navy. Although some objected to his style because one of the tenants of the Federation Armed Forces was to reduce casualties at all costs.
Now that Eturrer had thrown off the chains of being apart of the Federation Navy, he can operate and command freely without any restrictions. Few realized, however, that his methods did not endanger those under him.
His kamikaze strategy only destroyed fighters; the pilots would eject before impact, and a friendly fighter would quickly retrieve the pilot. He wasted materials, but not manpower; Aronimus knew this, after studying multitudes of Eturrer's combat logs during his early years as an Admiral.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
"Well i guess its 1-0 to you... hmf" Chuckled Ray as he saw the trail left by the fighters launch boosters. Ray began to calibrate the gunship for take of as the rest of the Salients fighters and interceptors left for space; the Swing class was a reliable and powerful ship however its take off system along with its engines where obsolete in the face of the even changing fighter market. Ray soon noticed that his power level was inadequate to maintain his engines, his weapon system and the hazed shield at the same time and decided to reduce the shield to 10% since once in space Ray would not need to tax so much power into his engines and he would be able to handle his shields as a higher capacity. As his engines powered up for launch Ray cursed; fighters and interceptors did not need to direct so much power into the engines for launch because they had their launch boosters, the Swing class came from an age before the launch booster and there was no practical way to add one into the design.
Ray began the slow process of expanding engine power while avoiding any over heating and approached his launch position with care, back on the pirate frigate Ray did not need to waste so much time and effort on the launch because the Gunship had been modded for the fast and sleek infiltration duty. Now in full battle gear the Gunship slugged along the launch platform as the engines neared launch speed. By now the battle had started as the Salients fighters engaged the enemy, Ray switched to launch pattern B and within a few moments the carefully generated engine power roared the gunship into space. The Gunship was now finally in space, Ray hardy had the time to take a read out of the situation when Tiaan ordered him to hurry.
"Copy that Tiaan sorry about the delay, My sensors are reading 5 enemy squadrons now launching from a light carrier. Keep your sights on fighters allready spacing around us; i will take out the carriers" Pirate ship where mostly pieces of salvage and rarely true military grade material and thus most of the pirate fighters where housed on former civilian vessels converted into crude but speedy carriers.
"Computer Target and lock on enemy unit R3red" said Ray now opening his missile pods and releasing his two satellite weapon launchers .
"Target acquired and locked" said the dull voice of his computer
Ray activated his screen and switched to Command center display, the map was a rough chart of the current location of friendly and enemy units based on the data sent to the command center from each fighter. Other then the Salient and other gunships only Ray could give the fighters the information they needed or warn them of impending danger.
"Please brake from target R3red, now launching missiles" said Ray into his communicator
The missiles whom at first flew without any target in mind soon processed their target information and then adjusting their course towards the carrier. Enemy interceptors soon hurtled themselves at the missiles and tried to shoot them down before they reached the vulnerable carrier and its cargo of fighters ; the two satellite launchers soon detected this threat and released a number of mini mines which soon found the interceptors and detonated. The missiles now with a clear route to the carrier entered the final faze of the attack and soon smashed into the carrier targeting the most important areas on the ship.
Five great explosions rattled the carrier; three at the launch bay, one at the engines and the last in the area which Ray assumed was the command bridge of the ship. the carrier remained intact however all five launching squadrons vanished from Ray's sensors as the launch bay area collapsed, now retreating the carrier fired its remaining ammunition into space causing minor damage to the Salient's fighters before it left the area of battle with which Ray was concerned.
Ray smiled and flew towards Tiaan's fighter group hoping to get some protection against the pirate fighters.
Ray chuckled and said "mind if i hide here? i need time before i can pinpoint another target for my missiles"
Ray began the slow process of expanding engine power while avoiding any over heating and approached his launch position with care, back on the pirate frigate Ray did not need to waste so much time and effort on the launch because the Gunship had been modded for the fast and sleek infiltration duty. Now in full battle gear the Gunship slugged along the launch platform as the engines neared launch speed. By now the battle had started as the Salients fighters engaged the enemy, Ray switched to launch pattern B and within a few moments the carefully generated engine power roared the gunship into space. The Gunship was now finally in space, Ray hardy had the time to take a read out of the situation when Tiaan ordered him to hurry.
"Copy that Tiaan sorry about the delay, My sensors are reading 5 enemy squadrons now launching from a light carrier. Keep your sights on fighters allready spacing around us; i will take out the carriers" Pirate ship where mostly pieces of salvage and rarely true military grade material and thus most of the pirate fighters where housed on former civilian vessels converted into crude but speedy carriers.
"Computer Target and lock on enemy unit R3red" said Ray now opening his missile pods and releasing his two satellite weapon launchers .
"Target acquired and locked" said the dull voice of his computer
Ray activated his screen and switched to Command center display, the map was a rough chart of the current location of friendly and enemy units based on the data sent to the command center from each fighter. Other then the Salient and other gunships only Ray could give the fighters the information they needed or warn them of impending danger.
"Please brake from target R3red, now launching missiles" said Ray into his communicator
The missiles whom at first flew without any target in mind soon processed their target information and then adjusting their course towards the carrier. Enemy interceptors soon hurtled themselves at the missiles and tried to shoot them down before they reached the vulnerable carrier and its cargo of fighters ; the two satellite launchers soon detected this threat and released a number of mini mines which soon found the interceptors and detonated. The missiles now with a clear route to the carrier entered the final faze of the attack and soon smashed into the carrier targeting the most important areas on the ship.
Five great explosions rattled the carrier; three at the launch bay, one at the engines and the last in the area which Ray assumed was the command bridge of the ship. the carrier remained intact however all five launching squadrons vanished from Ray's sensors as the launch bay area collapsed, now retreating the carrier fired its remaining ammunition into space causing minor damage to the Salient's fighters before it left the area of battle with which Ray was concerned.
Ray smiled and flew towards Tiaan's fighter group hoping to get some protection against the pirate fighters.
Ray chuckled and said "mind if i hide here? i need time before i can pinpoint another target for my missiles"
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
The light cruisers immediately fired a line of autocannons directly at the Salient. After the initial bombardments, Silver Eyes noted that the ship was barely damaged, and thus launched all his ships forward. The pirate lords commanding the different sections of his armada were beginning to think he had gone mad, with power.
The frigates inched forward, while the rear destroyers laid down suppression fire to cover their advance. They were hoping to surround the Salient, and perhaps destroy it from all directions.
However, the Salient withstood their attacks, and replied with its own arsenal of weaponry. The rail guns were fired, tearing a single frigate in half with two blasts to its mid-section. The lifeless hulk joined the rest of the scattered junk that littered the battlefield in space.
Another destroyer attempted to get fancy by circling around to the Salient’s rear and firing upon it with missiles. Unfortunately, those hits were deflected due to the tile shielding, which was a prototype. Despite this, the ship itself was built to foster the right experimentation conditions with its main particle cannon, the tile shielding, and finally the on board A.I. known as A.D.A.M.
The Admiral had resumed his seat at his podium in the rear of the Salient’s bridge. His screen was entirely conquered by the status of the FTL drives, which were currently at forty-two percent, once they reached one hundred, the ship would make a slip jump, with the aid of the sub-hyperspace drives, to the Arcturus System, reaching their destination before the intended date of arrival. It was either that, or suffer from damaged FTL drives, in which case the Salient would be left a sitting duck for the pirates to fire at, and board.
Everyone sat at their stations, generally calm, the fireworks outside had not done much damage, although several points had received extensive hits to the exoskeleton, but nothing serious yet. The bridge was in a state of unnerving calm, as few crew members shuffled back and forth between their stations, all the while monitoring the battle from their interface screens, or directly through the giant plexi-glass view port that was at the fore end of the ship.
However, the crew also noted that several destroyers crashed into each other, perhaps accidentally, damaging their outer plating. It was the work of Max and T.A.U. on the pirate fleet.
"Any word from the two A.I.s yet, Navigator Summer?" lines of apprehension began to entrench themselves on Aronimus' chiseled complexion.
The frigates inched forward, while the rear destroyers laid down suppression fire to cover their advance. They were hoping to surround the Salient, and perhaps destroy it from all directions.
However, the Salient withstood their attacks, and replied with its own arsenal of weaponry. The rail guns were fired, tearing a single frigate in half with two blasts to its mid-section. The lifeless hulk joined the rest of the scattered junk that littered the battlefield in space.
Another destroyer attempted to get fancy by circling around to the Salient’s rear and firing upon it with missiles. Unfortunately, those hits were deflected due to the tile shielding, which was a prototype. Despite this, the ship itself was built to foster the right experimentation conditions with its main particle cannon, the tile shielding, and finally the on board A.I. known as A.D.A.M.
The Admiral had resumed his seat at his podium in the rear of the Salient’s bridge. His screen was entirely conquered by the status of the FTL drives, which were currently at forty-two percent, once they reached one hundred, the ship would make a slip jump, with the aid of the sub-hyperspace drives, to the Arcturus System, reaching their destination before the intended date of arrival. It was either that, or suffer from damaged FTL drives, in which case the Salient would be left a sitting duck for the pirates to fire at, and board.
Everyone sat at their stations, generally calm, the fireworks outside had not done much damage, although several points had received extensive hits to the exoskeleton, but nothing serious yet. The bridge was in a state of unnerving calm, as few crew members shuffled back and forth between their stations, all the while monitoring the battle from their interface screens, or directly through the giant plexi-glass view port that was at the fore end of the ship.
However, the crew also noted that several destroyers crashed into each other, perhaps accidentally, damaging their outer plating. It was the work of Max and T.A.U. on the pirate fleet.
"Any word from the two A.I.s yet, Navigator Summer?" lines of apprehension began to entrench themselves on Aronimus' chiseled complexion.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
AI TAU
Tau realized things were going a bit slanted for the Salient at the moment, and decided it was time to step it up a notch. He tapped into some of his extra processing power and fed it to his efforts, singling out a single cruiser in the back of the pirate fleet. "Hello my Puppet" Tau said, noting a twinge of humor in his expression. He'd said it over open broadcast, both the Salient and the Pirates heard him. Tau wanted to give a few seconds of foreshadowing before...
The Cruiser Tau had infiltrated lurched to the left, its weapons and navigation systems out of the crew's command as Tau overloaded the bridge controls, breaking the consoles. The Cruiser's main weapon, a Projectile Cannon about half as deadly as the Salient's Railguns, locked on to a larger Pirate cruiser, without hesitation, it fired both of its Cannon shots at the other cruiser, ripping it apart. "Max, see about following my lead" he said, over an encrypted channel. Blowing more consoles to keep the Cruiser's crew off of him, he turned the Cannon on a pair of destroyers and fired.
Tau realized things were going a bit slanted for the Salient at the moment, and decided it was time to step it up a notch. He tapped into some of his extra processing power and fed it to his efforts, singling out a single cruiser in the back of the pirate fleet. "Hello my Puppet" Tau said, noting a twinge of humor in his expression. He'd said it over open broadcast, both the Salient and the Pirates heard him. Tau wanted to give a few seconds of foreshadowing before...
The Cruiser Tau had infiltrated lurched to the left, its weapons and navigation systems out of the crew's command as Tau overloaded the bridge controls, breaking the consoles. The Cruiser's main weapon, a Projectile Cannon about half as deadly as the Salient's Railguns, locked on to a larger Pirate cruiser, without hesitation, it fired both of its Cannon shots at the other cruiser, ripping it apart. "Max, see about following my lead" he said, over an encrypted channel. Blowing more consoles to keep the Cruiser's crew off of him, he turned the Cannon on a pair of destroyers and fired.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
Adriana
The marine gear didn't help much with the finesse areas of maintenance, but Adriana got the job done all the same. It had taken some time, but it would definitely have taken more had she not been encouraged by the constant arms fire colliding with the nearby hull. The kamikaze impact was quite encouraging in particular. With a grunt, she extricated herself from the machinery, and returned to the control console to run a final set of diagnostics.
The particle cannon was operational once more.
Adriana opened a link to the bridge and saluted the Admiral on his appearance. "The main cannon is operational, sir. After a short charging sequence, you may fire at will."
Clyde
Strong... The word was one Clyde came back to again and again as he looked about at the chaos he had helped to create. It's what the Salient and its crew were. It was raining all kinds of death, and the ship was laughing into its face. The ratio of kills to deaths was simply enormous for the kind of battle they were facing. Something like hundreds to... zero.
Yes, zero. Not a single fighter had been shot down (thanks to the excellent crew selection and his own assistance), and only superficial damage had been done to the hull. It wasn't really even a battle outside... It was a slaughter. Wave after wave came just to be torn asunder and cast into the sea of debris.
But powerful as they were, there was still a crucial limiting factor... The FTL was gaining power. Clyde had ratcheted the gravity up a few more times, but it wasn't enough... and if he did it anymore it might start to cause problems.
Despite his stalling, it seemed as if the FTL was increasing -faster- instead of slowing down. The rate at which energy was being generated was growing. There needed to be another way.
"Any word from the two A.I.s yet, Navigator Summer?" lines of apprehension began to entrench themselves on Aronimus' chiseled complexion.
"Not yet sir, but they seem to be quite active in their --"
"Hello my Puppet"
... What? Clyde was familiar with the signature- It was TAU. But that in itself was alarming. AI were not supposed to have such threatening routines.
Clyde watched the enemy break themselves upon each other.
Well... He was doing his job, at least.
Clyde's attention snapped back to the task at hand as Corporal Stark contacted the Admiral.
The cannon was active! Clyde checked the FTL Drives. 45%.
He routed power into the cannon... And to his gratification, the charge for the FTL drive froze. As long as they continued to charge the cannon, the FTL would come no closer to activation.
The marine gear didn't help much with the finesse areas of maintenance, but Adriana got the job done all the same. It had taken some time, but it would definitely have taken more had she not been encouraged by the constant arms fire colliding with the nearby hull. The kamikaze impact was quite encouraging in particular. With a grunt, she extricated herself from the machinery, and returned to the control console to run a final set of diagnostics.
The particle cannon was operational once more.
Adriana opened a link to the bridge and saluted the Admiral on his appearance. "The main cannon is operational, sir. After a short charging sequence, you may fire at will."
Clyde
Strong... The word was one Clyde came back to again and again as he looked about at the chaos he had helped to create. It's what the Salient and its crew were. It was raining all kinds of death, and the ship was laughing into its face. The ratio of kills to deaths was simply enormous for the kind of battle they were facing. Something like hundreds to... zero.
Yes, zero. Not a single fighter had been shot down (thanks to the excellent crew selection and his own assistance), and only superficial damage had been done to the hull. It wasn't really even a battle outside... It was a slaughter. Wave after wave came just to be torn asunder and cast into the sea of debris.
But powerful as they were, there was still a crucial limiting factor... The FTL was gaining power. Clyde had ratcheted the gravity up a few more times, but it wasn't enough... and if he did it anymore it might start to cause problems.
Despite his stalling, it seemed as if the FTL was increasing -faster- instead of slowing down. The rate at which energy was being generated was growing. There needed to be another way.
"Any word from the two A.I.s yet, Navigator Summer?" lines of apprehension began to entrench themselves on Aronimus' chiseled complexion.
