She decided on that moment what punishment would be administered. 'After the Klingons are dealt with.' She thought to herself as Yah and Jolan walked off.
She then turned to Stelam. If you have any weapons to gather before we head out, do it now. I anticipate a close-quarter fight if everything goes to plan but if you have a disruptor it would be a good idea to bring it. Mine, sadly, was damaged beyond repair."
She waited for Stelam to gather whatever belongs he thought necessary then they headed to the Staging Area Transporter. "Paehhos Crater, please," she said as they stepped on to the pad. The familiar sensation of every atom of their being being torn apart washed over them, followed by a bright blindness and a brief infinity of absolutely nothingness. As soon as it had begin the image of the crater dissolved into view.
Nael, the Romulan foreman, looked up as Aiel and Stelam stepped off from the pad. "Your late." was all she offered.
"Going to have to give it a miss today," Aiel responded, not looking up at her as she strode past. "Another job's come up."
She led Stelam down the path and into the southwestern clearing. Scanning it briefly, she eyes some large rocks surrounded by bushes. "That's where we'll sit until your boys bring the Klingons our way." She then points a few meters ahead. "Once they get to that point they should turn and attack. As soon as they do, we'll jump in and attack from the rear." She then takes out a communicator and makes a few quick adjustments before handing it to Stelam. "Call them. Tell them anything to get them to come here, but make it believable. We want those Klinks to think they're being clever. If they catch on that they're being led into a trap we're going to have a whole different fight on our hands."
Stelam smiles at her. She was clever, and if she wasn't a Fed, he would have asked her to be part of his crew right then. Hah, maybe in another life! he thinks, then activates the communicator.
"Jolan! Yah! Come here quickly, I got a Klivam in my sights. The idiot wandered off to far from his group, and I have a lust for his pink blood!" he says, then mimicks licking his lips at Aiel.
"We're comin', boss!" Yah says over the communicator, "Save some for us, okay?"
Stelam kills the link. "Well, what did you think of my debut performance as a bloodthirsty pirate? I think I did rather well!" he says to Aiel, with a smile.
Stelam smiles at her. She was clever, and if she wasn't a Fed, he would have asked her to be part of his crew right then. Hah, maybe in another life! he thinks, then activates the communicator.
"Jolan! Yah! Come here quickly, I got a Klivam in my sights. The idiot wandered off to far from his group, and I have a lust for his pink blood!" he says, then mimicks licking his lips at Aiel.
"We're comin', boss!" Yah says over the communicator, "Save some for us, okay?"
Stelam kills the link. "Well, what did you think of my debut performance as a bloodthirsty pirate? I think I did rather well!" he says to Aiel, with a smile.
"I'll tell you after we have these warriors down." She said with a smirk.
They squatted in the bushes. From their vantage point they could see the entire clearing without being seen themselves. If the warriors do manage to catch on to the upcoming ambush it would be too late. She'd selected this particular spot not because it was the perfect place to lie in wait. In fact, it wasn't. If she were coming into the area her eyes would have been drawn immediately to three different, more opportune places to hide, all past the place she had chosen. She knew that although the three warriors may not immediately notice, the leader most probably would. Hopefully, by the time he caught on it would be too late.
Seeing as they had some time to kill she addressed the elephant between them. "Why haven't you asked me yet?"
She looked to him, then clarified, "Why I'm helping you?" She turned her attention back to the clearing, her eyes catching any movement, no matter how subtle, like a vivver cat stalking its prey. "The truth is, I don't know. I shouldn't, to be honest. In fact, I shouldn't give two hnaevea if you get yourself killed. Maybe it's because when I was growing up I was the only Romulan in a world filled with aliens. Even Vulcans looked down on me as if I had some illegitimate claim to being on Earth. A planet of twelve billion and I was alone."
She continued to stare outward, her eyes a little less focused than before. "You were the first Romulan who ever gave me more than a semi-courteous nod. Besides," she smirked at him, "you're not entirely boring, I suppose."
The sound of boots on grass grabbed her attention. Her entire body tensed up as her focus changed again. Any joviality or levity instantly gone as Yah and Jolan entered the area and moved towards their mark. A moment later, as planned, the Klingons crept in, trying to remain unseen. The Leader motioned to the others to pause as he scoped the surroundings.
