Host AGM_Selan says:
=/\= =/\= =/\= =/\= =/\= Begin Interlude: The Strongest Man =/\= =/\= =/\= =/\= =/\=
 
Host AGM_Selan says:
He had always been picked on for how lanky he was.

Host AGM_Selan says:
After twenty years of going through the same thing ... females choosing the other men because they were bigger, stronger ... capable of protecting them, well, he had had enough. That's why he decided to head to the Raenia City Gym ... to work out as best he could. Entering the building, he noted the time ... 5:51.

Host AGM_Selan says:
He stood out like a sore thumb amongst the others ... who were more heavily built than he was. There were even women who had more muscles ... it was embarrassing. He made a quick retreat for the locker room to change.

Host AGM_Selan says:
After being given his specified locker [he had signed up for the gym a week ago], he thrust it open with a large clank, thinking to himself, "Uno, c'mon, you gotta be strong ... just work out today, work out tomorrow, and the day after ... then they'll see ..." Pulling out his work-out cloths from his satchel, he undresses and changes.

Host AGM_Selan says:
Exiting from the locker-room, a much more built male chuckles and looks at the lanky Uno as he moves to choose a machine. The built man smiles, and gestures for a few of his friends to come over as Uno finds his machine of choice, and walks to the side to study the instructions of how to use it.

Host AGM_Selan says:
"What's going on, Jak?" asks a shorter man. Jak nods with his head toward Uno, "Check out the Stick." His friends laugh slightly ... "So, what about him?" Jak grins, "He thinks he can work out here ... this gym is only for the best. He is no way near the best ..."

Host AGM_Selan says:
Uno grunts as he lays down, and raises the triangular barbells above him, then twists his wrists around, then rights then, and lowers them again. He is almost out of breath instantly. He glances over at the time, 6:37 ... thinking to himself, "Wow, that much time already?"

Host AGM_Selan says:
Suddenly, the artificial light of the building is blocked by three ... large ... shadows. "Eh?" says Uno as his concentration is diverted from the clock, "Uh, can I help you?" Jak smiles, "Well, we were wondering if we could help you ... considering you're new here and all."

Host AGM_Selan says:
Uno sits up, lowering the barbells ... "Uh ... I don't think I really need any h --" "Nonsense!" states Jak, grabbing Uno's barbells from him with ease, "You're never going to become the Strongest Man, like us, with these little man ..." handing the barbells to one of his friends, Jak receives two quite larger ones ... and hands one to Uno.

Host AGM_Selan says:
"Now, THESE, will build you up, try one," smiles Jak. Uno cautiously studies the larger barbell ... he is nervous, quite nervous. 6:43.

Host AGM_Selan says:
"OOF!" cries out Uno as he finally builds up the courage to grab a hold of the barbell, but instead finds himself being drawn down to the ground with his arm. Jak and the others burst out into laughter ... one of his friends nearly falls over. The attention of many has been caught, some females giggle and point.

Host AGM_Selan says:
Jak pats Uno on the back, "What? You can't handle that single barbell ... I thought you were one of us?"

Host AGM_Selan says:
Uno lets go of the barbell, and looks up at Jak, slightly upset, "I - I ..." Jak shakes his head, "Strong men don't stammer." Jak takes away the barbell from the ground, and easily hefts it up, "I want everyone to know our dear friend here has QUITE some work ahead of him ... or then again, he could go home and wither away some more ..."

Host AGM_Selan says:
Uno looks panicked ... his eyes glance around at everyone else who is staring at him. Jak and the others laugh. He hadn't wanted this to happen ... to come here and be made fun of again. He's twenty-eight years old ... 6:58.

Host AGM_Selan says:
Jak pats Uno on the shoulder ... but Uno pulls away. "Come on, man, it was just a joke ... I mean, do you really think you're going to be able to build yourself up? You're just a stick ..." the others laugh. 6:59.

Host AGM_Selan says:
7:00. The Quake hits. Windows shatter, and lights flicker ... the entire room seems to sway back and forth like an ocean. People scream, and try to make a run for the doors ... that's when the upper floor comes down ... many die instantly. Uno cries out, and dives down, a weight machine coming down right where he had been standing last.

Host AGM_Selan says:
A large chunk of ceiling collapses on Jak's friends ... he is hurled forward ... dust fills the air, those who survive the collapsing of the building cough and choke.

Host AGM_Selan says:
7:01. The Quake ends.

Host AGM_Selan says:
There is darkness ... pure, unadulterated darkness ... moaning and crying is heard all around Uno ... suddenly there is a crumbling and cracking, and the screams of women result. Red, hazy, light filters in ... and Uno can see a few of the women who were giggling at him earlier, cowering with seven others. Jak was the only one standing ...

Host AGM_Selan says:
... he was the one causing the light to appear, he had used a barbell to open up a part of the fallen roof. It only took a moment for Uno to realize this two story gym had just become a first floor building. Jak tosses the barbell aside, and tries to crawl out ... and then screams in pain as he's cut, and falls back in.

Host AGM_Selan says:
"The damned hole's not big enough!" screams Jak, and kicks some ceiling remains. Jak was right, and all around the whole were solid concrete and metal piping, quite hard to dig through. One of the girls whimpers, "W-we're trapped ... we're gonna die ... we're gonna die ..."

Host AGM_Selan says:
No one said anything for a few minutes, then ... Uno stood up, moved toward the hole, climbed up, and began to pull his way through ... he was the only one skinny enough to make it through.

Host AGM_Selan says:
They all looked in shock at him as Uno disappeared through the hole, and then stuck his head in, "I'm going to go get help ... you all just w-wait here, ok?" Uno directed his voice at Jak specifically. Jak looked down, slightly in shame ... in the end, it wasn't the strongest man who proved to be the best.