"Not yet sir, but they seem to be quite active in their --"
"Hello my Puppet"
... What? Clyde was familiar with the signature- It was TAU. But that in itself was alarming. AI were not supposed to have such threatening routines.
Clyde watched the enemy break themselves upon each other.
Well... He was doing his job, at least.
Clyde's attention snapped back to the task at hand as Corporal Stark contacted the Admiral.
The cannon was active! Clyde checked the FTL Drives. 45%.
He routed power into the cannon... And to his gratification, the charge for the FTL drive froze. As long as they continued to charge the cannon, the FTL would come no closer to activation.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
Tiaan Peyton - Blue Bird - Space
Waiting she noted that there were only three fighters left distracting, and one heavy gun ship. As she heard Ray, she replied with, "Glad you could join us." checking her console for the missles she had left, the computer flashed up two among other things. Smirking she glanced a nearly destroyed Pirate Ship just trying to get out of line of fire behind the stronger ones, relaying a message to Ray she yelled, "Beat this boyo!" locking on to the energy signature she fired both her missiles.
Releasing from the wings, they shot down, speeding towards the target, zipping around the wreckage, swerving the nearby wrecked ships, before one collided with a piece of wreckage, crossing her fingers Tiaan watched the console showing the trail, before the missiles finally hit the ship. Since it was already stumbling, it now appeared almost dead. Checking her life signs scanner, it appeared most were clustered away from the control panel, that was enough for now.
Examining the wreckage, she thanked whoever was guiding them for such an amazing admiral and crew. This should have been a bloodbath, but fortunately they were surviving, amazing to imagine, watching vast expanses of space, she noted the fleet of Pirate Ships was still huge, and it would be amazing to even survive much longer. It appeared the leader appeared to be unable to think.
Were they playing with them, she was interrupted by a crackle from intercom, "Oi, Tiaan don't kill 'em all let Hyena do some!"
Gasping in horror she saw the fighter and realized that Hyena was drunk, trying to raise the channel she yelled, "Get back Hyena, we're fine go sober up!"
"It's pirate's I can handle them blindfolded."
Realizing how fruitless this was she tried to raise admiral, "Hyena out here drunk, get her out of here, please."
Just as she got through, she saw Hyena was flying too close to the actual fleet, firing everything she could, "HYENA GET OUT OF THERE, QUICK!"
As she yelled through, something caught her eyes on the scanner, a ship had snuck up behind her, and was firing, performing an evasive manoeuvre, cork-screwing the Blue Bird, she checked her radar, but saw no sign of the fighter.
Looking from the glass, she saw Hyena was okay, fortunately she had reacted in time and had moved out of range of the cannons.
"Don't do that again." she yelled through the intercom, before firing two at the fighter chasing her and breathing a heavy sigh of relief.
Waiting she noted that there were only three fighters left distracting, and one heavy gun ship. As she heard Ray, she replied with, "Glad you could join us." checking her console for the missles she had left, the computer flashed up two among other things. Smirking she glanced a nearly destroyed Pirate Ship just trying to get out of line of fire behind the stronger ones, relaying a message to Ray she yelled, "Beat this boyo!" locking on to the energy signature she fired both her missiles.
Releasing from the wings, they shot down, speeding towards the target, zipping around the wreckage, swerving the nearby wrecked ships, before one collided with a piece of wreckage, crossing her fingers Tiaan watched the console showing the trail, before the missiles finally hit the ship. Since it was already stumbling, it now appeared almost dead. Checking her life signs scanner, it appeared most were clustered away from the control panel, that was enough for now.
Examining the wreckage, she thanked whoever was guiding them for such an amazing admiral and crew. This should have been a bloodbath, but fortunately they were surviving, amazing to imagine, watching vast expanses of space, she noted the fleet of Pirate Ships was still huge, and it would be amazing to even survive much longer. It appeared the leader appeared to be unable to think.
Were they playing with them, she was interrupted by a crackle from intercom, "Oi, Tiaan don't kill 'em all let Hyena do some!"
Gasping in horror she saw the fighter and realized that Hyena was drunk, trying to raise the channel she yelled, "Get back Hyena, we're fine go sober up!"
"It's pirate's I can handle them blindfolded."
Realizing how fruitless this was she tried to raise admiral, "Hyena out here drunk, get her out of here, please."
Just as she got through, she saw Hyena was flying too close to the actual fleet, firing everything she could, "HYENA GET OUT OF THERE, QUICK!"
As she yelled through, something caught her eyes on the scanner, a ship had snuck up behind her, and was firing, performing an evasive manoeuvre, cork-screwing the Blue Bird, she checked her radar, but saw no sign of the fighter.
Looking from the glass, she saw Hyena was okay, fortunately she had reacted in time and had moved out of range of the cannons.
"Don't do that again." she yelled through the intercom, before firing two at the fighter chasing her and breathing a heavy sigh of relief.
Clyde
(Regrettably characters cannot be untagged. This used to be a reaction post to Hyena's death)
____________________________________________________ Abram __________________________________________________________
Code.
Hundreds of thousands of pieces of code.
That's what AI are.
But to generalize like that is to far oversimplify the concept. Writing is a complicated business. Some are better at it than others... There are some codes that are simply flawless.
And some that are entirely flaws.
Spread widely across the network of Silver Eyes' united fleet, there are millions of coding errors. And each one is connected. They all lead back to a nexus. A hard drive, filled to the brim with nothing but impossibly corrupted coding. The errors spread across the network, reaching tendrils of darkness from a bottomless pit, and at the bottom of it all, a conscience. It watches. It waits. It sees all.
Altogether, something one would pass over from a bystander's point of view. A hard drive that someone spilled coffee on perhaps. That's what to think upon seeing it. But for the constant and steady stream of data flowing into its gaping maw.
(Regrettably characters cannot be untagged. This used to be a reaction post to Hyena's death)
____________________________________________________ Abram __________________________________________________________
Code.
Hundreds of thousands of pieces of code.
That's what AI are.
But to generalize like that is to far oversimplify the concept. Writing is a complicated business. Some are better at it than others... There are some codes that are simply flawless.
And some that are entirely flaws.
Spread widely across the network of Silver Eyes' united fleet, there are millions of coding errors. And each one is connected. They all lead back to a nexus. A hard drive, filled to the brim with nothing but impossibly corrupted coding. The errors spread across the network, reaching tendrils of darkness from a bottomless pit, and at the bottom of it all, a conscience. It watches. It waits. It sees all.
Altogether, something one would pass over from a bystander's point of view. A hard drive that someone spilled coffee on perhaps. That's what to think upon seeing it. But for the constant and steady stream of data flowing into its gaping maw.
Ray chuckled at first upon hearing Hyena's voice, they where a small unit as it was and to have another fighter among them would be quite helpful.
"Don't worry Hyena, there are plenty to go arou.."
As Tiaan's voice cracked into the system Ray realized what was going on and shuddered, turning around as fast as he could in an attempt to protect Hyena's fighter Ray attempted to fire his second magazine of missiles but knew that he would never turn in time.
Ray saw those last moments on his screen, he closed his eyes and shut the communication system down as Hyena lined up for the pirate fighter to take out.
Soon her signature on his sensors was gone, Ray sat their shocked… why was this affecting him like this? This was nothing new after all!
Suddenly his gunship rattled as a missile stuck his armor, opening his eyes and getting over his confusion Ray realized that two heavy fighters had targeted him.
"armor taking damage… shields unable to disperse enemy fire" said the monotone voice of the ships computer.
Ray smiled and increased the power of his new generator; with its power he could maintain all his systems at near full capacity... it was a pity that the generator had not reached the required power levels to help Hyena but that was life.
"Warning, generator unstable, hazard level at 4% and rising"
Ray opened the computer control area and dismissed all safety protocols, as long as the generator's hazard level stayed lower then 29% the chances of a meltdown where only 10-20% in the worst case scenario. If Ray wanted to fight at his full capacity he needed the generators power no matter if doing so may cost his life and the life of anyone in his gunships area.
Ray knew that his actions would be reported to the Salient and hoped no one would interfere with his plan… at least yet.
Turning around Ray activated his twin cannons and blasted the first heavy fighter to pieces; the heavy fighter stunned at the sudden increased maneuverability of the gunship had no time to doge the attack and was blasted to pieces after three seconds of concentrated fire.
He then suddenly saw Hyena's signature on his screen again... so she was not as dead as he supposed she was. Ray breathed a sigh of relief and opened the comm channel unable to stop himself from grinning like an idiot.
"Hell Hyena even my scanners gave up on you! glad to still have you with us!"
"Warning, generator unstable, hazard level at 6% and rising"
Ray cursed and switched off the come hoping Hyena had not heard that, while had had disabled the safety protocols he could not disable the warning system. The second heavy fighter realizing his inferior position against the gunship attempted to retreat however Ray fired his second missile salvo just in time to knock him out and eradicate a few other interceptors whom had come to the heavy fighters rescue.
Ray turned about and passed Tiaan's squad, Ray sent her one short message before increasing his speed in the direction of the enemy fleet.
"i guess i can't stay with you chaps, too much of a target and i would not want to attract flies for you would i?. Don't worry, i put on an extra generator on my systems so i should be fine... just get rid of any interceptors that come my way would you?"
Ray loaded his last but most deadly missile salvo and lined up to strike what he thought to be a pirate command ship.
Ray grinned "Say goodbye to your engines suckers!" and fired his missiles, the missiles flew true and began firing a variety of scrap designed to confuse the enemy's defensive systems. the first few missiles where destroyed by overwhelming defensive fire however quite a few where able to avoid the defenses and approach the enemy's engines. Once missile however was hit by the defensive lasers however it did not blow and instead turned towards the command bridge of the pirate vessel.
Ray raised his hazard shields to 50% to protect him from the effects of the blast, at last the true fighting would begin. The thought of direct battle made Ray happy however one comment was able to return Ray to the reality of his situation.
"Warning, generator unstable, hazard level at 9% and rising"
"Don't worry Hyena, there are plenty to go arou.."
As Tiaan's voice cracked into the system Ray realized what was going on and shuddered, turning around as fast as he could in an attempt to protect Hyena's fighter Ray attempted to fire his second magazine of missiles but knew that he would never turn in time.
Ray saw those last moments on his screen, he closed his eyes and shut the communication system down as Hyena lined up for the pirate fighter to take out.
Soon her signature on his sensors was gone, Ray sat their shocked… why was this affecting him like this? This was nothing new after all!
Suddenly his gunship rattled as a missile stuck his armor, opening his eyes and getting over his confusion Ray realized that two heavy fighters had targeted him.
"armor taking damage… shields unable to disperse enemy fire" said the monotone voice of the ships computer.
Ray smiled and increased the power of his new generator; with its power he could maintain all his systems at near full capacity... it was a pity that the generator had not reached the required power levels to help Hyena but that was life.
"Warning, generator unstable, hazard level at 4% and rising"
Ray opened the computer control area and dismissed all safety protocols, as long as the generator's hazard level stayed lower then 29% the chances of a meltdown where only 10-20% in the worst case scenario. If Ray wanted to fight at his full capacity he needed the generators power no matter if doing so may cost his life and the life of anyone in his gunships area.
Ray knew that his actions would be reported to the Salient and hoped no one would interfere with his plan… at least yet.
Turning around Ray activated his twin cannons and blasted the first heavy fighter to pieces; the heavy fighter stunned at the sudden increased maneuverability of the gunship had no time to doge the attack and was blasted to pieces after three seconds of concentrated fire.
He then suddenly saw Hyena's signature on his screen again... so she was not as dead as he supposed she was. Ray breathed a sigh of relief and opened the comm channel unable to stop himself from grinning like an idiot.
"Hell Hyena even my scanners gave up on you! glad to still have you with us!"
"Warning, generator unstable, hazard level at 6% and rising"
Ray cursed and switched off the come hoping Hyena had not heard that, while had had disabled the safety protocols he could not disable the warning system. The second heavy fighter realizing his inferior position against the gunship attempted to retreat however Ray fired his second missile salvo just in time to knock him out and eradicate a few other interceptors whom had come to the heavy fighters rescue.
Ray turned about and passed Tiaan's squad, Ray sent her one short message before increasing his speed in the direction of the enemy fleet.
"i guess i can't stay with you chaps, too much of a target and i would not want to attract flies for you would i?. Don't worry, i put on an extra generator on my systems so i should be fine... just get rid of any interceptors that come my way would you?"
Ray loaded his last but most deadly missile salvo and lined up to strike what he thought to be a pirate command ship.
Ray grinned "Say goodbye to your engines suckers!" and fired his missiles, the missiles flew true and began firing a variety of scrap designed to confuse the enemy's defensive systems. the first few missiles where destroyed by overwhelming defensive fire however quite a few where able to avoid the defenses and approach the enemy's engines. Once missile however was hit by the defensive lasers however it did not blow and instead turned towards the command bridge of the pirate vessel.
Ray raised his hazard shields to 50% to protect him from the effects of the blast, at last the true fighting would begin. The thought of direct battle made Ray happy however one comment was able to return Ray to the reality of his situation.
"Warning, generator unstable, hazard level at 9% and rising"
(Sorry. Busy day working, and I fell asleep Mid writing post somehow xD)
Reterec:
Reterec launched the escape ship, and was headed back ot the Salient. THough, really the pilot was doing it. ANd it was actually a Boarding ship. BUt thats besides the point. He went towards the Salient, and the pilot broadcasted them message they were coming aboard to A.D.A.M..
Max:
Max quickly dispersed himself and re-emrged form the attack. He then sent a ton of spammail at every consol before anything started blowing up, and then began going back to the Salient. However, with all of the A.I. FIghting, he found it difficult. HOwever, he found another ship he could use to help bridge to the Salient. A Boarding ship.
Reterec:
The Pilot then got an alert. "We have some sort of Data Stream comming through the system. ITs froadcasting a message to us....it says "friends"? That's odd.... Reterec then said "We can straiten it out at the Salient, just get us on board...."
And the ship approached the bay, preparing to land.
Max:
ANd Max was back in the ship as well. "So, TAU, any idea what to do now?"
Reterec:
Reterec launched the escape ship, and was headed back ot the Salient. THough, really the pilot was doing it. ANd it was actually a Boarding ship. BUt thats besides the point. He went towards the Salient, and the pilot broadcasted them message they were coming aboard to A.D.A.M..
Max:
Max quickly dispersed himself and re-emrged form the attack. He then sent a ton of spammail at every consol before anything started blowing up, and then began going back to the Salient. However, with all of the A.I. FIghting, he found it difficult. HOwever, he found another ship he could use to help bridge to the Salient. A Boarding ship.
Reterec:
The Pilot then got an alert. "We have some sort of Data Stream comming through the system. ITs froadcasting a message to us....it says "friends"? That's odd.... Reterec then said "We can straiten it out at the Salient, just get us on board...."
And the ship approached the bay, preparing to land.
Max:
ANd Max was back in the ship as well. "So, TAU, any idea what to do now?"
(OOC: working on something for ADAM as well. just thought I'd mention that I didnt abandon Jon here)
Jon
Jon was rather tired of standing around babysitting an AI jump drive with all the action going on, especially with his attempts to connect with Command to get live data feed. The patches of data he was able to get were not good, orders or no he was heading back to the ship. His suits ID would get him through security. He double checked the drive, it was the disposable link type so it'd be of zero consequence to leave behind. With that he jetted out towards the Salient, rocketing to it as fast as his suit could carry him and the rest of his squad was MIA and not responding, even a search of the ship failed to find them. At the very least he needed to make it down so they'd have ground cover in the future.
