Arcadia Station Mission 10302.17

Cast and Crew:
Station Manager: Brett Lynam
(CO) Captain Jason Claymore: Jason Sharp
(XO) Commander Christian Danforth: Craig Yoshihara
(CSO) Commander Shu'do Washudoin: Gus Calder
(CTO) Ensign Mrlr: Beth Kelley
And
(CMO) Ensign D'han Julline: Trish Bennett

Absent:
(CNS) Lieutenant Tasha Corjet: Catia Corjet
(TO) Ensign Jazra Dee: Charlotte Wrestler
And
(CEO) Lieutenant Junior Grade Lan Hoyt: Jason Rehberg

Supporting Cast (NPCs):
Bob Death: Brett Lynam
Belial: Brett Lynam

Host Brett says:
<<<<Resume Mission "Things that go Bump" Part -2 >>>>

CSO_Washudoin says:
:: Looks at the man called Death, scans the man to check his biological identity  ::

Host XO_Danforth says:
Death: So, how should I address you?

Host XO_Danforth says:
CSO: Mr. Washudoin, I'll be in the Captain's Ready Room until he arrives.  Would you join us after informing the captain of the situation?

CMO_D`han says:
::guides the Vedek to his VIP quarters:: Belial: These are your quarters... ::opens the door for him:: how long will you be staying?

CSO_Washudoin says:
XO: Understood Sir.

CTO_Mrlr says:
::heading up to Operations after starting the computer on the search parameters::

Host Death says:
::Smiles:: XO: Oh, you may call me Death if you like.  If that is too maudlin, perhaps Fred, or Bob, or something like that.

Host XO_Danforth says:
::Smiles at the charming man...whether or not he's Death::

Host XO_Danforth says:
Death:  Alright.  Death just seems too maudlin.  I'll go with Bob for want of something better.

Host XO_Danforth says:
Bob: Would you please accompany me to the Captain's Ready Room?  ::extends his hand as if to point the way::

Host Belial says:
CMO: Well child, since it appears we are too late to have a look at this orb, we will return in a couple of days.  ::Smiles at D'han and touches her left ear.::

CSO_Washudoin says:
:: Looks at his tricorder going on the fritz, it won't lock on to Death and shows a skull and crossbones on the display ::

CMO_D`han says:
::smiles at him:: Belial: What did you wish to speak about... that was to be in private?

Host Bob_Death says:
XO: Certainly.  However, I cannot stay too long.  Busy busy busy you know?

Host XO_Danforth says:
Bob: I understand.  ::leads Bob into the Ready Room and sits down in the Captain's usual position::

Host XO_Danforth says:
Bob: Please.  Have a seat.

Host Belial says:
CMO: Ah, your pagh is strong.  Your father said it would be.

CTO_Mrlr says:
::enters Operations:: CSO: Are they in the Ready Room?

Host Bob_Death says:
::Follows and sits at the table, folding his hands on the tabletop::

CSO_Washudoin says:
CTO: Yes they are.

Host XO_Danforth says:
Bob: I hope you don't mind my asking, but if you were in my position, I'm sure you would have questions.

CMO_D`han says:
Belial: Thank you. Why did the assembly send you and not my father... if you don't mind my asking.

Host XO_Danforth says:
Bob: I don't want you to "prove" who you are on anything, but is there anything you can say or do that would bring some sort of credential to who you are?  Maybe tell me about the death of my grandfather?  How he died?  What was he thinking at the moment he met you?

Host Belial says:
CMO: He was tied up with the reconstruction efforts on Cardassia.  He sends his love and will call you when he can.  I simply wanted you to tell me everything you remember about this supposed "Orb of History".

Host XO_Danforth says:
::wonders about his next question...why would Death take corporeal form?::

Host Bob_Death says:
XO: I understand your skepticism.  Perhaps my appearance is a bit too off-putting...

CMO_D`han says:
::nods:: Belial: Well I never saw the orb itself.... I saw the case. ::describes the case:: As I led a protest against this orb game, I never saw it and those who did... well I imagine they would not be terribly willing to talk to me.

CTO_Mrlr says:
CSO: Thank you. ::heads into the RR and enters quietly looking at the little man::

Host XO_Danforth says:
Bob: I hope you are not offended.  It's just that my crew and I went to a lot of trouble to save those children and don't relish the thought of losing them.

CMO_D`han says:
Belial: But the word on the promenade is that it was an interesting thing to behold. But that does not tell us if it was an actual orb or not.

