Copyright © 1997, 1998
Last updated on 7/23/98
Just as Angus begins to head out the door with Boris to begin some repairs, Munro's new orders come in...
<< Angus, your idea about putting Elissa in a back brace sounds good. I want you to take charge of seeing if it will work. You may need to do structural soundings to find the critical weak points. You've got the ship yard experience. Now's the time to put it to good use! >>
Angus' thoughts come unbidden, "Oh, good. Wonderful. Just dandy. What's next to be added onto th never ending list? I've picked a bad week to cut back on caffeine."
There's a pause and then a fake nonchalance creeps into Munro's voice:
<< Oh, another item - this Centerpoint place is sending out tugs to move Elissa into dock. We need someone to work with them to make sure the Elissa doesn't get stretched beyound her limits. You just volunteered for that job. Good luck, Red. Munro out. >> A quiet chuckle escapes from Munro's lips. 'Looks like I'll be working for Angus, for a change!'
"I just had to ask." mutters MacLearan to himself. << Oh, f... Uh, thanks, Yolanda. I'll get right on it. I'll have an action plan together in about 5 minutes. >>
<< Uh, Boris? Those repairs we were going to work on? They're going to have to wait. In fact, I'll be needing your, and several others, help in about 10 minutes. >>
Damn! Tugs are on the way and here we sit with a broken back! I think I need to forget about cutting back on coffee. I need another vice, too.
<< PATER, as best as your sensors are able, I need a display of our current structural status. Also, I need a 3D model of that structure giving static and dynamic components -- please show gaps indicating no information. Include the riders as potential sources of force. I want to be able to model the forces the tugs will apply and how braces of different types in different locations will mediate those forces. I also need a list of operational inertial dampers and gravitic components, plus an inventory of structural materials in stores. >>
Let's see, we have to get the spine stabalized by the time the tugs get here. We have several methods available to us to traction the ship, but there's no way it will be complete by the time the tugs get here. Any more maneuvers like the last and, well, let's not go there. What else? Limitations and constraints: fuel, time, limited manpower, materials (we'll probably have to scavenge some). Oh, and we have atmospheric drag to contend with and the tugs will have multiple connect points. Lovely! Wonderful! Dandy. I always joked that I'd go to Hell, but I never expected it to really happen. Damn!
<< Chief, I'm going to need a few teams to do a quick stem to stern examination of the spine where PATER's sensors don't work. We've got to get it done before the tugs get here. I'll have a feel for the number of people after The Plan comes together. Back in a few. >>
Structural information begins to pour through the console display. One more thing I need to know. Clicking over to the bridge frequency: << Engineering to bridge, what's the ETA of the tugs? >>
Deck 3 Life Support - 08:10
Rafe watches the team of three working on the damaged fiber runs. Part of his mind listens to the chitchat on the local Engineering subchannel, analyzing dialect and noting references with possible idiocultural meaning, while another part occupies itself with xenological speculation. Observation and analysis file themselves away in the recesses of his exquisitely-trained memory, stored nearly as permanently as text files on a holocrystal.
Obviously a well-practiced partnership there. Query: nature of relationship between ursinoid and rodentoid. Hypothesis 1: symbiosis unique to subject species (query: found in 'normal' space, or unique to wire). Hypothesis 2: symbiosis ubiquitous for rodentoid species, capable of partnering with any sophont species. Hypothesis 3: relationship idiosyncratic of subjects. Sub-hypothesis A: rodentoids do not display full characteristics of sapience in absence of symbiosis. Sub-hypothesis B: rodentoids are fully sophont (contradicts earlier theory re: rodentoid neurology--query cognitive mechanisms). Action item: interview subjects once repairs complete.
Note highly distinct idiolects. Rodentoid displays apparently greater verbal facility than ursinoid, but shows consistent pattern of 'blurting'; note: compare to literature on human right frontal lobe syndromes. Speculation: rodentoid may not have fully developed identity, thus dependent on host sophont. Possibly gengineered (Ancients? Pre-Ancients [reference Bhyarrvouf/Stubbs conversation]?). Hypothesis 1 is most compatible with this scenario (similar to Lamura Gav/Lamura Teg).
Main Engineering - 08:12
As PATER continues to collate the structural data, Angus realizes that he still has not heard any reply from the bridge.
<< Bridge, this is MacLaeran in Main Engineering. I need some information. I need to know when the tugs are going to arrive. Chief Engineer Munro wants me to coordinate the towing effort and serve as liaison. So, I need their ETA and any other relavent information. NOW would be nice, thank you. >>
<< Sorry Mr. MacLaeran... >> comes the reply from Zben. << just getting time/distance bearings. We estimate contact by Ten Hundred Hours at current approach speed. And, ummmm.... Don't expect conventional Space Tugs. These are quite different...... More details and information as they get closer. I'll try and keep you guys in the loop.... Blaine Out. >>
<< Blaine. Thanks for the ETA. One last thing, if you could please find out the number of ships, engine output, and towing capacity per ship, I would be in your debt. Thanks. >>
Sensor Pit - 08:12
As Karl and the rest of the Science Crew come out of their initial daze after the sensor floodgates open, his hands begin moving across the consoles as if on autopilot, his eyes never leaving the array of 2-D and 3-D displays, drinking in the information.
"All rright now, ve may only have a short time before ze sensors go back out, either from power loss or when ve come in to dock, so let's store up as much information as ve can, und vorry about interpretation later. Everyone; grab your favorite sensor and start panning!"
Werner, Hryawi, Witfield, and the others all return to their various consoles and begin working with a vengence.
Calling up a series of optical outputs onto his boards, Morser begins taking views of astronomical landmarks, attempting to discover the approximate size and rate of expansion or contraction, if any, of this... universe.
While pulling the equations out of the deep pockets of his mind, Karl recalls a symposium he attended many years ago on the concept of pocket universes. He leans forward to the panels and asks, in a soft, uncertain voice, "Ummm, PATER, do ve have a cyclotron, or zome sort of particle accelerator gear aboard? I vould like to run some brief tests..."
After considering his options for a moment, Karl again addresses PATER, "All right PATER, I want a tight test signal on ze meson comm on vindow 2, ze current performance data on ze engines on vindow 3 (highlight ze tokamak, please), and cross-reference with ze ship's logs of engine performance since mission launch on vindow 4. Specifically, I want observed data on ze basic physical laws of zis universe, as compared mit ze laws from our home universe. Ze differences must be slight," he says, almost as an afterthought, "but small things can become qvite important when magnified by crisis. Und crisis zeems to be our stock in trade..."
