Session Start: Sun Feb 16 21:06:12 2003
Session Ident: #taw
* Logging #taw to 'logs\EsperNet\#taw.20030216.log'
<Katrina`> Session 18: Diplomatic Measures
<Katrina`> Time Chart: May 4th, 2222 (2 days after S.17)
<Katrina`> Location: The Aquarius, Academy Docks.
<Cardinal> Captain's Log, May 4: Well, all of the positions are finally filled. Thank the goddess. The Aquarius seems to be in working condition, as well - we're the new holder of the level 99 7th place spot.
<Cardinal> Captain's Log: I heard that we have a pretty important mission coming up. I'll consider this our first true test.
* Cardinal sits in the CO's chair, running a few diagnostics checks
* Katrina` stands at the science station, her red hair pulled back in a pony tail
* Sardis stands at attention, his opaque red eyes focused forward.
<Katrina`> Skippy: We have an incoming transmission from Command.
<Cardinal> Patch it through.
* Thedda walks out of a sim room sweaty, still battered from the other day. She reaches the elevator.
<Katrina`> Skippy: Just a moment.
<Katrina`> GM: *A Commodore appearso n the screen* Captain.
<Cardinal> Sir. *stands at attention*
* Thedda wipes her forehead with a black towel drapped over her shoulder. the initial "t" is embroidered in it.
<Katrina`> Commodore: *nods* I don't want to go into a long discussion where others might get the transmission, so I'll simply tell you where to report. You'll learn more about your mission once you arrive there. I've sent your computer the coordinates. This mission carries the highest priority, so don't let us down, Captain.
* Cardinal nods. "Yes, sir."
<Katrina`> Commodore: For your sake, I hope your crew is organized. Good luck. *winks out*
<Katrina`> Skippy: Sending coordinates to Ensign 2.
* Cardinal sits back down and shakes her head, smirking but saying nothing
<Katrina`> Ensign 2: *sits at the helm* Got it, Captain. It seems we're reporting near the edges of the Alliance, near Raider territory. Basically, pirate area.
<Thedda> Wanna take me where the Captain is? *addressing the elevator*
<Katrina`> Elevator: *zooms up to the bridge with Thedda*
<Cardinal> Fun.
* Katrina` looks to Cardinal.
<Cardinal> *picks up the PA* Thedda, please report to the bridge.
* Thedda nods. "Thanks!" Walks off and sees the captain, Kat and the rest of the crew.
<Thedda> Hiya!
* Cardinal glances back as she says "bridge"
<Cardinal> ...That was quick.
<Katrina`> Ensign 3: *stands near Sardis* Hi.
* Thedda smiles. "Yeah, I do that sometimes!"
<Katrina`> Skippy: Corvus says the engines and core are functioning perfectly.
* Sardis glances at the Ensign.
<Katrina`> Ensign 4: Psst, don't talk to the Tsivrixsh!
<Katrina`> Ensign 3: Huh? Why?
<Katrina`> Ensign 4: He'll eat you!
* Sardis looks at #4 for a moment.
* Thedda struts over to Cardinal... "So, what's going on?"
<Katrina`> Ensign 3: *eyes Sardis dubiously, like he doubts it*
<Cardinal> We're about to take off. Seems we're headed into pirate territory for some high-security mission.
* Sardis nods to #3.
<Thedda> Ooh. That souds quite important. I hope we are ready for it.
<Cardinal> I hope so too... Hey, Tsiv. Since Namarie's not with us right now, you're working weapons for now. So hop to it.
* Katrina` sits down in her chair, fiddling with scanners and other scientific materials.
* Sardis looks at Cardinal, being refferred to as "Tsiv".
<Katrina`> GM: *the weapons station is located to the right of the helm, in front of the Captain's chair*
<Sardis> Sir. *walks over to the weapons*
<Cardinal> Is something the matter, Tsiv?
<Katrina`> Ensign 2: *nods from the helm station* Hi.
<Katrina`> Ensign 3: *looks busy at the communications station*
* Thedda raises an eyebrow at Sardis addressing the Captain as a male. O.o
<Katrina`> Ensign 5: *just looks busy. Doing nothing*
<Sardis> NRP: In most military settings "Sir" is unisexual.
<Katrina`> NRP: Yep.
<Sardis> No sir.
<Katrina`> Ensign 2: *hums, tapping his station as he awaits orders*
<Cardinal> Whatever... are we cleared, number 3?
<Katrina`> Ensign 3: Yes, sir.
<Cardinal> Then take us out, number 2.
<Thedda> NRP: Thedda associates 'sir' with a male figure. That's all.
<Katrina`> Ensign 2: Alright. *pushes the controls to the maxes, blasting forward in space dock once again*
* Thedda takes a seat beside the Captain.
<Katrina`> GM: *Counselor X1 isn't present. Probably off getting drunk*
<Katrina`> Skippy: And away we goooo!
* Cardinal yawns
* Thedda lets out a giggle at 'Skippy'.