Host AGM_Selan says:
U.S.S. Paula  Greene Stardate 10103.31 "Cataclysm" Episode Three

Cast of Characters:

Brian Paveza as Captain Vakol [CO]
Karriaunna Scotti as Lieutenant Commander Aurora Biishe [CMO]
Chris Nickel as Lieutenant Nigel Owens [OPS]
Eric VanSickle as Lieutenant Junior Grade Kent Raal [CSO]
Cheryl O'Quinn as Lieutenant Junior Grade Tari Richardson [CNS]
Nick Beckwith as Ensign Audrina van den Broek [MO]

Michael Jones as President Eckoi, Adrianna, Gothraic Fighters, Weird Men,
			Huroc, & Gothraic Nurse 

Host AGM_Selan says:
=/\= =/\= =/\= =/\= =/\= Resume Mission =/\= =/\= =/\= =/\= =/\=

CSO_Raal says:
@::flies the helicopter-like contraption toward the capital palace::

MO_van_den_Broek says:
$::trying to work out where she is::

CNS_Richardson says:
$:;at the overturned vehicle::

OPS_Owens says:
$ ::calls the others over to the new vehicle::

CMO_Biishe says:
@::A tear is blown dry in the winds of the flying machine as she looks down at the devastation::

Host AGM_Selan says:
ACTION: 8:00 - The first Aftershock hits.

Host AGM_Selan says:
ACTION: 8:00 - The entire city shakes slightly ... but not as bad as the initial earthquake. The XO stumbles and knocks himself out.

CNS_Richardson says:
$::looks at Owens:: Ops: Hold on, I need a hand extracting the MO from this vehicle

Host CO_Vakol says:
::in the back of the truck heading towards the Tech End building with FCO, CTO, President Eckoi, and Huroc::

MO_van_den_Broek says:
$::starts to shake again::

CSO_Raal says:
@Adrianna: You think the president and Captain Vakol are all right?  It looks like the capitol building is rubble.

CNS_Richardson says:
$::peers into the vehicle:: Audrina: You ok? Let's get you out of there

CMO_Biishe says:
@::Whispers::  Damn...

OPS_Owens says:
$::jogs back over to the truck and begins helping the counselor::  CNS: We'd better hurry before the Germans return.

Host AGM_Selan says:
ACTION: 8:00 - A heavily tilted building comes crashing down before the CO team's truck ... the FCO comes to a screeching halt, sending him into the dashboard, knocking him out ... the CTO is flung to the side, knocking her out as well.

CSO_Raal says:
@CMO: Problem, doc?

MO_van_den_Broek says:
$ ::looks around her::  CNS: What is going on?

CNS_Richardson says:
$::works at the straps holding the MO in:: Ops: Surely, let's just get everyone loose now, before... umm... the Germans show up

OPS_Owens says:
$::continues looking around nervously for any signs of them::

Host Adrianna says:
@ ::Looks out the window at the buildings which are falling apart again:: CSO: I don't know ... it looks like an aftershock.

OPS_Owens says:
$::nods at the counselor climbing into the truck to assist::

Host CO_Vakol says:
::flies out of his seat in the back of the truck and lands in a heap with the President and Minister Huroc::

CNS_Richardson says:
$::unbuckles the straps::

Host Adrianna says:
ACTION: 8:02 - The building doesn't block the entirety of the road before the CO's truck ...

CSO_Raal says:
@::sees a truck moving from the building::

CNS_Richardson says:
$ MO: There, you should be free now; come on out now

CMO_Biishe says:
@::Looks at bit desperate at the CSO, but gathers calm about her as a cloak::  CSO:  The XO has been knocked unconscious.  And I am worried about the others.  ::Points down to the shifting buildings::  Those people have got to get out of the city... somehow.

Host Adrianna says:
<Huroc> ::Checks if the President and Captain are ok::

Host CO_Vakol says:
::climbs out from under the bodies and glances at Ryan ... checks her pulse::

OPS_Owens says:
$::pats the MO on the shoulder::  MO: Hang on, we'll get you to safety  ::smiles::

MO_van_den_Broek says:
$::still trembling slightly, tries to muster a smile::

CNS_Richardson says:
$:;turns her attention to the others inside the overturned vehicle:: Ops: There, I think we got them all

Host Adrianna says:
<Huroc> CO: I think they're alive.

CSO_Raal says:
@CMO: Hey, I'm Betazoid, remember?  I know you're trying to hide your concern.

Host Adrianna says:
<President Eckoi> CO: I demand that you take me to Rhae Ano! I need to see if my family is alive!!!

Host CO_Vakol says:
::sees that Ryan is fine and pulls the CTO's phaser out of hits holster, stuffing it into his waistline as he climbs out of the back of the truck::

MO_van_den_Broek says:
$::falls to the floor as she is released from the truck::

OPS_Owens says:
$::helps take the final on two the other vehicle::  CNS: Where's the XO?

CNS_Richardson says:
$::helps the MO up:: MO: You ok? There's another truck ::points::

Host Adrianna says:
ACTION: 8:10 - Suddenly, three sleek, black fighter-like aircraft zoom past the helicopter ...

CNS_Richardson says:
$::looks around:: Ops: He was just here a moment ago..

Host CO_Vakol says:
::step down from the bed of the truck and glances at Huroc ... sees he is tending the President and leaves them to themselves as he goes to check on Mister Baptiste::

Host Adrianna says:
@ ::Gasps in shock and falls back as the aircraft fly past::

MO_van_den_Broek says:
$CNS: I think so.  What happened?

CMO_Biishe says:
@Adrianna:  Stop and think for a moment... a lot of people are going to die if we can't start getting them out of the way before the fire traps them.  With what you have here, is there some way we might accomplish this?

CSO_Raal says:
@Aloud: Whoa!  Adrianna: What are those?

CMO_Biishe says:
@CSO:  What the...

CSO_Raal says:
@::frantically tries to control the chopper after the planes fly past::

Host Adrianna says:
@ CSO: Fighter jets. Part of our Aerial Offensive/Defensive Force ...