'Just a little further...' Aiel thought to herself, her hand wrapped around the hilt of her mek'leth.
The Leader sniffed the air, cautious. He motioned to his two lieutenants to move around the perimeter of the clearing to flank the two men. He then motioned to the Third to remain where he was as he, himself, continued to follow Yah and Jolan.
"Fvadt." Aiel swore quietly. "He's a clever one. We're not going to be able to block off their retreat after all. We'll have to take out the lieutenants silently before we can take on the Leader. I hope your men can fight." She glances at Stelam for a moment, then moves to put herself in a position to take out the Klingon on the far side.
"I'll tell you after we have these warriors down." She said with a smirk.
They squatted in the bushes. From their vantage point they could see the entire clearing without being seen themselves. If the warriors do manage to catch on to the upcoming ambush it would be too late. She'd selected this particular spot not because it was the perfect place to lie in wait. In fact, it wasn't. If she were coming into the area her eyes would have been drawn immediately to three different, more opportune places to hide, all past the place she had chosen. She knew that although the three warriors may not immediately notice, the leader most probably would. Hopefully, by the time he caught on it would be too late.
Seeing as they had some time to kill she addressed the elephant between them. "Why haven't you asked me yet?"
She looked to him, then clarified, "Why I'm helping you?" She turned her attention back to the clearing, her eyes catching any movement, no matter how subtle, like a vivver cat stalking its prey. "The truth is, I don't know. I shouldn't, to be honest. In fact, I shouldn't give two hnaevea if you get yourself killed. Maybe it's because when I was growing up I was the only Romulan in a world filled with aliens. Even Vulcans looked down on me as if I had some illegitimate claim to being on Earth. A planet of twelve billion and I was alone."
She continued to stare outward, her eyes a little less focused than before. "You were the first Romulan who ever gave me more than a semi-courteous nod. Besides," she smirked at him, "you're not entirely boring, I suppose."
The sound of boots on grass grabbed her attention. Her entire body tensed up as her focus changed again. Any joviality or levity instantly gone as Yah and Jolan entered the area and moved towards their mark. A moment later, as planned, the Klingons crept in, trying to remain unseen. The Leader motioned to the others to pause as he scoped the surroundings.
'Just a little further...' Aiel thought to herself, her hand wrapped around the hilt of her mek'leth.
The Leader sniffed the air, cautious. He motioned to his two lieutenants to move around the perimeter of the clearing to flank the two men. He then motioned to the Third to remain where he was as he, himself, continued to follow Yah and Jolan.
"Fvadt." Aiel swore quietly. "He's a clever one. We're not going to be able to block off their retreat after all. We'll have to take out the lieutenants silently before we can take on the Leader. I hope your men can fight." She glances at Stelam for a moment, then moves to put herself in a position to take out the Klingon on the far side.
"Oh, they can." he whispers.
Then Jolan and Yah turn, with their pistols out, and fire at the lieutenants, wounding the one on the far side and killing the other. They then flee farther into the forest.
Stelam jumps out of hiding, immediately engaging the leader with his sword. The Leader had a bat'leth.
"There you are pirate! I will show you the true wrath of the Empire" he yells before swinging his weapon.
Stelam easily dodges, simply taking a step and leaning. "If that's the best the Empire has, I'm suprised it hasn't fallen." he jibes as he steps around the Klingon, and swings. His blade hits armor.
"You think I'm a peta'Q who doesn't come prepared?" The Leader screams as he twists extremely fast. Stelams leans back, but the blade catches him on the cheek. He wipes away his blood, and looks at the Klingon emotionlessly.
"You have struck a blow. But can you kill?" he says as he dodges another blow, this time crouching and rolling. He comes out of the roll on his back, infront of the Klingon. The Klingon swings, but Stelam kicks him in the stomach with both feet, having propeled himself up with his hands.
The time for talk is over, it's serious now. They circle each other, Stelam's blade and the bat'leth gleaming with a cruel light. Stelam swings, the Klingon blocks. The Klingon swings, Stelam dodges. It seems to be a stalemate.
Then Jolan and Yah turn, with their pistols out, and fire at the lieutenants, wounding the one on the far side and killing the other. They then flee farther into the forest.