<Katrina`> GM: *The Aquarius clears space dock. Ensign 2 takes them into hyperspace*
* Katrina` looks from her station
<Katrina`> We have around one hour before we arrive at our destination, Captain.
<Cardinal> Good old long hyperspace trips.
<Katrina`> Ensign 1: Anyone up for cards?
<Katrina`> Ensign 2: *looks over at Sardis* So, what did you join the Alliance?
* Thedda pulls her pack of cigarettes out of her pocket and takes one out. Then offers one to Captain.
<Cardinal> No, thanks... never have understood how you humans... er, people from Earth can suck on those things.
* Sardis looks at #2
<Sardis> Military history.
* Thedda gives a look of almost disgust when being refered to as a human, then lights the cigarette.
<Katrina`> Ensign 2: Oh, you liked how the Alliance ... uh, won the Galactic War?
<Sardis> No species is perfect.
<Katrina`> Ensign 2: .. okay.
* Thedda slouches down in her chair slightly and sighs heavily.
* Cardinal reaches down and draws her sword from her boot. She turns it over, examining the blade.
* Katrina` seems to be sleeping.
<Katrina`> Ensign 1: Well, while we're in this for the long overhaul, I think it's the perfect time to tell you my life story. It all began when----
<Katrina`> GM: *20 minutes later*
<Katrina`> Ensign: And that's about it.
<Vile> NRP: LOL
* Cardinal sits with her sword and polishing kit in her lap, head cocked over sideways, sound asleep
<Thedda> NRP: roflmao!
<Katrina`> Ensign 2: My brain...it hurts...
* Thedda stands up and gracefully walks around.. just looking at nothing inparticular.
<Katrina`> Ensign 1: Captain!
* Cardinal snaps up, looking back and forth quickly for a moment before focusing on Ensign 1
<Katrina`> Ensign 1: What's that a nifty story?
<Katrina`> (wasn't)
<Cardinal> ...Yes, number 1, yes, it was.
<Katrina`> Ensign 4: *coughs, clearing his throat loudly* May I make a suggestion, Captain?
* Sardis turns, heading out to his room.
<Katrina`> Ensign 4: We have 39 more minutes...lets all do our own thign and come back in 30.
<Katrina`> Ensign 4: Lest we hear the life story of #5.
<Cardinal> ...Sounds good to me. *resheathes her sword* Anyone not doing anything related to the navigation of the ship is dismissed for thirty minutes.
<Katrina`> Ensign 2: Nuts. *sits there*
* Katrina` hops up and rushes out.
* Katrina` takes the elevator down to the bar.
<Cardinal> ...She sure wasn't sleeping very soundly.
<Katrina`> Skippy: Faking it, probably, so #1 wouldn't talk to her.
* Cardinal walks over to the elevator and waits for it to come back up
<Thedda> Well, I'm getting a drink then. Care to join me Captain?
<Katrina`> Elevator: *comes back up after dropping off Sardis and Katrina*
<Cardinal> I'm going to go train a bit. I'm out of practice, what with getting this ship ready and all. Besides, I need to stay alert... we don't even know what our mission is yet.
<Katrina`> GM: *there's a note on Sardis' door*
* Katrina` enters the bar and slumps down at the bar counter, ordering a coke.
* Sardis pulls the notes off and looks at it.
* Cardinal steps onto the elevator
<Thedda> Alright, Have fun! *smiles and walks to the elevator* the Bar?
<Katrina`> Note: TSIRIXVSH SCUM--GO BACK WHERE YUO CAME FROM! HAHahaHAHAHA :P:P:P:P
* Cardinal steps on as well
<Cardinal> 25th floor for me.
<Katrina`> Elevator: *takes Cardinal to the 25th floor, letting her out*
* Sardis turns and looks aroudn.
<Sardis> *around
<Katrina`> GM: *the hallway is empty*
<Thedda> I've gotta learn all these floors. >.<
* Cardinal steps out and heads for the sim area
<Cardinal> Have fun, Thedda.
<Katrina`> Elevator: *to Thedda* Floor?
<Thedda> Thank Captain. You too!
* Sardis heads back to the control room, looking around cautiously.
<Thedda> Umm. Wherever the bar is?
<Katrina`> GM: *only the 5 ensigns remain on the bridge*
<Katrina`> Elevator: *takes Thedda to the bar floor*
<Katrina`> Ensign 3: Welcome back, Ensign Sardis.
* Thedda steps out of the elevator and makes her way into the bar, finding Kat.
<Katrina`> Skippy: Everyone has another 30 mins, Ensign Sardis, for a break.
* Sardis nods to #3, standing at the weapons console.
* Sardis looks at Skippy for a moment and stands there.
* Katrina` drinks her coke, zoned out.
<Katrina`> Skippy: *the computer console skippy speaks from blinks as if winking*
* Cardinal flips the simulator on
* Thedda walks up to Kat and taps her on the shoulder.