_I am unable to comply with that request, Doctor._ responds PATER. _All meson communications systems are currently offline, as their power requirements exceed current ships power generation capability._
Main Engineering - 08:12
Even though the data going through the engineering console is not complete, the situation is becoming obvious. Angus's begins to clear the console, pushing controls angrily, edging towards fury. His face is becoming more and more red -- more than his hair as he passes apoplexia.
Angus gets rid of the 3D wireframe of the Elissa and calls up a 3D drawing containing just the Elissa's structural members. Moving data from the past 5 minutes, support member after support member turns red indicating failure. << Computer, get rid of secondary and tertiary members, just show me the basics. >> His voice is more a low, angry monotone now.
This is hell. It really is. Angus continues adding in the loads of the ship, hull, and component systems. Last he adds in the basic frame supplied by the skin of the ship, the mounts for the riders and their loads, and the hardpoints which the tugs would utilize.
Angus tries to bring his frustration under contol, but the mood permiates his voice. << Boris, I need your help. Since your the load master here, I need you to add in the loads of the cargo, supplies, and such. Just ballpark figures, and then add a little for a worst-case estimate. Also, you and I and a few others will be doing an EVA in a few minutes. >> Angus moves out of the way a little so Boris can access the console.
<< Bridge this MacLaeran in engineering. Do not, repeat DO NOT, attempt any maneuvers without contact myself of Chief Munro. Do not let any of the riders use their engines or disengage for the mount points. Also, when the tugs get here, do NOT let them connect to any hardpoints. And until you receive my express authorization to the contrary, shoot anyone who tries to violate these. >>
Bridge -- 08:12
Bhyarrvouf's inspection of the data flow from the comms system is interrupted by a very angry-sounding Angus Maclaeran....
<< Bridge this MacLaeran in engineering. Do not, repeat DO NOT, attempt any maneuvers without contact myself of Chief Munro. Do not let any of the riders use their engines or disengage for the mount points. Also, when the tugs get here, do NOT let them connect to any hardpoints. And until you receive my express authorization to the contrary, shoot anyone who tries to violate these. >>
'Vouf blinks. One ear flicks. It's hard to tell whether he's amused, surprised, angry, or just resigned, but at the word 'shoot' one side of his muzzle quirks upward in a very human smile.
"I've heard of individual initiative, but this is ridiculous...."
Main Engineering - 08:14
Now for the hard part...
<< Uhh, Yolanda? Do you want to go private for the structural report? >>
Munro hears the frustration in MacLaeren's voice. Suprised, she looks up but cannot find the source.
<< I think the Captain needs to 'ear this too. 'ang one minute. >>
Switching frequencies, Munro hopes she's following protocol she's never had to use.
<< Comm - Chief Munro. Please patch the Captain, Mr. MacLaeren and I together on a conference call. >>
Bridge - 08:14
Zben has just finished up talking with Bishop, and is slowly filtering through the avalanche of data streams coming through his board. However, ANYthing from Engineering grabs his attention, especially with the tone of voice he's hearing. He glances over to `Vouf, standing next to Stubbs, and makes a decision. He taps into the Captain's private frequency. << Captain? Sorry to interrupt, but Chief Munro has requested a closed conference with Mr. MacLaeren. She sounds a bit upset. Shall I send it to you, voice only? >>
Bhyarrvouf says, "Excuse me a moment, Captain. Message I have to deal with....Patch it through, Mister Blaine," as he settles into his seat, calling up a copy of Maclaeran's display on his data monocular.
Bhyarrvouf settles into his seat, calling up a copy of Maclaeran's display on his data monocular. << Captain here. Proceed, Chief Munro. >>
Murno nods to MacLaeren. << Okay, Angus. Let's 'ear the bad news on the structural report. >>
<< Well, let's start at the top. A full analysis will take much more time than we have, a couple engineer-days to do a complete job with what we've got. Less in drydock. Suffice it to say, we can't do anywhere near a full analysis before the tugs get here. >>
<< Next, I estimate we have basic information on about 50-60% of the primary structural members of the ship, and it doesn't look good. The information is sketchy -- basically that a member is broken and some data on order-of-magnitude, but that's all the we have right now. Even given the incomplete information we have, I doubt that there is anything we can do to make the Elissa absolutely safe to tow. We could get a little help by using the dampers, but we don't have the fuel for that. Also, do we have sufficient raw material to create braces, well, at least in the two hours we've got. >>
<< So, given that, here are my recommendations: One, we alert the tugs when they get here. We do not let any tug attach until we know what hardpoints are stable, how many tugs there are, and the thrust each is capable of. Cautiously, I wouldn't recommend a top speed over 40% of our NOE speed, and acceleration at between .10 to .20 G. Towing in a line should be OK, though tricky. We might be able to do something about extension and flex along the ships longitudinal axis. However, torsion about that axis is entirely out of the question. We'd be dealing with the Elissa in several pieces. Turns and rotations are going to have to be highly coordinated among the tugs to keep outward tension in all directions. >>
<< Two, we need more information on the failure. I'll need to do an EVA with a couple of others to get a better feel for the segments we don't have data on. We might be able to do something about one, maybe two, aboslutely critical parts by the time the tugs get here. If we can traction something, it'll have to be mechanical and internal. We don't have the fuel for dampers -- unless we can pull fuel from the air out there with magic. >>
<< Three, I also need to find out what hardpoints are still structurally sound. We might be able to get a couple of the 'disconnected' ones usable, though this is low on my list unless there's one which we have to have to keep tension on the Elissa. I do already have a good idea of where the critical sections are. Boris is working with me on tuning the loads of force diagram simulation I'm building. Basically, this comes down to getting a ballpark estimate in two hours and maybe one or two critical structural repairs done before the tugs get here. >>
<< Oh, once we're at the dock we can see what, if anything, can be done about this. Either way, it's going to be expensive. >>
<< That's the glad news. >>
Bhyarrvouf nods, rubbing his eyes for a moment. He seems suddenly older.
<< Well stated and in line with what little I know, Mister Maclaeran. I'm giving you approval to act as you see fit, subject to veto by the Chief Engineer...but you should keep in touch with me: as soon as this conference is over, I'm going to contact Centerpoint and have them inform the tugs of our condition. The sooner they know, the sooner they can take action, if what they're doing right now isn't appropriate or sufficient. Is there anything you wish to add, Chief? >>
<< Only a 'eads up that we need to run a power tap from the Paladin. It won't run the inertial dampers, but it will keep commo, computer and sensors alive. Also, in an emergency, the Paladin will not be able to disconnect quickly. Munro out. >>
<< I'll see to informing Goughzar. >> advises 'Vouf. << Good hunting, Angus! 'Vouf out. >>
Bridge - 08:17
After the conference is over, 'Vouf asks Blaine, "Zben, can you fire up a call signal on the ASTC frequency again, and hook it to my private line? Raise that Hiver, Ernie-aeggra, whatever its name was...."