Host Bob_Death says:
XO: Of course dear boy.  I quite understand.  Will this convince you"

Host Bob_Death says:
Action: The room darkens, "bob" grows in height and shifts shape until an eight-foot tall robed figure stands in the corner of the room.  The long black cloak billowing in an unfelt wind, a huge scythe clenched in one skeletal fist.

Host XO_Danforth says:
::feels fear, but convinces himself that this could be an illusion:: *CSO*: Mr. Washudoin, if you've already informed the Captain, please join me in the Ready Room.

Host Belial says:
CMO: ::Listens intently::  I see.  Well, the outer case of an orb can be easily copied, though a Prylar or Vedek would be able to tell the difference handily enough.  It is a shame you did not see the orb itself.

CTO_Mrlr says:
::her hackles go up as she sees this and she walks over to stand next to the XO:: XO: Sir, is there a problem?

CSO_Washudoin says:
*CO* Sir, the XO and I are in your ready room with... Death...if you would like to join us we're there. *XO* Yes Sir, on my way.

CMO_D`han says:
Belial: It is. Perhaps I can get someone from security to find those few who did.... CO: Captain... what do you think?

Host XO_Danforth says:
Bob: Well, Bob.  That is pretty convincing.  But to continue my skepticism, this could be an illusion.  Again, without causing anyone else a premature death, could you prove you are who you say you are?

CTO_Mrlr says:
::watches the figure out of the corner of her eye ready to attack if he makes a move towards either one.::

Host XO_Danforth says:
CTO: No, Ms. Mrlr.  Please keep calm.

Host Bob_Death says:
Action: The figure's cloak stops billowing and he stands looking rather dejected.

CSO_Washudoin says:
:: Enters the RR and sees the dark figure in the corner, wonders what happened to the old man ::

Host Bob_Death says:
XO: No?  Thought not.

Host Bob_Death says:
Action: Bob returns to his former shape, looking remarkably like Boothby::

Host CO_Claymore says:
::hears comm and D'han's question:: CMO: As long as we don't bother anyone, we can simply ask them to volunteer information.   *XO*: Death? What are you talking about.

Host Belial says:
::Raises his eyebrows::

Host XO_Danforth says:
*CO*: Sir, you'll have to see this in person.  He wants the children.  And I don't think he means alive.

CTO_Mrlr says:
::stands to one side watching the little man steadily::

CMO_D`han says:
::hears the CO asking about death, also raises her eyebrows::

CSO_Washudoin says:
:: His question has been answered, stands next to the XO ::

Host XO_Danforth says:
Bob: Well, that is a much more easy person to talk to.

Host XO_Danforth says:
Bob: But I noticed you still haven't answered me.

Host CO_Claymore says:
::looks at the doctor then at the vedek:: CMO, Belial: I think I am needed elsewhere ::stands:: If you'll excuse me.

Host XO_Danforth says:
Bob: Can you prove you are who you say you are without actually killing someone?

CMO_D`han says:
::is alarmed:: CO: The children? Oh... my.... I want to come too.

Host Bob_Death says:
XO: Oh, and while I'm at it, I would like a word with your Chief Engineer...and that Doctor of yours.  He and I had an appointment and she seems to have kept him from it.

CTO_Mrlr says:
::growls under her breath as she hears what the XO says about the children and her eyes grow flat as she continues to stare at the little man unblinkingly::

Host Belial says:
CO: Perhaps I can help Captain, the prophets have great power.

Host XO_Danforth says:
Bob: Perhaps after we discuss this current situation?

CMO_D`han says:
::nods agreeing with the vedek::

Host Bob_Death says:
XO: Hmmm, that is rather difficult since, well, that is what I do.  ::Laughs and shrugs::  Let me see....

Host XO_Danforth says:
::turns to CTO:: CTO: Ms. Mrlr.  Other than the Captain, make sure no one else enters this room. ::thinks of the CMO and the CEO's health::

Host Bob_Death says:
XO: Ah, I know!  I had a lovely conversation with your friend Morgan a few months ago.

Host CO_Claymore says:
Belial: You may be able to help in persuading this creature from leaving the children alone. & CMO: let's go.

CMO_D`han says:
::follows quickly after the CO::

CTO_Mrlr says:
XO: Aye sir. ::walks over and stands by the door continuing to watch the little man::

Host XO_Danforth says:
::hears the name of his old Captain and wonders to himself about this:: Bob: Oh?  And what did he say?

Host CO_Claymore says:
::prepares to lead the three of them to the TL... forgetting about his dress uniform and how uncomfortable it is::

Host Belial says:
::Follows the officers, his two prylars following somewhat less enthusiastically::

Host XO_Danforth says:
::still extremely skeptical....it could so far be smoke and mirrors, and even if he kills someone, that wouldn't prove he's death....just a murderer.::

Host CO_Claymore says:
CMO: Just out of curiosity, you did say the children were going to make a full recovery right?

