Copyright © 1997, 1998
Last updated on 1/21/98
Sickbay - 09:25
Aolrkhea' enters sickbay beaming. "Hello, I am Aolrkhea'. My human friends often call me 'Khea, which is easier to pronounce in Galanglic. Pardon my brusqueness, but I'd like to share the fleeting display I just witnessed outside.
"PATER, display the view overhead the Elissa."
_Of course, doctor Aolrkhea',_ replies PATER. The adjacent holo-display immediately is tiled with a dozen different images from the various external sensors spread over the Elissa's dorsal surface. For the most part, they show empty sky or the occasional passing airborne vehicle. One sensor, apparently near the spine of the ship, and pointed straigth up, shows a particularly odd collection of small clouds. If one were to really use their imagination, one could almost read the words "GOOD MORNING" spelled in block Galanglic.
Aolrkhea's tail drops, her cape deflated. "Subtle treasures are always fleet of foot. The show was splendid several khtauaao ago." {N x 17 minutes}
"Greetings, Dr 'Khea, and welcome aboard...indeed, that scene seems worth repeating. PATER, could you display a replay from the view you are showing from the time of the start of skywriting to the present. Speed it up about 4 times normal."
_Certainly, doctor Yorblin._ PATER replies. Instantly, the tiled windows are replaced by a singel dorsal view of clear blue sky. Suddenly, black and yellow midge screams into frame, gyrating wildly at 4x speed, trailing the words "GOOD MORNING" across the sky in dense, white smoke. Almost as quickly, it starts to dissipate.
"Thank you Dr. Yorblin," Aolrkhea' replies to "her".
"Well, now that we've enjoyed that, I've just started on the medication inventory. If you've settled in, I would be honored if you could assist me by going over the lowberth routines. After that if you can double check the pharmaceuticals specific to Aslan."
"While I have visited my stateroom, my personal effects are still on the Khtaliyr." explains Aolrkhea', "I will move in once I am off duty. I expect to be called away sometime today in order to dock the Khtaliyr with the Elissa. But before then I would be dishonored not to accomplish all that you ask."
Jan continues, "I have noted that the Elissa does has one advantage over the Alcyon, it has a beverage and snack dispenser in the sickbay, feel free to help yourself," Jan mentions hoisting a mug of Earl Grey and a raspberry danish.
"We'll have a chance to chat during the staff meeting, but I'd like you to think about what Continuing Ed presentations you can give us on Aslani. I'd start with initial evaluation and resuscitation stuff. Any questions?
Aolrkhea' helps herself to a fistful of snacks for a big breakfast. "My immediate concern is the accessability of computer terminals for the Aslan crew members, Dr. Yorblin. Do all terminals have holographic interfaces? We can configure holodispalys to our fingers, but to use a keypad with our claws is, well, socially undesirable."
"That is a question, I don't have the answer to. All of the displays in sickbay (so far) have been. PATER, how many terminals aboard ship don't have holographic configs.?"
_All of data terminals aboard are reconfigurable holographic, doctor Yorblin._ replies PATER.
Aolrkhea' looks approvingly at Jan Yorblin. "I applaud your suggestion for the Continuing Education series for the medical team. I'd like to also suggest the entire crew be involved in a similar discussion seminar, exchanging our scientific views on the Hoop to learn our interests and strengths. I have observed the sophontological interests of the crew: one psychological profile of us could be described as Aliens interested in Aliens. This informal series of information exchange might be worth mentioning at the department heads meeting."
"Fantastic idea, let's hone that one during our staff meeting. Would you have any objection to being the point of contact, arranging the lead discussants and like?"
Jan turns to a holodisplay he has been toying with on and off and enters some new information.
A thought occurs to Aolrkhea' as they review procedures. "Dr. Yorblin, I note that the low berths can sustain all humanoids aboard. With little effort, we can accommodate Phins. But what about Hur'shurvan, the Verushi?
"You know, I really don't think it can be currently accomodate a Virushi, but let's put Drs. Limner and Tabor on to setting us up with a reasonable substitute. If I forget, make sure it gets brought up at the tail end of the staff meeting."
'Khea and Jan continue with their work, occassionally trading remarks as they go through their checklists. 'Khea notes that Jan is most efficient, as if he has loaded out numerous medical expeditions.
Their work is only briefly interrupted around 1000hrs, when Merkle shows up with DaSilva's package.
"thanks, for Dr. DaSilva ya' say?"
<< Dr DaSilva, Dr. Yorblin. Your package is in the sickbay, awaiting your arrival. Also, I don't have acopy of your CV on file, could you bring a copy with you? Remember, staff meeting in an hour. >>
_Doctor DaSilva is asleep in his cabin,_ PATER says. _He has set an alarm device of his own for 1050. I will relay your message when he awakens._
Aolrkhea' looks up bleary-eyed from the holodisplay. To herself she says aloud, "Galanglic translations of Aslan pharmaceutical names are not precise and may cause confusion. My options are ..."
Her left ear stands up. "PATER, are you versed in Trokh medicinal lexicons?"