Stelam jumps out of hiding, immediately engaging the leader with his sword. The Leader had a bat'leth.
"There you are pirate! I will show you the true wrath of the Empire" he yells before swinging his weapon.
Stelam easily dodges, simply taking a step and leaning. "If that's the best the Empire has, I'm suprised it hasn't fallen." he jibes as he steps around the Klingon, and swings. His blade hits armor.
"You think I'm a peta'Q who doesn't come prepared?" The Leader screams as he twists extremely fast. Stelams leans back, but the blade catches him on the cheek. He wipes away his blood, and looks at the Klingon emotionlessly.
"You have struck a blow. But can you kill?" he says as he dodges another blow, this time crouching and rolling. He comes out of the roll on his back, infront of the Klingon. The Klingon swings, but Stelam kicks him in the stomach with both feet, having propeled himself up with his hands.
The time for talk is over, it's serious now. They circle each other, Stelam's blade and the bat'leth gleaming with a cruel light. Stelam swings, the Klingon blocks. The Klingon swings, Stelam dodges. It seems to be a stalemate.
OOC: Stelam isn't much for stealth...
Using Stelam's less than subtle tactics to her advantage, she manged to get behind the wounded lieutenant unseen,m his attention drawn to the fight. He reached down and drew a disruptor, leveling at Stelam's back. With a flash of metal the disruptor landed in the grass, along with the hand which still held it.
"It's not honorable to shoot someone in the back." She said, then swung the blade effortlessly, opening his throat. She kicked his chest and sent him down to die in the bush.
Her eyes flashed towards the Third. He was obviously ready to bolt, seeing that the fight had quickly gone against him, but he couldn't just leave his commanding officer. If the Leader manged to get the upper hand and see that he'd run off, a fate worse than death would await him. As he contemplated this, Aiel made the choice easier for him by clubbing him in the nape of the neck - hard - with her weapon. He'd have one hell of a headache when he awoke, but his honor would be intact. For now.
Aiel wipes the sickly, purple blood from her blade off on the grass, then folder her arms across her chest. 'Let's see how this plays out.' she thought to herself as she watched the Klingon and Stelam dance. Even Yah and Jolan knew not to intervene; this was Stelam's fight.
Using Stelam's less than subtle tactics to her advantage, she manged to get behind the wounded lieutenant unseen,m his attention drawn to the fight. He reached down and drew a disruptor, leveling at Stelam's back. With a flash of metal the disruptor landed in the grass, along with the hand which still held it.
"It's not honorable to shoot someone in the back." She said, then swung the blade effortlessly, opening his throat. She kicked his chest and sent him down to die in the bush.
Her eyes flashed towards the Third. He was obviously ready to bolt, seeing that the fight had quickly gone against him, but he couldn't just leave his commanding officer. If the Leader manged to get the upper hand and see that he'd run off, a fate worse than death would await him. As he contemplated this, Aiel made the choice easier for him by clubbing him in the nape of the neck - hard - with her weapon. He'd have one hell of a headache when he awoke, but his honor would be intact. For now.
Aiel wipes the sickly, purple blood from her blade off on the grass, then folder her arms across her chest. 'Let's see how this plays out.' she thought to herself as she watched the Klingon and Stelam dance. Even Yah and Jolan knew not to intervene; this was Stelam's fight.
OOC: Sadly, I do not feel very well right now, and definately not well enought to illustrate a fight. Especially after I pulled an all nighter so I can reset my sleeping pattern...
OOC: Sadly, I do not feel very well right now, and definately not well enought to illustrate a fight. Especially after I pulled an all nighter so I can reset my sleeping pattern...
[OOC]Sleep. Feel better. It's not like we're on a deadline. [/OOC]
[OOC]Sleep. Feel better. It's not like we're on a deadline. [/OOC]
OOC: I know. Can't exactly sleep. Like I said, I need to reset my sleeping pattern. I'm done going to bed at one time and not falling asleep until three hours later.
Using Stelam's less than subtle tactics to her advantage, she manged to get behind the wounded lieutenant unseen,m his attention drawn to the fight. He reached down and drew a disruptor, leveling at Stelam's back. With a flash of metal the disruptor landed in the grass, along with the hand which still held it.
