Summary:
An asteroid is minutes away from striking off the coast of Caredonii. Varesh and Dr. Mills are held at gunpoint within the military facility, Raybetz is trying to assist McQuade and Ivara in repairing the laser weapon, Davis is organizing the "evacuate people up ropes" effort, and Command Power has managed into the blind, only to find it void of all life and most working electronics.

~"~"~"~"~"~Begin USS Andromeda: "And All the Stars Fall" Mission 10 - Stardate 11301.19~"~"~"~"~"~

Mitan says:
@::Slowly lowers his weapon from Varesh and Mills::
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::looks over the consoles that they have managed to get working, she frowns and begins replacing scorched wires as quickly as she can::
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
@::starts breathing again::
Mitan says:
@::Slowly:: CNS: Where?
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::looks at the expert running the targeting system:: Aloud: Does ::stops and switches to Froust:: Aloud: How long?
XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
::grabs the field generator and dashes outside with it::
Dr says:
@Raybetz/CSO: I have the location.  But power is only 76%.  Two minutes left...
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
@Mitan: Take us to the place where they are working with my friends.
SOPS_Cmdr_Davis says:
::watches as the pile of loose ropes has changed into a different pile of knotted ropes, all of which--hopefully--can be used as a harness, although no guarantees are being made on the comfort and ease of doing so::
Mitan says:
@::Nods and gestures:: CNS: This way.    ::Starts through the passageway, leading the two along the underground of the base.
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::without looking up:: Dr: What is the mass?
XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
::sprinting as fast as he can manage towards the military base::
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
@::follows Mitan, shooting Mills a relieved look::
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::curses herself and fumbles for the words in Faust:: Dr: How much big?

ACTION:
Near Davis, four wiry old men start grabbing the ropes and scrambling up the rock face.

Mitan says:
@::Leads Varesh and Mills out into a room, where McQuade, Ivara, Raybetz and the doctor are working::
Dr says:
@CSO: Four hundred mites wide.
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
@::with Mills at his side, he head for Raybetz:: Raybetz: How many men can you spare to help with the evacuation effort?
XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
::shouts at the demo team who blasted the entrance open:: Demo: Power, beam, go now!
Jaluk_Raybetz says:
@::Pacing back and forth, knowing that things are entirely out of his hands::
SOPS_Cmdr_Davis says:
::knots the last rope, pulling its ends away from himself hard to ensure the knot is stable, then picks up several others and walks towards the rock face as well::
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::nods without thinking as she finishes the repairs she can:: Dr: How much will beam..::pauses to think speaking fed standard for a moment:: Self: ablate... Dr.: make steam...
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::looks at Raybetz and points at the batteries:: Raybetz: As many of those?
Dr says:
@::Shrugs::
Minot_Sebnet says:
  ::Hurries quickly along behind Conor, rushing toward the military base::

ACTION:
Those outside may see in the distance the last of the village boats casting off and headed into deep water as quickly as possible, filled to the brim with natives.

The remaining hundreds of natives are beginning to crowd into the grove, as they've been summoned by the Living Lenloff's messengers. Women and children are at the forefront of the crowd.

Dr says:
@::With a measure of panic in his voice:: CSO: One minute to impact.......
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::looks at the telescope then shakes her head:: Dr: Beam center mass, full power one blast. as thin as possible.
Dr says:
@::Nods and quickly adjusts the controls....:: CSO: Now?
XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
::jumps into the base via the hidden entrance and starts yelling:: CSO: You here? I got power!
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: Leaving her husband to help some of the natives, she moves to join the others.::
XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
::scrambling through the corridors looking for the CSO and shouts:: CSO: You here?
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::holds her breath and looks at all the dials:: Dr. Now.
Minot_Sebnet says:
  ::Runs out in front of Conor and motions for him to follow, taking the appropriate path down the tunnels toward where he knows they must be::
Dr says:
@::Hits the controls::
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
::watches as the work the controls and hopes that whatever it was they did worked””
Jaluk_Raybetz says:
@CNS:  Many not.  Base nearly empty...evacuate already.  Help where can.

ACTION:
The laser weapon extended from the top of the military base flares into life, emitting a beam of energy into space.

CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::watches the controls and waits hopefully::
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
@::nods:: Raybetz: Can base be sealed, prevent water coming in?
Minot_Sebnet says:
@ ::Arrives at the room where his commanding officer and the strangers are gathered::
Minot says:
@::Jumps at the presence of Conor, as he runs into yet another on his patrol of the tunnels::
Minot says:
@XO: ...You...one of them?
Jaluk_Raybetz says:
@::Shakes his head::  CNS:  No.  We, I, must soon leave, too.
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: At the base of the mountain she looks upward, following the beam into space.  Whatever was decided, she hoped the meteor was either small and they destroyed it or if it was large they were only deflecting it.  She shook her head.  Her people knew what to do.::
XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
Minot: Yes, have power for beam. Where my people?
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
@Raybetz: I understand. ::it was a thought - not a good one, but a thought none the less::

ACTION:
A moment later, the laser controls begin to spark, the and beam of light flickers, still holding....

CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::winces at the sparking, but it isn't like they will get a second chance at this.::
Minot says:
@::Sighs:: XO: This way...   ::Leads the Command deep into the base's underground tunnel::
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
Minot: Must go quickly! No time left

ACTION:
After a full 49 seconds, the beam finally ceases, its power exhausted.

Dr says:
@::rushes back to the viewer, looking at the new location of the asteroid::
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::doesn't wait for results, moving to the source of the sparking pulling consoles off and beginning to replace scorched parts, not quite understanding the theory but knowing what burnt wire did::
Dr says:
@CSO: It is three, smaller! Less....   ::Motions "volume" with his hands::   Still coming.
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::without looking up:: Dr: Same velocity? Same time?

ACTION:
The asteroid fragments hit the atmosphere.

Jaluk_Raybetz says:
@::Doesn't hesitate::  All:  Leave base now, must.
Minot says:
@::Breaks into a run, and leads Conor out into the control room::
Jaluk_Raybetz says:
@::Looks to his people and speaks quickly in Mirrum, ordering them all out::
Dr says:
@::Closes his eyes and shakes his head::
Glab says:
  ::Wanders around nervously at the face of the cliff, looking up as the fast climbers make their ascent::

ACTION:
Davis and Knight-Sky, the sole officers still outside, bear witness to the impact....A flash of light can be seen in the distance over the ocean.

CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::shakes her head:: Raybetz/Dr: Go. I'll be right behind
Glab says:
  ::Jumps at the flash of light, and looks skyward now, deeply frightened::
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
::sees the CSO:: CSO: I'm too late right?

ACTION:
The three largest Faust boats, the ones with sails, ignite, the sails going up in flame. Figures begin scrambling, trying to cull the fire before it can spread.

CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::Moves to the telescope:: XO: quite likely, yes, sir.
Jaluk_Raybetz says:
@::Puts his hand on the doctor's shoulder::  Dr:  Time to go.  ::Takes off at a sprint toward the tunnels::
SOPS_Cmdr_Davis says:
::flinches a little at the light, oddly wandering away from the cliff face in amazement::
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
CSO: So much for salvaging these power cells then ::stops for a moment to catch his breath:: did we hit it?

ACTION:
Those not underground receive an instant sunburn, as their skin reddens and, if particularly sensitive, slightly blisters.

CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::looks at the XO:: XO: What power cells? ::looks him up and down:: XO: Frankly sir if you don't have them with you it doesn't matter.  I would strongly suggest going with the base commander.
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: Watching, the meteoroid she, hand to her brow, she sees the flash of impact.  Along her skin she could feel a blast of heat.  Her concern went to those not adapted to high temperatures.::

ACTION:
23 seconds later, the ground begins to shake. One of the old climbers, fifteen feet up, loses his grip and falls to the ground. The other three manage to hold firm as the cliff sways and shakes.

Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
::takes off backpack and hands it to CNS::
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: Seeing the man fall, barely keeping her own balance, she goes to him.::
SOPS_Cmdr_Davis says:
::doesn't notice the climber's plight, as he's probably coming close to soiling himself::

ACTION:
A minute later, the rocking ceases.

CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::sits down as the base rocks:: XO: We've got about eight minutes until this place comes down around our ears, and somewhere in the range of 20 minutes until a tsunami.
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
::takes the backpack::
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: Carefully she begins to treat him, ignoring the shock on his face,::   Elder: Your ankle is sprained.  You will need the help of the others.  You must get inside.
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
::Looks upward to see if any of them will return.::
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
@CSO: Unless you can aim the laser at the ocean and boil it away, let’s get out of here.
Lenloff says:
::Arrives on the scene, just having got his footing again, and starts giving orders to the natives in the area.::
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
@::idly wonders what's in the backpack::
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::looks at the backpack, noticing it for the first time:: XO: Is that the power cells?
SOPS_Cmdr_Davis says:
;:turns for a moment, still a little stunned, before trying to hit his combadge...which feels a lot like not having a combadge on::
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: She calls over to a group who are not far and motion that they will need to help the man.::
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
@CSO: Yes, anything that didn't look burned up from the blind. Can you do anything useful with them?
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: Finished binding the man's ankle, she stands up and away, letting them handle him.::
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::shrugs:: XO: There is some debris coming down, might be able to burn some of it off.