CNS_Richardson says:
$::rolls eyes a little:: MO: Ummm, I think we swerved to avoid some Germans... don't ask, hon. Can you go get in that truck? Help the XO along, as well

OPS_Owens says:
$::begins to think his previous assessment was true about this all being a delusional state brought on by Nazi Sodium Penthehol considering the XO's ears and his sudden disappearance::::

CSO_Raal says:
@Adrianna: You think I might be able to patch into their radios?

Host Adrianna says:
ACTION: 8:11 - The CSO loses control of the helicopter, and it starts spiraling.

CMO_Biishe says:
@Adrianna:  What are they doing?

Host CO_Vakol says:
::walks up to the cab of the truck and opens the door to find Mister Baptiste slumped at the wheel ... clearly unconscious with a serious bump on his head::

CSO_Raal says:
@::fights to control the chopper::

Host Adrianna says:
ACTION: 8:12 - The CSO gains control.

CMO_Biishe says:
@::Grabs tightly onto something::

MO_van_den_Broek says:
$CNS: I'll try, sir.  ::hobbles a little::

CMO_Biishe says:
@CSO:  What happened?

Host Adrianna says:
@ CMO: The bridges are out ... there's no other way to tell what's happening in the city.

CNS_Richardson says:
$:;starts herding everyone over to the new vehicle:: Ops: I have an idea. Maybe I should drive; you keep an eye out for the Germans, ok? I trust those eagle eyes of yours

OPS_Owens says:
$::notices them help the XO into the truck and starts the vehicle::

Host Adrianna says:
<Huroc> CO: I think your crewmates are fine ... I can pilot the vehicle from here. Help me move them into the back?

CSO_Raal says:
@CMO: I guess the turbulence from the fighters caused the loss of control.

Host Adrianna says:
<President Eckoi> ::Continues spouting demands::

OPS_Owens says:
$::considers the CNS for a moment then nods sliding over to the passenger seat::

Host CO_Vakol says:
::pulls Baptiste out from behind the wheel and drags him to the back of the truck ... searches his body and finds his throwing knives, leaves the saber alone:: Huroc: Yes, please give me a hand.

CMO_Biishe says:
@::a bit pale::  Adrianna:  Is there someone for us to contact our ship... somewhere, communication station?

CSO_Raal says:
@COM: Fighters: This is Lt. j.g. Kent Raal from the USS Paula Greene to the fighters that just sped by us.  Can you read?

Host Adrianna says:
ACTION: 8:14 - The vehicle the remainder of OPS' team is in starts up without any trouble.

CNS_Richardson says:
$::gets in behind the controls of the vehicle and stares at it for a moment::

Host CO_Vakol says:
Eckoi: Mister President, would you kindly shut up! ::places Baptiste next to Ryan and makes sure they are secure::

OPS_Owens says:
$::hanging his head out the window scanning every window, doorway and alley::

CNS_Richardson says:
$::thinks she sees how the controls work, screws up her courage:: Ops: Keep a sharp eye, sir. MO: Keep everyone in back there, ok? ::starts off in the vehicle::

CSO_Raal says:
@CMO: I think I saw a truck pull away from the capitol before those planes sped past us.  I wonder if the president and the captain are there.

Host Adrianna says:
<Gothraic Fighters> # COM: Helicopter: Identified V. 12 Chokner ... land immediately at nearest airfield, you are not cleared for this airspace.

Host CO_Vakol says:
::leaves Eckoi in the back and goes to the cab of the vehicle:: Huroc: Stand aside, Mister Huroc ... if I can pilot a starship I can certainly manage to pilot this vessel. ::takes the wheel as Huroc moves aside::

CNS_Richardson says:
$::drives along somewhat cautiously, not wanting this vehicle to meet the same fate as the last::

OPS_Owens says:
$::slides back in::  CNS: All clear, let's get a move on.  ::looks over his shoulder into the back where the MO is::  MO: Everything O.K.?

MO_van_den_Broek says:
$::nods::

Host Adrianna says:
<Huroc> ::Is pushed aside:: CO: Uh ... ok. The building didn't block the entire road ... the bridge should be just ahead to the district the Tech End building is in.

CMO_Biishe says:
@CSO:  There is no way of telling.  I wonder though... hmmm... ::taps her comm badge::  maybe time might be a factor?

CNS_Richardson says:
$::starts feeling a little more courageous, and speeds up a little:: Ops: You know the directions?

Host CO_Vakol says:
::turns the key in the ignition and hears a horrible grinding sound:: Huroc: Good ... it's already on. Just wanted to make sure.

Host Adrianna says:
<Gothraic Fighters> # ::Come about, and move in another aerial run over the city::

CSO_Raal says:
@COM: Fighters: Negative.  We have high Starfleet clearance.  We are trying to ascertain the condition of our people.

CMO_Biishe says:
@*CO*:  Captain, this as Lt. Amendoiera, can you receive?

OPS_Owens says:
$::points to a back alley::  CNS: I think we'd better go through that back alley to shave some time off the trip.

CSO_Raal says:
@::hovers over the truck::

Host Adrianna says:
<Gothraic Fighters> # COM: Helicopter: We do not acknowledge Starfleet clearance. Land immediately or we will shoot you down.

Host Adrianna says:
@ ::Pales upon hearing that::

Host CO_Vakol says:
::with much grinding of gears and a nasty snarl from under the hood, he gets the truck into gear and begins to move forward again:: Huroc: I suspect that won't be the last of the aftershocks...

CMO_Biishe says:
@Adrianna:  Adrianna, would they acknowledge you?

CSO_Raal says:
@COM: Fighters: You must recognize it!  Your admission to Federation is pending, so you must recognize us!

Host Adrianna says:
ACTION: 8:16 - The CO's truck moves around the building, and proceeds down the slightly scathed road.

Host CO_Vakol says:
Huroc: ...hopefully the bridge is still passable.

CNS_Richardson says:
$::looks at the alley:: Ops: Ummm, don't think that's a good idea; we won't be able to see any ambushes the Germans might have laid for us in there... Let's stick to the main roads, ok?

Host Adrianna says:
@ CMO: I-I don't know ...