<Katrina`> Hmmm? *looks up* Oh, hello Commander Thedda.
<Thedda> Hiya. Mind if I sit down? *motions to the stool beside her.
<Katrina`> Sure.
<Thedda> NRP: Yes she minds, or yes I can sit? lol
<Cardinal> Dharin, setting number 2, please.
* Katrina` nods at the seat.
<Katrina`> GM: *The setting materializes around Cardinal*
<Katrina`> Skippy: A problem, Ensign Sardis?
* Thedda takes the seat. "Haven't been in here before. Seems friendly enough!"
<Sardis> None.
<Katrina`> GM: *all the people eye Thedda with a look of eeevil*
* Cardinal looks at the woods around her and nods
<Katrina`> Yeah, friendly crowd. *smiles*
<Cardinal> Ok... hmm... *taps her temple, thinking* Any suggestions for an opponent?
<Thedda> Hrmm. What to get.. *ponders*
<Katrina`> Skippy: Okay...It's hard for me to judge Tsivrixsh emotions. Perhaps we should talk sometime and you can tell me about facial expressions.
* Thedda looks around the bar.
<Katrina`> Ensign 2: *looks up from the helm* Skippy, leave the man alone.
<Katrina`> SKippy: But I was only interested in learning...*sounds sulky*
<Katrina`> Simulator computer: What type of opponent do you wish to face?
<Sardis> If you would like, I suppose.... "Skippy."
<Katrina`> Skippy: Joy. Okay, what does your current expression mean?
* Thedda taps her chin.. "Hey, Bartender?"
<Katrina`> Bartender: *looks up from his dirty glass cleaning* Yes, Commander?
<Cardinal> Hmm... list the Maverick Hunters from circa 2180.
<Thedda> Don't suppose you'd mind mixing me up a Maddress?
<Katrina`> Simulator computer: Death Star, Dominator, Wiendigo, Justin II, Genji Man, Slash, Slasher, Seraphna, Ariel, Cheryl, Garland, Blackjack, Paladin, Ultra Omega
<Katrina`> Bartender: *gets on it*
<Thedda> So Kat, what made you decide to come here?
<Katrina`> What do you mean?
<Thedda> I just mean, everybody has a story as to why they ended up here. I'm just curious as to why you're here. That's all.
<Cardinal> *thinks* I'll take on Ariel and Slasher.
<Katrina`> Oh. I just wanted to be a science officer, that's all.
<Katrina`> GM: *Ariel and Slasher both materialize on either side of Cardinal*
<Cardinal> After all, you never get any stronger if you don't push yourself... *raises her veil* Shall we dance?
<Katrina`> Ariel: *cracks her whip and gets into a fighting position. Slasher cups his hands together*
* Cardinal draws her sword and watches each of them
<Katrina`> Slasher: *fries chi at Cardinal*
* Thedda nods, smiling. "I'm sure you'll make a fantastic SO, you have so much enthusiasm. ^.^ .... I'm sorry about the other day with DS, if I had of known he was your father, and you were all watching, I wouldn't have called upon him..."
<Sardis> Current expression... stoic.
<Katrina`> It's okay...I never knew that the simulators...had him.
<Katrina`> Ariel: *throws out her whip*
* Cardinal leaps into the air and drops onto Slasher from above in a splash attack
<Katrina`> Skippy: Roger.
<Katrina`> Skippy: Show me happty.
<Sardis> ...
<Katrina`> Slasher: ! *is knocked back*
* Cardinal lands and spins around, slashing as she faces him
<Katrina`> Slasher: *leaps back, panting*
<Katrina`> Ariel: *comes up from behind Cardinal and whips at her*
<Katrina`> Skippy: That's happy...?
* Thedda 's smile fades from her face, and waits for her drink.
* Cardinal leaps into the air, replacing her sword with her spear
<Katrina`> Bartender: *delivers!*
<Katrina`> Slasher: *fires five chi balls at her*
<Cardinal> .oO{Never turn your back on the opponent...}
* Cardinal spins the spear rapidly, trying to deflect the attacks
<Katrina`> Slasher: *pulls out ion blades*
* Thedda looks at the bartender and smiles. She takes a drink. "mmm! Perfect, thanks!"
<Katrina`> Ariel: *pulls out a Dragon Sword*
* Cardinal flips and nosedives at Ariel, spear pointed down
<Katrina`> Ariel: *parries, knocking Cardinal to the side*
<Cardinal> Not bad. Not bad at ALL! *swings the spear around, slashing at Ariel's side*
<Katrina`> What's the Captain doing?
<Katrina`> Ariel: *leaps back. Slasher comes up to ram Cardinal in the side*
<Thedda> She's practicing with the sim.
<Katrina`> Oh.
* Cardinal kicks at Slasher
<Katrina`> Slasher: *is knocked back*
<Katrina`> Ariel: *slashes forward*
* Cardinal swings her spear around to parry, then draws her sword in her other hand and slashes at Ariel
<Katrina`> Simulator computer: Shall I enter unknown variations into the program?