The ride through vacuum wasn't pretty especially when he started getting live feed of data... it'd be a stretch but he'd make it to the ship before the jump was made. He was really going to somehow get some upgrades for this thing... the state of the art prototype but the heavy limiting factor of the human operator was really jeopardizing the performance at the moment. After all it's hard to let the thing function at any capacity when most of the power had to go to keeping the suits power from killing the operator.
Jon
Jon was rather tired of standing around babysitting an AI jump drive with all the action going on, especially with his attempts to connect with Command to get live data feed. The patches of data he was able to get were not good, orders or no he was heading back to the ship. His suits ID would get him through security. He double checked the drive, it was the disposable link type so it'd be of zero consequence to leave behind. With that he jetted out towards the Salient, rocketing to it as fast as his suit could carry him and the rest of his squad was MIA and not responding, even a search of the ship failed to find them. At the very least he needed to make it down so they'd have ground cover in the future.
The ride through vacuum wasn't pretty especially when he started getting live feed of data... it'd be a stretch but he'd make it to the ship before the jump was made. He was really going to somehow get some upgrades for this thing... the state of the art prototype but the heavy limiting factor of the human operator was really jeopardizing the performance at the moment. After all it's hard to let the thing function at any capacity when most of the power had to go to keeping the suits power from killing the operator.
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First Mate Lindsay Gowler (Nova) - Outside Captain Silvereye's Room
They were being slaughtered and there was talk of mutiny, but Lindsay swore an oath to remain loyal to the Captain. He knew it was likely that Silvereyes was letting his emotions rule over him, in fact last order he gave was to try and get Rich Girl. Lindsay could understand why the Captain cared so much for her, she had stood with him when no one else would. In fact this whole plan hadn't been popular, three pirate lords hadn't given any ships here. Although they were down one now, as Harlequinn ship had been reduced to scrap. So this is why he was here now, knocking at the door, "Captain, we need to retreat..." realizing how he may react he rephrased it, "We need orders, they're slaughtering us, we underestimated us."
A voice yelled back, "We won't soon have to deal with them."
The door opened, "I know people think I gone mad, but I am listening to Miranda again. She suggests we retreat most of the fleet and wait until the ship gone." as if considering his face looked tired and worn, his but with sheer determination in his eyes, "The ship will jump in 10 minutes, lock on coordinates, we shall follow them."
Lindsay interrupted, "What about the fleet?"
"Call them back, this has become personal so I shall handle this personally."
Still little confused, Lindsay continued, "But sir, surely she's not worth this?"
"She is Nova, now go and forward my order."
With that the door slammed.
They were being slaughtered and there was talk of mutiny, but Lindsay swore an oath to remain loyal to the Captain. He knew it was likely that Silvereyes was letting his emotions rule over him, in fact last order he gave was to try and get Rich Girl. Lindsay could understand why the Captain cared so much for her, she had stood with him when no one else would. In fact this whole plan hadn't been popular, three pirate lords hadn't given any ships here. Although they were down one now, as Harlequinn ship had been reduced to scrap. So this is why he was here now, knocking at the door, "Captain, we need to retreat..." realizing how he may react he rephrased it, "We need orders, they're slaughtering us, we underestimated us."
A voice yelled back, "We won't soon have to deal with them."
The door opened, "I know people think I gone mad, but I am listening to Miranda again. She suggests we retreat most of the fleet and wait until the ship gone." as if considering his face looked tired and worn, his but with sheer determination in his eyes, "The ship will jump in 10 minutes, lock on coordinates, we shall follow them."
Lindsay interrupted, "What about the fleet?"
"Call them back, this has become personal so I shall handle this personally."
Still little confused, Lindsay continued, "But sir, surely she's not worth this?"
"She is Nova, now go and forward my order."
With that the door slammed.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Bridge
Clyde
As the particle canon charged, Clyde set about his new task of aiming. It was a complicated business- There were hundreds of extremely quickly moving targets, a veritable wall of debris, and the timing involved in causing the most damage in one shot. He had to sit there and plot the motion paths of all of the ships and find the most likely place to deal the most damage. Oh. He also had to make sure he didn't come close to shooting any allies, who were darting in and out of the fray with their fighters.
Great.
To Clyde's mild surprise, the place where the most damage could be done wasn't in the damaging of a larger ship. It was a mass of fighters, swarming around trying to catch the Salient's pilots, and the mass behind that mass, still targeting the old dead pirate frigate. Clyde fired the cannon. Without preamble, the massive recoil rocked the ship once more, and a great beam erupted from the Salient, tearing through all of the shattered debris and enemy ships, leaving an impression from the light burned into the retinas of anyone who had the misfortune of looking into the blast.
Meanwhile, the FTL charge ticked up one more point, its stasis broken by the sudden lack of power being drawn by the cannon. 46%.
Clyde attempted to activate the cannon's charge once more, but he had been locked out of the system. Corporal Stark informed him curtly about cooldown. It would be a while before it was safe to fire the cannon again. And the FTL charge grew ever higher.
As the particle canon charged, Clyde set about his new task of aiming. It was a complicated business- There were hundreds of extremely quickly moving targets, a veritable wall of debris, and the timing involved in causing the most damage in one shot. He had to sit there and plot the motion paths of all of the ships and find the most likely place to deal the most damage. Oh. He also had to make sure he didn't come close to shooting any allies, who were darting in and out of the fray with their fighters.
Great.
To Clyde's mild surprise, the place where the most damage could be done wasn't in the damaging of a larger ship. It was a mass of fighters, swarming around trying to catch the Salient's pilots, and the mass behind that mass, still targeting the old dead pirate frigate. Clyde fired the cannon. Without preamble, the massive recoil rocked the ship once more, and a great beam erupted from the Salient, tearing through all of the shattered debris and enemy ships, leaving an impression from the light burned into the retinas of anyone who had the misfortune of looking into the blast.
Meanwhile, the FTL charge ticked up one more point, its stasis broken by the sudden lack of power being drawn by the cannon. 46%.
Clyde attempted to activate the cannon's charge once more, but he had been locked out of the system. Corporal Stark informed him curtly about cooldown. It would be a while before it was safe to fire the cannon again. And the FTL charge grew ever higher.
49%.
The first beam fired by the Salient's spinal cannon ripped through a small destroyer, tearing it into quarters. The fourths were sent to drift in space listlessly while the limbs of crew members floated away with little spheres of blood trailed them in the vacuum of space.
"Damage report, Mr. Hansen," Aronimus turned to the petty officer.
Hansen sifted through the status readings, "Aye, sir. They've managed to do some extensive damage to the outer hull, but they haven't breached yet, so we're safe."
"Hmmm," Aronimus was deciding whether or he should move the ship forward and position it beyond the field of debris. That would leave them out in the open for a clear attack, yet at the same time allow the Salient to fire its salvoes. The Salient could handle it of course, but repeated abuse would eventually breach the outer hull. He could decide to stay within the field, but should the FTL drives activate prematurely, the debris could be damaging during the slip space jump. He decided to position the ship outside the debris field, so as to neutralize the need to rely on the main particle cannon. This would allow the FTL drives to activate faster.
There were a million things the old Admiral had to worry about, the squadrons of fighters still roaming out in space, the Marine squad that was deployed onto the crippled pirate frigates, the two A.I.s aboard Silver Eye's armada. He was wondering where his XO was as well, but no matter.
"Clear the debris field, Mr. Summer," with that command he pressed a key on his metallic desk. The ringed projector established itself before him, flashing a variety of screens in front of him.
On one screen was Commander Dunaway, who was in the Barracks with his subordinates.
"Commander Dunaway, have the two fireteams reported in yet?"
The Commander saluted, "Bravo Team has sir, but Alpha team hasn't responded..." then the Commander turned away, his attention stolen.
"Wait no, they're in transit right now, a shuttle, and I believe Captain Dunaway is flying on his own."
The Admiral's eyebrow raised, "What do you mean?"
"Our scanners are showing that he's relying on his suit," The gadget had surprises, Aronimus wasn't amused.
"And how's the prisoner?" Commander Dunaway paused a bit.
"She's proving to be a hassle, I've got the notion to go put one in." Aronimus chuckled.
"I'll send Lieutenant Commander Chen to see the prisoner, she's been aboard a prison vessel before. Perhaps the Nottingham taught her a thing or two."
"Hmm, hopefully she'll have better luck than my officers,"
"Hopefully, Weston out." Aronimus cut the comm.
The first beam fired by the Salient's spinal cannon ripped through a small destroyer, tearing it into quarters. The fourths were sent to drift in space listlessly while the limbs of crew members floated away with little spheres of blood trailed them in the vacuum of space.
"Damage report, Mr. Hansen," Aronimus turned to the petty officer.
Hansen sifted through the status readings, "Aye, sir. They've managed to do some extensive damage to the outer hull, but they haven't breached yet, so we're safe."
"Hmmm," Aronimus was deciding whether or he should move the ship forward and position it beyond the field of debris. That would leave them out in the open for a clear attack, yet at the same time allow the Salient to fire its salvoes. The Salient could handle it of course, but repeated abuse would eventually breach the outer hull. He could decide to stay within the field, but should the FTL drives activate prematurely, the debris could be damaging during the slip space jump. He decided to position the ship outside the debris field, so as to neutralize the need to rely on the main particle cannon. This would allow the FTL drives to activate faster.
There were a million things the old Admiral had to worry about, the squadrons of fighters still roaming out in space, the Marine squad that was deployed onto the crippled pirate frigates, the two A.I.s aboard Silver Eye's armada. He was wondering where his XO was as well, but no matter.
"Clear the debris field, Mr. Summer," with that command he pressed a key on his metallic desk. The ringed projector established itself before him, flashing a variety of screens in front of him.
On one screen was Commander Dunaway, who was in the Barracks with his subordinates.
"Commander Dunaway, have the two fireteams reported in yet?"
The Commander saluted, "Bravo Team has sir, but Alpha team hasn't responded..." then the Commander turned away, his attention stolen.
"Wait no, they're in transit right now, a shuttle, and I believe Captain Dunaway is flying on his own."
The Admiral's eyebrow raised, "What do you mean?"
"Our scanners are showing that he's relying on his suit," The gadget had surprises, Aronimus wasn't amused.
"And how's the prisoner?" Commander Dunaway paused a bit.
"She's proving to be a hassle, I've got the notion to go put one in." Aronimus chuckled.
"I'll send Lieutenant Commander Chen to see the prisoner, she's been aboard a prison vessel before. Perhaps the Nottingham taught her a thing or two."
"Hmm, hopefully she'll have better luck than my officers,"
"Hopefully, Weston out." Aronimus cut the comm.
The setting changes from Bridge to The Milky Way Universe
Jon
Jon finally got in range for his suit broadcast to the Salient, "This is Captain Dunaway from Alpha team, we boarded the enemy vessel and found it clear. I then installed the booster into the ship for AI activity, but afterwards things got weird sir. Communications just cut, nothing worked and I couldn't get in contact on any channels, IFF, radar, thermal- nothing worked. With that I did a sweep of the ship and it was still empty so I was forced to return via the suit." As Jon continued his report he began sweeping around the ship to get into the docking bay. " For lack of a better explanation after personal inspection I'm sorry to report Alpha Team is MIA." He wasn't amused, of all the jobs he'd done this one was by far the most sketchy and would definitely sully his record.
ADAM
After he'd lost holographic ability, ADAM did something of a reboot on himself and was just coming around again as Captain Dunaway began his report. Upon its conclusion, he flicked his hologram back on at his usual terminal, "I can confirm the near total loss of communication in the Captain's story and sensors did pick up some irregular activity in his area." He began forwarding what information he could to the Admirals console, only the bridge could hear his announcement.
"But I must still profess to the entire situation being highly irregular, nothing from the read out points to something dangerous or capable or doing something like causing a team to vanish...but there's nothing indicating so much as even a deactivation of the other suit or members. I can confirm that at least in the case of Thaddeus Jackson that sudden disappearance did occur, though the cause is beyond me."
Jon finally got in range for his suit broadcast to the Salient, "This is Captain Dunaway from Alpha team, we boarded the enemy vessel and found it clear. I then installed the booster into the ship for AI activity, but afterwards things got weird sir. Communications just cut, nothing worked and I couldn't get in contact on any channels, IFF, radar, thermal- nothing worked. With that I did a sweep of the ship and it was still empty so I was forced to return via the suit." As Jon continued his report he began sweeping around the ship to get into the docking bay. " For lack of a better explanation after personal inspection I'm sorry to report Alpha Team is MIA." He wasn't amused, of all the jobs he'd done this one was by far the most sketchy and would definitely sully his record.
ADAM
After he'd lost holographic ability, ADAM did something of a reboot on himself and was just coming around again as Captain Dunaway began his report. Upon its conclusion, he flicked his hologram back on at his usual terminal, "I can confirm the near total loss of communication in the Captain's story and sensors did pick up some irregular activity in his area." He began forwarding what information he could to the Admirals console, only the bridge could hear his announcement.
"But I must still profess to the entire situation being highly irregular, nothing from the read out points to something dangerous or capable or doing something like causing a team to vanish...but there's nothing indicating so much as even a deactivation of the other suit or members. I can confirm that at least in the case of Thaddeus Jackson that sudden disappearance did occur, though the cause is beyond me."
Silver Eyes - Command Ship
Leaving his cabin he walked up to the bridge, "You all are cowards, pirates, why I wouldn't trust you too steal from Spanish Vessel. Mutiny on your tongues as soon as things are a little trouble. I united you, I brought you together and you wish to despose of me."
You could literally hear a pin drop in the silence that followed.
Smirking he continued, "I should have you all shot, but I'm not a heartless monster like the Federation. Although at least they have heard of loyalty. Nova, switch intercom and change it too FSS Salient frequency, let's see if we can do this peacefully."
Nova nodded his curly black hair bouncing almost, "Switching to communications channels, typing out the code."
Grinning he turned to the screen, "Initiate the feed."
"But sir---." protested Nova, "You can't be seen---."
"Oh trust me the Captain knows, I'm pretty sure this is one of the Young Admirals I saw a future in so long ago."
Looking utterly perplexed he replied, "How can you know?"
"Simple, look at our fleet. Now, turn it on Nova."
With that the feed turned on and he spoke, "Admiral Aronius Weston, I presume?"
Not waiting for an answer he continued, "I see you recognize me, I figured as much. I appears you have outsmarted the greatest pirate. And for that I congratulate you, but surely you know that time is running short, Courtney Reynolds did her work and your ship will jump in about 10 minutes. This is why I suggest a temporary peace, you give back Rich Girl and we'll withdraw everyone."
Considering a little he continued, "I have and still do have great respect for you, it's not often a young recruit caught my eye, but it doesn't surprise you are the one to finally best me. Although the whole plan was to delay so whereas you beat us today, our fleet will grow and the Federation will be a forgotten foot note in history. It amazes me you stand with these tyrants, but maybe I wished I stayed naive."