Host Bob_Death says:
XO: Well, let me just say he looked far better when I saw him than likely he did when last you did.  But, never mind.  He was sad to leave you all.  Most are I have found.  I have a way of sneaking up on a person.

CMO_D`han says:
CO: Yes. They weren't going to die... which is why I thought it would be alright to have Hoyt perform his healing.

CSO_Washudoin says:
:: Wonders why this person has so many people scared, doesn't look that tough to me ::

CMO_D`han says:
::hurries along:: CO: In fact it was going to be a long and difficult recovery... but it was completely do able... as seen by Amanda’s recovery which was done without the Minaran healing.

Host XO_Danforth says:
::shaking his head at Death::  Bob:  I hope you won't take offense at this conversation, especially when you finally come for me, but I remain ever the skeptic in this situation.  You'll understand that we're used to having people want to take or destroy things from us that are meaningful, and I can't let you just take them.

Host CO_Claymore says:
::enters TL, and gives it instructions when everyone is inside::

Host CO_Claymore says:
CMO: Well then this Death character has the wrong children.

CMO_D`han says:
::nods:: CO: I agree.

Host XO_Danforth says:
Bob: The children are important to us all....in fact, Life is important to us all.

Host XO_Danforth says:
Bob: We cherish it.

Host Bob_Death says:
XO: Hmmm, well, it seems we are at am impasse.  Well, not exactly as I can take them when I choose.  Informing you was simply a formality and a courtesy.  However, I find I quite enjoy conversing with someone who is not bleeding or on fire or what have you.  What do you propose?

Host CO_Claymore says:
CMO: You have your medical tricorder with you correct?

Host Bob_Death says:
XO: Of course you cherish it dear boy!  ::Smiles::  As well you should as it is so terribly brief.

CTO_Mrlr says:
::thinks that this little man would have to go through her before he even got near the children.  Is still growling inaudibly under her breath::

CMO_D`han says:
::looks down at her dress whites:: CO: I wasn't planning on a medical emergency.... I can get one from the emergency med kit when we get to Operations.

Host XO_Danforth says:
Bob: A test, if you will.

Host CO_Claymore says:
CMO: Be discrete about it...

Host XO_Danforth says:
Bob: If you really are the Grim Reaper, you'll be able to answer a few things for us all.

CMO_D`han says:
::nods:: CO: Aye. What is your plan?

Host XO_Danforth says:
Bob: If you wouldn't mind, I think we can verify your identity without any unnecessary death.  Forgive the pun.

Host Bob_Death says:
XO: A test?  No, I don't think so.  You see, contrary to popular fears, I cannot kill anything.  I simply take those whose time has come.

Host CO_Claymore says:
::thinks about what he is going to say when he meets this creature:: CMO: I ... ::looks at the CMO then back at the vedek:: I'll tell you when I know myself.

Host Bob_Death says:
ALL: ::Looks thoughtful::

CMO_D`han says:
::looks grim, nods at the CO::

Host CO_Claymore says:
::notices that the TL is slowing and then opens to Operations, looks for the XO because that's where "Death" will be::

Host Belial says:
CMO/CO: I find it difficult to believe that Death has an actual form, although there are legends of such things of course.

Host XO_Danforth says:
Bob: Well, Bob.  Can you at least tell me why you chose a corporeal form to take the children?

Host XO_Danforth says:
::looks at the CTO to settle down....don't want to ruffle her fur::

CMO_D`han says:
::follows the Captain to Operations::

Host CO_Claymore says:
::moves towards the ready room:: CMO: Get the tricorder and then come in.

Host Bob_Death says:
::::Looks up suddenly::  XO: Hmm?  Oh, yes.  Sorry, I was trying to remember what the protocols are for this situation.  Let me see.  Why did I choose to appear to you?  As I said, simply a courtesy.  You see, the children should have died with their family.  When you kind souls intervened, well, it has thrown off my schedule considerably.

Host CO_Claymore says:
::continues walking slowly as to give the CMO enough time to get back with the group::

Host Bob_Death says:
XO: I simply wanted you to know that, when the children dropped dead for no reason, you would know the truth.  ::Smiles::

Host XO_Danforth says:
Bob: Without giving credence to your identity, have you ever been known to make a deal?  Could you, for instance, just skip the children and let them live?