ACTION:
The three remaining climbers, plus five younger ones, begins scaling the cliff all the faster, but only going about twenty feet up, then securing the rope and climbing back down.

CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
@XO: If there's nothing I can do here, I'd better get out there and help.
Lenloff says:
::Approaches Davis:: SOPS: You look hurt...
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: It is the crying that attracts her attention as she finds some of the younger children in pain, blisters starting to form.  But there is nothing she can do for them now.  Now, they needed to get out of here.::
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::takes the backpack and dumps it carefully on the ground her eyes scanning over the selection::
SOPS_Cmdr_Davis says:
::looks at Lenloff, then at his hands, which he just now realizes really, really do hurt...::
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
@CNS: Go. Do what you can. We'll try blast whatever’s left.
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
@XO: Not much can be done in 20 minutes. But I'll try.

ACTION:
A single strike hits a building in the town square, blasting it apart.  Another strikes the abandoned beach.

CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::frowns at the power cells, and begins stripping them and prepping to plug them in where the batteries were:: XO: Strip 1/4 inch off the connection terminals and line them up here. ::points::
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
@::turns and heads back out to the grove where the rest of the townsfolk are::
SOPS_Cmdr_Davis says:
Lenloff: I...::grimaces::...think you're right...
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
@::starts prepping cells like the CSO demonstrated::
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: Tears the hem of her shirt and makes some makeshift bindings she wraps around the older children's hands so they can climb.  The younger will have to be helped with the harnesses.::
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::without scanners or useful power converters she doesn't know what the power cells will do to the system, she plugs one power cell into the system and prays::

ACTION:
Another asteroid ejecta strikes the pier, destroying it.

Lenloff says:
SOPS: Go. Go up rope.
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
::emerges from the base and runs for the grove::
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::shakes her head and waits to see if the system accepts the power::
Lenloff says:
::Turns to Knight-Sky:: CMO: You. Go up rope.
SOPS_Cmdr_Davis says:
::his head is clearing a little, which only seems to help him to realize the pain::  
SOPS_Cmdr_Davis says:
::Turns::

@ACTION:
The control panel lights up with power.

SOPS_Cmdr_Davis says:
::shakes his head::  Lenloff: They go.  ::points towards the remaining children, as well as the others who are waiting::
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::shrugs slightly and moves to the targeting scope:: XO: Stand there and do what I say. ::points::
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
::reaches the grove, looking around for Sky and Davis::
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: Taking one of the smaller children, who seems more in shock, she has her placed on her back and tied on.  Then quickly she begins to join the others.  This was not a time or place to argue.::

ACTION:
The strikes come more frequently now, hitting all around the shore and village.  Three hit the cliff face, shaking those who are currently hanging precariously from it. But the children clench their teeth and hold tightly.

Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
@::takes a position at the control panel:: CSO: Yes...sir

@ACTION:
The CSO can see a number of ejecta coming through the scope....and two larger-than-usual hurtling toward them, at least one within reach of the evacuation efforts.

CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::watches:: XO: Turn that dial all the way to the left and the one in the middle move it to the third selection from the middle::
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: At the strike, she almost loses her hold.  Pressing herself to the face, she regains her equilibrium and then quickly resumes her assent.::
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
@::starts adjusting dials::
Lenloff says:
SOPS: You must go. Tell other strangers: "Caredonii did not kill."
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::keeps looking through the scope:: XO: Three switches to your top left. flick them up.
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
@::flicks switches::
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::nods:: XO: Press and hold the middle button.
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
::spots Sky climbing with a child strapped to her back, and Davis talking with the Lenloff, heading over to Davis:: SOPS: How is everything?
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::starts counting up::
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
@::presses and holds the middle button::
SOPS_Cmdr_Davis says:
::wonders if Varesh is intact mentally with that question, given the panic and chaos around them::
SOPS_Cmdr_Davis says:
CNS: Too many people, not enough time.
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
::nods:: SOPS: I can see that. ::sighs:: Will it be too much to ask if a Federation ship could swoop in and rescue all of us?