"It's not honorable to shoot someone in the back." She said, then swung the blade effortlessly, opening his throat. She kicked his chest and sent him down to die in the bush.
Her eyes flashed towards the Third. He was obviously ready to bolt, seeing that the fight had quickly gone against him, but he couldn't just leave his commanding officer. If the Leader manged to get the upper hand and see that he'd run off, a fate worse than death would await him. As he contemplated this, Aiel made the choice easier for him by clubbing him in the nape of the neck - hard - with her weapon. He'd have one hell of a headache when he awoke, but his honor would be intact. For now.
Aiel wipes the sickly, purple blood from her blade off on the grass, then folder her arms across her chest. 'Let's see how this plays out.' she thought to herself as she watched the Klingon and Stelam dance. Even Yah and Jolan knew not to intervene; this was Stelam's fight.
They circle each other, both focused on their prey. It turns into a series of lightning fast thrusts, parries, and dodges. Stelam had enough though. When the Klingon attacks, Stelam blocks it one handed and throws a knife in the Klingons face. It goes straight through the neck, killing him instantly.
"He didn't deserve the dishonor of a slow death... nor of a purposefully drawn out fight..." he says as he stabs his knife and sword in the dirt to clean them. He walks over to Aiel.
"So, where are we going to put him?" Stelam asks tiredly, gesturing to Idiot.
They circle each other, both focused on their prey. It turns into a series of lightning fast thrusts, parries, and dodges. Stelam had enough though. When the Klingon attacks, Stelam blocks it one handed and throws a knife in the Klingons face. It goes straight through the neck, killing him instantly.
"He didn't deserve the dishonor of a slow death... nor of a purposefully drawn out fight..." he says as he stabs his knife and sword in the dirt to clean them. He walks over to Aiel.
"So, where are we going to put him?" Stelam asks tiredly, gesturing to Idiot.
Impressive. She thinks to herself as she watches the Leader go down. When its over she removes the disruptor from the body and kneels before the Third as he comes to.
Good morning. she says cheerfully, Thats a rather nasty egg you have on the back of your head. You see, I hit you, hard, with this, she taps her makleth, between the third and forth dorsal vertebrae. Id point to it to show you but I am sure you already know where that is by the resonating pain you feel in your neck. Klingons are marvelous warriors, naturally armoured. A marvel of evolution, really, but everyone has a weakness. A soft spot, as it were. That was yours.
She looks to Stelam. You have a doctor on your ship, yes? she asks, already knowing the answer, then looks back to the Third. We will get you some medical attention, but first, youre going to answer some questions. First, what is your name?
You the baktag from the Romulan slums. I will tell you noting. And after that, you will die like a verengan Ha'DIbaH! He spits.
Aiel exhales heavily, then shakes her head. Thats disappointing. Surely you recognize this. She shows him the disruptor she took from the dead Klingon. Nasty little weapons. Power settings are tweaked so high. She stands, adjusts the disruptor to the maximum setting, then fires it at the dead body lying nearby. It disintegrates, leaving little more than a smoldering stain in its wake. She then adjusts the settings again to the lowest stun and looks to the Third. I know what youre thinking. She wants information. She wont kill me. Shes bluffing. From the smirk on his face it was obvious she was right on the money.
Yah, help me for a moment, yes? She asked. Yah looked to her nervously. She then aimed the disruptor at him and fired. The blast sent him up and back, knocking him to the ground where he lie, unconscious. She looked back at the Klingon and smiled. Like I said, nasty weapons these. Even the lowest setting holds enough power for a severe stun. She then adjusted the weapons setting at random, without even glancing at it, then leveled it on the Klingon.
The Klingons smile had long since faded. SoH maw' be'!.
Maybe maybe I am crazy. She said, her eyes drifting off for a moment. She then looked to him and smiled again. Kind of puts you in an iffy situation, doesnt it? Now, what is your name?
The Klingon looked to her, then the others as if asking for help. None came.
Pete. Aiel said, matter-of-factly. Your name is now Pete. So Pete, who sent you to ruin a perfectly good day for all of us, eh?
The Klingon stared at her, then smiled. Its a nice show youve put on, petaQ. Almost worthy of a Klingon. Almost. But again, you can not gain information from a dead man.