"Ernestine," Stubbs volunteers from his place at the Navs console. "Is something the matter, Captain?"
'Vouf makes a just-a-second motion with one hand as Zben makes the connection.
"Keyaho, Centerpoint, this is Captain Bhyarrvouf of the Elissa....no status change, no, but there IS something your yard tugs need to know about. We've done a quick internal check, and it looks like we have at least one fractured structural member. Probably more. We haven't the tools or the time to effect even temporary repairs ourselves, and....eh-hrf?"
He listens for a few moments, nodding. "That's very reassuring, but...."
Another pause. "I see. I see. Well, if you're sure....very well. I'll take care of our end. Thanks, er, Elissa out."
He breaks contact, and stares into space for a moment. "MISTER Hiver? MISS Hiver? Pfuagh." Shaking his head, he says, "Blaine. Conference Maclaeran and Munro, please."
<< Chief, Maclaeran, this is the Captain. ASTC has been informed of our situation, and they assure us that the pods on the way to us right now are prepared for any eventuality, including a ship that's already in pieces. They'll need whatever structural data readouts Angus can supply when they arrive, in addition to what they'll ascertain themselves. Apparently we're not the first traction case they've had to handle around here. Captain out. >>
Engineering - 08:17
<< Thank you, Captain. >> Munro hesitates looking over at MacLaeran, trying to judge him. << Well, Angus. Sounds like they've got some 'otshot pilots. Well, we've got some 'otshot engineers to match. Who do you want to EVA? >>
<< Well, that's a tough one. I actually need to be out there, but I've only worked in secure situations like a drydock, not in open space. I really need to acquire some zero-gee and EVA skills. And finding enough people with the set of skills will be tough. Hmmm... >>
After a moment, Angus resigns himself.
<< Well, Bishop's got the engineering experience and zero-G skills, but I don't think he does EVA. Doejin... I don't think that'll work unless he's confortable outside. Haut-Frieder and Shurv are the closest match to what we need. Though to be honest, the best match to do the external survey of the hardpoints from the people I know would be you and the Captain. What's the chance of that happening? Hey! I just realized that we don't know anything about the skills of these kit.. ahh, the Aslan. They just love bopping through Engineering and brightening our day. What about using, ahh..., getting, ahh..., asking for their assistance? >>
<< We need engineers with zero-g experience. That's haut-Frieder, Doejin and me. Under the circumstance, we can ask for the Captain, Mr. Bishop for 'elp. Aolrkhea' is the only Aslan with engineering and zero-gee. >> With a glance at her data monocle << That gives us six engineers qualified... >> barely, she adds mentally, << ...to do the external scans. Let me check with the Captain. >>
<< Chief Munro to Bridge. Captain? >> Munro takes a deep breath. << I formally request Mr. Bishop's and your services as engineers. >>
Crew Cabin 3-6 - 08:18
Deja vu, but not quite.
This time, there is order, not disarry in the room. The lights are dim, not bright and glaring. The air is cool and pleasant, not hot and stale. The man lies in repose on the bunk, not collapsed on the floor.
Bishop rests, eyes closed, fingers interlaced at his breast. Mere moments ago, he was on the bridge, engaged in energetic discussion with Zben Blaine, Now, he is completely relaxed, his breathing is slow and regular. For all intents and purposes, he is the archetypal image of sleep.
Nothing could be further from the truth.
<< _7021395000000000032000000000000000212F200000000003200000000000000025F 58000000000000728B00728B00436F70797269676874202863292056696465782C2049 6E632E20436F7276616C6C69732C204F522C205553412E20414C4C2052494748545320 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000001200D012027322121A31C2 E0121A36C0A8C2AF9080607402127F8074301203177401127F8074301203177401127F 8074301203177401122B9F_ >>
Data streams from Elissa's comm sensors, so cunningly acquired by Blaine, floods through the filter that is Bishop/PATER. Information is extracted, chatter is discarded.
Parse... collate... store...
Much that old; much that new.
<< Chrr'it... Tharp... HydroSpan... Northern Lights... Haj... Church of the Chosen Ones... Umaa... Axon... Eia... Species 471... Tanstati... Thsk'op... Markasset... Followers of the WhaleSong... >>
Raw data is sorted into hundreds of different files, much marked for further study. Elissa's internal comm system occupies a tiny corner of Bishops attention.
<< Well, Angus, >> Munro's voice is a study of fatigue and determination, << Sounds like they've got some 'otshot pilots. Well, we've got some 'otshot engineers to match. Who do you want to EVA?. >>
In his half-dream state, Bishop smiles and offers another 740 milliseconds of uninterrupted attention to the Centerpoint datanet tap...
<< Ikuor... Khour-ai... Jawfuh... Two Ai Two Emm... Q'arc... Cri'd'ki... Jha'Hodii... MindBridge... Bi-Polar... the Fallen... Slinkies... Sss'rr'ss... >>
...and then returns his attention to the busy shipboard engineering frequency. The irritation in MacLearan's voice is evident when he replies to Munro, << Well to be honest, I'd love it if you and the Captain were available. But, I'd like two teams, Merkle and myself as one, and haut-Frieder and Hur'Shurvan as the other. Or Grey if Shurv isn't available. >> Pause... << And as an added bonus, I have one more... volunteer... standing right here. >>
Bishops smile grows ever so slightly. EVA and sensor duty? He diverts a quick command pulse in the shipboard automation controls and then returns his focused attention to the new world beyond Elissa's battered hull.
<< the Shining Ones... Vree... Zeener... Uziel... >>
Bishops faint smile vanishes like a snuffed candle. A "POTENTIAL THREAT" flag is appended to an entry in the rapidly expanding database, and the analysis continues.
Meanwhile, deep in the shadows of cargo deck three, a series of micro- servos whirr to life, locks and clamps disengage, and hydraulic pistons move. The lid of a coffin-sized cargo container, bearing the stencils "PROPERTY OF I.N.N." begins to laboriously groan open...
Main Engineering - 08:18
Chiifraa and Aaron haut-Frieder, followed by Alliara and her recorder, return to Main Engineering from Jump Deck 4 to pick up supplies for their work. As they head to the fabrication shop, Chiifraa slips and stumbles on the thin coating of ice the deck has accumulated. He drops to all fours and splays his legs out, chittering angrily as he stabilizes himself.