CMO_D`han says:
::gets the emergency med kit, brings it with her and gets out the med tricorder::

Host Bob_Death says:
::Looks thoughtful again.::  XO: Hmmm, well no.  You see there is the cosmic balance and all that.  I need two souls to restore the balance.  Obviously, the children are the proper candidates.

Host Bob_Death says:
All: ::Thoughtfully::  However....

Host XO_Danforth says:
Bob: Yes?  Is there a loophole?

Host CO_Claymore says:
::Opens ready room and steps in:: XO: Commander, what's this about death again? ::looks at the strange figure and stops::

CTO_Mrlr says:
::turns as the CO enters and stops the rest with her hand:: CO: Sir, for safety sake the XO has asked that only you be allowed in here.  The rest need to stay outside.

Host Bob_Death says:
XO: Well no.  Not actually.  There are two options, although they are so rarely used I almost did not remember them.

Host XO_Danforth says:
::looks at the Captain, hoping he'll let this play out::

Host CO_Claymore says:
CTO: I want them inside, let them pass.

CSO_Washudoin says:
:: Stands at attention when the CO walks in, turns to look back at Death ::

CMO_D`han says:
::hops a bit in place, eager to get inside, waits for the CTO to let them pass::

Host XO_Danforth says:
Bob: Please tell us the two options.  ::stands for the CO::

CTO_Mrlr says:
CO: With all due respect, the CMO is in danger from this...man.

Host Bob_Death says:
::Smiles at the Captain::  CO: Ah, Captain Claymore, nice of you to join us.  It is good to see you again.

Host XO_Danforth says:
CO: Captain, if you'll give me a moment.

CMO_D`han says:
::opens up the tricorder and starts to take readings on all who are in the room::

Host XO_Danforth says:
CO: This gentleman claims to be the personification of Death, yet says there may be a way to spare the children.

Host CO_Claymore says:
::walks forward a bit, recognizing the person:: Death: I know your face, but you don't have the same presence as before.

Host XO_Danforth says:
CO: For the safety of the crew, I have asked no one but you to be allowed in here.

Host CO_Claymore says:
XO: It's alright, the doctor and vedek are here for my sake.

CMO_D`han says:
::still in the doorway, taking readings::

Host Bob_Death says:
CO: Well, I chose this personage to put you all at ease.

CTO_Mrlr says:
::stands in the doorway:: CMO: I'm sorry but you'll have to stay out here for a bit.  I'll explain later. ::let's the door shut so that the little man can't see the CMO::

Host Belial says:
::Peering over the CMO's shoulder at the little figure.::

Host XO_Danforth says:
CTO: Go ahead and let them in.  Captain's orders.

Host Belial says:
CMO: Somehow I thought he'd be taller.

Host XO_Danforth says:
Bob: You were about to tell me two options we had?

Host CO_Claymore says:
Death: The groundskeeper at the Academy... Boothby... but that still doesn't answer why I feel I already know you. Why you call yourself death, and why my XO feels we have to deal with you to save two children again.

Host XO_Danforth says:
::looks thoughtful, and wonders what he really could do to stop him if he really is Death, and if he isn't, there isn't much the CO, CTO, CSO, and himself couldn't do to stop this one man.::

CTO_Mrlr says:
::nods at the XO and opens the door again:: CMO: Do yourself a favor and stay in the back behind me where you will be unseen.

Host XO_Danforth says:
::hears the CTO and is so glad this is the kind of crew who doesn't have to be told what to do...they are such capable officers::

CMO_D`han says:
::nods, sees normal readings until she comes upon death's signature and then her eyes open wide as a skull and crossbones symbol appears on the little window and a series of beeps sounding remarkably like a funeral march sound out::

Host Bob_Death says:
CO: Well Captain, saving the children the first time is the actual problem.  You see, they should have died with their parents.  I am here to restore the balance.

Host Bob_Death says:
ALL: As for the options,...

CMO_D`han says:
::shakes it:: Self: My tricorder is dead...

CMO_D`han says:
::shakes her head and tries to reboot the system::

Host Belial says:
Self: Oh my...

CMO_D`han says:
CTO: Alright... what is death's problem with me... unless.... ::gets the picture:: Oh.... my....

Host Bob_Death says:
ALL: First, I could...make an exception.  I could take two others in place of the children.  I would have to "fudge the books" so to speak, but you are all so very nice, I would do this for you.

CTO_Mrlr says:
CMO: Yes...exactly. ::moves forward a bit to stand between the CMO, the strange Bajorans and Bob and continues to watch Bob steadily::

Host Bob_Death says:
::Looks at the door::  ALL: Ah, Dr. D'han.  ::Shakes his finger::  Naughty naughty.