Looking straight at him he continued, "These are my terms, my men and woman will withdraw, we just want Rich Girl. Until we speak again, I hope you make the smart choice."
Leaving his cabin he walked up to the bridge, "You all are cowards, pirates, why I wouldn't trust you too steal from Spanish Vessel. Mutiny on your tongues as soon as things are a little trouble. I united you, I brought you together and you wish to despose of me."
You could literally hear a pin drop in the silence that followed.
Smirking he continued, "I should have you all shot, but I'm not a heartless monster like the Federation. Although at least they have heard of loyalty. Nova, switch intercom and change it too FSS Salient frequency, let's see if we can do this peacefully."
Nova nodded his curly black hair bouncing almost, "Switching to communications channels, typing out the code."
Grinning he turned to the screen, "Initiate the feed."
"But sir---." protested Nova, "You can't be seen---."
"Oh trust me the Captain knows, I'm pretty sure this is one of the Young Admirals I saw a future in so long ago."
Looking utterly perplexed he replied, "How can you know?"
"Simple, look at our fleet. Now, turn it on Nova."
With that the feed turned on and he spoke, "Admiral Aronius Weston, I presume?"
Not waiting for an answer he continued, "I see you recognize me, I figured as much. I appears you have outsmarted the greatest pirate. And for that I congratulate you, but surely you know that time is running short, Courtney Reynolds did her work and your ship will jump in about 10 minutes. This is why I suggest a temporary peace, you give back Rich Girl and we'll withdraw everyone."
Considering a little he continued, "I have and still do have great respect for you, it's not often a young recruit caught my eye, but it doesn't surprise you are the one to finally best me. Although the whole plan was to delay so whereas you beat us today, our fleet will grow and the Federation will be a forgotten foot note in history. It amazes me you stand with these tyrants, but maybe I wished I stayed naive."
Looking straight at him he continued, "These are my terms, my men and woman will withdraw, we just want Rich Girl. Until we speak again, I hope you make the smart choice."
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Infirmary/Medical Bay
Eli had returned to his quarters after leaving the Hangar Control Tower. He was battered, the mission aboard the frigate had shot his nerves, and he knew he wasn’t ready for another go yet. Luckily the pirates weren’t even close to send boarding parties onto the Salient. He had already detached himself from his operation equipment, no longer donning a weighted combat suit. Now he was relaxed in his black t-shirt and cargo pants. The pair of dog tags hanging from his neck, jostling for eminence on his chest as he walked.
He was heading towards the Mess Hall to find something to eat; he had worked up an appetite, considering he hadn’t eaten lunch today. He didn’t expect many people to be in the Mess Hall, they’d probably be in the Bridge or the Observation Decks watching the fireworks. At least he’d have some quiet time, after the hell he went through today.
His squad had disbanded and dispersed to various places. Adriana was probably in the Engineering Center, tending to the main cannon. The Sarge and the two privates were probably in the Rec center, cooling down after the mission. It was good to have some R&R, especially when their first day sent them out on a mission that was life-threatening.
Somewhere in the middle of his path to the Mess, he stopped himself, and retracted his steps. He decided instead to head to the infirmary. He sauntered along the sterilized corridor of the Infirmary, as the medical crews were busy operating on wounded servicemen, inside the zero-g surgery chambers. He passed by those chambers, and approached the many recovery quarters. One of which was occupied by a celebrity.
A holographic strip, located above the blast door, with running letters read out “Elizabeth Waltz.” The Captain raised his ID card, and swiped it across the holographic interface module. The door opened with a sliding swish once the module had clarified his identity.
Eli walked in, cautiously. The room was, like the rest of the infirmaries, sterilized free of any speck of dust or invisible micro-organic pathogen. Of course, the rest of the Salient was just as clean, but the infirmaries were kept at peak cleanliness, thanks to the androids that waxed, buffed, and washed the floors, and bulkheads.
Elizabeth was standing by a port view, watching the battle outside, with her back turned to Eli. She could only watch, for the sound of cannons and torpedoes were silenced by the thick layer of plexi-glass. Her multiple lacerations were healing now, as the nanotech lasers patched up the wounds. Eli could only wonder about her experiences aboard the pirate ship.
“How are you feeling Ms. Waltz?”
He was heading towards the Mess Hall to find something to eat; he had worked up an appetite, considering he hadn’t eaten lunch today. He didn’t expect many people to be in the Mess Hall, they’d probably be in the Bridge or the Observation Decks watching the fireworks. At least he’d have some quiet time, after the hell he went through today.
His squad had disbanded and dispersed to various places. Adriana was probably in the Engineering Center, tending to the main cannon. The Sarge and the two privates were probably in the Rec center, cooling down after the mission. It was good to have some R&R, especially when their first day sent them out on a mission that was life-threatening.
Somewhere in the middle of his path to the Mess, he stopped himself, and retracted his steps. He decided instead to head to the infirmary. He sauntered along the sterilized corridor of the Infirmary, as the medical crews were busy operating on wounded servicemen, inside the zero-g surgery chambers. He passed by those chambers, and approached the many recovery quarters. One of which was occupied by a celebrity.
A holographic strip, located above the blast door, with running letters read out “Elizabeth Waltz.” The Captain raised his ID card, and swiped it across the holographic interface module. The door opened with a sliding swish once the module had clarified his identity.
Eli walked in, cautiously. The room was, like the rest of the infirmaries, sterilized free of any speck of dust or invisible micro-organic pathogen. Of course, the rest of the Salient was just as clean, but the infirmaries were kept at peak cleanliness, thanks to the androids that waxed, buffed, and washed the floors, and bulkheads.
Elizabeth was standing by a port view, watching the battle outside, with her back turned to Eli. She could only watch, for the sound of cannons and torpedoes were silenced by the thick layer of plexi-glass. Her multiple lacerations were healing now, as the nanotech lasers patched up the wounds. Eli could only wonder about her experiences aboard the pirate ship.
“How are you feeling Ms. Waltz?”
"...Where is he...? Where is Ulric?" She asked plain and simply, her arms crossed one over the other. "I want a status report on him... I want to know if hes alive o-or not..." She did not turn to see Eli, nor did it seem she even cared she was naked, though she was turned away form him.
Her stay on the ship so far had been boring. Filled with sleep, and tests after tests. Slowly she turned to Eli and grabbed her robe, throwing it on to cover herself up. As she looked at him her face was blank, with her long blonde hair neatly tied up in a ponytail on the back of her head. "I'm sorry sir... Where are my manners..." It was a 360 change from her simply starring at the window with a blank face, at least now she showed emotion. With a sigh she walked over to Eli and reached her hand out to him.
"Elizabeth Waltz, but i think you already know that. What is your name...?"
Her stay on the ship so far had been boring. Filled with sleep, and tests after tests. Slowly she turned to Eli and grabbed her robe, throwing it on to cover herself up. As she looked at him her face was blank, with her long blonde hair neatly tied up in a ponytail on the back of her head. "I'm sorry sir... Where are my manners..." It was a 360 change from her simply starring at the window with a blank face, at least now she showed emotion. With a sigh she walked over to Eli and reached her hand out to him.
"Elizabeth Waltz, but i think you already know that. What is your name...?"
Before Eli could respond to her first inquiry, he shifted his face away from her as she turned, so as to avoid staring at her nudity. After she had slid into her medical robe, decently covered, he turned back to face her.
"Captain Eli Colter, ma'am..." he said.
He paused when she continued staring at him in the eye. From a glance, Elizabeth seemed to be fully recovering, all her wounds, cuts, and bruises were nowhere to be found on her body. It seemed that the nano-biological surgery had succeeded in patching her up, no scars were visible. However, the way she cradled herself belied this appearance, and Eli didn't know what to do.
Then he sighed and looked away momentarily before responding to her first question.
"He's still on the pirate frigate, I don't know what he's doing on there. Maybe he's committing sui-," Eli paused as his view reverted to her. Her eyes were worn and she looked very distressed.
"Maybe he has something planned with that bomb on there, but I don't know for sure," he paused.
"I'm sure he'll be fine," Eli tried to console her as best he could, but it was very hard to maintain the facade. Things were happening now, and uncertainty loomed on the horizon. If she had asked him to guarantee that Ulric would be safe, Eli would not have known what to say. He couldn't make promises that he couldn't keep. That had been his moral ever since Mars. Back then, he could simply tell his squad mates they were going to be fine, and that would have been enough. After many missions, he said it freely, and even promised that they would get home safely. Mars shattered that invulnerability.
"Captain Eli Colter, ma'am..." he said.
He paused when she continued staring at him in the eye. From a glance, Elizabeth seemed to be fully recovering, all her wounds, cuts, and bruises were nowhere to be found on her body. It seemed that the nano-biological surgery had succeeded in patching her up, no scars were visible. However, the way she cradled herself belied this appearance, and Eli didn't know what to do.
Then he sighed and looked away momentarily before responding to her first question.
"He's still on the pirate frigate, I don't know what he's doing on there. Maybe he's committing sui-," Eli paused as his view reverted to her. Her eyes were worn and she looked very distressed.
"Maybe he has something planned with that bomb on there, but I don't know for sure," he paused.
"I'm sure he'll be fine," Eli tried to console her as best he could, but it was very hard to maintain the facade. Things were happening now, and uncertainty loomed on the horizon. If she had asked him to guarantee that Ulric would be safe, Eli would not have known what to say. He couldn't make promises that he couldn't keep. That had been his moral ever since Mars. Back then, he could simply tell his squad mates they were going to be fine, and that would have been enough. After many missions, he said it freely, and even promised that they would get home safely. Mars shattered that invulnerability.
The setting changes from Infirmary/Medical Bay to F.S.S. Salient
"Sir, we're being hailed by the enemy command ship..." J.G. Napier reported.
Aronimus turned towards the lower officer, "Patch it through."
"Right away," Napier pressed a pair of keys on the holographic screen, with a transcendent beep, the bridge's central holographic star map was replaced with a direct feed to Silver Eyes himself.
The one who called himself Silver Eyes, appeared on the screen. Gruff, and harsh, yet refined, for an Admiral. He was still clad in his old Federation service dress, the old line, including the service cap as well. Aronimus was surprised to see him in such attire, a traitor still wearing Federation garb. This meant that the old Admiral still had some allegiances to the Federation, or perhaps he was not one to care for his dress
The previous color for a Vice Admiral's service dress was a light grayish blue with golden trims. Since Eturrer's defection, that line of service dresses was immediately removed from Federation uniforms. It was replaced by a line of Navy blue uniform, with white trims. Admirals were still required to wear service caps during formal occasions, but they were not required when in the field. Admirals of the fleet, however, were still required to wear service caps regardless of the situation.
Eturrer's hair had grayed considerably to the point of pure white, like snow covering his head. Compared to his old images of when he was still in service. Back then, he still had brown hair and a regal mustache, which was his trademark. No one had seen his face in years, analysts predicted that he would at least grayed a little
Aronimus noted a scar, albeit a very thin and indiscernible scar, that was carved above his left eye brow, trailing downwards to the left side of his face.
Silver Eyes' transmit in the midst of the engagement made Aronimus wonder what the traitor was up to. Perhaps he was asking for a surrender, even though the Salient was more than capable of withstanding the pirates' sustained offensive.
"Admiral Aronimus Weston, I presume?" the former Vice Admiral spoke with an elegant British accent.
He continued speaking, unimpeded as Aronimus silently listened.
"I see you recognize me, I figured as much. It appears you have outsmarted the greatest pirate," he paused with a sly smile on his countenance.
"And for that I congratulate you, but surely you know that time is running short, Courtney Reynolds did her work and your ship will jump in about 10 minutes," he paused.
"This is why I suggest a temporary peace, you give back Courtney and we'll withdraw everyone," the old Vice Admiral paused, waiting for a response. When nothing came out of Aronimus' mouth, he continued.
"I have and still do have great respect for you, it's not often a young recruit caught my eye," he took a sip from a glass half-filled with an alcoholic beverage. Aronimus was surprised by the praise from his nemesis.
"But it doesn't surprise me, that you are the one to finally best me. Although the whole plan was to delay so whereas you beat us today, our fleet will grow and the Federation will be a forgotten foot note in history," Silver Eyes triumphantly proclaimed, but he was not finished.
"It amazes me you stand with these tyrants, but maybe I wished I stayed naive," that had struck a nerve.
Aronimus, though, remained calm, and retorted in like fashion.
Like a beast that has cornered its prey, he chuckled before speaking.
"Firstly, I'd like to thank you for your commendation," Silver Eyes smiled and took another swig.
"Might I say that you were a good Admiral in your day," Silver Eyes was about to respond, "But, you were good, not anymore I suppose."
Silver Eyes' face turned as he became perplexed by Aronimus' meaning.
"Hmm, tyrants. My friend, you do not understand tyranny."
"There is nothing tyrannical about the Federation, it protects the rights of the people, but will not guarantee it. It can only become tyrannical if the people let it be so," Aronimus jabbed a finger at Silver Eyes, his face had turned from calm to belligerent. This face was then recomposed as he continued on.
"You, you know nothing of tyranny. You are nothing, but a traitor. You fled in the thick of battle," Aronimus paused, but only slightly. Silver Eyes' eyes narrowed into daggers upon Aronimus.
Before Silver Eyes could interject, "If you truly wanted to safeguard humanity against tyranny, then you should have remained to defend it. Democracy, as our forefathers said, is but one generation from extinction. You chose not to defend it, so you can not speak of tyranny!" Silver Eyes' placid demeanor now transformed into one of wrath, before he could voice his outrage, Aronimus continued.
"I must also wonder why, you wish to retreat once we have returned your saboteur? The various inconsistencies in your speech make me wonder,"
"You clearly know that my ship is about to make a slip space jump, but you are going to retreat? There are two mining freighters stacked to the brim with Duillium cargo, that you can freely seize once we have made our jump. Cargo that can fund an entire war effort, and nobody will stop you once we have vanished."
"I can tell that your saboteur is very important to you, and for that reason, we won't be giving her up. In fact, I plan on asking her a few questions myself, as we take her with us, and there is nothing you can do about it," the Salient reflected that last statement invincibly.
Aronimus cut the transmission short after that statement. Aronimus knew that his attacks had hit home as he saw Silver Eyes become visibly aggravated, more so now than before when he was faced with the indignation at the hands of Aronimus' retorts. Silver Eyes crushed the glass of alcohol with his fist, the alcohol disembodied its container's form and gushed in all directions, onto his coat, the bridge floor, and his viewing screen. The shards of glass pierced his skin, bleeding him through little cuts as he clenched his teeth.
Aronimus turned towards the lower officer, "Patch it through."
"Right away," Napier pressed a pair of keys on the holographic screen, with a transcendent beep, the bridge's central holographic star map was replaced with a direct feed to Silver Eyes himself.
The one who called himself Silver Eyes, appeared on the screen. Gruff, and harsh, yet refined, for an Admiral. He was still clad in his old Federation service dress, the old line, including the service cap as well. Aronimus was surprised to see him in such attire, a traitor still wearing Federation garb. This meant that the old Admiral still had some allegiances to the Federation, or perhaps he was not one to care for his dress
The previous color for a Vice Admiral's service dress was a light grayish blue with golden trims. Since Eturrer's defection, that line of service dresses was immediately removed from Federation uniforms. It was replaced by a line of Navy blue uniform, with white trims. Admirals were still required to wear service caps during formal occasions, but they were not required when in the field. Admirals of the fleet, however, were still required to wear service caps regardless of the situation.