_My last update of the Standard Tlaukhu Pharmaceutical Reference is dated 110-1118,_ PATER reports. _I am aware of the existence of a newer edition, but it has not yet reached Tuvir._
I have underestimated the power of this computer. Pater will become a very useful tool. "PATER, the standard reference is adequate for today's tasks. However, remind me after I have unpacked to supply you with my biological reference manuals. In the meantime, provide me with a 'translation' socket at my terminals. A dual line display option will eliminate confusion in a stress situation."
_Done._
An icon appears in her NEWMAIL box, which she hooks into the display.
The air temperature in the huge compartment is a comfortable 21 degrees C. On the other side of the recently installed bulkhead, industrial heaters try and ultimately fail to keep the temperature above freezing. The water temperature in the pool is even more comfortable, at just above 27 degrees. Unlike most normal swimming pools however, each liter of water in this pool contains about 26.2 grams of dissolved salts, of which 77.76% is sodium chloride, 10.88% is magnesium chloride, 4.74% is magnesium sulfate, 3.60% is calcium sulfate, 2.46% is calcium chloride, 0.22% is magnesium bromide, and 0.34% is calcium carbonate. The pool also contains one man.
At 42 meters, the pool is just 8 meters short of standard Olympic length, and Adrian Bishop is half way done with his ninth lap. smooth, even overhand strokes slice through the water. As he reaches the end of the pool, Bishop 'pikes' expertly and reverses his direction with a minimum loss of energy.
<< It's a pity we didn't have lanes painted. >>
<< _Not necessary, Adrian._ >> PATER replies << _Just a bit to the left. You are headed for the wall._ >>
<< Oh. Thanks. >>
<< _No problem._ >>
Bishop continues the lap. Counting is not only effortless, it's automatic. Strokes: 244, 245, 246,... elapsed seconds: 686, 687, 688,... pulse: 148 steady... respiration: 26... time: 09:28.18.
<< _Adrian, there are documented optimal rates for improving personal physical fitness. You have been exceeding them for three weeks._ >>
<< I know. Shut up and let me sweat, OK? >>
Aaron haut-Frieder steps through the starboard door, shivering from his brisk walk across cargo bay #3 in only sandles and a pair of swimming briefs. Without a word, he drops his towel on the deck and dives into the pool.
<< Uh-oh. Company. >>
<< _This is not a private pool, Adrian._ >>
<< Didn't I tell you to shut up? >>
Silence.
<< OK, OK. So talk to me. >>
<< _Mister Munro is calling a staff meeting at eleven hundred hours. I am to wake her in fifteen minutes._ >>
<< Does she know about the starboard powerplant? >>
<< _Yes. I advised her of the known faults earlier this morning._ >>
Silence. Then, distantly, a heavy base guitar rhythm can be heard... no... *felt*... through the bulkhead.
<< *What* is *THAT*? >>
<< _Doctor van der Merwe is displaying a singularly unique musical talent, apparently for mister Niigurd's benefit. Would you like to watch?_ >>
<< Sure. Why not? >>
The stokes continue. Bishop pays little attention. Now, his eyes are cameras and his ears are hull-mounted speakers. The bitter cold wind caresses his metal skin and a tiny figure gyrates on the icy ground below.
"you won't regret it, no, no Alliara, she'll never forget it PATER is her only happiness but it is so, so easy all you gotta do is"
<< PATER. Let's run through it again. >>
<< _Adrian, there is no evidence to suggest that this approach is beneficial in restor..._ >>
<< Do it *again*. >>
<< Very well. Your name is Adrian Leland Bishop. You were born in Taligar on Thingen, in the Million subsector of Deneb, on 261-1085, the only child of Leland Carlisle Bishop and Helen Nicostrata Bishop. Your mother died of Dwylin's Sarcoma in 1098. Your father was a regional general manager for Sternmetal Horizons LIC, until his suicide in 1116..._ >>
Elapsed time is seven hundred thirty one seconds, and Adrian Bishop swims to remember. And to forget.
"try a little tenderness, yeah, yeah squeeze her, tease her, never leave her"
<< Lydia. >>
Hur'Shurvan paces slowly into Engineering on his four burly legs. He peers around uncertainly.
"Hello?" he calls in a soft voice, barely more than a harsh whisper. He pauses to examine a piece of machinery before walking on a little further.
"Chief Engineer Munro? Are you here?"
A click and whistle come from the machine shop. The door opens and a dolphin comes floating out carrying some electronic instrumentation. He heads toward the opposite wall toward a workstation area. In mid-flight he turns his head and greets Hur'Shurvan through the translator, "Greetings!"
The dolphin then continues his flight to the workstation and activates the holodisplay continuing his work.
"Hello Doejin." replies Hur'Shurvan. "Have you managed to familiarise yourself with this human technology? I imagine it all seems rather primitive to you."
"Actually, equipment is new to me. Some is rather clumsy and large while other is unique. I actually maintained the equipment rather than designed equipment. Full understanding of technology was not necessarily present. It will take time to become fully familiar with your equipment." Turning from the holo-display and addressing Hur directly, "Would there be jobs for me to assist you so as to learn your procedures? I am eager to start!"
"Certainly," says Hur'Shurvan. "I am sure your assistance will be welcomed by all the engineering crew. Is there any aspect which particularly interests you?"