<< Careful there, Mynheer Chiifraa, >> Aaron says. << Don't want you getting hurt. >>
<< Pe no hass'l, >> Chiifraa replies, getting up. << Chust slippy, is all... >>
His voice trails off, and he looks down at one foot, poised on the ice. He rubs it back and forth experimentally a few times. Then he does the same with the other foot. He pauses.
<< Ach, no, >> Aaron says softly. << Fraa, I know what you're thinking. Don't even THINK about it! >>
He reaches to grab Chiifraa, but the little creature is already on all fours, sprinting aft as fast as he can. Aaron overbalances and lands flat on his chest with a loud THUD. << OOF!! >>
Chiifraa leaps into the air, lands on his tummy, and slides the length of Main Engineering. His loud << WHEEEEEEEEEE!!! >> over the Engineering channel is sudden and earsplitting.
While continuing to figure a way out of this nightmare, Angus' concentration is broken by the ear splitting-shriek.
A moment later, he comes running back for'ard again, leaping into a beautiful slide that carries him straight into Main Engineering and toward the airlock leading forward...
Alliara starts from her place and whirls after the sliding Chiifraa. "Damn. Don't damage my sopho... Ah. Hell! Wait for me!"
<< What the...?! >> I'm going to have a heart attack if stuff like this keeps happening! Well, at least someone can keep a sense of humor in this place. OK, not Hell. Purgatory. With that, Angus turns back to his console, waiting for the pertinent information to be collated and to figure out a plan to traction the injured ship.
Munro is startled out of her perusal of the wheezing Tokamak. Seeing Chiifraa sliding past her, she is torn between astonishment and panic. Seeing him enjoying himself, she settles back with a grin and a shake of her head.
<< Chiifraa, tone it down or move off of Engineering channel, would you luv? And don't take too much of a stress break. The critical repairs list isn't getting any shorter. Munro out. >>
Chasing Chiifraa, Alliara races into Main Engineering almost colliding with Angus.
With a target to vent his frustration, Angus whirls on Alliara. << You! Stay right there! >>
Engineering - 08:19
Akhouw pauses at the doorway to Engineering, glancing at Aiwi. He gives his mane a firm shake to fluff it to impressiveness within the confines of his helmet. Assured of a loosely flowing river of orange fur, he straightens his tunic an invisible millimeter, and withdraws his wicked spear-hook from its sling on his back.
Testing the hook-edge with his paw, he growls in fierce delight at the honed surface and holds it out in his right paw, spear-point down, like a murderous walking stick.
<< Well, milady... >> he says to Aiwi over suit comm. << Are we ready to make our first impressions upon our new crew? As they are all female, yours is the lead, but I shall closely attend your words. >>
Aiwi pauses briefly from reviewing her status board, and steps forward to the airlock. << Yes, my Lord, I am ready >> she replies. She reaches out to the airlock button and almost grins a hair << Do you think it prudent to appraise them of our arrival? I've noticed most other races prefer that sort of thing. >>
Akhouw ponders the question for a serious moment. << In my experience, even human commanders often prefer to inspect their subordinates without prior warning. >> He frowns. << Occasionally, at least. >> He flicks his ears. << In this case, we know precious little about our situation and even less about our new crew. Surprise is a sound tactic to learn more. >>
He nods at the door. << That being so, milady, shall we proceed? >>
Aiwi nods, whatever slightest hint of humor gone from her voice. << Yes, my Lord. >> She agrees. << I should have thought of that myself. >> Inside her helmet, her fur ruffles slightly. << Proceeding. >> She pushes the button to airlock, which opens...
Engineering - 08:19
Aolrkhea' is monitoring the health and safety of all personell aft while performing several minor repair tasks. Upon identifying the two new blips on her display as Akhouw and Aiwi, she primps and makes her way carefully to properly greet and escort them around the area.
She is turned around by the commotion on the audio channel, and to her helpless horror she sees Chiifraa streak by her feet...
<< WHEEEEEEEEEE--! >> Chiifraa hits a dry patch on the deck and ends up rolling head over heels across the deck. He fetches up against the iris valve leading forwards, upside down with his hind legs and tail in the air. The Engineering channel is filled with whistling, chittering laughter....
The iris valve opens. Chiifraa, with a squawk, falls over onto his back, and finds himself looking up, and up, and up....
Aiwi sees a small, definitely alien figure flop over at her feet. Its features obscured by a vacc suit helmet, it goes rigid at seeing her for a bare instant. Then, with reflexes that would make any Fteirle warrior proud, it performs a maneuver that would be impossible for any creature with a shorter spine and longer limbs-- a combination spine-twist and roll that gets it on its feet and pointing away from her. Less than a second after the iris valve opened, the creature is sprinting away on all four stubby legs, heading aft into the bowels of Deck 4 at a respectable speed...but nothing an angry Aslan couldn't match.
Behind her, Akhouw, his view of the tableau at Aiwi's feet partly obscured, registers the positions of the crew members in Engineering. MacLaeran and Niigurd are not far away, apparently discussing something and not yet aware of the new arrivals. Munro is sitting at the main Power Plant controls, her attention momentarily away from the door as she regards the other two. The one crewman present who has DEFINITELY registered their arrival is Aolrkhea', looking entirely collected and presentable--and frozen in midstride as the small alien streaks past her AGAIN, her tail rigid with surprise.
Aiwi, still tuned to the Command Channel with Akhouw, hears nothing. What the Engineers hear is a gasp, followed by a loud squeal reminiscent of a live animal tossed onto a bonfire. Automatic squelch circuits cut in to save everyone's hearing. When the audio returns, the Engineers hear:
<< PEX!! FIX T'INGS! SHE FOLLOW US! SHE KON' EAT US!! RUN! RUN!!! >>
Engineering Deck 3 / Life Support - 08:20
[Okay, I'm revising the time stamp on the end of my last move to make the chronology fit with the Mustelid Bodysurfing Festival.]
Rafe pauses in his mental dictation. << PATER, do you have a copy of Ivor Delseglia's book on the Lamura symbiosis of Hinterworlds sector in your library files? >>
<< Affirmative, Mister Awntremont, >> replies PATER. << The full text of "The Cytrialin Unity: A Cultural Study of Symbiosis" is available. >>
<< Good. Please-- >>
<< WHEEEEEEEEEE--! >>
Whatever Rafe was about to say is cut short by a loud squeal of pseudo-mustelid delight coming over the Engineering channel he is monitoring. He begins his sentence anew.
<< Please copy-- >>
<< PEX!! FIX T'INGS! SHE FOLLOW US! SHE KON' EAT US!! RUN! RUN!!! >>
Rafe flinches at Chiifraa's scream. His eyebrows narrow, and he watches carefully to see how his two subjects will react to what seems to be a psychotic episode on the part of their friend.