CNS_Richardson says:
$::glances over her shoulder:: MO: Everyone ok back there?

CMO_Biishe says:
@Adrianna:  Give it a try....

CSO_Raal says:
@::shines spotlight over the truck::

MO_van_den_Broek says:
$::nods::

Host Adrianna says:
<Gothraic Fighters> # COM: Helicopter: The Federation is not involved in our current crisis. Last warning. ::Zoom past the helicopter, preparing for another run ... in which they will fire::

OPS_Owens says:
$CNS: Actually, it was ambushes I was concerned about.  The main roads would be prime targets.  After all, look at the trap they left on the road for the last vehicle we had.

CSO_Raal says:
@COM: Fighters: Give us 5 minutes!

Host Adrianna says:
ACTION: 8:17 - A large light shines upon the CO' truck from above ... causing the night sky for the CO and Huroc to seem like day.

OPS_Owens says:
$::turns back to the MO::  MO: What do you think?

Host Adrianna says:
<Gothraic Fighter> # ::Prepare for second run ... lock missiles::

Host CO_Vakol says:
::wonders who is in charge of the Paula Greene right now, and swears they will never serve one minute in space again ... should have had teams down hours ago::

MO_van_den_Broek says:
$::nods::

CNS_Richardson says:
$::keeps the vehicle headed straight on down the road:: Ops: They wouldn't try a similar ambush after that last, would they?

CSO_Raal says:
@::switches to the loud speakers:: COM: CO: Captain!  Do you hear us?  Wave if you do!

Host Adrianna says:
@ COM: Fighters: This is Adrianna Guilot ... one of the President's most trusted advisors!!! DON'T FIRE!

CNS_Richardson says:
$::really really doesn't want to take the vehicle into the alley::

CMO_Biishe says:
@CSO:  Angle the copter down as close to the hospital as you can...

Host CO_Vakol says:
::applies the brakes and uses a parked vehicle to slow his truck before looking up into the sky:: Huroc: we have company...

Host Adrianna says:
<Huroc> ::Looks out the window:: CO: That looks like a military chopper.

OPS_Owens says:
$ Hmm....  CNS: OK... but if we're captured, it's all on your head.

Host CO_Vakol says:
::steps out of the truck and waves:: Huroc: Ah, it's Mister Raal's group come to rescue us...

CSO_Raal says:
@COM: CO: This is Raal.  Wave to us if you're all right, captain.

Host CO_Vakol says:
::waves some more::

Host Adrianna says:
ACTION: 8:19 - The XO's team's truck comes up on a peculiar sight ... in what appears to be a large square [either originally there, or created by the quake] dozens of people are gathered, tossing belongings, food, etc. into a large pile. Peculiarly dressed Gothraic men stand nearby, all armed.

CSO_Raal says:
@CMO: He's down there!

CNS_Richardson says:
$Ops: Noted, Owens. I'll make sure that all blame falls on me, ok? ::grins to herself::

CMO_Biishe says:
@::Speaks in an under breath that he can hear::  CSO:  It will get us closer... we can't fight these people, nor should we.

Host Adrianna says:
<Huroc> ::Looks out and up::

OPS_Owens says:
$CNS: Stop a minute counselor.  Let's see what's going on up ahead.

CSO_Raal says:
@CMO: I'm going to land.

Host Adrianna says:
@ ::Shakes her head:: CMO: I think they're going to fire!

Host CO_Vakol says:
::waves that they might want to consider landing so he can join them::

CSO_Raal says:
@COM: CO: ::over loudspeakers:: We're coming down.  Stand clear!

CNS_Richardson says:
$::sighs, and slows the vehicle:: Ops: It's probably not a good idea to stop; we'll be sitting ducks for any of them, you know.

OPS_Owens says:
$::begins to wonder if those Gothraic men are German's in disguise::

CSO_Raal says:
@::prepares to land chopper::

Host Adrianna says:
@ ::Turns paler, grips onto the side of her seat as the helicopter begins to slowly come down::

OPS_Owens says:
$CNS: A good point.  Carry on.  ::smiles weakly::

CNS_Richardson says:
$::doesn't bring the vehicle to a stop, though she's slowed it down::

CSO_Raal says:
@::lands chopper about 100m by truck::

Host Adrianna says:
ACTION: 8:21 - Suddenly, a missile flies past the helicopter, striking a building and causing it to consume an entire building.

Host CO_Vakol says:
::goes to the back of the truck to avoid flying debris and checks on Eckoi and the others:: Eckoi: Some of my crew has appropriated a flying vehicle to use...

CNS_Richardson says:
$Ops: Any idea how much further to our destination? You're my navigator here

Host Adrianna says:
ACTION: 8:22 - Three of these weird uniformed men block the path of the XO team's vehicle.

CSO_Raal says:
@::powers down chopper::

MO_van_den_Broek says:
$::looking around her::  Self:  Where are we?

Host Adrianna says:
@ ::Screams as she sees the explosion from the missile firing::

CNS_Richardson says:
$ ::comes to a stop::

CMO_Biishe says:
@Adrianna:  Are they mad?  Tell them to cease, your city is damaged enough... we are landing.

OPS_Owens says:
$::thinks: Oh great.  And here it was the XO who had all the directions::  CNS: I think it's just a short way down the road.  ::turns to the MO questionably for agree/disagreement::

CSO_Raal says:
::exits the chopper and makes way to the CO and president::

CNS_Richardson says:
$::looks at the men:: Gentlemen: You're blocking our way; we're in a bit of a hurry here

Host Adrianna says:
<Huroc> CO: We should be underway soon, sir. Have your crewmates join us in the truck.

MO_van_den_Broek says:
$::still looking around her::

CSO_Raal says:
CO: Lt. j.g. Raal reporting for duty, sir.

OPS_Owens says:
$::leans out the passenger window::  Gentlemen: Could you please clear a path?  We have wounded.