Wow. Aiel said as she stood. You got me there, Pete. Dead men tell no tales and all that. I guess youre free to go. It was fun see you around. She turns and walks away.
He stares at her. Is she serious? He pushes himself to his feet.
Except for one, little detail. Well two details, really. She said, turning to face him. Whoever sent you will send more. Youre the only one left to report what happened so, without you, the newcomers wont have a clue that were ready for them. It will be like qegh bIQHa'DIbaH bach.
What is the second detail? The Klingon asked.
The smile drops from her face. She raises the disruptor square at the Klingons chest. The second is that I dont really care what your name is, who sent you or what you want. I just wanted to look in your eyes when you realized you were going to die.
The Klingons eyes widened. He turned to flee just as a bolt of plasma tore through him, killing him instantly. She watched him fall, smoldering, into the grass, then tossed the disruptor aside. She walked over to where Yah was lying, moaning and beginning to come to. Thank you for assisting me with my demonstration. She kneeled, then said in a lower tone. Call me his girlfriend one more time and Ill make sure the setting is set to maximum.
She stands, then looks to the others with a smile. Well, wed better get rid of the bodies and search for anything that might give is a clue as to which house these petaQs are from. More will come, Id wager.
[OOC]That went a little more crazy than I had first anticipated, but I went with it. LOL[/OOC]
Impressive. She thinks to herself as she watches the Leader go down. When its over she removes the disruptor from the body and kneels before the Third as he comes to.
Good morning. she says cheerfully, Thats a rather nasty egg you have on the back of your head. You see, I hit you, hard, with this, she taps her makleth, between the third and forth dorsal vertebrae. Id point to it to show you but I am sure you already know where that is by the resonating pain you feel in your neck. Klingons are marvelous warriors, naturally armoured. A marvel of evolution, really, but everyone has a weakness. A soft spot, as it were. That was yours.
She looks to Stelam. You have a doctor on your ship, yes? she asks, already knowing the answer, then looks back to the Third. We will get you some medical attention, but first, youre going to answer some questions. First, what is your name?
You the baktag from the Romulan slums. I will tell you noting. And after that, you will die like a verengan Ha'DIbaH! He spits.
Aiel exhales heavily, then shakes her head. Thats disappointing. Surely you recognize this. She shows him the disruptor she took from the dead Klingon. Nasty little weapons. Power settings are tweaked so high. She stands, adjusts the disruptor to the maximum setting, then fires it at the dead body lying nearby. It disintegrates, leaving little more than a smoldering stain in its wake. She then adjusts the settings again to the lowest stun and looks to the Third. I know what youre thinking. She wants information. She wont kill me. Shes bluffing. From the smirk on his face it was obvious she was right on the money.
Yah, help me for a moment, yes? She asked. Yah looked to her nervously. She then aimed the disruptor at him and fired. The blast sent him up and back, knocking him to the ground where he lie, unconscious. She looked back at the Klingon and smiled. Like I said, nasty weapons these. Even the lowest setting holds enough power for a severe stun. She then adjusted the weapons setting at random, without even glancing at it, then leveled it on the Klingon.
The Klingons smile had long since faded. SoH maw' be'!.
Maybe maybe I am crazy. She said, her eyes drifting off for a moment. She then looked to him and smiled again. Kind of puts you in an iffy situation, doesnt it? Now, what is your name?
The Klingon looked to her, then the others as if asking for help. None came.
Pete. Aiel said, matter-of-factly. Your name is now Pete. So Pete, who sent you to ruin a perfectly good day for all of us, eh?
The Klingon stared at her, then smiled. Its a nice show youve put on, petaQ. Almost worthy of a Klingon. Almost. But again, you can not gain information from a dead man.
Wow. Aiel said as she stood. You got me there, Pete. Dead men tell no tales and all that. I guess youre free to go. It was fun see you around. She turns and walks away.
He stares at her. Is she serious? He pushes himself to his feet.
Except for one, little detail. Well two details, really. She said, turning to face him. Whoever sent you will send more. Youre the only one left to report what happened so, without you, the newcomers wont have a clue that were ready for them. It will be like qegh bIQHa'DIbaH bach.
What is the second detail? The Klingon asked.
The smile drops from her face. She raises the disruptor square at the Klingons chest. The second is that I dont really care what your name is, who sent you or what you want. I just wanted to look in your eyes when you realized you were going to die.