"I am interested in performing tasks which can be of use. I have experience in electronics, especially sensor arrays, and gravitic systems. Munro has a list of items that need attention, might we start on one of them and I can learn through action."
Doejin then turns to the holo-display and requests the list of engineering system faults.
"Here is the list we can choose from. I leave it to you to make the choice."
Hur'Shurvan squints at the display, and makes a small adjustment on the console to enlarge the lettering. Tracing down the list with one finger, he muses: "I suggest we start with some relatively minor problems, so that you can gain an impression of the style in which humans' devices are designed without becoming overwhelmed."
His finger comes to rest on one item. "How about this? An electrical fault in the maneuver systems on deck 3. I suspect that this will require the simple replacement of a small component which has failed."
"A good problem to start!"
Doejin then helps gather whatever diagnostic tools are necessary and accompanies Hur'Shurvan to Deck 3.
At approximately 0930 an anonymous figure in an Imperial Naval issue vacc suit can be seen approaching the Elissa's berth, on foot. As it get's closer a large carry-sac and a smaller flat, cloth case can be seen slung from shoulder straps. There also appears to be a short blade with a protruding basket-hilt hanging from a the left side of a utility belt. >From the right side of the belt hands a small brand new hand computer.
As the figure climbs the personnel ramp it throws back the helmet of the vacc suit, causing a large cloud of condensation to form around Etienne's features. Etienne reaches up and pulls off his sun-glasses and taps the call button next to the hatch. "Turnskaad Jump Tender Elissa, Etienne de Mer requesting permission to board."
_Good morning, mister de Mer._ comes the all-too-familiar voice of PATER. _Welcome aboard. Please enter here and take the gravlift to deck six. Your cabin assignment is six dash twelve, which will be on your right, as you face the bow, at the end of the passageway. The Captain and executive are already aboard and are on the bridge._
_It is good to have you back._
Etienne pauses for a moment. "Merci bien, Pater. Je suis heureux que vous etez de retour avec nous."
_De rien, Monsieur de Mer. Merci beaucoup._
With that he follows the AI's directions to his cabin where he unceremoniously hurls his bag onto the bed and much more gently sets the weapon bag on a flat surface. He quickly strips out of his vacc suit, revealing a rather new flight suit. After replacing the belt with the blade and computer around his waste, he takes only a short moment to call up a schematic of the ship on his hand computer (down-loaded the night before) and refresh his memory before he strides out the door. A short while later he steps onto the bridge.
Abdul turns up to the Elissa, late as usual.
"Pater where is my cabin this time round and how do I find it?"
_You have been assigned cabin 6-3, Mister Schmud. Welcome aboard._
He follows Pater's directions to his cabin, stows his gear and reports to security with his weapon (15 or so minutes later). "Hi guys, I suppose you're going to want all dangerous items secured in the armoury again. Here's me laser rifle if you want it. Please be careful it is quite sensitive."
Lazer stands. "All right, folks. Here are the new orders. Jonson continues with inventory, and storage of crew weapons when they eventually bring them in.
"Horne, sentry at personnel airlock.
"Hfolraw will be duty guard, here.
"Kor and Berana will be running the bug sweep. Shrike and Awntremont assist Kor, Edmondsen and Azani assist Berana.
"In a moment, Mister Kor who knows far more about these things than I do will be explaining how to use those gagdets on the table over there. I just want to make a few comments first.
Lazer starts ticking things off on his fingers. "This job has been done once before, by Turnskaad techs. We're doing it again because it's our butts on the line.
"Use PATER. Apart from being an expert reference, he can watch the areas you've been through while you move on to others. Unfortunately, there _are_ people aboard, and there are lots of areas you'll have to work through wihout being able to seal or shut down. Hopefully PATER's surveillance will make the job doable.
"And most importantly, take your time. It's more important to do it *right* than fast."
With that, Lazer gestures for Kor to begin Intro to Bug-Sweeping, the Crash Course, then walks to the back of the armoury to help Thul with inventory and uncrating.
Vanessa acknowledges Lazers' comment with a "Thank you sir." ,picks up a hand scanner, walks over to the table, and does a quick inspection.
Meanwhile, Jordan Azani walks briskly through the Elissa towards the Armoury. He nods to the various crew members as he passes them by remembering some and noting the few new ones into his memory. Many of the crew are taken aback at the sight of the Solomani born (bred) human while he's walking down the hall, Azani is wearing his combat armor along with a laser pistol strapped to his side and a autoshotgun strapped to his back. A large curved blade can be seen dangling from the left side. The only thing that adds to his odd appearance is his turban (which looks suprisingly like those worn by Zhodani nobles). With helmet in hand, Azani finally arrives at the Armoury.
"Sir, Sgt. Azani, Jordan K. 12th. Unit Imperial Commandos, reporting for duty. Sorry for wearing the armour here sir, but it's a helluva lot easier than carrying it," and with that Azani starts to strip down near one of the armoury walls. Eventually he is down to his black overalls that has his name and various small patches on his breast detailing unit awards and commendations.