Host Adrianna says:
<Three Weird Men> $ ::Are all armed::

CMO_Biishe says:
::Climbs out of the flying vehicle and walks over to the captain::

Host Adrianna says:
<First Weird Man> $ ::Walks up to the vehicle:: OPS: Exit the vehicle.

CNS_Richardson says:
$::smiles charmingly at the three weird men:: Gentlemen: We need to get through; we have wounded.

CSO_Raal says:
President: Mr. President, I think you should have a talk with your fighters.

Host CO_Vakol says:
::sees Raal:: CSO: Mister Raal .. please see to Mister Ryan and Mister Baptiste. They have been injured and we will need to get them aboard your helio-copter.

Host Adrianna says:
<Second Weird Man> $ CNS: Remove your wounded.

CMO_Biishe says:
CO:  Sir...

OPS_Owens says:
$ WM1: Why?  I said, we have wounded.  ::doesn't get out::

CMO_Biishe says:
::Goes to check on the wounded crew men::

CSO_Raal says:
CO: There's a minor problem, sir.  The fighters tried to shoot us down for lack of clearance.

CNS_Richardson says:
$::looks at the three men:: Gentlemen: We really need to get them through; lives could be in danger if you delay us.

Host Adrianna says:
<President Eckoi> CSO: You! Get me into that chockner, and take me to the Rhae Ano district ... I must see my family!

CMO_Biishe says:
::Seeing her husband is not among them is saddened, but the others are basically fine.::

OPS_Owens says:
$::whispers::  CNS: Barge through them, they'll move.  Then gun it.

Host Adrianna says:
<Weird Man One> $ ::His weapon clicks:: OPS: Out, now.

CSO_Raal says:
Eckoi: Mr. President, I'll be glad to take you there... if you can get me clearance!

CNS_Richardson says:
$::revs the engine, and calls out, as she floors the accelerator:: MO: Hang on back there!

Host CO_Vakol says:
::thinks he has just about had enough of this:: Eckoi: Mister President, we will see to the safety of your ENTIRE population, THEN we will see to your family ... now call off those fighters!

Host Adrianna says:
<President Eckoi> ::Stomps past the CSO to the Chockner::

Host CO_Vakol says:
Raal: You have your orders, Lieutenant ... get to it!

CSO_Raal says:
CO: Aye sir.  ::returns to chopper::

MO_van_den_Broek says:
$::hangs on tightly::

Host Adrianna says:
<Huroc> MR. PRESIDENT! You know their orders during a time like this! TRUST NO COMMUNICATIONS is one of them! ::Rushes toward the President::

CNS_Richardson says:
$::barrels the vehicle forward::

CMO_Biishe says:
::Looks at the president::  Eckoi:  There are many people who want to know if thier families are all right.  We need to get some control here so that we can help all the families  ::Under her breath::  that still live.

Host Adrianna says:
<Huroc> MR. PRESIDENT, get away from the chockner!!!

OPS_Owens says:
$::is thrust into his seat::

CNS_Richardson says:
$::keeps the pedal to the metal::

CSO_Raal says:
CMO: I have Ryan.  You get Baptiste.

Host Adrianna says:
ACTION: 8:27 - The fighters come around and fire again, the missiles consume the helicopter ... and the President disappears in flames.

MO_van_den_Broek says:
$::stumbles back a little, then holds on to Amendoiera::

Host Adrianna says:
<Huroc> ::Screams NO! as he is thrust back::

Host CO_Vakol says:
::goes over to the Doctor:: CMO: Doctor, as soon as possible I want President Eckoi sedated until this situation is over.

CMO_Biishe says:
::Looks at the CSO as if he is slightly out of his mine::  CSO:  Excuse me?

Host Adrianna says:
ACTION: 8:27 - The resulting explosion flings Huroc and the others into the side of the truck.

CSO_Raal says:
::flown back from the chopper::

CMO_Biishe says:
::puts up a hand to protect her face, flung back against a wall::

Host Adrianna says:
ACTION: 8:28 - The fighters disappear into the night sky.

Host CO_Vakol says:
::frowns and mutters something unintelligible as he sees President Eckoi consumed in flame:: Huroc: Minister Huroc, please join me...

CSO_Raal says:
CO: Did they just assassinate their president!

OPS_Owens says:
$::leans out the window to see what the Gothraic men are doing::

Host Adrianna says:
<Huroc> ::Tears come down the side of his face:: CSO: T-they didn't know ... t-t-they couldn't have known ...

Host CO_Vakol says:
CSO: Not intentionally...

CSO_Raal says:
CO: Bullsh--!

CNS_Richardson says:
$::heads the vehicle at high speed back toward their destination::

CMO_Biishe says:
::Looks up a bit dazed::

Host CO_Vakol says:
::walks up to Huroc, grips his shoulders, and slaps him across the face:: Huroc: Pull yourself together, man ... you are the leader of your world at this moment, and you need to act like it.

CNS_Richardson says:
$::calls over her shoulder:: MO: Still got everyone with us?

CSO_Raal says:
CO: I apologize, sir, but with all due respect, they were looking for an excuse to shoot that thing.

Host Adrianna says:
ACTION: 8:30 - The weird men open fire after the vehicle. Bullets ricochet off the vehicle's exterior.

MO_van_den_Broek says:
$CNS: I think so...::trying to keep the dust from her eyes::

Host Adrianna says:
<Huroc> ::Calms down::

Host CO_Vakol says:
::glares at Raal:: CSO: Get in that truck, Raal ... right now.

OPS_Owens says:
$::slides back in:: CNS: I think we lost them.  Our destinations should be just around that corner.  ::points::

CSO_Raal says:
CO: Aye sir.

CMO_Biishe says:
::Feels the back of her head, wincing::

CNS_Richardson says:
$::cringes at the sound of ricochets:: Everyone: Keep your heads and arms inside the vehicle!

Host Adrianna says:
::Shuddering as she stands beyond the others ... in shock::

Host Adrianna says:
ACTION: 8:31 - The vehicle soon escapes the onslaught of weapons fire.