<Katrina`> Ariel: *is forced to jump back*
* Thedda nods slowly, her tone beginning to change into a more darkened mood.
<Katrina`> Slasher: *gets to his feet*
<Cardinal> As long as you don't open a spike trap under me or something, go for it.
<Katrina`> Simulator com[puter: Done.
* Katrina` looks at Thedda
<Katrina`> What's wrong?
* Cardinal presses the attack on Ariel, slashing with her sword and replacing her spear in one motion
<Katrina`> GM: *the sky darkens*
* Thedda looks up to Kat.
<Thedda> Hrmm? Oh, nothing.
<Katrina`> Slasher: *gets up, panting, when suddenly the words KIAMA shout out. Slasher is nailed in the back*
<Katrina`> Are you sure?
<Vile> NRP: In input 'God' as the next attacker.
* Thedda takes a gulp of her drink.
<Katrina`> NRP: LOL
<Katrina`> NRP: God: *touches Cardinal, breaking every bone in her body*
<Sardis> Garland: *stands there in a blue gi*
<Cardinal> ...I'll take what I can get... *slashes at Ariel again*
<Vile> NRP: Cardinal is seen running away from a large sandal wearing fellow.*
<Katrina`> Ariel: *is slashed, distracted*
<Katrina`> NRP: LOL
* Sardis spins his sword in his hand, bursting into flames.
<Sardis> NRP: Garland.
<Katrina`> NRP: *eyes Sardis*
<Thedda> Well no. But I don't think it's an appropriate conversation to get into.
<Katrina`> Ariel: *falls to one knee*
<Katrina`> Alright...
* Katrina` nods, not prying.
<Sardis> Garland: *rushes Cardinal, sweep-kicking her off her feet*
* Cardinal cracks her in the temple with the butt of her sword, and is promptly knocked off her feet
<Katrina`> Ariel: *is finished*
<Cardinal> Nice "unknown variation," computer!
<Katrina`> Simulation computer: Thanks.
* Sardis presses his sword down at Cardinal's gut as she's on her back.
<Thedda> For your sake anyway. *takes a sip of her drink.* So, are you enjoying being SO?
<Sardis> NRP: Gar.
* Cardinal rolls out of the way
<Katrina`> My sake?
* Katrina` looks confused.
<Sardis> Garland: *sword sparks against the floor, jumping back and putting up guard*
<Cardinal> Didn't know this was going to be one on three... ok, let's go. *stands defensive, holding her sword parallel to the ground*
<Sardis> Garland: *sheiths his sword, waving her over--still in a combat stance*
<Cardinal> Sorry, first rule of sword combat. Never make the first move. No matter what your opponent is wielding.
* Thedda bites her lip. "I just don't think getting into a conversation about parents and such would be emotionally good, that's all. Just trying to be .. Dunno... nevermind. I'm sorry I brought it up."
<Sardis> Garland: *runs at her, ducking low as he slides into her shins*
* Cardinal leaps upwards and spins around, attempting to splash-attack Garland
<Sardis> Garland: *catches her sword in his hand*
* Katrina` frowns, trying to make sense of things.
<Sardis> Garland: *yanks it out of her hand and pushes her down*
* Thedda looks frustrated and hurt at the same time, but says nothing.
* Katrina` looks at Thedda
<Katrina`> You can talk...about it if you want. I'm okay. What's troubling you?
<Katrina`> Skippy: 10 more minutes. Should I tell the group?
<Katrina`> Ensign 3: Nah. Our card game isn't over yet.
<Katrina`> Skippy: Rightyo.
<Thedda> Just after you brought up having a father, just sort of hit a sore spot with me. I never really thought about the fact that I don't have parents.
<Katrina`> Because you're a reploid...right?
* Thedda nods.
<Katrina`> My real parents died when I was just a little kid, so I never really knew them. But DS and Ariel found me and raised me.
* Cardinal groans, hitting the ground rather hard
<Katrina`> Didn't you have someone, a mentor, to guide you?
<Sardis> Garland: *looks at Cardinal*
<Cardinal> ...Ouch. Nice one.
<Sardis> Garland: You low levels don't know what 'nice' is.
<Thedda> No... I was on my own my whole life. The only people I ever looked up to were the heroic reploids. And even then, that wasn't anything of great use.
<Cardinal> Look, I'm not a fighter. Never have been, never will be. The only thing I care about is being able to fight well enough to cover for my people, be they family or team.
<Katrina`> Oh. I'm sorry.
<Sardis> Garland: SHORYUKEN! *spinning uppercuts Cardinal mid-sentance*
* Cardinal never stood up, and watches Garland sail over her head
<Thedda> Naw, don't worry about it. *waves her hands around* This is what I'm hear for, I guess. I have to do something with my time, until I'm destroyed.
<Katrina`> Don't think like that.