The Klingons eyes widened. He turned to flee just as a bolt of plasma tore through him, killing him instantly. She watched him fall, smoldering, into the grass, then tossed the disruptor aside. She walked over to where Yah was lying, moaning and beginning to come to. Thank you for assisting me with my demonstration. She kneeled, then said in a lower tone. Call me his girlfriend one more time and Ill make sure the setting is set to maximum.
She stands, then looks to the others with a smile. Well, wed better get rid of the bodies and search for anything that might give is a clue as to which house these petaQs are from. More will come, Id wager.
[OOC]That went a little more crazy than I had first anticipated, but I went with it. LOL[/OOC]
Stelam shakes his head. Either she was really insane, or as good at faking it as he was. Elements, she would make a great addition. Damn Feds taking her when she was young.
"If there is one thing I admire about Klingons, it's their stubborness." he says with a frown. Soon the bodies are gone, disintergrated and the ashes thrown about.
Stelam walks over to Aiel. "Fire a blast at my crewman without my permission again, and loose your head, okay?" he looks over at Yah. "Though the idiot did deserve that..."
He then stands straight and looks her in the eye. "Thank you for your assistance, I am in your debt."he says. Then adds, "Though be warned, I am selective about when I repay debts."
OoC: Sorry for not posting, I was out camping over the weekend
Jacob had spent the last six hours helping out on New Romulus, doing whatever little tasks he could find. He didn't have any real reason to be there, other than doing something to keep himself from being bored while William interrogated the prisoner.
By this point, Jacob's uniform was coated with sweat. He was looking forward to a sonic shower when he finished up welding a girder into place in the embassy. When Jacob finished off the weld, he walked out of the building, dropping off his supplies on the way out. He walked down his street, and turned into his house. Going into his room, he prepared to clean up.
Just when he had finished putting on his cleaned uniform, Jacob got a call on his computer. Swiveling it around on the desk, he accepted the call. On the screen, Drake's face appeared, and he spoke the words, "I'm sorry, but I need you to stay there a bit longer."
She looked at Strelam and smiled for a moment. That smile faded and she nodded. I understand. My apologies. She then looked to Yah. To you as well.
As they walked back to the area transporter she was lost in her own thoughts. What were you thinking? She scolded herself, You were supposed to sit back and let them handle the Klingons, not directly interfere. Dha'rudh! You over played your hand.
She continued to silently scold herself as they arrived at the Crater Transporter. She was so focused on admonishing herself that she didnt notice the others had tensed. Stelam put an arm up to stop her. What is it? She asked, then noticed the scene before them.
Lying around the smouldering remains of the destroyed transporter were several Romulan bodies. Some had suffered weapons fire. Others had been disembowelled and left to rot in the sun. What happened here? she asked, stunned.
Her answer came in the form of sniper fire from the nearby overgrowth. Not the familiar red glow of a Klingon disruptor as she had anticipated, but a brilliant, blue-white stream of energy. They dove into cover and draw their weapons. The others managed to few shots but scored no hits. Their attackers were too well hidden. Suddenly the firestorm stopped.
I do not know who you are, Came a low, gravelled voice, And I dont care. Give us the girl and we will allow you to leave alive. Resist us and you will be dead before you even realize one of us coming up behind you.
[OOC] Camping sounds fun. It's winter here so hearing about all the summer adventures makes me mis shome even more![/OOC]
She looked at Strelam and smiled for a moment. That smile faded and she nodded. I understand. My apologies. She then looked to Yah. To you as well.
As they walked back to the area transporter she was lost in her own thoughts. What were you thinking? She scolded herself, You were supposed to sit back and let them handle the Klingons, not directly interfere. Dha'rudh! You over played your hand.
She continued to silently scold herself as they arrived at the Crater Transporter. She was so focused on admonishing herself that she didnt notice the others had tensed. Stelam put an arm up to stop her. What is it? She asked, then noticed the scene before them.
Lying around the smouldering remains of the destroyed transporter were several Romulan bodies. Some had suffered weapons fire. Others had been disembowelled and left to rot in the sun. What happened here? she asked, stunned.