CSO_Washudoin says:
:: Looks around the room as for what two would volunteer ::

CMO_D`han says:
::gulps a minute:: Bob: I am only doing what I am supposed to do. Saving lives... it is what the prophets want me to do.

Host CO_Claymore says:
::narrows eyebrows:: Death: I don't think I can go with the first... what is the second.

Host Bob_Death says:
ALL: I had intended to, as you say, pass over, Mr. Hoyt as a gesture of good faith.  But perhaps you would allow me to have him and another instead of the children?

Host Bob_Death says:
CO: Ah, the second.  Yes, didn't think you'd care for the first...

Host XO_Danforth says:
Bob: So you're saying that CEO Hoyt was supposed to die anyway?

Host Bob_Death says:
ALL: Well, perhaps you are familiar with the term "cheating death"?

Host Bob_Death says:
XO: Oh most certainly.  Then your most talented but meddlesome Doctor D’han butted in.

Host CO_Claymore says:
Death: If you're really death then you'd know that all too well with me.

CMO_D`han says:
::turns to the vedek:: Belial: Seems that  I have been too successful.

Host Belial says:
CMO: ::Puts his hand on her shoulder::  Nothing to be ashamed of child.  Seems "Death" is a bit of a poor sport.

CMO_D`han says:
Belial: Seems so... is there something you can do?

Host Bob_Death says:
ALL: Well, that term derives from the practice of gambling with death to save one's soul, or that of another.  And by the way, cheating is not recommended.

Host Belial says:
CMO: I am not sure.  I could attempt to banish him, as I would a Pagh-wraith.  But I do not sense the same evil presence that a wraith would generate.  According to the scriptures anyway.

Host XO_Danforth says:
Bob: And what kind of games does Death play?

Host XO_Danforth says:
Bob: What kind of gamble?  Cards?

Host CO_Claymore says:
XO: Commander I wouldn't recommend playing with Death.

Host Bob_Death says:
XO: Oh any kind, any kind.  Of course, games of chance leave much to risk don't they?  Perhaps something involving skill?

CMO_D`han says:
::nods:: Belial: Well I imagine death... is just a force in the universe that is neither good nor evil....

Host XO_Danforth says:
CO: No, sir.  I agree....but I'm curious what he has to say?

CTO_Mrlr says:
::her ears prick forward at this second option and she takes a quiet step forward. :: Bob: What sort of skills?

Host Belial says:
CMO: I quite agree child.  And if this is truly death, well, I am not sure what to think.  ::Shrugs::  It appears I am not to be of much use after all.

CSO_Washudoin says:
CO/XO: Sirs, if I might say, I'm sure any game we play would be to death's disadvantage. We can take him.

Host Bob_Death says:
CTO: Oh I don't know.  I once played a game called "Twister" with a couple of humans.  Nasty business that...I forbid the choice of "Twister".  ::Nods his head forcefully::

CSO_Washudoin says:
Death: Today is a good day to die.

Host Bob_Death says:
CSO: ::Smiles and claps his hands::  Oh I like your attitude!!

Host CO_Claymore says:
Death: I just don't see how your claim is true. The doctor already won in a game of skill, by saving the children's lives.

Host CO_Claymore says:
::looks around at all the people and thinks the room is crowded::

Host XO_Danforth says:
Bob: Can we have a moment, Bob?  ::turns to the CO and the CSO::

CSO_Washudoin says:
Death: You'll like more if want a challenge. :: Looks at the XO ::

CMO_D`han says:
Belial: Don't say that.... ::smiles, feels kinda sorry for the old vedek::

Host Bob_Death says:
::Nods and goes to look out the window::

Host Belial says:
CMO: Ah, you are kind.  Well, rest assured, I will do all I can to help.

CMO_D`han says:
::smiles:: Belial: I know.

Host XO_Danforth says:
CO: Sir, if he IS Death, we can't really stop him from taking the children unless he's willing to bend the rules. I still don't know if I believe him, but he is pretty convincing.

Host Bob_Death says:
::Walks over and replicates a chocolate sundae::

Host CO_Claymore says:
XO/CSO: Yes, very... in the least he has the ability to project feelings I haven't had in a while on/in me. I have no desire to give him the children or anyone else. I'm not interested in playing a game with their lives in the balance either.

CSO_Washudoin says:
XO/CO: I don't think I believe who he is. There has to be something we can do.

Host XO_Danforth says:
CO: I just don't know if we have another choice, sir.  He plans on taking the children if we don't play his games.

Host Bob_Death says:
<<<<Pause Mission>>>>