<Sardis> Garland: *on his decent, he elbows her in the gut*
<Cardinal> ...What was that supposed to accomplish...? *realizes the answer in time to roll backwards*
* Cardinal doesn't hesitate, throwing herself forward with spear in hand in a lunging attack
<Katrina`> Every life is precious.
<Thedda> Well, I have to be realistic sometimes Kat...
<Katrina`> We're all here for something important, Thedda. You'll find your moment.
<Sardis> Garland: *lets the attack land, looking down at the spear* ... KIAMA! *blasts her point-blank*
<Vile> NRP: Garland is the lost Street Fighter.
<Sardis> NRP: I'm Dan!
<Katrina`> NRP: Heh heh
<Cardinal> ...That was... END!
<Thedda> Life is something humans have.
<Katrina`> GM: *the simulator ends*
* Katrina` looks at her fierecly
<Katrina`> My dad never thought like that!
* Cardinal stands there, still holding her spear forward
<Katrina`> Every life is precious, no matter the form.
* Cardinal pants rather hard, both from fatigue and fear
* Katrina` stands up from the bar, adjusting her uniform.
<Cardinal> If... but... how did...
<Katrina`> Skippy: 5 minutes until destination is reached.
<Katrina`> Ensign 1: Yep.
<Thedda> I'm glad DS could think like that. However, obviously I'm not so lucky to think as optimistic as him. *takes the last of her drink and walks to the elevator.*
* Cardinal puts her spear towards the ceiling and rests on it, lowering her veil
<Katrina`> Skippy: *alerts the captain*
<Cardinal> NRP: points, even
* Katrina` walks to the elevator beside Thedda.
<Katrina`> You'll see.
<Cardinal> On the way, Skip... *sheathes the spear and picks up the sword, looks at it, and sheathes it too*
<Thedda> I sure hope so. *adjusts her trench coat*
<Katrina`> GM: *the empty sim room almost..taunts Cardinal*
* Katrina` steps onto the elevator.
<Katrina`> Bridge.
<Katrina`> GM: *elevator takes Katrina and Thedda up to the bridge*
<Cardinal> ...Is that... is that why I couldn't...? *looks at the floor as she walks to the elevator*
* Thedda walks out of the elevator and seemingly marches over to her seat and plops in it... She takes a cigarette and lights it.
* Katrina` steps off onto the bridge and takes a seat the science station.
* Cardinal calls the elevator
<Katrina`> Elevator: *arrives*
<Cardinal> *steps on* ...Bridge, please.
* Katrina` looks over at Sardis, then quickly looks away, her face getting red.
<Katrina`> Elevator: *zooms cardinal up to the bridge and opens up*
* Sardis tilts his heat at Kat
* Cardinal walks out and silently moves to the CO chair
<Cardinal> ETA, number 2?
* Thedda looks over to Cardinal and nods slightly.
<Katrina`> Ensign 2: 10 seconds
<Katrina`> GM: *the Aquarius drops out of hyperspace. There's nothing around. Empty space*
* Cardinal sighs briefly, and recovers quickly to her normal, cheerful state - until she looks outside
* Thedda crosses her legs and puffs on her cigarette.
* Katrina` looks over at the readings.
<Katrina`> Scanning the area, Captain.
<Thedda> What the hell..?
<Cardinal> Hrm. Thanks, Katrina. I reeeeally hope they didn't screw up the coordinates.
<Katrina`> !
<Katrina`> There's 10 ships near by
* Katrina` looks at the readings.
<Katrina`> It seems one is heavily damaged.
<Thedda> ...Oh dear god....
<Cardinal> Can you identify them?
<Katrina`> Trying to now.
<Katrina`> 9 undentified ships, probably raiders, one unmarked Alliance shuttle. I can't tell if it's civilian or military.
* Cardinal slams her hands on the arms of her chair
<Sardis> Miss Katrina?
* Katrina` blinks, looking at Sardis
<Katrina`> Uh---ye-yes?
<Sardis> Are you feeling well? Your face is red...
<Cardinal> Damn it! Looks like we have a battle on our hands.
* Katrina` touches her cheeks, turning red
<Katrina`> F-Fine.
<Katrina`> NRP: More red.
<Sardis> It's getting worse...
<Katrina`> ...*hides her face in her console*
<Thedda> At least you test drove the sucker yesterday...
<Cardinal> Katrina, check the raiders for any kind of shielding. Number 3, try and make contact with the damaged ship.
<Sardis> ...
<Katrina`> Ensign 3: Roger.
<Katrina`> Yes, Captain.
<Katrina`> GM: *off in the distance explosions can be seen*
* Sardis turns to the weapons console, taking appropriate actions.
<Katrina`> No shields, Captain. Must be fighter ships.
<Thedda> Seems whomever we were supposed to meet up with took a beating before we got here... *sighs*
<Vile> NRP: As the Aquarius swings around, they are presented by over a dozen Star Destroyers. Cardinal is shoved out of her chair by Ackbar, "It's a trap!"