Her answer came in the form of sniper fire from the nearby overgrowth. Not the familiar red glow of a Klingon disruptor as she had anticipated, but a brilliant, blue-white stream of energy. They dove into cover and draw their weapons. The others managed to few shots but scored no hits. Their attackers were too well hidden. Suddenly the firestorm stopped.
I do not know who you are, Came a low, gravelled voice, And I dont care. Give us the girl and we will allow you to leave alive. Resist us and you will be dead before you even realize one of us coming up behind you.
[OOC] Camping sounds fun. It's winter here so hearing about all the summer adventures makes me mis shome even more![/OOC]
"Damn. I hate snipers..." Stelam mutters.
"Well, I would like to know who's threatening my life and the life of my friends before I hand over someone. So would you be ever so kind as to introduce yourself?" he yells from cover.
He motions to Jolan and Yah to watch behind them, with a wide search area. He nods at Aiel to watch the brush and infront with him. He uses Fed regulation sign language to relay to Jolan amd Yah to divide the search equally, then the same to Aiel.
"You know, I do hear that it is a principle of battlefield honor to let the enemies be known!" he yells again.
"Well, I would like to know who's threatening my life and the life of my friends before I hand over someone. So would you be ever so kind as to introduce yourself?" he yells from cover.
He motions to Jolan and Yah to watch behind them, with a wide search area. He nods at Aiel to watch the brush and infront with him. He uses Fed regulation sign language to relay to Jolan amd Yah to divide the search equally, then the same to Aiel.
"You know, I do hear that it is a principle of battlefield honor to let the enemies be known!" he yells again.
Do not presume to lecture me on battlefield tactics. Where was your honor when you ambushed that Klingon party? The voice chuckles. I have no interest in you, Pirate, and frankly I do not have a desire to kill you. I am here for the Romulan girl, nothing more. Step away from her and allow us to take her and neither you nor your men will be harmed. Alternatively
Theres a pause, then the distinct sound of a quantum mortar. An instant later, an explosion nearby covers Aiel, et al, in dirt and smoke.
Do not presume to lecture me on battlefield tactics. Where was your honor when you ambushed that Klingon party? The voice chuckles. I have no interest in you, Pirate, and frankly I do not have a desire to kill you. I am here for the Romulan girl, nothing more. Step away from her and allow us to take her and neither you nor your men will be harmed. Alternatively
Theres a pause, then the distinct sound of a quantum mortar. An instant later, an explosion nearby covers Aiel, et al, in dirt and smoke.
You have thirty seconds to decide.
Stelam looks at Aiel. "I think I have a plan, but it will put you at risk directly. You okay with that?" he asks.
He motions to Yah and Jolan, who move closer to them and they form somewhat of a protective circle.
"It doesn't appear I have a choice, does it?" She says, then nods to him.
"Not particularly..." he says as he grabs her and spins her around so she is infront of him. He puts a disrupter to her head.
"I seem to be sensing from you that you want this girl alive. And being as I am not a moron and know how transactions like this usually end, I'm going to need some insurance." he yells. "Now, you are going to let me and my friends walk to the other end of this crater amd into the woods. We will leave the girl on the edge... Savvy? "
He nods to Jolan, who covertly takes out a communicator. Stelam leans down to Aiel, to whisper in her ear.
"We're going to beam up to my ship after leaving you at the edge. They won't kill you, back make sure they have to come get you. There is no way a transport inhibitor can go that far. As soon as we are up there, we will bea, you along. Okay?" he whispers.
"Not particularly..." he says as he grabs her and spins her around so she is infront of him. He puts a disrupter to her head.
"I seem to be sensing from you that you want this girl alive. And being as I am not a moron and know how transactions like this usually end, I'm going to need some insurance." he yells. "Now, you are going to let me and my friends walk to the other end of this crater amd into the woods. We will leave the girl on the edge... Savvy? "
He nods to Jolan, who covertly takes out a communicator. Stelam leans down to Aiel, to whisper in her ear.
"We're going to beam up to my ship after leaving you at the edge. They won't kill you, back make sure they have to come get you. There is no way a transport inhibitor can go that far. As soon as we are up there, we will bea, you along. Okay?" he whispers.