ACTION:
The laser sparks to life, striking one of the two asteroids nearest the evacuation. Those outdoors see only a shower of sparks in the upper atmosphere, none of which survive to hit the ground.

CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
~~~~ CO:  Ethan, you are out of time.~~~~

ACTION:
The climbers run more ropes, going up 45 feet now. The women begin climbing.

CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::smiles ever so slightly:: XO: Now we plug the rest of the cells in.
Lenloff says:
::Looks between the strangers:: SOPS/CNS: Please. Go.
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::moves from the targeting station replacing the spent battery packs with fresh power cells::
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
@CSO: Right, I’ll keep prepping the remaining cells ::gets back to work::
Lenloff says:
SOPS/CNS: Go up.
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
~~~~ CNS:  Where are you?~~~~
SOPS_Cmdr_Davis says:
::continues looking at Lenloff, "Caredonii did not kill" still echoing in his mind::
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
~~~CMO: At the base of the cliff. We're climbing now.~~~
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
@CSO: What can we do about the tsunami?
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
::looks at Lenloff:: Lenloff: What of you?
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::nods to herself as she finishes wiring in the prepped cells, she turns back to the targeting console without pausing as McQuade continues wiring things in::
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@XO: Can you swim sir?

ACTION:
The second asteroid ejectum hurtles after the first.

CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: simply nods to herself , grateful for her Vulcan heritage at the moment as well as the help above as they make the long climb upward.::
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::checks the targeting scope then moves to the firing station moving dials and gauges then running back to the scope::
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
@CSO: I'd rather we have a plan that keeps people dry
Lenloff says:
CNS: Must get my people safe.
Lenloff says:
::Looks for Sebnet::
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::nods to herself:: XO: Don't touch any of the wires for a minute.
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
::nods slowly, before herding Davis to the cliff:: ~~~XO: How's things with you? Will you get out before the wave arrives?~~~
Minot_Sebnet says:
  ::Milling through the crowd, trying to reassure people as much as possible, though he doesn't quite believe half of what he's telling them::
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::presses the button again without waiting for confirmation that the XO is clear::
Lenloff says:
::Catches Sebnet by the arm:: Sebnet: You. You go up. Tell Mirrum Faust did not kill military.
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
@::watches what the CSO is up to while still prepping power cells::
SOPS_Cmdr_Davis says:
::needs the herding, as he's confused as hell::

ACTION:
A third blast emits from the beam weapon. Those outsides are struck by a quick blast of sound as a second smallish asteroid is exploded seemingly just over their heads.

CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
SOPS: How's your hands? Can you climb?
SOPS_Cmdr_Davis says:
CNS: I'll have to.  ::doesn't relish the prospect of doing so, but what choice is there?::

ACTION:
The shot also clears out much of the remaining ejecta. A few smallest pieces strike the ground, one striking the cliff face 100 meters above the evacuation efforts, sending dust and small rubble outward toward those still on the ground.

CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
SOPS: Then start climbing. The Lenloff was insistent. ::pushes the man towards the ropes::
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
@CSO: How much power is in these cells? Can we continuously fire for any length of time?
Minot_Sebnet says:
  ::Blinks a few times, confused::  Lenloff:  What are you talking about?
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::sighs slightly and looks into the scope:: XO: Not for particularly long, no

ACTION:
Everyone above and below ground hears the shockwave strike, like standing beside a roaring train. Those above ground feel the gust of warm air sweep over them.

Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
@CSO: Any large bits still threating to rain down on us?
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: Talking to the child to keep her calm, she stops and tells her to duck her head just as she does so.::
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::ignores the XO for a moment as she ducks under the targeting console::
Lenloff says:
Sebnet: Some Mirrum must live, not just Faust.
SOPS_Cmdr_Davis says:
::briefly considers the ass kicking he'd like to provide Varesh for the pushing, but quickly ignores that in favor of the horrible pain he probably is about to experience; he grabs the rope and tries not to dwell on it::

ACTION:
The last of the Faust women, with the exception of Reela and Ranhana, have loaded the ropes on the cliff.

Minot_Sebnet says:
  ::Watches him a moment, then nods slowly, understanding his meaning...if good relations between the governments can continue, this would go a long way toward it::  Lenloff:  Very well.  I will go.
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
::feels the shockwave pass over them, very much aware of the pain that Davis is experiencing:: SOPS: If we make it out of this, you can hit me as much as you like.
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: As the debris clears some and she can breathe, she begins the climb again.  Back into the rhythm, she again talks to the child to keep her calm.::
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