<Katrina`> NRP: LOL
<Cardinal> Good... Sardis, ready the lasers... and remember that we're not training this time, boys.
<Katrina`> Ensign 3: I can't raise them.
* Sardis readies and charges the lazers
<Katrina`> I detect two life signs on the Alliance shuttle.
<Cardinal> Looks like its shoot first, ask questions later, then.
<Thedda> ... What do you mean you can't raise them?
<Cardinal> Draw their attention this way, Sardis.
<Katrina`> Ensign 3: ... do you not know starship lingo?
* Sardis fires on the other ships.
<Thedda> Obviously not?
<Katrina`> GM: *the raiders break off and fire on the Alliance*
<Katrina`> Ensign 3: Oy.
<Katrina`> NRP: Er, Aquarius
<Thedda> Whatever, it's not important right now.
* Sardis targets the weapons and engine systems of the raiders, firing.
<Katrina`> GM: *the Aquarius shudders from the damage*
<Cardinal> Good, good. Number 2, get this hunk of scrap metal moving!
*** X1 has quit IRC (Read error: Connection reset by peer)
<Katrina`> Ensign 2: *attempts to evade shots*
<Katrina`> Raider 1: *is taken out and floats helplessly. Raiders 2-9 fire again on the Aquarius*
* Katrina` looks up
<Katrina`> Shields at 76%.
* Sardis narrows his eyes and bears hit teeth
<Thedda> Shit....
<Cardinal> Number 2, move away a bit. If we can get them away from the shuttle, a flanking maneuver should work.
<Katrina`> Raiders 2-5: *break off to the left* Raiders 6-9: *break off to the right*
* Sardis fires on them with a focus only a Tsivrixsh could muster.
<Katrina`> Ensign 2: *pulls back*
<Vile> NRP: Trek-style sparks erupts from the consols, Thedda snarls, "Focus all firepower on that Super-Star Destroyer!"
<Cardinal> Ok, screw my flanking strategy.
<Thedda> NRP: *laughs*
* Katrina` looks at Thedda, wondering if she'll input anything.
<Katrina`> Raider 4: *blows up*
<Thedda> Go after the weaker side first...
* Sardis focuses on 2.
<Cardinal> Concentrate fire on the ones to our left. Ensign 2, concentrate on evading the fire from those on the right, but don't turn your attention away from the first.
<Katrina`> GM: *2 jiggles around, but is destroyed. More shots are scored off the Aquarius*
<Katrina`> ...shields at 68%.
* Sardis moves on to 3.
<Katrina`> Raider 3: *turns and does a suicide run on Sardis*
<Katrina`> GM: *alarms go off, red alert flashing red lights*
<Cardinal> Begin rerouting power from the secondary systems to the shields. Hit that one with missile fire, Sardis.
<Sardis> Rarh, denied!
* Sardis fires
<Katrina`> Raider 3: *jiggles around the laser fire*
* Thedda looks at the raiders... "Would their armour be weaker on the underside??"
<Katrina`> Skippy: Impact in 7 seconds.
<Katrina`> Scanning. No.
<Katrina`> Skippy: 4 seconds.
<Thedda> Shit.... Swirve to the left!
<Cardinal> ...WHAT?! Ensign, that thing'll take out most of our shields if it gets through!
* Sardis slams his fist down on the missiles
<Katrina`> Ensign 2: *swerves left*
<Katrina`> Raider 3: *blows up by missile*
<Katrina`> Raider 5: *comes up behind the Aquarius, firing away at the shields*
* Sardis spins around, firing on 5 with Ion Cannons
<Katrina`> ...we have one firing at are aft shields. They're down to 60%.
<Katrina`> Raider 5: *is disabled and floats away*
* Sardis aims the lazers at #6
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<Katrina`> Raider 6: *flies at Aquarius, firing away*
* Sardis fires missiles
<Katrina`> Raider 6: *blowsu p*
<Katrina`> Raiders 7-9: *break off into a triangle formation*
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<Thedda> Jesus Christ! *scratches her head nervously* ... Get underneath them, and slightly behind....
<Katrina`> Sardis, try a nova impactor in the middile.
<Cardinal> Number 2, begin a strafing maneuver to their right side.
* Sardis fires the Nova Impactors at the triad.
<Katrina`> GM: *it blows all 3 away*
<Katrina`> Ensign 2: *leans over the controls, panting*
* Sardis blinks at Kat for a moment. "My thoughts exactly."
<Katrina`> Skippy: Shields at 60%.
* Katrina` grins at him.
* Thedda drops her head into her hand, rubbing her forehead.
<Katrina`> Great minds think alike.
<Cardinal> Good call, Katrina.
<Katrina`> No, really, Ensign Sardis already had it in mind.
* Thedda sighs and lights up another cigarette.
<Katrina`> Ensign 3: I'm getting a faint distress signal from the shuttle.
<Cardinal> *ignores her* Number 3, try to make contact with the Alliance ship again.