CSO_Raal says:
Huroc: Minister, who would assume the presidency in your government?

CMO_Biishe says:
::Swallows and slowly stands up with a wince, feeling her back bruising::

OPS_Owens says:
$::is rather glad his timing to bring his head inside is what it is::

CNS_Richardson says:
$::nods at the Ops, as she careens the vehicle around the corner indicated by Owens::

Host CO_Vakol says:
::slips his arm around Huroc and guides him back towards the truck:: Huroc: You need to focus on the task at hand ... and that is getting us to Technical Building. You know that once we are there, we will be able to save millions. Now do what it will take.

Host Adrianna says:
<Huroc> CSO: I think the War Advisor ... but he's dead.

CSO_Raal says:
Huroc: Who'd be after him?

Host Adrianna says:
<Huroc> ::Nods:: CO: Yes ... you're right. It's just ... it's just ...

Host CO_Vakol says:
CSO: Mister Raal!

OPS_Owens says:
$::hangs onto the door to avoid being flung across the "cockpit"::

CSO_Raal says:
CO: I'm only getting some information about this planet.

Host Adrianna says:
<Huroc> CSO: The State Advisor.

CMO_Biishe says:
::Walks over to the truck, her eyes slightly crossing.  With compassion::  Adrianna:  Are you all right?

MO_van_den_Broek says:
$::is thrown to the other side of the truck, landing unceremoniously on Amendoiera::

CNS_Richardson says:
$::slows down as the hospital comes into view:: All: I think we've arrived! :;brings the vehicle to a stop::

Host CO_Vakol says:
CSO: Mister Raal, if you ever question my orders again I will have you relieved of duty ... permanently. The next words I want to hear out of your mouth are 'yes sir'. Do I make myself clear?

OPS_Owens says:
$::smiles at the CNS::  CNS: Excellent driving!

Host Adrianna says:
ACTION: 8:33 - As the XO's team pulls up to the hospital ... they see that the building has toppled over ... doctors and nurses have set up a massive triage center in the large parking lot just beyond the building.

CSO_Raal says:
CO: Aye sir.

Host Adrianna says:
ACTION: 8:33 - Dozens of people, maybe hundreds, are gathered there ... nearly all are injured, most seriously.

CNS_Richardson says:
$::nods:: Ops: Thank you, sir. Now, let's get everyone inside?

Host CO_Vakol says:
CSO: Now get to that truck, and figure out how to drive it. ::guides Huroc to the truck::

CMO_Biishe says:
::Speaking calmly and quietly::  CO: Sir, what do you wish us to do at the moment.

CNS_Richardson says:
$::jumps out of the vehicle, and starts helping everyone out::

Host Adrianna says:
::Follows behind the others, still in shock::

OPS_Owens says:
$::as the vehicle stops he exits and moves to the rear::

CSO_Raal says:
::gets in driver's seat::

OPS_Owens says:
$::reaches up for the MO's hand to assist her out::

Host Adrianna says:
<Huroc> ::Gives a concerned look at Adrianna, and gets into the truck, careful not to step on the unconscious CTO and FCO::

MO_van_den_Broek says:
$::looks at the sight in front of her, and, not looking away, gets out of the truck and follows Richardson::

CNS_Richardson says:
$MO: Let's get to work. These people need our help.

OPS_Owens says:
$::watches the MO walk by then smells his underarm::

CSO_Raal says:
::starts the engine and puts the truck into gear::

CNS_Richardson says:
$Ops: We need a command center set up; can you handle that?

Host CO_Vakol says:
::loads Huroc into the back of the truck and glances at Biishe::: CMO: What is the crews condition?

Host Adrianna says:
::Was still in shock, finally understands what the CMO said to her:: CMO: They ... they ... he ... my god ...

MO_van_den_Broek says:
$::nods, and walks up to one of the nurses::  Nurse: I'm a doctor.

OPS_Owens says:
$::nods::  CNS: I'll get to that straight away.

Host Adrianna says:
<Gothraic Nurse> $ ::Looks at the MO:: MO: You're from the Federation?

CSO_Raal says:
::pulls away from the area:: CO: Where to, captain?

MO_van_den_Broek says:
$Nurse:  Yes.

CMO_Biishe says:
CO:  They will be fine... if we can get them out of here.

Host Adrianna says:
<Huroc> ::Motions for the CSO to head down the road:: CSO: This will take us to the bridge that will lead to the Tech End building.

Host CO_Vakol says:
CSO: Hold your proverbial horses, Mister Raal ...

MO_van_den_Broek says:
$Nurse:  We're here to help.

CNS_Richardson says:
$::sets to work, getting everyone settled, and sets available medical staff to work on the injured::

CMO_Biishe says:
::Lays a comforting hand on Adrianna as she climbs in::

CSO_Raal says:
Huroc: Aye, minister.  ::heads in indicated direction::

Host Adrianna says:
<Gothraic Nurse> $ ::Looks at the beaten, small group of individuals wearing Starfleet dress uniforms ... expected more:: MO: Well, we need all the help we can get.

Host CO_Vakol says:
::nods at the CMO:: CMO/CSO: Then we continue to the technical building... ::climbs into the cab next to Raal::

OPS_Owens says:
$::gathers some material that was in the rear of the truck and takes it toward the outside entrance of the hospital::

Host CO_Vakol says:
::sitting next to the driver of the truck, raises his arm and points towards the bridge ahead:: CSO: Engage...

MO_van_den_Broek says:
$Nurse:  More help is on its way.  I need a tricorder.

CMO_Biishe says:
::Leans back against the back of the chair, her head throbbing in tempo with her heart beat::

CSO_Raal says:
::steps on the gas::

Host Adrianna says:
ACTION: 8:38 - The CO's truck accelerates, and proceeds toward the bridge.

Host Adrianna says:
<Gothraic Nurse> $ MO: A what?

Host CO_Vakol says:
::watches the bridge carefully for signs of damage:: All: Everyone hang on to something.

MO_van_den_Broek says:
$Nurse:  A tricorder.  It's a ....well, um......how do you diagnose your patients?