The expected reaction is almost immediate; FixesThings turns and heads for the lift at a rapid pace. With one move Bex stops his work and leaps the the giant's shoulder before he has completed his turn toward the lift.
It is impossible to tell the motivation for the speedy movement, but there appears to be no hint of panic in their retreat.
Rafe sets out after his subjects, pondering the respective merits of detached observation and intervention.
<< Uh, guys? Guys? Wait up! >> Grey heads after the pair as quickly as the slippery ice will allow him to. << Fraa, are you okay? We didn't miss one of the pirates, did we? Did-- >>
<< Shut UP, Grey!! >> This comment comes from Aaron, and the tone brooks no argument.
Grey sighs, and manages to catch up to FixesThings before the lift leaves without him. He glances pleadingly at Rafe before following them down to Deck 4.
The floor here is treacherous, and Rafe sets his feet very carefully as he follows Bex and FixesThings aft into the jump-drive bay. He grimly considers that he has no non-lethal armaments at his disposal, and checks once more that his laser rifle is powered off and safetied.
Main Engineering - 08:20
A battle-hardened veteran can sometimes slow time down nearly to a crawl, allowing them to react to a rapid-fire series of events to a degree far beyond the ability of the average sheltered civilian. When combined with natural predatory instinct and ability, a most fearsome combination is thus formed.
Pity poor Chiifraa, he knew not what he started.
Having barely had time to note the population and activity in Engineering, Akhouw's attention is suddenly focused with blinding intensity upon the rapidly moving vacc-suited morsel. A hunter's instinct fires a veteran's nerves, ears fold, pupils dilate, lungs expand, and tree-trunk leg muscles explode into the powerful lope of the hunt.
The fearful spear-hook flashes back and forth in his paw, appearing to assist Akhouw in devouring the deckplates like a bloodthirsty walking stick. The gleam in his eye is a terrible joy to behold as he closes upon the motivated mustelid.
Aolrkhea' alertly ducks and stumbles clear of the action, knowing better than to interfere.
The blood running through Aiwi's veins is no less the hunter's, but a female's mind works differently. Before Akhouw is 2 meters from her she starts a loping stride toward the retreating pair with a look that would open frozen bulkheads. Deducing the most probable identity of the fleeing creature, she cuts over to the engineering channel and barks in her most commanding tone (thoughtfully leaving the command channel patched in for the benefit of her Lord)
<< Mr. Chiifraa. You will stop at ONCE and present yourself for inspection! >>
Her tone and volume override any other conversations on the channel.
Munro, caught up in the skeletal problems of the Elissa, does not pay attention to Chiifraa's return voyage across the deck to the airlock. Until the laughter turns to squeals of panic followed closely by a Command Authority voice.
<< Mr. Chiifraa. You will stop at ONCE and present yourself for inspection! >>
Munro's concern increases as she witness' the apparent hunt of the new engineer.
<< COMMANDER Akhouw!?! SIR!! What's wrong?!? >>
Munro realizes that she is still on the private channel with 'Vouf and Angus. Switching quickly to the Engineering channel, and moving after the blurs of motion she tries again.
<< COMMANDER Akhouw! My Lady! What's the problem?!? >>
Chiifraa, who's worked up a pretty good head of steam by this point, is slapped into a flat spin by Aiwi's whipcrack command. He pirouettes on the ice, rolls over a few times, and comes up in a haunch-crouch, saluting no one in particular and facing in no particular direction. He barely has time for an << AWK! >> as Akhouw bears down on him with Aiwi in hot pursuit....
Engineering - 08:21
With the abrupt and salutary change in his prey's course, Akhouw responds in kind, but has the presence of mind to register the ice and the difficulty of stopping. With an ominous disregard for his personal dignity, he drops into a hook slide and scrapes to an icy halt using the hook-spear with a luger's finesse.
Aiwi, expecting the new engineer's quick stop, merely draws closer and halts. Not wanting to interrupt her lord, she merely crosses her arms and studies this new curiosity. What a strange race.
The vacc suited form picks itself up from the deck, odd shavings of ice providing comic winter decoration. The hook-spear is left on the deck for the time being, as the hulking Aslan paces over to the diminutive engineer.
Slowly, oh so slowly, Akhouw surveys his target, bending down until his eyes slide below the horizon of the top of Chiifraa's helmet. The golden orbs calmly soak in the unfamiliar features of his new crewman.
As if handling a Faberge egg, thumb and forefinger at the back of the neck raise Chiifraa up to a more comfortable eye-level height.
Akhouw speaks, but Chiifraa hears nothing. Akhouw frowns, then the light dawns and he taps at his comm to change to the Engineering channel, and clears his throat to try again.
<< Mister.... Cheefraa. What are you? >>
The answer is prompt. A quavery voice responds, << You mean, pesites reelly REELLY sker't? Sir? >>
Akhouw rumbles in reply, an unnerving sound. << Yes, Mister Cheefraa, besides that. I hope it explains your most discourteous display? >>
<< Ah, mm, well, sir, was, uh... >> Chiifraa glances sidewise and gets a good look at Aiwi, standing nearby. He blinks. << Hoy....not pe right foi'ce..not right sparklies on t'a fac-suit....uh-oh. >> He gulps audibly.
As if the engineering problems weren't enough, thinks MacLearan, what's an Aslan doing coming out of nowhere and chasing Fraa? Two Aslan? And then Munro chasing them? Uh ohhh....
Munro follows Akhouw and Aiwi through the door, barely missing Niigurd and MacLaeran. Seeing Akhouw come to a sliding stop, she marvels at the dexterity of the the Aslan. Her stop on ice is not so graceful.
But, as to the Aslan-handling of her crew member....
<< Command Akhouw. Whot's all this then? Put down that engineer! >>
That's a signal, thinks Angus. Yolanda is an artist when it comes to efficiency, both in work and movement. But cutting it that close...
Aiwi's ears twitch, and a growl escapes lips now curled back slightly in an almost feral grin. Did that human have any idea who she was talking to?
Engineering, Deck 4 - 08:22
As the confrontation between Akhouw and Chiifraa unfolds, Rafe glances around for Alliara -- then begins looking for her in earnest, afraid of what she might do.
It takes a moment to spot Alliara, primarily because she is NOT at the center of the conflict attempting to physically pry loose one of "her sophonts" from the clutches of the Commander. She is standing in full view of the byplay, not moving a muscle to attract attention to herself...a perfectly-executed stalker's "freeze." Standing as she does behind Akhouw and Aiwi's field of view and well back from Angus and the other Engineers on the scene, all of whom are watching Akhouw, her lack of movement has rendered her effectively invisible to everyone but Rafe, at least for the moment.