He steps back to where Thul is. "Here are the weapons I have brought aboard; 1 (one) slightly used laser pistol and energy pack, 1 (one) slightly used auto-shotgun and extra rounds, 1 (one) slightly used scimitar," he then places the combat armour on the workbench. "This suit is my pride and joy. It has some modifications to it that I acquired through my terms of service in both the Commandos and Scouts."
"I'll stash it, Jordan," Thul nods. "Better sit in on the bugsweep lecture up front."
"Yessir. I am anxious to get along with the de-bugging."
As Lazer turns the floor over to Kor, Hfolraw quietly enters the armoury. He salutes Lazer, and not seeing a convenient chair suitable for an Aslan, he stands out of the way against a wall.
Kor begins her lesson. "As with any other piece of equipment the first step should be an exterior inspection followed by the built in diagnostic program." Pointing to various places on the scanner and then punching in the access code to activate the diagnostic program. "This will indicate if any major malfunctions are present."
As Kor begins Intro to Bug-Sweeping, Hfolraw quickly assumes a look of polite disinterest. "Women's work", he thinks. Seeing Lazer and Thul in the back of the armoury, he joins them as inconspicuously as possible. He removes a yehealshi (gauss rifle) from its case, and stows it in the rifle locker.
Rafe sits and listens impassively as Kor explains one of his specialties, paying particular attention to the capabilities of the specific equipment in use.
Sounding a bit too stuffy, Kor pauses, shifts position and tries to be a little less formal. She then proceeds to explain the steps involved in bug detection.
The practical part of the lesson consisted of placing a few comdots and other electronic gear (bugs?) around the armoury and performing a sweep.
As she finishes she says "I know this might have been boring to some and too new for others but hopefully everyone has a better understanding on the procedures involved in bug detection. Any other questions?"
"Not at all boring, Mister, um, how do you prefer to be addressed?" Rigo asks.
Vanessa looks puzzled for a second and says "Good point. I'm not sure! How formal is this mission? I've just been told to report for duty and not much else." And then asks her own question "How do the rest of you address each other?"
Rafe allows those of higher rank to get in the first word, then notes quietly, "I'd rather just be called 'Rafe.'"
Tar replies, "You can call me Tar."
Turning to the back of the armoury Tar addresses Lazer, "Major Farouk, a bit of convention has come up. How do wish to be addressed?"
Looking up from an inventory pad, he winces slightly at the formality. "Aie. Just Lazer is fine."
"Lazer it is then." Tar nods to himself.
Rafe relaxes marginally when he hears this. That'll make life easier, he thinks. God, I hate hierarchies....
Rigo frowned when he heard Farouk's words. Informality was fine at parties and in really crack operation teams, but in a crisis loose hierachies and fuzzy discipline cost lives. These people all seemed competent enough, but in a crunch one bad course of action was a lot better than six different brilliant ones. He almost protested, but restrained himself with difficulty. "You've been giving orders for too long," he told himself. "Remember the golden rule: Only speak up if you think you know something your superior dosen't know."
"I prefer to be called Edmondsen when I'm on duty," was all he said in the end.
After everyone has made their comments Vanessa adds "Since we seem to be pretty informal then Vanessa will be fine."
"Very well, Vanessa," Rigo resumes. " I've read a lot about electronic bugs, but it wasn't the sort of thing we used much in my service. Your explanation was very lucid. I don't think there'll be any trouble in following your instructions, but if there is, I won't hesitate to ask. Which reminds me. Major, one of my com settings is still set to the security channel from the Alcyon. I presume that'll be the same one we'll use here, right? Do all the new people know about it?"
"Blaine will announce any changes," Lazer says. "For now, use the old one."
Vanessa then continues "Yes Andon. You have a question?"
"Yeah," says Shrike, "I haven't had any experience with these things." ^^^ "How close do we have to be to a bug to get a reading? I mean if it's packed into a crate or something, how sensitive is this thing?"
Tar, addressing Vanessa, asks, "Do you want to handle the range question. I've a couple of comments of a general nature after you are done. If you don't mind, of course."
Vanessa responds "No, I don't mind at all Tar. The floor is yours." and moves aside to let Tar speak.
Elissa Bridge to Paladin 09:35
Goughzar leaves the bridge quickly, walking casually down the corridor to the midships grav lift going to Deck 0. While he walks, he speaks out to Pater.
"Pater, I would like to open a comm channel to the Paladin on one of my comm dot channels. Please assign one and inform the Paladin so that I can talk with it. Oh... you might want to register it with Mr. Blaine... I'm sure he'd like to know. A public voice-only line is great, thanks."
Tuning his comm-dot into the prescribed frequency, Zar rising through the shaft to Deck 0. Checking his hand-comp for the correct portal to the Paladin, Goughzar resets his satchel and heads to the proper lift.
"Paladin, please download the ship's plans from Pater and create a 3 dimensional map in the holo-tank on the bridge. Notify Pater, then activate full passive and active sensors for a test sweep to verify. If Pater objects to any aspects of the Active test, then cancel those runs. Verify all sensors with a low level diagnostic routine as well."