Eturrer's hair had grayed considerably to the point of pure white, like snow covering his head. Compared to his old images of when he was still in service. Back then, he still had brown hair and a regal mustache, which was his trademark. No one had seen his face in years, analysts predicted that he would at least grayed a little
Aronimus noted a scar, albeit a very thin and indiscernible scar, that was carved above his left eye brow, trailing downwards to the left side of his face.
Silver Eyes' transmit in the midst of the engagement made Aronimus wonder what the traitor was up to. Perhaps he was asking for a surrender, even though the Salient was more than capable of withstanding the pirates' sustained offensive.
"Admiral Aronimus Weston, I presume?" the former Vice Admiral spoke with an elegant British accent.
He continued speaking, unimpeded as Aronimus silently listened.
"I see you recognize me, I figured as much. It appears you have outsmarted the greatest pirate," he paused with a sly smile on his countenance.
"And for that I congratulate you, but surely you know that time is running short, Courtney Reynolds did her work and your ship will jump in about 10 minutes," he paused.
"This is why I suggest a temporary peace, you give back Courtney and we'll withdraw everyone," the old Vice Admiral paused, waiting for a response. When nothing came out of Aronimus' mouth, he continued.
"I have and still do have great respect for you, it's not often a young recruit caught my eye," he took a sip from a glass half-filled with an alcoholic beverage. Aronimus was surprised by the praise from his nemesis.
"But it doesn't surprise me, that you are the one to finally best me. Although the whole plan was to delay so whereas you beat us today, our fleet will grow and the Federation will be a forgotten foot note in history," Silver Eyes triumphantly proclaimed, but he was not finished.
"It amazes me you stand with these tyrants, but maybe I wished I stayed naive," that had struck a nerve.
Aronimus, though, remained calm, and retorted in like fashion.
Like a beast that has cornered its prey, he chuckled before speaking.
"Firstly, I'd like to thank you for your commendation," Silver Eyes smiled and took another swig.
"Might I say that you were a good Admiral in your day," Silver Eyes was about to respond, "But, you were good, not anymore I suppose."
Silver Eyes' face turned as he became perplexed by Aronimus' meaning.
"Hmm, tyrants. My friend, you do not understand tyranny."
"There is nothing tyrannical about the Federation, it protects the rights of the people, but will not guarantee it. It can only become tyrannical if the people let it be so," Aronimus jabbed a finger at Silver Eyes, his face had turned from calm to belligerent. This face was then recomposed as he continued on.
"You, you know nothing of tyranny. You are nothing, but a traitor. You fled in the thick of battle," Aronimus paused, but only slightly. Silver Eyes' eyes narrowed into daggers upon Aronimus.
Before Silver Eyes could interject, "If you truly wanted to safeguard humanity against tyranny, then you should have remained to defend it. Democracy, as our forefathers said, is but one generation from extinction. You chose not to defend it, so you can not speak of tyranny!" Silver Eyes' placid demeanor now transformed into one of wrath, before he could voice his outrage, Aronimus continued.
"I must also wonder why, you wish to retreat once we have returned your saboteur? The various inconsistencies in your speech make me wonder,"
"You clearly know that my ship is about to make a slip space jump, but you are going to retreat? There are two mining freighters stacked to the brim with Duillium cargo, that you can freely seize once we have made our jump. Cargo that can fund an entire war effort, and nobody will stop you once we have vanished."
"I can tell that your saboteur is very important to you, and for that reason, we won't be giving her up. In fact, I plan on asking her a few questions myself, as we take her with us, and there is nothing you can do about it," the Salient reflected that last statement invincibly.
Aronimus cut the transmission short after that statement. Aronimus knew that his attacks had hit home as he saw Silver Eyes become visibly aggravated, more so now than before when he was faced with the indignation at the hands of Aronimus' retorts. Silver Eyes crushed the glass of alcohol with his fist, the alcohol disembodied its container's form and gushed in all directions, onto his coat, the bridge floor, and his viewing screen. The shards of glass pierced his skin, bleeding him through little cuts as he clenched his teeth.
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
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Silver Eye's Command Ship
Yelling angrily he said, That presumptuous fool, the goal was never to steal the cargo of those ships. This whole thing was arranged specially to screw them massively. What he doesn't know for now is the very virus Courtney put in, does more than cause the ship to jump, if left dormant it will make the ship a living hell." laughing now he turned to Nova, who was looking a little perturbed, "Okay boy, we are going to follow them, the other ships can stay behind. Courtney is my business and thus should be handled by I."
Nova feeling little apprehensive, "What about the Dullium?"
"I'm the leader, I shall get my share, but Courtney survival is integral, I count about five minutes left.
With that he turned on the intercoms, "My fleet, you shall soon have your loot from this, but I your leader must first retrieve Courtney, we shall return victorious, but the rest of you can withdraw, as we've not long now, not long at all."
Closing the channel, he knew it was almost time.
Yelling angrily he said, That presumptuous fool, the goal was never to steal the cargo of those ships. This whole thing was arranged specially to screw them massively. What he doesn't know for now is the very virus Courtney put in, does more than cause the ship to jump, if left dormant it will make the ship a living hell." laughing now he turned to Nova, who was looking a little perturbed, "Okay boy, we are going to follow them, the other ships can stay behind. Courtney is my business and thus should be handled by I."
Nova feeling little apprehensive, "What about the Dullium?"
"I'm the leader, I shall get my share, but Courtney survival is integral, I count about five minutes left.
With that he turned on the intercoms, "My fleet, you shall soon have your loot from this, but I your leader must first retrieve Courtney, we shall return victorious, but the rest of you can withdraw, as we've not long now, not long at all."
Closing the channel, he knew it was almost time.
Hyena was in the void, her venerable Rapier cutting a bloody swathe through the furball. Contrary to popular beleif, she was stone cold sober. Which probably made her laughing fits all the more disconcerting.
<Dont let me catch you! Dont let me catch you!>
She was taunting a pirate, dogging his tail in a deadly game of keep-away that twisted around debris and wrenched tight turns around other ships. The pirate attempted to use the gunships under her protection to his advantage - zipping under Tiaan and snapping his nose up to blast over Ray - only to have Hyena cut across the searing wake of the twos' engine pylons. Her shields warp and energy arcs spectacularly across the metal skin like some grim aurora, but the maneuver saves her time, and as the pirate is swooping back down from climbing Ray's back, his belly flashes across Hyena's nose. It's all she needs, and the quad cannons of the Rapier chew her quarry apart until he vanishes entirely in a shrapnel-filled fire that's snuffed out a breath later by the vacuum.
<Will you you overgrown Tug jockies hurry up and core that big bastard?> Her next taunt is reserved for the gunship pilots, pulling tightly back towards them and accelerating to intercept another wave, <Im going to run out of bullets before they run out of fighters at this rate!>
A missile loosed from her wing scatters the oncomming threat, the heat-seaker choosing an unlucky target to send spiraling out into the stars, ripping itself apart. Hyena pulls her nose up and to the right to select her next prey, only to have to disengage in a sickening roll as his wingman discourages her choice. She breaks off from the persuit to fire a heckling salvo of bullets in order to chase away another fighter who was attempting to sneak a lock on Tiaan.
<That's it. You two are on the hook for my drinks. For eternity. You know that, right?>
She grunts and turns on her side, flashing between their wings to nip at another pair of predatory pirates (say that three times fast) who think they can slip through her screen.
<Dont let me catch you! Dont let me catch you!>
She was taunting a pirate, dogging his tail in a deadly game of keep-away that twisted around debris and wrenched tight turns around other ships. The pirate attempted to use the gunships under her protection to his advantage - zipping under Tiaan and snapping his nose up to blast over Ray - only to have Hyena cut across the searing wake of the twos' engine pylons. Her shields warp and energy arcs spectacularly across the metal skin like some grim aurora, but the maneuver saves her time, and as the pirate is swooping back down from climbing Ray's back, his belly flashes across Hyena's nose. It's all she needs, and the quad cannons of the Rapier chew her quarry apart until he vanishes entirely in a shrapnel-filled fire that's snuffed out a breath later by the vacuum.
<Will you you overgrown Tug jockies hurry up and core that big bastard?> Her next taunt is reserved for the gunship pilots, pulling tightly back towards them and accelerating to intercept another wave, <Im going to run out of bullets before they run out of fighters at this rate!>
A missile loosed from her wing scatters the oncomming threat, the heat-seaker choosing an unlucky target to send spiraling out into the stars, ripping itself apart. Hyena pulls her nose up and to the right to select her next prey, only to have to disengage in a sickening roll as his wingman discourages her choice. She breaks off from the persuit to fire a heckling salvo of bullets in order to chase away another fighter who was attempting to sneak a lock on Tiaan.
<That's it. You two are on the hook for my drinks. For eternity. You know that, right?>
She grunts and turns on her side, flashing between their wings to nip at another pair of predatory pirates (say that three times fast) who think they can slip through her screen.
Ray chuckled as he saw his missiles hit the pirate battleship... the strike had not crippled the ship but it was just generally neat to see an explosion knowing that you where the one who made it happen. The battleship was still firing regularly and did not seem to be having any maneuverability problems so Ray's chuckle soon became a hiss of annoyance.
With the last of his missiles gone Ray discarded his launchers and opened up his secondary cannons... it was time to deal with the bastards the old fashion way.
Closing in on a newly launched squadron of pirate torpedo craft Ray accelerated his speed.
Ray opened up with his main cannons blasting the interceptors aside until he was in range with the torpedo craft. At this range any weapon would do however he could not understand why the torpedo craft where still on this course? did they have a death wish?
Suddenly two of the five torpedo craft opened their rear sections sending thousands of small miniature homing mines towards his Gunship... Ray knew he could not evade them from this range, Curses! what a fool he had been!
"power up to hazard shields 100%, locking all essential system's, repair probes standing by, blast shield activated, power down engines to drift speed, power down weapons" Ray had to get as many systems as possible offline or risk being crippled, he would also have to conserve energy for the hazard shield...
"God almighty!" exclaimed ray, with the generator still on the blast could trigger a melt down!
"powering down additional reactor" said Ray as he entered the reactor's code... nothing happened.
With only seconds to impact Ray did not have time for this "Computer deactivate additional reactor, deactivation code emergency"
as 6 precious seconds ticked by Ray saw no change in the reactor's status, what the hell was going on?!
"Computer deactivate the reactor!"
"deactivating primary reactor" said the computer to Ray's horror, why was the computer deactivating the primary reactor?! he had given him the codes for the secondary reactor!
Ray's vision darkened as the mines hit the Gunship, for a few seconds... or minutes he could not see or hear a thing as he lay stunned on his seat.
Ray opened his eyes, his vision was blurred and he had difficulty hearing anything; Ray had gotten himself pissed in academy many times and at his parents house many times more but those alcohol induced headaches where nothing compared to this!
Ray tried to stand up but he collapsed back to his seat, still drifting in and out of consciousness a minute or so passed before Ray could open his eyes properly.
Ray was confused, why was his vision so limited? Ray closed and then opened his right eye.. all was well there, as he tried the same with his left eye Ray could not feel any reaction.
Ray froze... he had lost his left eye and lord knew what else.
Ray stood up and began walking, just as his left eye had failed to respond so did his left leg and his left arm... Ray shredded but then chuckled; one way or another his flying career was over.
Ray began to feel just how badly his body had been damaged as he regained more of his senses... Ray did not know how he was even still alive but suspected the Hazard shield had protected him from the mines only to burn his left side body as the cooling systems shut down along wit the main generator... the computer must have realized what was happening and restarted the main generator just in time to save Ray from burning alive.
Stumbling around the gunship Ray used the command consul as a means of support, Ray activated the consul and waited; the system was designed to shut down in the event of a power surge but the sensors assuming any of them had no burned out should have been able to make out a damage report.
The report was a mess but from what Ray could tell only his number 3 cannon was still operational among his previously mighty assortment of weapons, the Hazard shields where gone as where most of the gunship's systems. Only the "middle school" engines where still operational; these engines where the ones used for battle and short distance travel however without his "highschool" engines for long distance travel and his preschool engines for landings and takeoff Ray could nether travel anywhere or dock with the salient.
"Computer what is the status on primary generator?" asked Ray happy to still have power
"primary generator not responding, emergency generator not responding, all power consumption switched to additional generator.
Ray turned white, so all the power had come from that generator?
"Warning, generator unstable, hazard level at 35% and rising" said the warning system as if hearing Ray's thoughts
Ray sank back to his seat... just what in the name of Titan was he supposed to do now?!
With the last of his missiles gone Ray discarded his launchers and opened up his secondary cannons... it was time to deal with the bastards the old fashion way.
Closing in on a newly launched squadron of pirate torpedo craft Ray accelerated his speed.
Ray opened up with his main cannons blasting the interceptors aside until he was in range with the torpedo craft. At this range any weapon would do however he could not understand why the torpedo craft where still on this course? did they have a death wish?
Suddenly two of the five torpedo craft opened their rear sections sending thousands of small miniature homing mines towards his Gunship... Ray knew he could not evade them from this range, Curses! what a fool he had been!
"power up to hazard shields 100%, locking all essential system's, repair probes standing by, blast shield activated, power down engines to drift speed, power down weapons" Ray had to get as many systems as possible offline or risk being crippled, he would also have to conserve energy for the hazard shield...
"God almighty!" exclaimed ray, with the generator still on the blast could trigger a melt down!
"powering down additional reactor" said Ray as he entered the reactor's code... nothing happened.
With only seconds to impact Ray did not have time for this "Computer deactivate additional reactor, deactivation code emergency"
as 6 precious seconds ticked by Ray saw no change in the reactor's status, what the hell was going on?!
"Computer deactivate the reactor!"
"deactivating primary reactor" said the computer to Ray's horror, why was the computer deactivating the primary reactor?! he had given him the codes for the secondary reactor!
Ray's vision darkened as the mines hit the Gunship, for a few seconds... or minutes he could not see or hear a thing as he lay stunned on his seat.
Ray opened his eyes, his vision was blurred and he had difficulty hearing anything; Ray had gotten himself pissed in academy many times and at his parents house many times more but those alcohol induced headaches where nothing compared to this!
Ray tried to stand up but he collapsed back to his seat, still drifting in and out of consciousness a minute or so passed before Ray could open his eyes properly.
Ray was confused, why was his vision so limited? Ray closed and then opened his right eye.. all was well there, as he tried the same with his left eye Ray could not feel any reaction.
Ray froze... he had lost his left eye and lord knew what else.
Ray stood up and began walking, just as his left eye had failed to respond so did his left leg and his left arm... Ray shredded but then chuckled; one way or another his flying career was over.
Ray began to feel just how badly his body had been damaged as he regained more of his senses... Ray did not know how he was even still alive but suspected the Hazard shield had protected him from the mines only to burn his left side body as the cooling systems shut down along wit the main generator... the computer must have realized what was happening and restarted the main generator just in time to save Ray from burning alive.