* Katrina` looks at her scanners.
<Katrina`> It seems one of the two are dying, Captain...
<Katrina`> Their life signs are fading.
<Cardinal> ...Dammit. Do we have the capacity to bring them aboard?
<Katrina`> We could tractor them into the hanger.
<Cardinal> Do it.
* Katrina` turns to Sardis
<Katrina`> Alright, tractor them.
<Sardis> Aye.
<Cardinal> <Comm> Medbay, ready a mobile crew at the hangar. Injured personnel coming aboard.
* Sardis directs the beam to the ship.
<Katrina`> GM: *the shuttle is caught, and pulled into the hanger, thanks to the efforts of Sardis*
<Cardinal> Thedda, Tsiv, come with me.
* Cardinal heads for the elevator
<Katrina`> Ensign 3: Good luck, Captain.
* Sardis follows Cardinal.
* Katrina` nods at the trio.
* Thedda slowly gets up and walks after the Captain.
<Cardinal> 29th floor.
<Katrina`> Elevator: *takes the trio down to the 29th floor, opening. They are at the hanger. The damaged shuttle is isolated from the rest of the crew. A med team stands nearby*
* Cardinal walks out
<Katrina`> Shuttle: *sparks*
<Cardinal> *looks at the head of the med crew* What's the situation?
<Katrina`> Medical Crew: We're trying to find someone way to get inside. They won't open their doors.
<Thedda> ... they probably can't open their doors.
<Cardinal> ...That figures. Are they giving any reason, or just being stubborn?
<Katrina`> Medical Crew: No word from them.
<Thedda> NRP: Jaws of life?
<Cardinal> Then we go in by force. We know at least one of them is injured.
<Katrina`> Medical Team: Do you have the means, sir, or should I get a security team up here?
<Cardinal> I think I have the means. *glances at Sardis* Think you can get it open?
<Katrina`> Shuttle: *sparks some more*
* Sardis draws his axe
<Katrina`> Cardinal comm: *beeps*
<Cardinal> *flips it on* Captain Yshidhan.
* Sardis walks over to the door and eyes it.
<Katrina`> Comm: Katrina here. I just ran a more thorough scan. That shuttle's core was damaged. It could blow at any moment.
<Katrina`> Door: *looks innocent*
* Sardis hears Kat's statment, and then axes the door in.
<Katrina`> Door: *caves in. Smoke rushes out*
<Katrina`> GM: *three bodies are seen laying on the floor*
<Cardinal> ...Now you tell me. Everyone not involved in the rescue, move!
<Katrina`> GM: *all three have hoods over their heads, covering their identities*
<Cardinal> NRP: Which accounts to just about... no one. -_-
<Thedda> Shit. *walks into the shuttle to examine the bodies
<Katrina`> NRP: *the med team runs off screaming*
* Sardis jumps back and puts his axe on his back.
<Cardinal> Med team, hurry up and get them out of there.
<Katrina`> GM: *one seems to be about dead, blood everywhere. The other two seem unconcious*
<Katrina`> Med Team: *rush on and drag all three off*
<Katrina`> GM: *Thedda might notice a shiney object in the back of the shuttle. Near a fire*
* Thedda does a 360 to check out the shuttle, and notices the shine object. She walks over to it.
<Katrina`> GM: *shuttle begins to spark more*
<Katrina`> Comm: You got about 20 seconds, Captain. That core is going critical.
<Cardinal> ...Come on, Thedda, we have to get rid of this thing!
* Thedda grabs the shiney thing?
<Cardinal> <Comm> I'm aware of that... but our XO is still in it for some reason.
<Sardis> Order someone that's in the control room to tractor it out.
<Katrina`> GM: *it's a medalloian*
<Katrina`> Comm: I'll tractor it out. Tell me when. 10 seconds.
* Cardinal glares at Sardis
* Thedda takes the shiney thing and gets outta there.
<Cardinal> Remind me to give you the "don't order around your superiors" speech later.
<Katrina`> Comm: 5 seconds, Captain...*sounds panickeD*
* Sardis looks at Cardinal
<Sardis> Yes sir.
<Cardinal> <Comm> Get rid of it!
<Katrina`> GM: *the shuttle is tractored out, slowly as tractors go. Just as it's outside the shield, it blows up, the backwash hitting the shields*
* Cardinal shields her eyes
<Katrina`> Medical Team: *Examine the three, then shake their heads* We lost one.
<Cardinal> *sighs* What about the other two? How are they holding up?
<Katrina`> Medical Team: Well, it seems...wait a minute *pulls off the hood on one, revealing...President Dominator*
<Katrina`> Medical Personnel 1: Holley.
<Katrina`> (holey)
<Cardinal> NRP: Holy.
<Katrina`> NRP: Thanks!
<Katrina`> NRP: *is gone today*
<Cardinal> NRP: I do what I can. :P
* Thedda opens her hand and examines the medallion more.