Looking more closely, he can see dimly through her helmet that she is speaking loudly and forcefully, but he doesn't hear a word on the Engineering channel...
Holding the camera steady despite the slight shaking of her hand, Alliara taps the comdot. In low voice, Alli, in low voice, she remind herself. << PATER, command channel to captain, override priority. >>
<< _Reason for request, Mister Niigurd?_ >>
<< Shut your suave speaker and get me that channel. Assault by ancillary crew-member on a sophont. >>
<< Captain. I am in Main Engineering. One the felines, a male it seems, has gone berserk. It has a sophont, one of MY subjects, in its paws, dangling it in front of its maw. Two smaller felines, probably females, seem to be waiting for their customary castoffs of the feed. If this activity on the part of this hulking tabby is not contained, I will, myself, challenge it to its ridiculous idea of personal confrontation. I would, however, prefer to have it sedated and rested, fed, groomed or given whatever other activity it needs but AWAY from my sophonts. >>
<< Moreover, since the male seems to occupy a niche in the bridge crew, it would be most beneficial if its behaviour were reviewed before a panel of competent officers. I have pertinent data, since I am recording. >>
<< May I call in a security detail to anesthetize it? >>
Bridge - 08:22
Bhyarrvouf sits up suddenly in his seat, as if he's heard something on his commbug that's startled him. He leans forward, and opens his mouth, then closes it again.
He turns to Blaine, opens his mouth again, suddenly blinks, and closes it again.
His expression goes from mild concern, to a flicker of annoyance, back to concern again. He turns back to face the main holodisplay outside, and punches a key sequence rapidly into his command console. He reaches for his personal holodisplay, hesitates a moment, then flips down his data monocular instead. He cocks his head as if listening, and says, "Understood and logging. Out."
Captain Stubbs watches 'Vouf's antics with fascination and some amusement. Finally he asks, "Captain, is there--"
"Vuakhae!" The single word, accompanied by a cutting motion with one hand, silences Stubbs, who returns to his seat by the Nav console, watching 'Vouf warily.
"'Vouf here," he says suddenly. He listens for a minute. "Understood and logging. Out."
'Vouf doesn't take his eyes off the display. He doesn't move at all for a minute or two, his attention riveted on a point approximately 3 cm in front of his right eye. Once, he repeats, "'Vouf here...understood and logging. Out."
After a moment, he ducks his head and whispers a few short sentences, too softly for anyone to hear. Then he resumes his vigil.
His expression is grim.
Engineering, Deck 4 - 08:23
It's too damn bad that the CO is off the frequency, thinks MacLearan. He would be interested in this. Either way, it's time for backup. Angus angles to follow Munro, giving Niigurd a warning pat on the shoulder and leveraging around the console. He follows Munro and stops just beyond the door and just over a meter or so behind the group -- far enough away to not intrude on the scene, but close enough to get their quickly if need be.
And I thought things were more than interesting around here. We really don't need this right now. With that, another thought comes to Angus -- these guys would probably be great on an EVA! Getting an admiral to 'volunteer' might be a little tough, though.
If only the CO would get back on the frequeny soon...
Akhouw's tone of pleasant menace with Chiifraa does not waver, nor does he shift his attention from the object of his interest... except for a brief moment, where Akhouw silently turns to Munro with a palpitation- inducing visage of flattened ears, fluffed fur, and ivory teeth, an unmistakeable later-for-you gesture, before returning to Chiifraa the very picture of calm.
This is one of those times when Rafe wishes he had independently-focusable eyes, like a lizard. His gaze darts from Bex and FixesThings, to Munro, to Akhouw, to Chiifraa, back to Munro; measuring every aspect of the situation. Presumably the details can be filled in later by a review of the security footage, but there is no substitute for a trained eyewitness. When he is not fully absorbed with observing and remembering, he gloats over the prospect of a monograph. "Polyspecific Interaction in Crisis Situations: a Case Study". And he won't have to worry about Alliara beating him to press, either; neither of them will be publishing anything until they get out of this hole.
If they get out of this hole, he adds mentally. An unlikely prospect, if the Chief Engineer trespasses far enough on Akhouw's honor to make Aiwi call her out. Prophetess grant it won't come to that, he thinks.
Chiifraa's response is instant. He struggles in Akhouw's grip, unable to get a purchase on anything. << NO, CHI'IF! Pack off! Pe MY Fault, I no wan' you ket hurt! >> He swallows, then looks back at Akhouw, his voice steadying a bit.
Chiifraa, like any sensible small mustelid in the grip of a large predator, holds very still as he receives his much-deserved dressing down.
<< Was case of, ah, mistak'n iten'ty, Sir. Pack on t'e Hamilcar, pe Aslan Ek'tsek, py name Faohileh. She pe re'el mean an' cruel, an' pefore she sen' us he'er she say she eat us 'f she ever see us a-kain. Toor open, I see pi'k Aslan la'ty...I pe t'ink Fao t'a Cow, she follow us t' finish t'a chob. >> His whiskers twitch. << I sorry, sir. Pe not right to run, p'ut I pe reelly sker't. >> His ears droop. << You kon' fee't me to t'a Cap't'n? Sir? >>
'Fao t'a Cow', Aiwi thinks. She wonders what kind of honor this thing holds dear. What a dishonorable name for this creature to call a Ftierle, let alone her commander. Aiwi made a mental note to contact this Faohileh. "I will have to have a long talk with her about these new members of the crew, and why she saw fit to send them."
Aolrkhea' quietly backs up the two Aslan and folds her arms, displaying the holstered gauss pistol on her thigh more than her other gear.
Munro stops her initial response - that of grinding out a heartfelt rebuttal to this blatant show of machismo and usurpation of territory and responsibility. 'Munro, you daft penny! This is an Aslan you're dealing with! Not human or Vargr.' Instead, she struggles hard to school her face into a neutral expression. Chiifraa's attempt to draw the anger to him only solidifies her control to not show emotion or teeth.
Akhouw studies Chiifraa for a long moment. His thoughts are rudely interrupted by Chief Munro. Did she have any degree of comprehension about the delicacy of her situation? A very warm, very pointed discussion was in her future, he decided. He turns to Munro with a frozen expression.
<< My Lord Akhouw. I need every engineer available to make sure the Elissa makes port safely. That includes the new engineers like Mr. Chiifraa here. If you would release him, I'm sure he will satisfy your honor and curiosity later...when the ship is safely in port. If you please, my lord, time is running out. >>
This is too much to be borne! Aiwi turns toward Chief Munro, but catches herself. This is not the time or place to discuss this. Surely she doesn't think her Lord does not have an understanding of their current situation!