::rises from under the console:: XO: That’s cleared most of the debris, you should go sir.
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
@CSO: And what do you intend on doing?
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::obviously lying:: XO: I'll be right behind you.  ::continues doing...something to the dials::
SOPS_Cmdr_Davis says:
::climbs::
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: in the back of her mind, she shares again with Ethan how glad she was they had left the children behind with Aaron.::
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
::waits for the women to be up the cliff a bit before starting the climb himself, looking around for the Captain::
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
@CSO: The privilege of dying in such a manner is limited to command staff. Unless you have a plan we're both leaving here.
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::moves to a console that had been damaged by the falling debris caused by the shockwave and begins replacing things:: XO: Unless you suddenly understand this machine then there is nothing else you can do here, sir. I have no intention of dying.
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
@CSO: Again then what’s the plan?
Minot_Sebnet says:
  ::Begins the climb, moving rather quickly, and only held up by some slower individuals near the top of his rope::
ACTION:
Those at the top of their respective ropes watch the waters pensively.
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::pauses to look at the XO:: XO: Sir, I can spend five minutes explaining the plan and not have enough time to do it, or I can just do it....what would you like sir?
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
@::looks at the CSO:: CSO: Guess I'll see you on the other side then. Good luck. ::starts making his way out::
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: Arriving with others at the top of the rope, she shifts slightly to look back outwards.::
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
::climbs as high as he can behind the others, hoping that they are high enough off the ground::

@ACTION:
McQuade heads out with Conor, guiding Reela and Ranhana as they go.

ACTION:
Most of the village men make it up the ropes.

CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@XO: Likewise sir.  ::moves from panel to panel her eyes reading over the text of unfamiliar words, making adjustments as best she can::
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
CEO/Reela/Ranhana: We gotta run! ::starts picking up the pace::
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::checks over the power cells, picking up two and putting them into the backpack by the door, mindful of the leads:: Self: This is a horrible plan.
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: A glance down shows her the progress of the others... the fair skin of her team picking them out of the natives.  Without a mental connection, it was doubtful they could do the same with her.::

ACTION:
Those watching the sea think that can see a slight disturbance at the edge of the horizon.

Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
CEO/Reela/Ranhana: Faster!
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::flicks some switches then moves to the targeting system, making a mental note to pick up a mechanical watch when she had the time.::
Minot_Sebnet says:
  ::Reaches the top, leaning down to give people a hand as they near the edge::

@ACTION:
The XO's group travels through the maze of underground passageways, littered with debris that fell during the quake.

CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: The child, Ambri, clinging tightly to her has gone quiet. Briefly she wonders where the rest of her family was.::
SOPS_Cmdr_Davis says:
::hands bleeding at this point, he continues to climb bit by bit::
Jaluk_Raybetz says:
::Has sent most of his men ahead and stands, watching, near the grove but not in it...as commanding officer, it's not in his job description to save himself, but to try to get as many other people to safety as soon as possible, and hopes that those of his men who've reached the top are doing just that::

@ACTION:
The XO's group escapes the military base and nothing but 130 meters of open field separates them from the ropes to safety.

CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
::scans the horizon, glancing upward once::
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
::grabs the hand of one of the locals to encourage to move faster:: All: 100m left, we can make it!
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: She could imagine the loss these and many others will have suffered.  The question raised is why did they have to?::
Reela says:
::Hurries along as the XO pulls her forward::

ACTION:
The water recedes from the beach.

CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::moves out of the control room, closing as many doors as she can, trying to seal off as much of the nearby base as she could while leaving one corridor open towards the escape hatch::

ACTION:
The tide begins to rise, waters rushing up the beach with new vigor.

Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
::arrives at the cliff bottom and starts pushing Reela up:: All: Go!
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::returns to the control room and checks the targeting computer, she picks up one of the heavy tools and sets it almost on top of the firing button.::

ACTION:
As the water strikes buildings and rubble, it shoots into the air with the force, as the tide moves inexorably toward the cliff.

Reela says:
::Struggles a moment with the rope, then begins climbing.::
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
::starts free climbing and hopes to grab a rope slightly further up::

ACTION:
McQuade helps Ranhana up another rope.

CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::nods and drops the tool into place and takes a breath, much shallower then she would like. She shoulders the pack and begins running out of the base::

ACTION:
The first drops of water reach the cliff, hitting McQuade and Conor in the feet before they're off the ground.

Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
::starts trying to pick up the speed of the climb now that his feet are wet::

ACTION:
A blast of light, on widespread setting, fires from the low-set laser, cutting across the beach diagonally, blocking the water's path from the cliff.

CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::Swears as she bangs her broken arm into a door, she blinks back the blackness hard, and keeps running::

ACTION:
Superheated steam begins to fill the area as the waters rise...3 feet....5 feet...7 feet... but do not yet hit the evacuation cliff.

ACTION:
Waters rush into the military base itself, forcing itself through every crack and crevice, water levels within the base rising.

CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
::smiles at Ivara's ingenuity and puts up with the sweat running down his face::
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
::stops for a second to watch what’s happening around him and figures out if the water has hit the military base::
Lenloff says:
::Grabs the bottom of a rope and moves up as far as he can, although people are already more than 20 feet down the rope::
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: All becomes eerily quiet as they feel the temperatures rising.  reaching back, she checks her child with a pat.::
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::keeps running as she splashes through the puddles quickly slowed as she is faced with the rising water, now ankle deep, now mid-calf::

ACTION:
With a final spark, the beam weapon flickers out, all power exhausted, but having bought time for the last few to reach the ropes.  Water rushes toward the base of the cliff.

CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::Winces as she rushes through a spray of water around a doorway, staggering on her feet through the thigh high waters::
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
::sighs as the beam splutters and the water rushes in::
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
::sees the laser die and resumes climbing::

ACTION:
The steam dissipates, and the water crashes in against the cliff base, slamming anyone still within 10 feet of the ground against the wall, and splashing up a good 25 feet, soaking in salty water anyone not at the very top of a rope. The waters settle at 8 feet deep and continue to rise.

@ACTION:
Water level in the base rises...three feet...three-point-five feet.

ACTION:
Three Caredonii are seen struggling in the water at the base, having lost their grip when smashed against the cliff.

Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
::grabs one of the ropes and start moving further up the cliff face:: ~~~CNS: How does the base look? CSO was in there firing the laser~~~

@ACTION:
Water level in the base rises...four feet...

CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
::high up, she can only watch the disaster continuing below.::
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::sees the light of the exit suddenly extinguished as water floods in from both sides she really should have planned this better, she takes a breath and dives under the water looking for a hand hold::
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
::gets soaked which is a welcome respite from the heat a bit earlier, watching as the water rises:: ~~~XO: I can't quite tell, but I haven't seen her emerge yet.~~~

ACTION:
The waters outside reach 9 feet deep...then seems to hold.

Jaluk_Raybetz says:
::Smashed into the base of the cliff and dazed for a moment, almost being carried back away with the tide, but he regains consciousness and flounders for a moment before finding his swimming ability again...makes his way toward the ropes as best he can::
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::can't really swim with one arm in a sling so she curls up and flows with the water, keeping her good arm tucked around her head::

@ACTION:
The force of the water shatters a window, causing a sudden influx of water and glass shards. Water within the base reaches 6 feet in a matter of moments.

ACTION:
The waters cover the entire beach, and all but decorative effaces of the tallest buildings. All that can be seen is water.

ACTION:
After a seemingly tremulous moment, the waters begin to recede suddenly from the surface, dragging everything in its reach back out toward sea.

Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
::notices the sea level starts dropping and starts climbing back down the cliff::

ACTION:
A cheer goes up amongst the natives. If a single one of them was on the ground, they'd all be hopping on one foot.
Jaluk_Raybetz says:
::Clings to a rope as the water drags him away from the cliff a moment -- he is only barely able to hold on before the water recedes past him, and he is suddenly swung back toward the cliff, impacting hard::
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
::watches the water recede, not sure if it would return::
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::Crashes into something as the water flows around her.::

ACTION:
The last of the waters pull back into the sea, the wide dropping once more. After a moment, it begins to rise again, to a foot above normal...then falls...and settles into its normal level.

CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: Sighs as the waters retreat.  But the question still remains, what caused this and was it over or did they only have a breather.::
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::Grips a door handle, and pulls herself up into a cavity formed in the top of a small hallway, she gasps for air as the currents suck her and everything around her is out::