Stumbling around the gunship Ray used the command consul as a means of support, Ray activated the consul and waited; the system was designed to shut down in the event of a power surge but the sensors assuming any of them had no burned out should have been able to make out a damage report.
The report was a mess but from what Ray could tell only his number 3 cannon was still operational among his previously mighty assortment of weapons, the Hazard shields where gone as where most of the gunship's systems. Only the "middle school" engines where still operational; these engines where the ones used for battle and short distance travel however without his "highschool" engines for long distance travel and his preschool engines for landings and takeoff Ray could nether travel anywhere or dock with the salient.
"Computer what is the status on primary generator?" asked Ray happy to still have power
"primary generator not responding, emergency generator not responding, all power consumption switched to additional generator.
Ray turned white, so all the power had come from that generator?
"Warning, generator unstable, hazard level at 35% and rising" said the warning system as if hearing Ray's thoughts
Ray sank back to his seat... just what in the name of Titan was he supposed to do now?!
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Bridge
Ninety two percent.
There was nothing left to be said or done. As the pirate ships had disengaged and were no longer firing, the Admiral realized that the battle was over. He decided to leave his platform and stride to the viewport at the fore end of the bridge.
By now the crew had paused all activity, perhaps it had sunk in. They had won the battle. To Aronimus, he stared grimly at the armada of pirate ships still on the field. They weren't retreating. They had no reason to retreat. The battle had in actuality, concluded with a draw. The Salient was bruised and battered, though still functioning.
The jump was about to begin, Aronimus, his crew, and his ship, had done everything they could.
"What are your orders Admiral?" asked a crewmen.
Aronimus looked over his shoulder to the nearest crew member.
"I want all fighter squadrons and units recalled to the ship immediately, get them out of there before we make the jump," he huffed. Then he returned to the viewport, the debris field seemed to have enshrouded his view.
Aronimus retired to his seat back on the platform. He tapped a key on his chair's interface, activating a holographic screen which beamed into being.
"We'll be clearing the field immediately," the Admiral reported.
"Very well Admiral, we can handle it from here," a voice replied.
"Soters out," the screen then made expiation of itself.
Contingency CA was in now effect.
There was nothing left to be said or done. As the pirate ships had disengaged and were no longer firing, the Admiral realized that the battle was over. He decided to leave his platform and stride to the viewport at the fore end of the bridge.
By now the crew had paused all activity, perhaps it had sunk in. They had won the battle. To Aronimus, he stared grimly at the armada of pirate ships still on the field. They weren't retreating. They had no reason to retreat. The battle had in actuality, concluded with a draw. The Salient was bruised and battered, though still functioning.
The jump was about to begin, Aronimus, his crew, and his ship, had done everything they could.
"What are your orders Admiral?" asked a crewmen.
Aronimus looked over his shoulder to the nearest crew member.
"I want all fighter squadrons and units recalled to the ship immediately, get them out of there before we make the jump," he huffed. Then he returned to the viewport, the debris field seemed to have enshrouded his view.
Aronimus retired to his seat back on the platform. He tapped a key on his chair's interface, activating a holographic screen which beamed into being.
"We'll be clearing the field immediately," the Admiral reported.
"Very well Admiral, we can handle it from here," a voice replied.
"Soters out," the screen then made expiation of itself.
Contingency CA was in now effect.
The setting changes from Bridge to The Milky Way Universe
Tiaan Peyton
Losing communication with Ray she was almost back, but considering how that guy had saved her a few times today, she should preform another sweep, radioing Hyena she said, "Ray's comm channel down, I may need help to drag the ship back manually, you in?"
While she waited, she did an extended radar check, this was hopeless to be honest, the wreckage and other vehicles were making it impossible to find anything. Cursing her luck she swung her bird around, whispering, "Blue Bird, you ready."
She barely had any time, she knew this, everyone knew it, but she was taught never to leave a man behind, she was taught to help others. It was dangerous, hell it was likely impossible, but she needed to try, hearing someone try to get through her, it appeared to be someone on the bridge, "Peyton, you're moving out, we can't guarantee, you'll make it back in time, not even caring she responded back, "Delay it, Birdy won't let you down, no she won't!"
Changing frequency to Hyena ship she yelled out when she heard a beep, she didn't care if she deafened the pilot, she had found the ship, she had done the impossible, "Hyena come in, we need to act fast, our two ships can pull him back!"
Losing communication with Ray she was almost back, but considering how that guy had saved her a few times today, she should preform another sweep, radioing Hyena she said, "Ray's comm channel down, I may need help to drag the ship back manually, you in?"
While she waited, she did an extended radar check, this was hopeless to be honest, the wreckage and other vehicles were making it impossible to find anything. Cursing her luck she swung her bird around, whispering, "Blue Bird, you ready."
She barely had any time, she knew this, everyone knew it, but she was taught never to leave a man behind, she was taught to help others. It was dangerous, hell it was likely impossible, but she needed to try, hearing someone try to get through her, it appeared to be someone on the bridge, "Peyton, you're moving out, we can't guarantee, you'll make it back in time, not even caring she responded back, "Delay it, Birdy won't let you down, no she won't!"
Changing frequency to Hyena ship she yelled out when she heard a beep, she didn't care if she deafened the pilot, she had found the ship, she had done the impossible, "Hyena come in, we need to act fast, our two ships can pull him back!"
When Ray had dropped off her scopes, Hyena had assumed the worst. There were just too many pirate fighters and not enough -her- to go around. It'd torn at her, because that wasnt just a hunk of metal she'd been flying cover for, it'd been someone that she'd stood on the deck with. The pressing threat of the situation had prevented it from settling fully, but when Tiaan calls out that she's going to fall out of the return formation to search, the reality slams into Hyena like a brick wall.
<On your wing.>
She responds without hesitation, keying up a countdown on her HUD to keep track of time. If the Salient jumped while they were still out here, they wouldnt last long against a fleet of pirates looking for revenge. Even if they shut down and played dead, even if those pirates skipped salvage and vanished, they would be millions of kilometers from any source of oxygen. But if they didnt try, it'd be Ray facing those fates.
The two flit through the debris field, and the numbers on her clock keep ticking down despite all willpower to the contrary. If she wanted to be a scout pilot she would be flying an Arrow. The Rapier just didnt have the sensor package to pick out one dead fighter hulk from another at any kind of range, leaving her to pick manually at a painfully slow pace. Tiaan makes the call. She'd found something. Pointing her nose at the activity, between Bluebird's size and the Rapier's overlarge engines, they could pull the other craft back into the hangar bay with minimal effort.
Only...
<Tiaan! Disengage! Engines are runaway!>
Hyena's fighter can advise her of -that- critical peice of information, at least, outlining Ray's bird with ominous red highlights. The size of the gunship promises that if they were caught in the imminent explosion, it'd be bad. Very bad. The shrapnel alone could hull her, and then she'd be just as dead. Some rescue this was turning out to be.
<Shit, Ray, you reading? Eject, man, we'll recover. Eject!>
Another few seconds off of her clock.
<Eject!>
Even at the distance she'd retreated, the erruption of fire and steel rocks the Rapier. Sensors scream, and light blinds her despite an automatic dampening of her canopy. Something metal screeches across her wing, sending her into a violent tumble. By the time she recovers, the fire has been suffocated by the vaccuum, and she can see no signs that Ray had ever gotten or heeded her desparate call.
Alarms are still shrieking in the background as she keys Tiaan, <... I've got nothing, Blue.>
Another alert chimes its two cents, her countdown. <We have to go, Blue. NOW. Or we're just as dead.>
Stubborn as pilots may be, they were all dependant upon a friendly deck to come home to. Already blasted in that direction, Hyena gooses her throttle and races back towards the Salient before her hangar doors can shutter for the jump. One of her engines gives sporradic bursts of protest, a 4-foot sliver of Ray's gunship imbeded in the scorched cowling. Cold dread and shock slowly warm in the face of a smoldering anger, and when she hits the comm again, her growl just makes her callsign all the more appropriate. Hunger and teeth.
<Next time these pricks cross our scopes, they die.>
<On your wing.>
She responds without hesitation, keying up a countdown on her HUD to keep track of time. If the Salient jumped while they were still out here, they wouldnt last long against a fleet of pirates looking for revenge. Even if they shut down and played dead, even if those pirates skipped salvage and vanished, they would be millions of kilometers from any source of oxygen. But if they didnt try, it'd be Ray facing those fates.
The two flit through the debris field, and the numbers on her clock keep ticking down despite all willpower to the contrary. If she wanted to be a scout pilot she would be flying an Arrow. The Rapier just didnt have the sensor package to pick out one dead fighter hulk from another at any kind of range, leaving her to pick manually at a painfully slow pace. Tiaan makes the call. She'd found something. Pointing her nose at the activity, between Bluebird's size and the Rapier's overlarge engines, they could pull the other craft back into the hangar bay with minimal effort.
Only...
<Tiaan! Disengage! Engines are runaway!>
Hyena's fighter can advise her of -that- critical peice of information, at least, outlining Ray's bird with ominous red highlights. The size of the gunship promises that if they were caught in the imminent explosion, it'd be bad. Very bad. The shrapnel alone could hull her, and then she'd be just as dead. Some rescue this was turning out to be.
<Shit, Ray, you reading? Eject, man, we'll recover. Eject!>
Another few seconds off of her clock.
<Eject!>
Even at the distance she'd retreated, the erruption of fire and steel rocks the Rapier. Sensors scream, and light blinds her despite an automatic dampening of her canopy. Something metal screeches across her wing, sending her into a violent tumble. By the time she recovers, the fire has been suffocated by the vaccuum, and she can see no signs that Ray had ever gotten or heeded her desparate call.
Alarms are still shrieking in the background as she keys Tiaan, <... I've got nothing, Blue.>
Another alert chimes its two cents, her countdown. <We have to go, Blue. NOW. Or we're just as dead.>
Stubborn as pilots may be, they were all dependant upon a friendly deck to come home to. Already blasted in that direction, Hyena gooses her throttle and races back towards the Salient before her hangar doors can shutter for the jump. One of her engines gives sporradic bursts of protest, a 4-foot sliver of Ray's gunship imbeded in the scorched cowling. Cold dread and shock slowly warm in the face of a smoldering anger, and when she hits the comm again, her growl just makes her callsign all the more appropriate. Hunger and teeth.
<Next time these pricks cross our scopes, they die.>
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to General Mess Hall
Soldiers, naval bridge members, medical crew, and other personnel shuffled through the Mess Hall. Some were getting their first meal for the day, having not eaten at all the entire day. Others, were probably finishing their last meal of the day before heading off to duty. Most of the personnel seemed to be unaware of the battle outside, or at least the threat seemed to be vaguely present. No boarding attempt had been made as the pirates were already too fearful of the little ion batteries ready to slice through their boarding craft. Thus Marines and other ground personnel had it easy.
Many metallic tables dotted the halls, each of which was partially seated with one or two members. They sat there conversing with their crew mates while enjoying the ship's MREs. Meals Ready to Eat, delivered directly through the automated chef system. The automated chef was a cylindrical tower located at the center of each of the tables. The tower had several hatches, one for each seat of the table. The tables themselves had small screens with a menu of the day's meals, personnel could access these screens, and select an appetizer, entree, and desert.
Most of the meals were Federation standard, but the Salient had a wider range of humanity's culinary delights.
Reynolds, no longer in his combat suit, was sitting at a table and ingesting a burger. The bread was a mixture of soy and wheat, while the meat was a slice of vitaminized turkey. The turkey was dressed in dijon mustard, with some fresh lettuce and tomatoes. MREs were expected to meet a certain health standard to maintain servicemen peak efficiency. Foods that were greased or fattened to the brim were not allowed.
Reynolds was thoroughly enjoying his burger, as Weifert approached his table and took a seat. Weifert opened the menu interface located on the table, and immediately skimmed through the selection. He sat there deciding, while Reynolds peered over at him.
"Any word from the Captain?" Reynolds finished his morsel before taking another bite.
Weifert shook his head as he pressed a selection from the menu.
"Cap is visiting one of the prisoners that was on board the frigate," Weifert waited for the automated chef to deliver his meal through the cylindrical tower. As the machine silently whirred and hummed, pulling the meal from the shelves of a cryo-refrigerator, Reynolds took another bite.
"Did the other team get back yet?" Reynolds spoke with his mouth full.
"Yeah, the team returned back completely, except for the big guy in the suit...Thaddeus?" Weifert paused, "Whatever. Captain Dunaway's coming home by himself." Reynolds paused before he was about to take another bite.
"By himself?"
"Yeah, he's flying through space with that suit," Weifert nodded as the automated chef slid out a pressure sealed MRE pack through one of its hatches.
Weifert immediately cut open the pack and pulled out his beef steak with mashed potatoes and peas. On his side, a can of juice slid out from the table. He grabbed, then popped the can and proceeded to pour the drink down his throat.
"The wonders of technology, right?" Reynolds took another bite of his turkey burger.
Many metallic tables dotted the halls, each of which was partially seated with one or two members. They sat there conversing with their crew mates while enjoying the ship's MREs. Meals Ready to Eat, delivered directly through the automated chef system. The automated chef was a cylindrical tower located at the center of each of the tables. The tower had several hatches, one for each seat of the table. The tables themselves had small screens with a menu of the day's meals, personnel could access these screens, and select an appetizer, entree, and desert.
Most of the meals were Federation standard, but the Salient had a wider range of humanity's culinary delights.
Reynolds, no longer in his combat suit, was sitting at a table and ingesting a burger. The bread was a mixture of soy and wheat, while the meat was a slice of vitaminized turkey. The turkey was dressed in dijon mustard, with some fresh lettuce and tomatoes. MREs were expected to meet a certain health standard to maintain servicemen peak efficiency. Foods that were greased or fattened to the brim were not allowed.
Reynolds was thoroughly enjoying his burger, as Weifert approached his table and took a seat. Weifert opened the menu interface located on the table, and immediately skimmed through the selection. He sat there deciding, while Reynolds peered over at him.
"Any word from the Captain?" Reynolds finished his morsel before taking another bite.
Weifert shook his head as he pressed a selection from the menu.
"Cap is visiting one of the prisoners that was on board the frigate," Weifert waited for the automated chef to deliver his meal through the cylindrical tower. As the machine silently whirred and hummed, pulling the meal from the shelves of a cryo-refrigerator, Reynolds took another bite.
"Did the other team get back yet?" Reynolds spoke with his mouth full.
"Yeah, the team returned back completely, except for the big guy in the suit...Thaddeus?" Weifert paused, "Whatever. Captain Dunaway's coming home by himself." Reynolds paused before he was about to take another bite.
"By himself?"
"Yeah, he's flying through space with that suit," Weifert nodded as the automated chef slid out a pressure sealed MRE pack through one of its hatches.
Weifert immediately cut open the pack and pulled out his beef steak with mashed potatoes and peas. On his side, a can of juice slid out from the table. He grabbed, then popped the can and proceeded to pour the drink down his throat.
"The wonders of technology, right?" Reynolds took another bite of his turkey burger.
The setting changes from General Mess Hall to The Milky Way Universe
"Warning, generator unstable, hazard level at 41% and rising"
"Hold it together ... hold it together..." whispered Ray, he smiled at the irony; his body was barley holding together and here he was making demands of his burning up gunship?