Several seconds pass, then the shipboard computer replies. _Elissa system PATER advises activation of EMS active array is a direct violation of SSR 411.03. All other tests proceeding as ordered._
"Oh well, guess I'll test those later". Shruggin, Zar steps through the airlock on the Paladin and heads directly towards the small on-board galley. Pulling some hot tea of Antarean mix from the galley, Zar heads towards the bridge.
"Paladin, record status of all systems. Please alert engineering of faults in the power plant, jump drives, or manuever drives. Set priority at very low - no need to take care of these until in Jump."
Dropping his satchel in the navigator's seat, Zar reconfigures the controls to his liking (for one man running) and then studies the map of the Elissa. Sipping his tea and resting, he lounges for a while.
"Paladin, reconfigure pilot and command controls to Vuakedh. Please contact Pater and retrieve all sensor files locating the hole and store on board for later review.
Zar reclines in the pilot's seat and stares out the viewport at the cold sky outside. Lost in thoughts of the return journey from the ringworld, and the sudden shock the debriefing had carried. Muttering, Goughzar brings up the image of the Ringworld, and it's subsequent disappearance after the Alycon's emergence from the Jump Bubble. "YaTakh... but Ger was the commander, not Vouf. Our newest captain certainly had other things in mind. And now... he'd pledged his honor that there are no such weapons on this trip. This hole... this aeggra aekhae... it must lead to the Ringworld - or at least provide an answer!"
Resetting the chair and standing up, Zar speaks out in Vuakedh to the Paladin "Set environ inside ship to Aenounougzang, 0714 Antares. Reduce internal lighting to 25% transfer holographic display to central lounge. Wake me 30 minutes prior to the Bridge meeting."
Zar walks back to the lounge in the Paladin, orders another tea, reclines against seating and begins to take a short nap...
Humming happily to himself, Christian brings the speeder in for a smooth landing in the cozy little bay aboard the Aurora, just as "Mustang Sally" fades into silence. A few minutes suffices to shut down the speeder's systems, then Christian exits his private speedster and secures the hatch. "Hello, Moira. How's tricks?" _Pre-launch sequence is proceeding, sir. Power plant cold start has been completed, all data within tolerance. Full power at your command, Doctor Van Der Merwe._
Christian proceeds through the Env-Control area, up the grav lift, and he pauses in the lounge. "Outstanding, Moira!" He busies himself at the small mess station set against the port wall. A small split-loaf of warm, crusty white bread appears and is rapidly slathered with butter and a layer of exquisite strawberry preserves. Nibbling around its edges while he holds it in his left hand, Christian uses his right hand to call up and secure a large mug of Kona-descendent coffee, double cream, no sugar. The loaf sustains several large bites and the coffee is drained as Christian makes his way to the bridge.
The valve opens and Christian enters. He finishes the mini-loaf and washes it down with a double gulp of coffee. "Aaahhhh.... Much better. Okay, milady, let's get started." He slides down into the pilot's acceleration couch, adjusts the restraint harness, and slides the couch into position. The holodisplays spring into his preferred arrangement at the mere touch of a fingertip, and Christian quickly scans the engineering displays. Satisfied, he calls up the piloting displays. "Engage maneuver... now." _Aye, sir. Engaging maneuver drives. Nominal operating response._
Christian's perform their intricate dance over the holopanels. A very slight hum indicates the increased power level and maneuver drive activation. A comm-panel appears under his left hand, which he uses to suitably arrange flight clearance :-> with the Yard operators, and to notify Zben aboard the Elissa of his impending arrival. Several moments later, the Aurora rises from its pad and smoothly glides in the direction of Staging Area 11, arriving shortly thereafter. With unerring precision, the Aurora homes in on the most accessible mount point and settles down upon it with the smallest of jolts. << Van Der Merwe to Elissa. Down and locked. Out. >>
Christian frees himself from the restraint harness and returns the Aurora's systems to normal. "Hokay, Moira, thanks. Keep an eye on the store, eh? If anybody calls, tell them I'm taking a loooong nap, and don't wake me until 1330, unless it is *VERY* important. 'Kay?" _Understood, sir._ Christian ambles down the short corridor and enters his cabin, where all of his personal effects are laid out, reflecting his decision not to move aboard the Elissa. He trudges to the bed. His outer layer of clothing is removed, and carefully stowed in the closet, before Christian drops onto the bed and lies flat, his eyes closed.
He opens his eyes and turns his head to the small table mere inches from the bed. Reaching out, he takes a small holopicture in his hand and stares into its depths, and beyond. "Davros..." he murmurs, eyes bright with the terrible pain of that memory. A paradox, that such a painful memory should be so treasured and protected, even savored. Christian slams the holo back on the table and turns his face into the pillow. "I will find you. I promise..." His troubled thoughts slowly fade into soothing relaxation, and Christian sleeps.
As soon as Commander Akhouw notices him Etienne salutes and says "Etienne de Mer, reporting for duty, Commander."
Akhouw certainly does notice Etienne's entrance with remarkable alacrity. He returns the salute with a very formal bow, evincing his high degree of respect for the armed Etienne. "Your attention to duty is commendable, Mister de Mer. Take the Helm station, if you please."