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
::hops off the last of the cliff and starts sprinting back towards the base::
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
::looks down the rope below him to see if those lower down were climbing for the base of the cliff again::

@ACTION:
Water levels in the base proper level off as water drains from the base. But the underground passage to the control center is below ground, and has no place to drain.

ACTION:
The natives and Mirrum begin the careful process of climbing down the ropes, no one wanting to survive a tsunami just to die falling 20 feet.

ACTION:
Mothers begin searching for their children.

Jaluk_Raybetz says:
::After a while to rest himself, begins climbing down the rope to allow the traffic from above to move downward::
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::feels the dark waters calming around her, she opens her eyes in the muddy filth trying to get her bearings on where she is.  Her lungs burn as she begins to panic::
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
::arrives at the base and makes his way in calling out:: CSO: Ivara! You still in here?
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
::carefully climbs down and runs for the base, following Conor::
ACTION:
Dr Mills, on the ropes beside Davis, suddenly dematerializes.
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: Following the others down, it being faster than going up, she soon finds herself with earth under her feet.  Quickly she moves away so that others can continue as well.::
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
::starts making his way down into the command levels which remain flooded looking for the CSO::
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::closes her eyes again and tries to silence the pounding in her head, trying to calm herself trying to relax and let buoyancy tell her which way was up.  Her lips are fused shut trying to hold the last breath in::
ACTION:
Conor sees a flash of something humanoid in the swirling water of the declining hall.
SOPS_Cmdr_Davis says:
::double-takes, wondering if that was in fact the shimmer of a transporter, but more importantly wondering what happened to the person next to him::
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: Off to the side, she unknots the cloth holding the child to her.::
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
@::feels the tickle of escaping bubbles on her face as the last of her air escapes. This plan really sucked::
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
::sees something move and hopes it's Ivara takes a deep breath and dives into the water trying to grab whoever it is::
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: Swinging Ambri to the ground, she keeps the child close as they both look outward for her family.::
ACTION:
The Andromeda crew dematerializes, to find themselves on the transporter pad of the Champion.
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
::enters the base:: ~~~XO: Where are you? Did you find Ivara?~~~ ::still calling when he appears on a transporter pad::
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
::lands hard on the transporter pad:: Self: What the fu...
XO_LtCmdr_Mikka says:
::Hit her combadge:: *CO*: We've got them.
Champion_CO says:
*XO*: Understood. We're getting underway.
CSO_LtJg_Ivara says:
::is still lost, floating somewhere in the darkness.::
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
::sits up, taking in the familiar Federation decor::
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
::quickly looks around him seeing who is there::
SOPS_Cmdr_Davis says:
::nearly stumbles, surprised to be indoors, and not on a rope::
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: Suddenly finds herself on a transporter pad, the child she had protected nowhere in sight.  Clearing the pad, she steps down with the others.::
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
XO: Sir! Did you find Ivara?

ACTION:
A medical team swarms onto the transporter pad, running scans of each officer.

Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
::sees the CSO on the other side of the pad and points:: CNS: There...
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
All: Where are we?
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
::sighs in relief:: XO: They need to work on their timing...
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: Automatically she turns to find her husband.  It takes a moment to find him lying down on the transporter pad.::
Host XO_LtCmdr_Mikka says:
XO: Are we glad to have found you!  And everyone alive, too!   You're back on the Champion, Commander.
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: Kneeling down she gently touches him to find what is wrong other than the fact he is unconscious.::
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
Mikka: Your timing could do with some improvement. What the hell is going on out here?
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
Mikka: Thanks for the pickup though.
Host XO_LtCmdr_Mikka says:
::Shakes her head:: XO: We're not sure. We came here at maximum warp when we got the distress call from one of the blind that survived the first volley.  the Victor and the Curie are here as well, collecting the other blind survivors.
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: As a medical officer joins her, she reaches out imperiously for a tricorder.  She quickly finds one in her hand.  Adjusting it for Ethan's physiology, she runs a scan.::
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
Mikka: Were there any other survivors? Last we heard most of the blinds were destroyed and the surviving crew met quick and harsh ends.
Host XO_LtCmdr_Mikka says:
XO: We saw...something...on long range sensors on our way here, but by the time we were in short-range, it was gone.