"Warning Engine's 2-3 are overheating... commencing emergency shut down"
"Oh no you don't! overwrite Emergency shut down!" Ray was now sweating, even the cooling systems where at braking point.
"Warning generator unstable, hazard level at 46% and rising"
"Direct all power to generator cooling systems! deactivate weapons systems, power down engines to drift speeds, deactivate all systems not marked B2a essential systems" Ray knew even such desperate measures would not even delay the meltdown but he had to do something.
Ray struggled to remain awake, his body wanted to sleep but Ray knew that if he let his eyes close he would never open them again... well at least that one eye he still had left.
"RED ALERT - Generator melt down in process ... commencing emergency shut down... ERROR... Generator not responding, Warning Sensors no longer functioning"
Ray cursed at first but then simply sighed and smiled weakly, he had been very lucky; the generator should have overheated at 36%-42%. By all accounts Ray had been luckier them most.... just not lucky enough.
"Activate comm-system" said Ray, maybe he could at least say goodbye to his new comrades if nothing else.
"Comm - system not responding"
Typical! just when he was about to finally meet his end he could not even order a pizza!
"RED ALERT - Containment field 2 overloaded... Generator melt down in 51 seconds"
So he could not even get another minute hay? Ray tried to move but found it too painful... what was he supposed to do with 51.. now 45 seconds of life before his end?
managing to drag himself across the bridge by using some of the wreckage as support Ray saw that his "secret" compartment was still fairly intact. Ray opened it and saw his music Box still healthy and ready to go... at least music had not failed him yet. Ray loaded a disk to the machine and sat down... 25 seconds to go or something like that but Ray chose to relax as the music began to play.
Ray wondered... was there really no way he could send a message to the Salient? of course! the Swingclass was an old design and it was equipped with the old radio based comm system. The newer models where added to the ship while still in trial however the old system still remained and every ship of the line such as the Salient could pick up event such primitive signals.
"RED ALERT - Containment field 3 overloaded... Generator melt down in 17 seconds"
17 seconds... not a lot of time so Ray decided to write only a brief message before sending it... Ray hoped the captain would appreciate it but decided to think about better things at these last few seconds of his life.
Just as the last few seconds ticked away the singer for the old forgotten song began to sing, Ray loved that voice and now faced with the same odds of those dark times finally understood why such songs meat so much.
"We'll meet again, don't where don't know when but I know we'll meet again some sunny day. keep smiling through
... CRITICAL ALERT! GENERATOR MELT DOWN IMMINENT
Warning - engines overheating... fire detected in section 9
Warning - cooling systems not responding
Warning - interior shields offline
Warning - insufficient power... deactivating non critical systems "ERROR"
Warning - life support systems deactivating
Warning - multiple systems failure detected
No registered crew personal detected, Unit Commander Peter Davidson not responding... transferring control over to ship's computer
CRITICAL ALERT GENERATOR MELT DOWN... GENERATOR MELT Do... do...d
"carry on Fighting, carry on crying, carry on smiling but for heaven's sake carry on living" - Unit Commander Peter Ray Davidson, deceased.
"Hold it together ... hold it together..." whispered Ray, he smiled at the irony; his body was barley holding together and here he was making demands of his burning up gunship?
"Warning Engine's 2-3 are overheating... commencing emergency shut down"
"Oh no you don't! overwrite Emergency shut down!" Ray was now sweating, even the cooling systems where at braking point.
"Warning generator unstable, hazard level at 46% and rising"
"Direct all power to generator cooling systems! deactivate weapons systems, power down engines to drift speeds, deactivate all systems not marked B2a essential systems" Ray knew even such desperate measures would not even delay the meltdown but he had to do something.
Ray struggled to remain awake, his body wanted to sleep but Ray knew that if he let his eyes close he would never open them again... well at least that one eye he still had left.
"RED ALERT - Generator melt down in process ... commencing emergency shut down... ERROR... Generator not responding, Warning Sensors no longer functioning"
Ray cursed at first but then simply sighed and smiled weakly, he had been very lucky; the generator should have overheated at 36%-42%. By all accounts Ray had been luckier them most.... just not lucky enough.
"Activate comm-system" said Ray, maybe he could at least say goodbye to his new comrades if nothing else.
"Comm - system not responding"
Typical! just when he was about to finally meet his end he could not even order a pizza!
"RED ALERT - Containment field 2 overloaded... Generator melt down in 51 seconds"
So he could not even get another minute hay? Ray tried to move but found it too painful... what was he supposed to do with 51.. now 45 seconds of life before his end?
managing to drag himself across the bridge by using some of the wreckage as support Ray saw that his "secret" compartment was still fairly intact. Ray opened it and saw his music Box still healthy and ready to go... at least music had not failed him yet. Ray loaded a disk to the machine and sat down... 25 seconds to go or something like that but Ray chose to relax as the music began to play.
Ray wondered... was there really no way he could send a message to the Salient? of course! the Swingclass was an old design and it was equipped with the old radio based comm system. The newer models where added to the ship while still in trial however the old system still remained and every ship of the line such as the Salient could pick up event such primitive signals.
"RED ALERT - Containment field 3 overloaded... Generator melt down in 17 seconds"
17 seconds... not a lot of time so Ray decided to write only a brief message before sending it... Ray hoped the captain would appreciate it but decided to think about better things at these last few seconds of his life.
Just as the last few seconds ticked away the singer for the old forgotten song began to sing, Ray loved that voice and now faced with the same odds of those dark times finally understood why such songs meat so much.
"We'll meet again, don't where don't know when but I know we'll meet again some sunny day. keep smiling through
... CRITICAL ALERT! GENERATOR MELT DOWN IMMINENT
Warning - engines overheating... fire detected in section 9
Warning - cooling systems not responding
Warning - interior shields offline
Warning - insufficient power... deactivating non critical systems "ERROR"
Warning - life support systems deactivating
Warning - multiple systems failure detected
No registered crew personal detected, Unit Commander Peter Davidson not responding... transferring control over to ship's computer
CRITICAL ALERT GENERATOR MELT DOWN... GENERATOR MELT Do... do...d
"carry on Fighting, carry on crying, carry on smiling but for heaven's sake carry on living" - Unit Commander Peter Ray Davidson, deceased.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to F.S.S. Salient
Adriana
The area below decks where Adriana worked on the particle cannon was separated from the vacuum of space by a single layer of hull. Every little ping of an enemy shot echoed through the space. This is how Adriana knew the battle had ended: Everything grew silent but for her own breathing and her footsteps as she walked back and forth along the length of the ship checking for damage. She returned to the terminal.
"What's happening outside, ADAM?"
The blue face appeared, and his synthesized voice came across the speakers. "All fighting has ceased. The Salient is about to perform a slip-space jump, and there is no further purpose in the battle."
Adriana nodded and switched off the terminal. It was all over and the ship was still in working order. That was the good news. She was sure there would be bad, but nothing in particular that would be her inconvenience. At least, she hoped not.
Clyde
99%
Clyde steered the ship through the debris field, the ship canons blasting away obstruction. The enemy fleet cleared a path for the Salient's jump. They didn't want to be disintegrated by the jump any more than the Salients' crew did.
Clyde made the last minute checks- Was everything in working order? Not quite, but the ship would survive. Was everyone accounted for? A few fighter deaths, Thaddeus Jackson pronounced missing in action, everyone else returned. Except... Peter Davidson. Clyde took one look at his ship, drifting alone in space, and knew that it was not going to return.
There was a little blip on his screen. It was a text-only message, sent from an old radio. Sent from the dying ship.
Carry on Fighting, carry on crying, carry on smiling but for heaven's sake carry on living" - Unit Commander Peter Ray Davidson, deceased.
Clyde looked away as the ship exploded in a brilliant ball of energy, a small sun marking the death of a storied pilot.
What kind of launch was this? They had been in space hardly a day and already tragedy wracked the voyage. It did not bode well for the rest of the mission.
Clyde sighed and turned back to his terminal. The final stage of preparation for the the FTL jump came into affect automatically. The artificial gravity generator activated to its fullest potential, and froze everything on board the ship a split second before the jump occurred to protect it from the massive acceleration. Then the gravity shifted from null to a push opposite the acceleration, keeping everything from being crushed until the speed leveled out.
100%
The area below decks where Adriana worked on the particle cannon was separated from the vacuum of space by a single layer of hull. Every little ping of an enemy shot echoed through the space. This is how Adriana knew the battle had ended: Everything grew silent but for her own breathing and her footsteps as she walked back and forth along the length of the ship checking for damage. She returned to the terminal.
"What's happening outside, ADAM?"
The blue face appeared, and his synthesized voice came across the speakers. "All fighting has ceased. The Salient is about to perform a slip-space jump, and there is no further purpose in the battle."
Adriana nodded and switched off the terminal. It was all over and the ship was still in working order. That was the good news. She was sure there would be bad, but nothing in particular that would be her inconvenience. At least, she hoped not.
Clyde
99%
Clyde steered the ship through the debris field, the ship canons blasting away obstruction. The enemy fleet cleared a path for the Salient's jump. They didn't want to be disintegrated by the jump any more than the Salients' crew did.
Clyde made the last minute checks- Was everything in working order? Not quite, but the ship would survive. Was everyone accounted for? A few fighter deaths, Thaddeus Jackson pronounced missing in action, everyone else returned. Except... Peter Davidson. Clyde took one look at his ship, drifting alone in space, and knew that it was not going to return.
There was a little blip on his screen. It was a text-only message, sent from an old radio. Sent from the dying ship.
Carry on Fighting, carry on crying, carry on smiling but for heaven's sake carry on living" - Unit Commander Peter Ray Davidson, deceased.
Clyde looked away as the ship exploded in a brilliant ball of energy, a small sun marking the death of a storied pilot.
What kind of launch was this? They had been in space hardly a day and already tragedy wracked the voyage. It did not bode well for the rest of the mission.
Clyde sighed and turned back to his terminal. The final stage of preparation for the the FTL jump came into affect automatically. The artificial gravity generator activated to its fullest potential, and froze everything on board the ship a split second before the jump occurred to protect it from the massive acceleration. Then the gravity shifted from null to a push opposite the acceleration, keeping everything from being crushed until the speed leveled out.
100%
The setting changes from F.S.S. Salient to The Milky Way Universe
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AI TAU
Tau was prepared to get back to the Salient, but he had one last surprise, he set the Pirate Frigate he was controlling on a collision course with one of the larger ships of the Fleet, and Set off a few internal overloads with the Engines and the Power Core. "Have fun exploding", he left the message on all screens on the vessel, and locked down the Ship's systems so that they could not be averted. With this, he used the communications array of the Frigate to launch himself to the Salient safely.
Tau was prepared to get back to the Salient, but he had one last surprise, he set the Pirate Frigate he was controlling on a collision course with one of the larger ships of the Fleet, and Set off a few internal overloads with the Engines and the Power Core. "Have fun exploding", he left the message on all screens on the vessel, and locked down the Ship's systems so that they could not be averted. With this, he used the communications array of the Frigate to launch himself to the Salient safely.
The setting changes from The Milky Way Universe to Barracks
The prisoner sat in silence, her wrists and ankles bound by electro braces as she sat in her seat alone in one of the empty crew quarters, converted into an ad hoc interrogation room. She glanced at her surroundings while Commander Atomsk stood outside behind a transparent plexi-glass strip. The strip was only transparent to those outside looking in. Therefore, Courtney had no idea that her movements were being observed, save her intuition.
She knew that she was being watched in some form or fashion, which was always the case with prisoners being interrogated. She was the prisoner, and she was being interrogated.
An aide-de-camp approached Atomsk from the side and handed him a transparent tablet. The aide was a short yet slender brunette with flashing black eyes. She, like the Commander, was in her form fitting crew suit which composed of a jacket and pants. The image of a woman in red hair, and a long list of details and facts about said woman, was presented on the screen. Atomsk looked at the woman the same way as he looked at Courtney, for they were one and the same.
“There’s no important personal detail listed on here except the fact that she has a sibling,” Atomsk turned to his aide.
“Perhaps you should try the biological relations section,” the aide suggested.
Atomsk replied by pressing the link, highlighting the siblings section. It opened up a new screen, showing a pair of DNA strands, and then a new window took its place. The new window displayed the head of a young man, shaven, of Federation caliber. He was a private in the Marine Corps, and was currently serving aboard the Salient.
Atomsk’s eyes narrowed in on the man’s name, Reynolds, which sounded quite familiar. He stopped to think, where had he seen that name?
"Sir, should we resume interrogation?" inquired the aide.
"No," Atosmk handed him the tablet, "Not yet. We'll resume interrogation once Lieutenant Commander Chen gets here to interrogate the prisoner herself."
She knew that she was being watched in some form or fashion, which was always the case with prisoners being interrogated. She was the prisoner, and she was being interrogated.
An aide-de-camp approached Atomsk from the side and handed him a transparent tablet. The aide was a short yet slender brunette with flashing black eyes. She, like the Commander, was in her form fitting crew suit which composed of a jacket and pants. The image of a woman in red hair, and a long list of details and facts about said woman, was presented on the screen. Atomsk looked at the woman the same way as he looked at Courtney, for they were one and the same.
Federation Records
Name: N/A
Age: N/A
Date of Birth: N/A
Place of Birth: N/A
Father: N/A
Mother: N/A
Siblings: One brother
“There’s no important personal detail listed on here except the fact that she has a sibling,” Atomsk turned to his aide.
“Perhaps you should try the biological relations section,” the aide suggested.
Atomsk replied by pressing the link, highlighting the siblings section. It opened up a new screen, showing a pair of DNA strands, and then a new window took its place. The new window displayed the head of a young man, shaven, of Federation caliber. He was a private in the Marine Corps, and was currently serving aboard the Salient.
Atomsk’s eyes narrowed in on the man’s name, Reynolds, which sounded quite familiar. He stopped to think, where had he seen that name?
"Sir, should we resume interrogation?" inquired the aide.
"No," Atosmk handed him the tablet, "Not yet. We'll resume interrogation once Lieutenant Commander Chen gets here to interrogate the prisoner herself."
The setting changes from Barracks to The Milky Way Universe
Ninety nine percent.
The number slowly maintained its presence on the screen; it would soon be overtaken by a number that was a digit greater.
Aronimus was sitting in his command chair, viewing his crew, while they were at their stations. It seemed as though they had only left Callisto merely moments ago.
The events of the day had been, relatively unimaginable. To have intervened on behalf of a pair of merchant freighters. To have withstood a massive pirate armada and still survive with the majority of the crew intact. They had only begun their journey, whether or not these were omens that did not bode well, Aronimus did not care. He had other things to worry about at the moment.
A.D.A.M. was being slightly damaged by a viral code that had infiltrated the system, disrupting his own processing. To counter act this, the Admiral would have to open the flood gates further and give A.D.A.M. more processing capacity.
Aronimus' finger hovered over the key on the transparent screen, but he decided to hold off on that thought as one of the younger officers approached him on the platform. The soldier was faintly pale, and he walked with a certain burden on his gait.
"Sir..." he paused and handed Aronimus a tablet.
"This is the list of..." his voice clung to his throat, "Casualties." Aronimus looked into the young officer's eyes. They were bent and saddened even though he tried to keep his professional look.