"Aye, sir!" Etienne slides into the chair and begins configuring the station to his liking, saving his preferences when he is done. After a thorough check of all systems under his control, especially those with any faults he settles back to monitor ship's systems, air/space traffic, and commo.
Quarters Deck - 09:50
"Grumble grumble grump." That voice echoing down the halls. "Grumble grump, grumplety grumgrum grumble grumplety GRUMP." The sound of something heavy being dragged along the deck. "Grump, grumble, grump, mumble grumble GRRRRRR-UMPH!" With a gasp, Joachim Tabor staggers to a halt against the door to his stateroom, letting go of the huge valise and duffel bag he'd been dragging.
"PATER?" he wheezes. "Let me in and voicekey the lock, please?"
_Done, Doctor Tabor,_ PATER replies. The door flies open, and Tabor stumbles forward into the cabin, landing on the bed with a thud. He gets up and drags his bags into the room with a final groan, and collapses on the bed. "Idiotic of me. Should've made two trips. Should've borrowed a cart. PATER, wake me at 1045. Zzzz....."
At around 0950, after having taken a look at his stateroom and wandered round the ship a little, Nick Talon arrives on the bridge. He wears his usual grey tailored vacc suit, blue utility vest and red cap.
"Hi everyone. What's the plan for the day? The Westwind's prepped and ready to bring over."
Without looking up from his work, Akhouw rumbles a reply, "Then I suggest you do so with alacrity, Mister Talon," and subsides into a working silence.
"Ok Commander, I'll bring her over as soon as I can prise Shurv out of the drive rooms to help me."
Staging Area 11 - 09:50
A taxi meanders its way through the Turnskaad compound to find its way to the Elyssa staging area. A medium height individual gets out and shugs underneath the heavt coat. I hate cold. It makes my nose run and messes up my mustache. Disgusting.
Angus MacLaeran walks around to the back of the taxi where the driver meets him. "I apologize for the delay at the gate. I guess that since I'm relatively new that I didn't make the list."
Angus pays the driver after he unloads a dufflebag and a medium-size 40 kilo crate. As driver hurries back to the warmth of the taxi and drives off, Angus turns and looks up at the Elyssa. I hope this turns out to be a good job.
Angus picks up the duffle and activates the grav plate on the crate. After moving the crate over to what looks like a loading area, he quickly moves to the gangway.
Upon reaching the entry hatch, "Angus MacLaeran -- I request permission to come aboard."
_Welcome to the Elissa, mister MacLaeran._ a smooth, well-modulated male voice from the intercom. _Permission to come aboard is granted. Please step through the hatch and proceed to deck three. Your cabin assignment is three dash twenty one, which will be behind you and to your right, as you face the bow._
_Once you have stowed your personal possessions, please report to mister Munro in main engineering on deck four, aft, at eleven hundred hours. She has ordered a staff meeting for the engineering crew at that time. Ships deckplans are available from any comm panel, and are downloadable for handcomp use._
"Thank you." Angus follows the directions to his cabin and drops off his dufflebag. In his quarters, Angus gets his handcomp out of his duffle and downloads the deckplans while brushing the last remnants of frost from his mustache.
After a quick change into a navy blue engineering jumpsuit, he hurries out the door toward the engineering plant. I hope I'm not late, or it'll be a long time until Yolanda forgives me...
Armory - 09:52
Carrying four green cases, Johann makes sure that the door to his cabin is closed and locked before continuing.
"..and absolutely, positively don't let Bit out of my cabin until well after liftoff, Pater."
He takes the elevator to the deck where the Armoury is.
"Pater, I just got an idea that I'm surprised nobody thought about before. If you have unused capacity I'd like you to keep an eye on Bit for me when he is out roaming the ship. Use your cameras to track him, keep him out of dangerous areas like airlocks and pull an alert if he starts to disassemble something sensitive." he pauses for a few seconds before continuing. "And if anybody looks at him strangely, explain to them that he is a pet and not a lunch."
Arriving at the Armoury, he puts the four cases on the counter. "One interstellarms gauss rifle, one gauss pistol, 1200 gauss rounds, and 36 RAM grenades, HE and HEAP. Can I get a receipt for this?"
Orbital Laboratory Ship Viggen - 10:00
[On board the Laboratory ship, Viggen, Dr. Smythe runs around trying to finish packing.]
"D'bot, how come my stuff isn't packed? Oh, nevermind. Valhalla? What is the status of cargo loading?"
_Yes, Doctor? Status of Cargo Loading: Lab computer is loaded and stored. VLA Drone Modules 1 and 3 are loaded and stored. Module 2 is currently being loaded. There was a minor malfunction with the Module 2 self-diag- nostics. That has been corrected. Pods 1 and 2 are crated and ready for loading._
"Val, contact Turnskaad Air/Space Traffic Control, and obtain clearance for re-entry/landing at Pad 11 for 1040."
_Very well, Doctor._
Smythe finishes packing several duffels full of clothes and sundries. He has D'bot, a gangly looking robot, transport them to the pinnace, ISS Thor. Then he pulls a stout titanium colored footlocker out from his quarter's closet. This he carries down to the Thor himself.
As he reaches the Thor, he smiles with satisfaction as he sees the ALE* finish loading the last pod.