CSO_Raal says:
::speeds up to jump any gaps::

CMO_Biishe says:
::Slowly her eyes close::

Host Adrianna says:
<Gothraic Nurse> $ MO: We examine them ... as best as possible. ::Sighs, the dried blood still evident on his clothing:: We're losing more than we can save.

OPS_Owens says:
$::begins to set up a make-shift tent out of the material....  Combat barracks style::

Host CO_Vakol says:
CSO: Slowly, Mister Raal ... you may not see a hole before we hit it at this rate of speed.

CNS_Richardson says:
$::looks around, and sighs, realizing their work is cut out for them::

CSO_Raal says:
CO: Aye sir.  A little too much Evel Kenevel there.

MO_van_den_Broek says:
$Nurse:  Then let's prioritize.  You can assist.

CSO_Raal says:
::backs off on the speed::

Host CO_Vakol says:
::quirks an eyebrow at Raal:: CSO: Who?

Host Adrianna says:
ACTION: 8:40 - As they clear a few smaller collapsed buildings, and dozens of people roaming the streets ... the CO's team can spot a large bridge which seems relatively intact that connects this part of the city to another ... large amounts of smoke can be seen from the area they're heading toward.

Host Adrianna says:
<Gothraic Nurse> $ ::Nods, and gestures for the MO and the others to come and get cleaned up to help::

CSO_Raal says:
CO: An ancient Earth stunt man, circa 1950s to 1970s.

MO_van_den_Broek says:
$::goes and gets cleaned as best she can, and starts to work on acute assessment duty::

Host CO_Vakol says:
:considers Mister Raal's words and :mutters:: Self: Humans ... how typical.

OPS_Owens says:
$::finds some debris that would make excellent supports for the large tent::

CSO_Raal says:
CO: I'm Betazoid.

Host CO_Vakol says:
CSO: I was referring to the human predisposition towards killing oneself needlessly ... Evil Kneival, as your reference point.

Host Adrianna says:
<Huroc> ::Looks around, saddened by all this destruction::

CSO_Raal says:
CO: Some humans had a knack for living dangerously.

CMO_Biishe says:
::The sounds of noise seem to recede in her mind::

CSO_Raal says:
::drives truck onto the bridge::

Host CO_Vakol says:
CSO: Some humans have a knack for dying young.

CNS_Richardson says:
$::pauses a moment treating an injured native, to check on Owens' progress:: Ops: How's it coming over there?

CSO_Raal says:
CO: Evel Keneval lived well into his 80s.

Host Adrianna says:
ACTION: 8:44 - The bridge is filled with abandoned cars ... apparently those who were afraid of a collapse evacuated ... amazingly, there is room for the truck to proceed through.

Host Adrianna says:
::Sits silently at the back of the truck::

CSO_Raal says:
CO: And his son, Robbie, followed in his footsteps.

OPS_Owens says:
$::hears the counselor call.. then holds up some metal polls:: CNS: Great, now that I have supports for the Command Center.  ::smiles then moves under the material with the supports::

Host CO_Vakol says:
CSO: ...their is a reason why the Vulcan life expectancy is well over 200 years of age. We've expanded our lives by trying to continue them. Not risking them needlessly in our youths. Will your hero, Evil Kneival, may have lived well into his 80's, I doubt many of his contemporaries did.

CNS_Richardson says:
$::nods:: Ops: Excellent.

Host CO_Vakol says:
CSO: Not to mention that I am sure his needlessly entertaining antics did little to further the cause of mankind...

CSO_Raal says:
CO: Agreed.  It was just pure entertainment.

Host CO_Vakol says:
::looks out his window:: CSO: It was just pure stupidity...

CSO_Raal says:
::guides the truck over the bridge::

Host CO_Vakol says:
::glances into the back of the truck to see how everyone is doing::

OPS_Owens says:
$::begins propping up parts of the tent::

CSO_Raal says:
CO: Some of history's greatest figures benefited from "pure stupidity."

Host Adrianna says:
ACTION: 8:47 - HRRRRRUUUIIIIIIIIIINNKKKK -- SNAP! WHOOOOSH!!! Wires alongside the bridge start to snap at the extra weight.

CSO_Raal says:
CO: Uh oh.  Everyone: Hold on!  ::floors the truck::

Host CO_Vakol says:
CSO: Not Vulcan history, I assure you... ::grabs onto the door handle as he hears an awful sound::

Host Adrianna says:
ACTION: 8:48 - Some of the larger wires swing across the bridge, taking with them several vehicles.

OPS_Owens says:
$::places the final support in place then exits to admire his handy work::

Host Adrianna says:
ACTION: 8:48 - The truck starts ramming through cars trying to get to the other side.

Host CO_Vakol says:
All: hold on...

CMO_Biishe says:
::Is flung against Adrianna::

CSO_Raal says:
::holds steering wheel steady and presses hard on the accelerator::

CMO_Biishe says:
::Sluggishly brings her mind back to where they are at::

Host Adrianna says:
::Tries to hold onto the CMO::

CSO_Raal says:
::watches the speedometer (or whatever it is) go past 200 kph::

Host Adrianna says:
ACTION: 8:50 - The bridge starts to waver back and forth ... shifting, wires breaking, cars falling off ... some with hidden passengers still in it.

Host CO_Vakol says:
::thinks Mister Raal has lost his mind, going so fast::

Host Adrianna says:
ACTION: 8:50 - The side of the bridge where the truck came on begins to fall into the river below ... the other side is about to fall off as the truck approaches.

OPS_Owens says:
$::moves toward the CNS and MO::  CNS/MO: I think everything is set.  Need any help here?

CSO_Raal says:
All: We're not going to make it!

CMO_Biishe says:
::Reaches to grasp the side of the car and try to pull herself up.  Feels nauseous::

CNS_Richardson says:
$Owens: Great, it looks like things are getting under control. You can pitch in wherever the MO needs you, right now

Host Adrianna says:
ACTION: 8:51 - The truck clears the bridge just as it falls into the river ... and the truck, thanks to the imagination of this highly caffeinated AGM, is airborne.