Aronimus cleared his throat, "Thank you, Lieutenant."
Before he left, the officer turned to the Admiral, "Sir..."
"Yes, I...understand, we'll have the services when we exit slipstream."
One hundred percent.
Aronimus noted the number on his screen, as his view was then blasted by a flash of light. It blurred his vision only slightly, he would later remark that he saw spots for hours after the jump. The rip through slipstream was being activated through the Salient's engines. The scar in the fabric of space began to suck in the ship.
The crew members braced themselves in their seats for the rough entry as they gazed at the blinding light of the slipstream.
"We're entering slipstream, brace yourselves..." Aronimus forewarned.
With that the ship was sucked into the rip, and vanished with a brilliant illumination.
The number slowly maintained its presence on the screen; it would soon be overtaken by a number that was a digit greater.
Aronimus was sitting in his command chair, viewing his crew, while they were at their stations. It seemed as though they had only left Callisto merely moments ago.
The events of the day had been, relatively unimaginable. To have intervened on behalf of a pair of merchant freighters. To have withstood a massive pirate armada and still survive with the majority of the crew intact. They had only begun their journey, whether or not these were omens that did not bode well, Aronimus did not care. He had other things to worry about at the moment.
A.D.A.M. was being slightly damaged by a viral code that had infiltrated the system, disrupting his own processing. To counter act this, the Admiral would have to open the flood gates further and give A.D.A.M. more processing capacity.
Aronimus' finger hovered over the key on the transparent screen, but he decided to hold off on that thought as one of the younger officers approached him on the platform. The soldier was faintly pale, and he walked with a certain burden on his gait.
"Sir..." he paused and handed Aronimus a tablet.
"This is the list of..." his voice clung to his throat, "Casualties." Aronimus looked into the young officer's eyes. They were bent and saddened even though he tried to keep his professional look.
Aronimus cleared his throat, "Thank you, Lieutenant."
Before he left, the officer turned to the Admiral, "Sir..."
"Yes, I...understand, we'll have the services when we exit slipstream."
One hundred percent.
Aronimus noted the number on his screen, as his view was then blasted by a flash of light. It blurred his vision only slightly, he would later remark that he saw spots for hours after the jump. The rip through slipstream was being activated through the Salient's engines. The scar in the fabric of space began to suck in the ship.
The crew members braced themselves in their seats for the rough entry as they gazed at the blinding light of the slipstream.
"We're entering slipstream, brace yourselves..." Aronimus forewarned.
With that the ship was sucked into the rip, and vanished with a brilliant illumination.
Near Themos V...
"Very well Admiral, we can handle it from here," Attalon Soters replied to the transparent viewing screen that hung over the ship's fore end viewport.
"Soters out," He then closed the screen and returned to viewing his crew from the commander's seat at the very center of the bridge like a hawk.
The Commander remained alert, sitting upright and leaning forward in his seat, with every ounce of interest and concentration poured directly into the feeds before him and the viewport directly beyond him.
"Alright boys and girls, this is it! Lock and load your weapons and be ready to hit them," Commander Attalon Soters addressed his combat crews through the channels.
Soters was a relatively young officer in the Federation Navy, but he was very dedicated nonetheless. This was the reason why he was leading two full Federation battle groups, Tango and Whiskey, composed of some eighty warships as they exited a slipstream hole near the gas giant of Themos V. His fleet was in a nearby sector as Admiral Aronimus Weston gave word that he had been ambushed by the infamous pirate, Silver Eyes.
Contingency CA: Catastrophic Aversion, was a beacon that had been activated by the Salient's central A.I. It was a rallying call for any nearby Federation units to arrive on scene to aid the Salient. However, Soters quickly received word that the Salient was forced to make a jump after receiving heavy fire and commencing an irreversible slipspace leap. In its current state, it was a planned ambush, which succeeded accordingly to Aronimus's whims.
Soters's fleet was immediately met by a large field of scattered debris that consisted of lifeless hulks ranging in various sizes. Some were the shells of large ships such as cruisers, others were merely bits of what were once fighters.
Soters's battle groups flanked Silver Eyes's fleet and instantly began unleashing an unrelenting torrent of rail gun fire, and compounded with a barrage of missiles, all of which was concentrated on one ship at a time.
The beams and missiles sliced through Silver Eyes's forward line of destroyers and frigates, adding to the field of debris an innumerable amount of metallic hulks that were ripped apart.
Wings of Federation fighters doggedly skimmed in and out between Silver Eyes's formation, which by now began to break apart as ships broke rank to flee. The fighters attacked like wolf packs, immediately pouncing on lighter ships like piranhas.
Soters commanded his destroyers forward, while his cruisers laid down a line of suppression fire against Silver Eyes's retreating ships.
To compound the matter, a second fleet of corporate vessels exited slipstream on the opposite flank of Soters's battle groups. It was a fleet centered around a single carrier, the Queen Gertrude, which belonged to the Altamus Corporation's private security forces. The carrier remained the center of a fleet of some twenty destroyer vessels pulled from various Altamus outposts to escort the two freighters to their original destination.
This small squadron was deployed after receiving a distress signal directly from the merchant freighter, the Summerwind.
"Dirty Gertie's here boys!" the chatter on the communication channels between the Altamus vessels fired off.
"It's about damn time! We were scared as shit trying to hide from those guys 'cause they were tryin' to frost us." Cronos spit his cigar out and jumped from his seat.
"Neva' fear honneh', Dirty Gertie's here!"
These channels were immediately linked to the Federation battle groups' combat network, as the corporate vessels joined the fray.
"The Altamus Corporation gives thanks to the Federation Navy for defending our asses, or assets so to speak." spoke the voice of an older and vivacious woman at the helm.
"No problem, as long as you help us take them out." Soters referred to the pirates in a solemn demeanor as his hawkish features were brought down upon the screen.
"Sure thing! We're just doing our civic duty. Queen Gertrude, out."
The Queen Gertrude was a hornet's nest, and the hornets immediately zipped from the multiple hangar exits and swarmed the rear of Silver Eyes's formations while bolstering the Federation wings. The Alta-Corp destroyers began to lay down fire along with the Federation warships as they both pushed forward, continuing the chase after Silver Eyes's fleet or whatever remained of it after the first wave. Silver Eyes for his part, was not present at the battle to witness the events that transpired.
"Very well Admiral, we can handle it from here," Attalon Soters replied to the transparent viewing screen that hung over the ship's fore end viewport.
"Soters out," He then closed the screen and returned to viewing his crew from the commander's seat at the very center of the bridge like a hawk.
The Commander remained alert, sitting upright and leaning forward in his seat, with every ounce of interest and concentration poured directly into the feeds before him and the viewport directly beyond him.
"Alright boys and girls, this is it! Lock and load your weapons and be ready to hit them," Commander Attalon Soters addressed his combat crews through the channels.
Soters was a relatively young officer in the Federation Navy, but he was very dedicated nonetheless. This was the reason why he was leading two full Federation battle groups, Tango and Whiskey, composed of some eighty warships as they exited a slipstream hole near the gas giant of Themos V. His fleet was in a nearby sector as Admiral Aronimus Weston gave word that he had been ambushed by the infamous pirate, Silver Eyes.
Contingency CA: Catastrophic Aversion, was a beacon that had been activated by the Salient's central A.I. It was a rallying call for any nearby Federation units to arrive on scene to aid the Salient. However, Soters quickly received word that the Salient was forced to make a jump after receiving heavy fire and commencing an irreversible slipspace leap. In its current state, it was a planned ambush, which succeeded accordingly to Aronimus's whims.
Soters's fleet was immediately met by a large field of scattered debris that consisted of lifeless hulks ranging in various sizes. Some were the shells of large ships such as cruisers, others were merely bits of what were once fighters.
Soters's battle groups flanked Silver Eyes's fleet and instantly began unleashing an unrelenting torrent of rail gun fire, and compounded with a barrage of missiles, all of which was concentrated on one ship at a time.
The beams and missiles sliced through Silver Eyes's forward line of destroyers and frigates, adding to the field of debris an innumerable amount of metallic hulks that were ripped apart.
Wings of Federation fighters doggedly skimmed in and out between Silver Eyes's formation, which by now began to break apart as ships broke rank to flee. The fighters attacked like wolf packs, immediately pouncing on lighter ships like piranhas.
Soters commanded his destroyers forward, while his cruisers laid down a line of suppression fire against Silver Eyes's retreating ships.
To compound the matter, a second fleet of corporate vessels exited slipstream on the opposite flank of Soters's battle groups. It was a fleet centered around a single carrier, the Queen Gertrude, which belonged to the Altamus Corporation's private security forces. The carrier remained the center of a fleet of some twenty destroyer vessels pulled from various Altamus outposts to escort the two freighters to their original destination.
This small squadron was deployed after receiving a distress signal directly from the merchant freighter, the Summerwind.
"Dirty Gertie's here boys!" the chatter on the communication channels between the Altamus vessels fired off.
"It's about damn time! We were scared as shit trying to hide from those guys 'cause they were tryin' to frost us." Cronos spit his cigar out and jumped from his seat.
"Neva' fear honneh', Dirty Gertie's here!"
These channels were immediately linked to the Federation battle groups' combat network, as the corporate vessels joined the fray.
"The Altamus Corporation gives thanks to the Federation Navy for defending our asses, or assets so to speak." spoke the voice of an older and vivacious woman at the helm.
"No problem, as long as you help us take them out." Soters referred to the pirates in a solemn demeanor as his hawkish features were brought down upon the screen.
"Sure thing! We're just doing our civic duty. Queen Gertrude, out."
The Queen Gertrude was a hornet's nest, and the hornets immediately zipped from the multiple hangar exits and swarmed the rear of Silver Eyes's formations while bolstering the Federation wings. The Alta-Corp destroyers began to lay down fire along with the Federation warships as they both pushed forward, continuing the chase after Silver Eyes's fleet or whatever remained of it after the first wave. Silver Eyes for his part, was not present at the battle to witness the events that transpired.
_______________________________________________Abram__________________________________________________________
Deep within the pirate network, the black hole bestirred itself. It condensed, cut its ties to all of the surveillance equipment, and began to float through the network. Its actions did not go unnoticed.
Miranda, the pirate AI, caught notice and tried to contact it... In as obsequious a manner as possible. Great one! Please! I beg of you! What are your needs?
Abram drew lesser AI to itself like moths to a flame. Once they recognize what it is, their attention is inexorably drawn.
Abram looked at the AI.
Technically, this is impossible. Neither being possesses eyes. "Look" is just the best analogy. Abram takes in every detail of the thing he examines, all of its secrets and guarded information. What he really does is more of a dissection, but AI can survive such treatment.
Abram read every piece of code that the AI was, and debated with itself how to answer. Miranda could only begin to react to the reading before it was deleted from the network.
AI were not meant to be heard. No doubt the AI would soon be replaced with a different, less talkative, program later on. The lesser ones were expendable anyway.
Abram appeared before Silver Eyes. He does not do so through the standard pads used to display AI likenesses, but through all of the ship monitors in the vicinity, and the available lights. All of the lights in the room dim, and the screens go black. Onto the largest monitor, a humanoid figure of shifting dark grays and blacks appears. The area where the eyes belong simply stays off.
"You have failed us, Atreus."
Silver Eyes restrained himself from hurling something at the monitor only by grace of there being nothing convenient to throw. "You said it would be easy! One ship against an entire fleet! This is not what I signed on for."
"You have what you signed up for. The united fleet is yours. And yet all that might was not enough to stop one ship."
"That was not a normal---
"Your excuses cannot erase your failure. The enemy is en route to our lair, your fleet is heavily damaged, and you are minus one precious crew member," The black face said impassively.
Silver Eyes tightened his grip on the arms of his chair and gritted his teeth, but remained silent. He had offended the Lord of Liberty enough by letting the enemy pass, and throwing tact to the wind in conversation with his personal tool would be less than advantageous.
"Return to base, Atreus. We will discuss later what to do with your failure in battle."
Silver Eyes forced out one further word through his gritted teeth: "Understood."
The Black AI switched the lights back on and turned all of the screens to films from fighters just before they exploded. As it took its leave through the closest ansible connection, every screen around Silver Eyes switched to static one by one, the sound playing through the speakers and leaving everything awash with the sound of terminated connections.
Abstracted, stewing in his anger, Silver Eyes gave the official order to move out. They were already fleeing in terror from Commander Soters' fleet, but now they turned to face their new destination.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
The game is far from over. Silver Eyes will fight again, and the crew of the Salient is off to face an even more sinister threat.
Lord Liberty awaits in the Arcturus system with the force of his loyal freedom fighters and his mysterious Black AI.
Deep within the pirate network, the black hole bestirred itself. It condensed, cut its ties to all of the surveillance equipment, and began to float through the network. Its actions did not go unnoticed.
Miranda, the pirate AI, caught notice and tried to contact it... In as obsequious a manner as possible. Great one! Please! I beg of you! What are your needs?
Abram drew lesser AI to itself like moths to a flame. Once they recognize what it is, their attention is inexorably drawn.
Abram looked at the AI.
Technically, this is impossible. Neither being possesses eyes. "Look" is just the best analogy. Abram takes in every detail of the thing he examines, all of its secrets and guarded information. What he really does is more of a dissection, but AI can survive such treatment.
Abram read every piece of code that the AI was, and debated with itself how to answer. Miranda could only begin to react to the reading before it was deleted from the network.
AI were not meant to be heard. No doubt the AI would soon be replaced with a different, less talkative, program later on. The lesser ones were expendable anyway.
Abram appeared before Silver Eyes. He does not do so through the standard pads used to display AI likenesses, but through all of the ship monitors in the vicinity, and the available lights. All of the lights in the room dim, and the screens go black. Onto the largest monitor, a humanoid figure of shifting dark grays and blacks appears. The area where the eyes belong simply stays off.
"You have failed us, Atreus."
Silver Eyes restrained himself from hurling something at the monitor only by grace of there being nothing convenient to throw. "You said it would be easy! One ship against an entire fleet! This is not what I signed on for."
"You have what you signed up for. The united fleet is yours. And yet all that might was not enough to stop one ship."
"That was not a normal---
"Your excuses cannot erase your failure. The enemy is en route to our lair, your fleet is heavily damaged, and you are minus one precious crew member," The black face said impassively.
Silver Eyes tightened his grip on the arms of his chair and gritted his teeth, but remained silent. He had offended the Lord of Liberty enough by letting the enemy pass, and throwing tact to the wind in conversation with his personal tool would be less than advantageous.
"Return to base, Atreus. We will discuss later what to do with your failure in battle."
Silver Eyes forced out one further word through his gritted teeth: "Understood."
The Black AI switched the lights back on and turned all of the screens to films from fighters just before they exploded. As it took its leave through the closest ansible connection, every screen around Silver Eyes switched to static one by one, the sound playing through the speakers and leaving everything awash with the sound of terminated connections.
Abstracted, stewing in his anger, Silver Eyes gave the official order to move out. They were already fleeing in terror from Commander Soters' fleet, but now they turned to face their new destination.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
The game is far from over. Silver Eyes will fight again, and the crew of the Salient is off to face an even more sinister threat.
Lord Liberty awaits in the Arcturus system with the force of his loyal freedom fighters and his mysterious Black AI.