_Doctor_
"Yes, Val."
_Doctor, Turnskaad is denying re-entry until 1145_
"WHAT! THOSE IMBECILES! Alright, I'll take it from here, Val. Take care of the Viggen while I'm gone."
_Very well, Doctor_
Smythe straps himself into the Thor. Runs through the pre-launch sequence, then launches from the Viggen's hold.
"Turnskaad Traffic, this is ISS Thor. Why have I been denied clearance to re-entry to Pad 11 until 1145?"
<< ISS Thor, this is Turnskaad Control. Do not deviate from current orbit. Heavy traffic in area. Repeat: Do no deviate from current orbit. Acknowledge. >>
"Turnskaad Control, I have an alpha-priority clearance. What gives?"
<< ISS Thor, do not, repeat, do not deviate from current orbit. You are cleared for re-entry at 1145. Acknowledge. >>
"Turnskaad Control, ISS Thor acknowledges," Smythe dourly replies.
Smythe occupies himself for the next 50 minutes by inspecting the status readouts on the VLA drones.
Angus walks down the myriad corridors towards engineering. I wonder where everybody is?
Upon entering the hatch towards engineering he stops suddenly. Oh my God... "PATER! Do I need to report aboard to the CO or OOD before I go trapsing about the ship? I don't think anybody knows that I'm here, and only Yolanda and the CO know me. I don't want to get shot as a trespasser..."
_Negative, mister MacLaeran._ replies PATER. _Your present is not required by any of the department heads until chief engineer Munro's department meeting in main engineering at eleven hundred hours. I have logged you as having reported aboard and you have the freedom of the vessel. Please keep your commdot tuned the the shipboard frequency so that other crewmembers may contact you, should the need arise._
"Comdot? I haven't been assigned any equipment yet. I have a belt phone..."
_In that case, it would be prudent to see mister Blaine as soon as possible, and have him issue you one from ships stores._ suggests PATER.
"PATER, I am relatively new to dealing with AI constructs as sophisticated as you. I take it that there is a close integration between you and the ship for monitoring purposes. I would like you to download to my handcomp any special engineering specs required that are not considered 'standard'. I would like to know the custom mods and the engineering problems that prompted them."
_With the exception of my retrofit aboard this vessel, all engineering components are standard for their design and use._ advises PATER. _I am downloading data, power, and cabling modifications made for my installation now, on channels D and E._
"If I have to support something, I want to know what that something is..." With the download in progress, Angus begins to take a tour around the engineering plant. "Maybe I'll bump into some of the other engineers before the meeting..."
"Also, please download the standard ships frequencies."
_Done, mister MacLaeran._
Just as Angus is heading into the jump drive section through the door from main engineering, up through the iris valve in front of him floats Doejin obviously in a hurry.
Doejin starts to go around Angus on the way to main engineering but suddenly stops and with a click and a whistle juts forward a pectoral fin, "Greetings! Are you part of the Engineering crew?"
"Hello?!" states Angus as he back pedals a step and tilts his head incredulously at this new creature the likes of which he has never seen before.
"What type of being are you?" Angus leans to look Doejin all over. "You don't have contact with the ground but you have locomotion..."
The translator responds, "I am a 'Phin. Similar to a Terran dolphin, I understand."
Then Angus notices the grav belt. "Cool! You use gravitics. But that means that you aren't a ground creature. Obviously not air either. That means liquid." Angus continues to look Doejin over. "Please don't think I am rude and I do not mean to offend. I am Angus MacLaeran and I am an engineer. How do you control the gravitics belt?" as he shakes Doejins extended extremity.
"No offense is taken. My locomotion is similar to a gravity repulsion device that you are familiar with. Other engineering beings are busy working in other areas of the ship. I am working on improving these extremity devices so that I can better assist in the work here." Doejin waves the kludged waldos briefly for emphasis.
"I have a strong interest in gravitics and how different materials affect operation of the system. Is the system imbedded in the harness or your 'suit'? How does the material affect the induced field? What about... Sorry. I do have a strong interest in gravitics and tend to get carried away."
"The harness provides the induced field which the suit amplifies to the required level," Doejin replies.
"You mentioned 'other engineers'? Who else is here and where are they? Also, I'm here to see what the engineering system is like. Can I help do something?"
"Yes, I am helping Hur'Shurvan on another deck and you may join us if you wish. We all are to attend a gathering in 60 minutes and, with your help we could be finished with the current task by then."
Doejin then proceeds into the main engineering station, grab the diagnostic tools that he came up for and leads MacLaeren to where he and Hur'Shurvan are working.
Shortly after 1000 hours, Dr. Manfred Werner can be seen, weaving his way through the confusion of the launch pit, pulling a large, obviously grav-assisted, gear locker, and carrying what appears to be a battered, leather valise in the other hand. A short distance behind him, Dave Sokuku can be seen, hurrying to catch up, and lugging a bulky, standard-issue scout duffle slung over his left shoulder.
Werner walks straight up the ramp into the cargo bay where Alliara sits on her crate, nodding to her slightly as he passes. Sokuku gets to the top of the ramp, and drops the duffle heavily, breath steaming from his mouth.