Akhouw listens with utmost attention. << Indeed. >> is his cryptic comment, before he shifts back to Chiifraa, still dangling at eye level.
<< No, Mister Cheefraa, I don't think the Captain would appreciate the taste of your flesh. However, I grew up near one of Kusyu's largest oceans, and have a taste for ocean-flavored meat. >> Akhouw happily rumbles at the memory.
In a flash, he brings Chiifraa closer, faceplate to faceplate a bare centimeter apart.
<< You have insulted an honorable ftierle, and dishonor her commander. Doubtless she merely expected you to work. I can see she was disappointed. Your Chief is correct -- all engineers are needed to help make this ship safely to port. If you work, you are useful to us. >>
Aiwi's ears flatten, and she realizes that her inept handling of this matter is to blame for her Lord's dishonor. This should have been absolutely unnecessary.
Now the faceplates are touching.
<< The moment you cease to work, you cease to be useful, and become mere meat and bones. >> Akhouw licks his lips with exaggerated relish. << You had best hope you are not nearby when I find out that you are not at work. Understood? >>
Concern now mixes with Munro's anger. Threatening a 'female'?
<< PATER. Private channel to the Captain. >>
<< Captain, who is in charge of Engineering, Commander Akhouw and Chief Aiwi or me? Commander Akhouw just entered Engineering, chased down, captured and threatened to eat one of the engineers. He is refusing to recognize my authority in Engineering And Chief Aiwi is backing him up!?! Have the Aslan caught something? Should I call security? >>
Bhyarrvouf's answer is prompt. << Chief, Niigurd's already called me, I'm monitoring. Do NOT interfere with EITHER Exec, and STAY CALM. Who's in charge is going to get made VERY clear--AFTERWARDS. >>
Fraa's ears flatten and his eyes narrow. His trembling actually ceases, and he meets Akhouw's gaze without flinching. Akhouw gets the distinct impression that something has changed... but what that something IS, eludes easy recognition. One thing is evident, even across a chasm of alienness: the small creature meeting his gaze is definitely no longer fearful.
Interesting. Very interesting! A pleasant scent in the wind for a change, and an unexpected one as well. Akhouw looks at the mustelid with wary optimism. Following this new trail may prove fruitful, he mused, but honor help the creature if his scent was false.
<< Ai ai sir. >> The response is a whisper. << Unterstu't perfec'. >>
A mind's winter whisper is the only reply. I hope you do, Mister Cheefraa. I hope you do.
He gently places Chiifraa on the ground, and pauses a heartbeat. His sudden shout nears the cut-out level of the comm system.
<< WORK! >>
Chiifraa starts at the yowl, but stands his ground. He looks up at Akhouw and snaps off a crisp salute of a type Akhouw has never seen before, while clicking his heels together smartly. The effort at military bearing and proper respect in the gesture are obvious. He then takes a moment to carefully neaten his disarrayed clothing and gear.
He passed the test! Were it not for his well-honed, but slightly chipped, self-control, the massive Commander might actually have smiled, inwardly. Idly, Akhouw wondered if this was not the first time this creature had been hunted as prey. If the trail were properly marked, and trespass promptly punished, such swiftness and intelligence of mind could yet be an asset.
Further inquiry would have to be made, naturally, and close scrutiny maintained, but for now Akhouw would be content to defer more drastic action. He had far too much to meditate over as it was, and he feared how he would judge himself in a more dispassionate light.
Yet, the contention was far from over, and still there was one who for reasons shadowed in wilderness, seemed to be inviting Akhouw to further breach of restraint. It could not be a test.
Could it?
Akhouw's only outward sign is the response of honor. He paces over to where his spear-hook fell, and retrieves it. Facing Chiifraa, he bows so very slowly and deeply, straightening up with equally maddening precision. Then, in a blur, the four-hooked end, then the spear-tip, touch Chiifraa's chest.
Leaning downward, he proffers the weapon to the engineer. << You would do me the honor of guarding my yurletya for the next eakhau. >>
<< Pfrrr? >> Chiifraa looks up from straightening his uniform, and takes the weapon instinctively. He looks at it and then at Akhouw, blinks, and says, << Ai ai sir, >> carefully slinging it over his back and out of harm's way in time to salute Aiwi when she speaks to him.
As her Lord set the errant engineer on the ground, Aiwi moved up next to her Lord. Before Mr. Chi'ifraa can move a muscle, Aiwi, surpressed anger also in her tone, stands over the small engineer << Mr. Cheefraa, I require some information from you before you get back to your duties. Please wait here a moment. >>
<< Ai ai sir, >> Chiifraa says, giving Aiwi an identical salute and heel-click.
Aiwi notes the salute, recognizing it for the gesture of respect it is. She responds in Ftierle fashion. This is her first exposure to the new crewmembers, and she wishes that their first meeting, despite how awkwardly it began, to end with a more positive note. After returning the salute she nods and turns to her Lord.
Akhouw turns to Chief Munro. << As soon as your duties permit, and the Elissa is safe, you will present yourself to the Crew Chief and I. Clear? >> His body language, clear to any ftierle, shows clear signs of leashed anger mixed with disgust and disappointment.
Munro is apparently on a conference call, but nods her head using a half bowing motion. She eyes the three Aslan warily.
Balance, balance! Strive for balance! What in the Ko's name did this FEMALE think she was doing? Making a comm call? IN THE MIDDLE OF THIS? NOW?!? Breathe deeply! Taro, always remember the spirit of strength.
Akhouw's effort of will, if reduced to form, could withstand a nuclear blast. On the outside, nary a follicle wavers.
Aiwi, in her desire to not interrupt her Lord and his prey, feels that she has waited too long. She turns to her Lord, her tone calm and even.
<< My Lord, I thank you for your assistance in this manner. I believe Mr. Cheefraa understands his duties, and I am actually rather interested in his previous expreience with other Ftierle that he addresses them in such a dishonorable manner. At your request, I will handle this matter with Chief Munro and Mr. Cheefraa, and report back to you at your earliest convenience. There are many more important matters that require your attention, and it is my duty and honor to settle this concern. >>
Ever the soothing voice of honor and reason, Akhouw drinks in the calm words of Aiwi, the best natural sedative that he could ever desire. She, at least, understood the path of honor.
He nods in polite agreement. << Indeed, my Lady, I have been led astray from my intended path, and defer to your wisdom in this area. >> Unspoken respect flavors his words, chosen for their formal, yet elegant sound.