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
::moves to stand with the XO and Mikka::
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: looks up::  MO:  Get him to medical.  He needs his lungs cleared and his blood oxygenated.::
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
::takes a seat on the edge of the pad and tries gets his thoughts together::
Host XO_LtCmdr_Mikka says:
XO: Sensors show a few life signs in the hit blinds. But five of them were never hit at all. The other ships are completing evacuations.
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: Stepping back she lets the others help.  One foot starts to follow when she pauses to look at the others.  The CSO is down.  Mentally torn, her duty is not and she makes her way over to the CSO.::
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
::looks around at the officers scattered about::
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
Mikka: What about the blind staff in our location? When we got back inside they were all gone.
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: It does not take her long to determine the CSO has the same problem.  Giving the order, another pair help take the scientist to medical.::
Host XO_LtCmdr_Mikka says:
::Grimaces:: XO: From what we've downloaded of logs so far, it looks like one of the other transporter-equipped blinds beamed them out after the original hits...but that blind was hit shortly thereafter.
Host XO_LtCmdr_Mikka says:
XO: It looks like whoever was doing the aiming, had managed to track some of the blinds by their transporter activity.

ACTION:
Medical teams (two each) rush Knight and Ivara out of the transporter room and to sickbay.

CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: Seeing the first officer sitting, she makes her way over there.::  XO:  The captain and Ivara are suffering oxygen deprivation.  I have already sent them to medical and will be joining them.  They should be fine.
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
Mikka: I want the head of the person responsible for this on my desk.
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
::turns and faces the CMO:: CMO: Thanks doc, how are you holding up?
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: Looks at his exposed skin and glances around at the others.::  XO:  You should get to medical soon as well.  It will not take long to treat those burns.
Host XO_LtCmdr_Mikka says:
::Holds her hands up:: XO: As soon as anyone knows more, we'll let your crew know too.
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
::moves to Davis:: SOPS: Let’s get you to medical. You can hit me now, on the way or later.
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
XO:  I, like the others living, and still have homes, were lucky.  ::her eyes tell him what she cannot, that he gets those involved and make them pay::
Host XO_LtCmdr_Mikka says:
XO: In the meantime, get some rest and see the doc in sickbay. We're headed back to DS17 at maximum warp.
SOPS_Cmdr_Davis says:
::doesn't have any idea what Varesh is speaking of, but ignores it anyway and heads towards Sickbay::
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
::nods at the CMO::
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
::looking around at those who had been exposed.::  XO:  The others with burns should get to medical soon so they can be treated.  It will not take long to treat the burns.
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
Mikka: And those who were flinging rocks at us? We let them walk away from this? They didn't want us on this planet and have managed to get rid of us while we head back to DS17
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
:: Without another word, she joins Varesh and Davis into heading toward medical::
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
::Frowns as Davis leaves ahead of him:: ~~~CMO: We made it out alive.~~~
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
All: You heard the doc, get yourself down to medical and fixed up. Never know what we're going to run into next.
Host XO_LtCmdr_Mikka says:
::Sighs:: XO: Like I said, the Victor and the Curie are evacuating the rest, and the Victor will complete a full investigation. But we have orders to get you back to DS17, stat. I don't know why or just what's going on....just that it seems bigger than one planet.
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
Mikka: On who's orders? I want to see all sensor data you've gathered so far.
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
~~~~ CNS:  Yes... but the devastation we leave behind... somehow, it does not seem right.::
Host XO_LtCmdr_Mikka says:
XO: I'll make sure you have full access to our sensor logs.  But the orders come straight from Starfleet Command. That's whose.
Host XO_Cmdr_Conor says:
Mikka: Great. My biggest fans
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
~~~CMO: Agreed, but I'm sure it will be addressed and assisted with. They can't not help. These people know about us now, so the Prime Directive is out the window.~~~
CMO_LtCmd_Knight-Sky says:
~~~~ CNS:  If someone does not cover it up.~~~~  :: entering the lift.::  I hope so my friend, I hope so....
CNS_Cmdr_Varesh says:
CMO: I hope so too.

~"~"~"~"~"~"~"~"End "And All the Stars Fall" Mission 10 - Time Lapse: 12.5 hours.~"~"~"~"~"~"~"~"~"~

Notes:
The Champion will make best possible speed back to Deep Space 17, arriving in 8.5 hours. Upon arrival, the Andromeda crew will be beamed directly to sickbay for better medical care than the Defiant-class medbay can provide. 

Captain Knight and Ensign Ivara will remain unconscious during this time, the former with significant brain damage, both suffering from oxygen deprivation during their final minutes on Caredonii. Neither are expected to regain consciousness for at least twelve hours.

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