"Gotta invest in some gravitics one of these days." he heaves. "Hello, Alliara. Nice to see you again." Looking back across the yard, he comments, "Not much of a view, is it? You're going to freeze solid if you stay there too long."
Shouldering the bag again, he mutters, "Well, no rest for the wicked. See you later." and disappears in the bowels of the ship.
Some time later, Dr. Werner can be seen, slowly walking the corridors of the Elissa, on a one-man tour. Sipping a cup of coffee from time to time (one non-dairy creamer, two sugars), he looks over the halls and compartments carefully, as if not quite sure of the safety of this vessel and the wisdom of travelling on her.
"....and that should leave enough room for Dr. Ostyn Smythe's satellites."
Merkle leans back in his seat, swivelling to look out into Hold 2, and exhales explosively. Scanning across the mostly empty hold, he smiles.
Look at his hamdcomp, the time reads minutes after 1000.
Merkle rises, checks for handcomp and VidCom, then walks out into the hold. No one appears to be looking for him, so he grabs another grav clamp like the one used on Ger's luggage, he preps the crate of Medical Supplies for transport.
"PATER, could you please tell Dr. DaSilva I am proceeding to Sick Bay with his package of supplies. Also advise the bridge that the final distribution of cargo is complete...that's in file Dist-11 if they'd like to review it...and that I hope to begin the final load at 1200 hrs sharp, if there are no objections."
He punches 'Follow' on the control pad and proceeds to the grav lift center foreward of the hold; down to Deck 5, then into the corridor and Sick Bay.
Trying not to get in the way of activity, Merkle lowers the crate to the floor, off to one side, inside the Sickbay entrance, turns off the grav-clamp leaving it with the crate.
Heading to his cabin (via grav-lift outside sickbay, up to Deck 3) he quickly changes into swim trunks and grabs a towel.
Then, as an afterthought, "PATER, I assume the pool is open..that's where I'm headed if anyone needs me"
"Also, please advise Chief Munro that I will be having lunch around 1130 hrs...I'd be delighted if she could join me for a bite and some business."
Down the grav lift to Deck 4, into the forward Hold 2 personnel lift and down to Deck 8, up the stairs and into the pool area, Deck 6, muttering under his breath, "I'll not *need* the swim for exercise, by time I get there...I'll need it to uncramp my legs!"
Missile Turret #8 - 10:25
Voices amidst the shadows and steam....
"I know a girl from Abbe'ville, honey, I know a girl from Abbe'vile, babe- I know a girl from Abbe'ville, she don't give, but her SISTER will, I know a girl from Abbe'ville, babe!"
"Shut UP, Morgan!"
"I know a girl from Andred Falls, honey--"
"I'll feed you this SPANNER if you don't SHUT UP!"
"I know a girl from Andred Falls, BABE--"
"AAAGH! SACNOTH, SACNOTH, UBER ALLES--"
"I KNOW A GIRL FROM ANDRED FALLS, SHE'S GOT KNOBS LIKE BASKETBA--euuurk...."
"....do I have to squeeze your head off now?"
"Gneewp."
"That's better."
"Guh! Hukh, hakh, ahem. IknowagirlfromAndredFallsbabeI'MDONE!"
"Gott sei dank! Hand me that rotator assembly, will you?"
"Why should I?"
"Would my twisting your head off if you don't be a good reason, Grey?"
"Nope. Try again."
"How about, it's ready to install and I want out of here as much as you?"
"Pish-tush, my musclebound, tea-sipping friend! What's step five in the procedure?"
"It's where we are right NOW, you imbecile! 'Connect the rotator assembly to the drive linkage after reattaching the fibe-cable to the firecontrol computer....'"
"Ah! Using what?"
"A number three mating connector! What else!"
"And do we HAVE a number three mating connector, dear boy?"
"Of COURSE we do, idiot! It's right.....here......"
"Say it."
"I hate you, Morgan Grey."
"I want to hear you SAY it."
*sigh* "It's right here, IN MY HAND."
"Hee hee hee! There's hope for you yet, Aaron."
"Bastard commoner son of a housemaid and a bindlestiff. Okay, NOW will you give me the damned assembly?"
"Assuming I can lift it, sure....URK! OKAY, HERE IT COMES!"
"UNFF! GOT IT! HOLD THE BUSINESS END UP!"
"TRYING!"
"THERE.... one more....bolt....DONE!"
"Whheeeeeeeew! Those suckers are HEAVY! How's diagnostic?"
"Smooth as silk. I'll button her up."
"Great. PATER, how's she look?"
_All transport characteristics are now within nominal limits._
"AWRIGHT! We make a great team, Aaron-- brawn and brains!"
"Oh, REALLY?"
"Yeah. MY brawn and YOUR brains!"
"Ho ho! Cute, very cute."
"Race you to Mess... I hear a pot of jamoke calling me."
"Hardly fair. I have longer legs than you."
"Yeah, but I cheat! See you."
"What the-- GREY! *GREY!* GET BACK HERE AND CUT ME LOOSE, DAMN YOU!!"
"Aren't cable ties wonderful...?"
"*GREEEEEY!!!*"
And so it goes.
Copyright © 1997, 1998 |
|