As always, Aiwi feels that there are no words that can respond adequately to her Lord's faith. She would not fail Akhouw in even the slightest task while an ounce of blood pumped through her veins. Keenly feeling her involvement in this matter, she answers her Lord's command the only way she can. Though she and Akhouw have (by Aslan standards) a very informal relationship, she stands at perfect attention, and salutes him - not as Commander Akhouw of the Elissa, but as Admiral Akhouw Tra'Ekhaul, of the Khaukeairl Clan.
Akhouw looks over to Aolrkhea'. << Perhaps you may assist me, while Lady Aiwiheikahaih is otherwise engaged? I would still desire to inspect the other transferred crew. >>
Aolrkhea' motions with her eyes toward the newly arrived Fixes', Bex, and Grey.
Aiwi ponders for a moment, and then addresses Chief Munro and Chi'ifraa. Her voice is calm, yet hard << I will accompany Commander Akhouw and meet the remaining two new crewmembers. Meditate upon what has occurred and wait here for my return. I shall not be long. >>
Munro opens her mouth to reply to this seemingly arbitrary order. Wisely, her jaw snaps closed. Breathing slowly and deaply, Munro stands at parade rest. Craddled in the left hand behind her back is the right closed into an almost fist. Slowly, she tries again to makes sense of the whole irrational matter - unable to believe that during a time of critical repairs, twenty percent of the engineers have been ordered to stand and do nothing but 'meditate'.
Rafe breathes a sigh of relief. Prophetess bless, order and balance have prevailed.
Pain leaks around the edges of Munro's voice.
<< haut-Frieder, you're EOW until I'm released. >>
<< Got it covered, Chief. >> There's obvious sympathy in the burly Norlander's voice. haut-Frieder turns to any who may still be watching, and barks, << Back to your duties, people! We have work to do, and Elissa's not healing herself while we stand around. Bex, FixesThings, stop to meet the Execs; Chiifraa, I'll meet you back on Deck 3 when you're done talking to the Crew Chief. Snap to! >>
Munro closes her eyes briefly in relief. Bless you, Aaron! Get 'em back to work and out of the line of fire....
<< How'm I s'posed to-- >>
<< Shut UP, Grey! >>
Munro's eyes snap open, an expression crosses her face too fast to catch except with a camera. It could have been alarm, amusement, relief, an effort to maintain control or something else. Or all of the above.
<< Crew Chief, >> she calls to Aiwi, << since there are many forms and types of meditation, would you please clarify the shape our meditation is required to take during this time? >>
haut-Frieder stops dead in his tracks. He pauses for a moment, then resumes his path to the status boards in Main Engineering Control.
If Aiwi heard Munro's words, she takes no notice of them. She turns to Akouw << My Lord, I believe at least one of the new engineers have arrived. >> She gestures for Akhouw to precede her in the direction that she noticed FixesThings large frame enter.
Angus is torn several different ways. There's a tremendous amount of work to do, Munro's in a spot, to put it mildly, and he can't seem to think of a thing which would get her out of it. Bedsides that, he doesn't know Aslan protocol at all so the chances of him fixing things is more likely to be 'fixing them but good'.
As the tension of the confrontation between Munro, Akhouw and Chiifraa begins to dissapate, attention is drawn to the doorway which appears to be giving birth to an extra large vacc-suit.
Fixes things enters the compartment, takes in the unfolded scene and lets out a low grunt. He stands in the doorway.
Bex appears to be unable to get a satisfying view and runs from vantage-point to vantage-point on FixesThings, freezing only briefly at each.
With the lack of response from Aiwi and attention focused on the Umma, Munro shakes her head slightly as she settles into a kneeling position. Hands on knees, Munro bows her head slightly in contemplation.
<< Oh, um, begging the Crew Chief's pardon, ma'am, >> Grey volunteers timidly, squeezing through the door behind FixesThings and stepping forward a few steps, << The other two new engineers are here if you and the Commander'd like to meet them.... >>
He steps aside, allowing an unobstructed view of the enormous ursinoid and his tiny satellite.
Angus casts a quick glance behind him and sees tha Bex and FixesThings filling the hatchway back towards main engineering. Well, going through there would definitely attract attention and just standing here would get him in even more trouble. So, Angus begins to cautiously make his way towards the entranceway and plans to dart through at his first opportunity, though having several reasons to not wanting to leave Munro on her own.
Damn it! She's going to be stuck here for quite a while, and Munro and 'Vouf are two of the few who have the skills necessary to make the external survey of the ship. That might be a way...
<< Bridge, this is MacLaeran in engineering. Is the Captain available? >>
<< This is the Captain, Mister MacLaeran. >> Bhyarrvouf doesn't seem to be surprised at all at hearing from Angus directly. << How are things shaping up in Engineering, and how goes the external survey prep? >>
Angus takes a quick breath and gathers his thoughts. How do I recap tha last few minutes? The CO's not going to belive this one.
<< Captain, we've had a slight snafu, so to speak. Too much has happened in the last few of minutes to be brief. But without all of the details, Admirmal Akhouw is here with his attache on an inspection tour. >>
As Angus recounts the events, an edge of sarcasm creeps into his voice. The sarcasm fades quickly and his pace picks up. Angus becomes more than a little anxious thinking about the situation and what is to come as he relays his report to the Captain.
<< Now is simply a lovely time for one, of course. But something went on involving Chiifraa running away from the Admiral and the Admiral chasing him down -- I didn't see it all. In trying to intercede for Chiifraa, Munro got into a situation with the Admiral which involved Aslan protocol, which to be honest, I'm not very familiar with. Chief Munro is now... occupied until released by the Admiral. Haut-Freider is now in command of Engineering until the chief becomes available. For the survey, we're now down in personnel by 33% if we count Bishop as a surveyor, besides yourself and the Chief. Needless to say, the prep for that survey is not progressing as I would like. Basically, I would like your recommendation on continuing given these new circumstances, or if there is something that could be done to get back on track. Or perhaps, someone from one of the riders might be able to assist us. >>
What I really want is the chief out of whatever's happening. But there is one last option. << Failing that, I could go out to assist, though I don't feel I have all of the capabilities necessary to be 100% effective. >>
Angus can't help it as another bit of sarcasm seeps into his voice.
<< Other than that, things down here are wonderful. >>
Bridge - 08:27
Engineering, Deck 4 - 08:27
As if on cue, four sensor-studded AGNIS units drift through airlock 4-6 and into main engineering. Once clear of the 'lock, they assume a flat diamond formation and move to an unobtrusive position near the ceiling of the compartment. In the aft section of engineering, unaware of their arrival, the indicator for the engineering comm channel in MacLaeran's helmet HUD immediately begins to blink.
TO BE CONTINUED...
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