Host CO_Vakol says:
::sees the bridge falling into the water on the vehicles side mirror and thinks 'objects in mirror may be closer than they appear'::

MO_van_den_Broek says:
$OPS: Maybe you can lift some of these stretchers.

CSO_Raal says:
::concentrates on lifting the truck mentally over the cracking::

OPS_Owens says:
$::nods at the CNS and MO then moves to one side of a stretcher::

Host CO_Vakol says:
::feels the vehicle land heavily, amazed that a 2 ton vehicle could ever be airborne ... perhaps gravity is less here than on Vulcan::

Host Adrianna says:
ACTION: 8:51 - The truck comes down hard ... everything shakes, the lights shatter, one of the windows shatters ... the truck swerves, doing a 360 before coming to a halt on the other side.

CMO_Biishe says:
::Is bounced against the roof of the car and cries out in pain::

CSO_Raal says:
::head hits on the steering wheel upon landing::

Host Adrianna says:
::Screams as she holds onto the CMO::

OPS_Owens says:
$::begins to remember the sight of a large spaceship filling the forward port of a smaller craft::

Host Adrianna says:
<Huroc> ::Gets out of the truck coughing::

CSO_Raal says:
::aloud:: Ohhh... medic!

Host Adrianna says:
ACTION: 8:54 - Smoke begins to pour out of the truck's engine.

Host CO_Vakol says:
::is splattered with glass as one of the windows shatter and grips his seat tightly breathing deeply as the truck comes to a stop:: CSO: If .. we .. ever .. get back to the Paula Greene, you are assigned to Mister Baptiste for pilot training until further notice....

OPS_Owens says:
$::shakes his head wondering if he's getting shell shock::

CSO_Raal says:
CO: You think he might... OW!... learn a few things from me?

CNS_Richardson says:
$::notices Owens' behavior:: Ops: Everything ok there?

Host CO_Vakol says:
::looks at the CSO in disbelief ... climbs down out of the truck:: CSO: Absolutely...

CMO_Biishe says:
::Begins to cough, pain going through her head, reverberating through her body::

Host Adrianna says:
::Helps the CMO out of the truck::

OPS_Owens says:
$CNS: In all honesty ma'am...  I think I am becoming a little shell shocked.  I'm having delusional visions of some sort.

CSO_Raal says:
::falls out of the truck with a thud::

CMO_Biishe says:
::Climbs out, holding onto Adrianna's arm and whispers her thanks::

Host Adrianna says:
<Huroc> ::Coughs some more, and examines the truck, then goes back and single-handedly gets the CTO and FCO out::

Host CO_Vakol says:
::wipes drops of blood from his face and upper body where the shattered window pelted him:: All: Anyone injured ... severely?

CSO_Raal says:
::lies on the ground, motionless but conscious::

Host Adrianna says:
<Huroc> ::Brings the CTO & FCO over to a spot cleared of wreckage, and places them gently on the ground::

CNS_Richardson says:
$::nods:: Ops: It'll be ok; this is a rough situation. Just keep your mind on the tasks at hand, and we'll be fine... We'll deal with the shell-shock later; we're all feeling a little shell-shocked right now. Just hang in there, and let's help these people, ok?

Host Adrianna says:
<Huroc> ::Goes over, and gets the CSO over to the others as well:: CO: I think he's hurt.

CSO_Raal says:
::bleeding heavily from the forehead;:

CMO_Biishe says:
::Patting Adrianna's hand, walks a bit wobbly over to the CTO and FCO to check them out::

Host Adrianna says:
<Huroc> ::Sees the bleeding:: CMO: He's got a head injury!

OPS_Owens says:
$::nods at the counselor gaining a new look of confidence and continues to help out where he can::

Host Adrianna says:
::Helps the CMO along to the CSO, CTO and FCO to the side::

CNS_Richardson says:
$::whispers to the MO:: Keep an eye on the Ops, ok? We need to keep him occupied right now, I think.

Host Adrianna says:
::Mumbles to self:: This couldn't get any worse ...

Host Adrianna says:
ACTION: 8:57 - The truck explodes.

MO_van_den_Broek says:
$::nods, and watches Owens closely::

Host Adrianna says:
::Covers her face from the falling debris:: Never mind ...

Host CO_Vakol says:
::glances from one officer to the other as he removes his dress white jacket and uses it to dab at his own minor wounds::

CNS_Richardson says:
$::moves over to another patient, passing by Owens, and claps him on the shoulder:: Ops: Good show, man; keep up the good work

CMO_Biishe says:
::eyes a bit unfocussed::  Huroc:  Yes...  ::kneels down hard::

CSO_Raal says:
::aloud:: Uuugh

Host CO_Vakol says:
::is thrown to the ground as the truck explodes and lands headfirst in a culvert::

OPS_Owens says:
$::jumps slightly at the sudden 'thud' on his back::

Host Adrianna says:
<Huroc> ::Sits down with a huff next to the CSO::

OPS_Owens says:
$::rubs his temples to alleviate the pain in his head::

CNS_Richardson says:
$::frowns, as she watches the Ops officer::

CSO_Raal says:
::eyes flutter, loses consciousness::

CMO_Biishe says:
::Looks back at the truck, then continues to check out the CTO and FCO::

Host CO_Vakol says:
::rolls over onto his back an stares up into the chaotic night sky:: All: Someone up there doesn't like us ... some assistant deity, perhaps. Someone who thinks this is just a game ... a game that he can manage. An Assistant Game Manager, of sorts.

Host Adrianna says:
=/\= =/\= =/\= =/\= =/\= Pause Mission =/\= =/\= =/\= =/\= =/\=

This message includes a Star Trek: A Call To Duty mission transcript. The transcript is for entertainment purposes only and cannot be redistributed or copied. Copyright © 2001 by Star Trek: A Call To Duty. All Rights Reserved