<Katrina`> GM: *it's The Alliance Presidental medallion worn by Dominator, the Alliance President*
<Cardinal> What... what the hell is he doing out here?
<Katrina`> Medical Staff 2: We're trying to wake him up now.
* Thedda walks up to the Captain and taps her on the shoulder.
* Cardinal turns around
* Thedda holds out her hand, revealing the medallion.
<Thedda> This is why I was in there.
<Cardinal> I need to have a talk with you, as well, about risking your neck like th-hey, that's...
<Cardinal> Ok, check that talk... nice going.
<Katrina`> Medical Staff 2: *Shakes head* He won't come around. We'll move him to Med Bay. *carry the two live ones out*
* Thedda smiles slightly. "Thanks Captain."
<Cardinal> *sighs* Guess what... as long as he's on this ship, we're the primary target of a whole lot of people... but more importantly, we need to figure out who those ships belonged to.
<Thedda> I figrued as much Captain. We need to be extremely careful. Maybe we should head back asap?
<Cardinal> ...And we were supposed to find out the rest of our orders when we got here... *leans against the wall* So what now?
<Cardinal> <Comm> Number 3, can you contact home base from here?
<Katrina`> Ensign 3: All communications are being jammed, sir.
<Cardinal> <Comm> Figures. *clicks it off, then heads for the elevator* I'm going back to the bridge.
<Thedda> Maybe we didn't find them out, because they were supposed to be coming from the ship that was just in our hanger?
<Cardinal> That's what I'm thinking.
* Thedda shrugs and walks towards the elevator. "Dominator is extremely important. Obviously someone is keeping tight tabs on him."
<Thedda> And not in a good way.
* Cardinal steps onto the elevator and waits for Thedda
* Thedda follows the Captain in.
<Cardinal> And like I said... that means we're whoever that was's primary target now... bridge please.
<Katrina`> GM: *The elevator zooms them to the bridge*
* Katrina` stands ready for them
<Thedda> Sorry about earlier, by the way.
<Katrina`> What happened, Captain?
<Cardinal> ...I'll give you the short version.
<Cardinal> President Dominator is now resting in our medical facilities.
<Katrina`> NRP: Cardinal: Big boom. Explosion. Dominator here.
<Katrina`> ...President Dominator...? *looks shocked*
<Thedda> Wow, that's the very shortened version. *smiles slightly*
* Katrina` frowns, processing this.
<Cardinal> That's what I said. It looks like the rest of our mission's been cut short, so we need to head back.
* Katrina` moves over to the console skippy speaks from and looks up something.
<Katrina`> Skippy: Head back?
<Thedda> We have no choice.
<Katrina`> Permission to speak freely, Captain?
<Cardinal> Go ahead.
<Katrina`> That could be a bad idea.
<Cardinal> Explain your rationale.
<Katrina`> Well, the Commodore earlier said he didn't want to go into details because people might be listening in, so I'm going on the theory that this area was suppose to be an unknown location for President Dominator. According to his schedule, he's suppose to be at HQ preparing to tell who his successor is, not here.
<Katrina`> Obviously someone knew where he would be and when. They might count on us running back to the Academy.
*** Sardis is now known as Garland
<Cardinal> You have a point...
<Cardinal> *thinks* They could be predicting anything we do at this point. I'm up for suggestions.
<Katrina`> Skippy 2: I don't suggest staying here, either.
<Katrina`> NRP: Errr.
<Katrina`> NRP: Ensign 2.
<Thedda> I don't think staying here would be a safe idea.
<Cardinal> Indeed. Number 2, are there any installations nearby?
<Katrina`> Ensign 2: Just one. A military station guarding the Alliance border.
<Cardinal> ...They'd likely be expecting us to go there, too. Maybe we should just throw a dart at the map and go there.
* Katrina` frowns, having no ideas.
<Thedda> Suppose that's the most spontaneous thing we can do at this point, to throw them off.
<Katrina`> ...why target Dominator right when he's about to resign?
* Cardinal thinks, lost as well, her nerves a bit on edge
* Thedda ponders the question.
<Katrina`> NRP: *V'Ger flies by*
<Thedda> More press.... perhaps they were trying to scare him.. not sure. could be any number of reasons.
<Cardinal> Maybe this was a warning, or something. Has the successor been elected yet?
<Katrina`> No. He was going to name him tomorrow.
* Thedda sighs, rubbing her temples.. she takes the pill bottle from her pocket and pops a few in her mouth.
<Cardinal> Well, we need to go SOMEWHERE...
<Katrina`> Skippy: Agreed.
<Cardinal> Head for that outpost, number 2. We can limp through another battle, if push comes to shove. How are the shields, Kat?
<Katrina`> At 75% and rising.
<Katrina`> Ensign 2: Aye aye, Captain. Destination time: 1 hour.
<Katrina`> GM: *Aquarius leaps into hyperspace*
<Katrina`> Session Ends
Session Close: Sun Feb 16 23:04:09 2003