You step out, holding Aiel hostage. First there is only silence, then a low chuckle. A moment later a Hirogen Stalker uncloaks. You assume we need her alive. The truth is, were being paid to return her. They were rather unspecific about the terms of her personal condition upon deliver. Secondly, I dont trust you, Pirate.
The Stalker gives a signal. A small red light focuses in on Aiels chest, followed by a resounding THUMP as something is shot into her. She yelps, green blood trickles from the wound. The Hunter gives another gesture. Four Initiates step forward from the bush behind him, all weapons trained on your party.
I will allow you one more opportunity to leave here with your skin. Leave the girl. He grins, showing sharpened teeth, Or die.
You step out, holding Aiel hostage. First there is only silence, then a low chuckle. A moment later a Hirogen Stalker uncloaks. You assume we need her alive. The truth is, were being paid to return her. They were rather unspecific about the terms of her personal condition upon deliver. Secondly, I dont trust you, Pirate.
The Stalker gives a signal. A small red light focuses in on Aiels chest, followed by a resounding THUMP as something is shot into her. She yelps, green blood trickles from the wound. The Hunter gives another gesture. Four Initiates step forward from the bush behind him, all weapons trained on your party.
I will allow you one more opportunity to leave here with your skin. Leave the girl. He grins, showing sharpened teeth, Or die.
"Captain, I detect no more life signatures in your area. Though that tracker in Miss L'lwin is rather disconcerting if you win. I would suggest taking the offer." Gerrard's voice eminates from Jolan's communicator.
"I agree with that sentiment..." he says. "I hope you will forgive me Aiel, but my debt cannot be repayed here..." he says, letting her go. He secretly passes her a knife. "Stab the feanna if you get the chance. Maybe cause a distraction?" he whispers, backing up.
"Captain, I detect no more life signatures in your area. Though that tracker in Miss L'lwin is rather disconcerting if you win. I would suggest taking the offer." Gerrard's voice eminates from Jolan's communicator.
"I agree with that sentiment..." he says. "I hope you will forgive me Aiel, but my debt cannot be repayed here..." he says, letting her go. He secretly passes her a knife. "Stab the feanna if you get the chance. Maybe cause a distraction?" he whispers, backing up.
Smart choice. The Hunter says, the barks and order into his communicator. An instant later Aiel is bathed in a bright blue-white light, then disappears. Now, He says grinning still. You die.
A mortar explosion goes off behind your group. From either flank you catch the movement of several Hirogen Initiates raising their weapons.
-- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
Aiel rematerializes on an unfamiliar transporter pad, instantly collapsing from the pain. Two armed guards rush forward and grab her, tossing the knife aside and dragging her away. Her vision is blurred as she fights to remain conscious. She concentrates on the pain in her chest in an attempt to remain awake.
The guards drag her into a room and heft her onto a table. Restraints enwrap her, securing her to the surface.
That will be all. Comes a female voice from somewhere Aiel can not see. The Hirogen bow and exit the room. Its been a long time. We thought wed lost you.
Who are you?! I demand you release me at once! She screams, then coughs, wracked with pain from the wound.
I dont think youre in a position to go anywhere just yet, Sub Commander. Allow me to suture your wounds. This will only take a few moments. The figure moved across the room, still out of Aiels sight.
What did you call me? Aiel asked, confused. I am not a Sub Commander. I am a civilian of MoRihan. You have the wrong person!
Of course you are. Came the voice. A moment later a young Romulan woman leaned into view. I am going to inject you with a mild sedative. Those clumsy Hirogen managed to lodge this transport resequencer into your sternum. Im going to have to break it to remove the device but ti should hear rather quickly.
No! Aiel screamed. Whatever this woman was about to do, Aiel knew it was far from her best interests and general wellbeing. She struggled against the restraints.
Shhhh. The woman whispered. Everythings going to be okay.
Aiel felt the hypospray injection in her neck. She fought against its effects, calling upon every ounce of adrenaline, but it was no use; everything went black.
[OOC] This weekend I will be going in for surgery on my neck. I will probably be off the computer for at least week. So I am pulling Aiel into her side story a little early. This way the rest of you can continue and Aiel can get caught up upon her return [/OOC]
"We are detecting a large presence of Hirogen on New Romulus," Drake said, "and we want you to take down their base. We can't have them hunting civilians, but a normal Starfleet team will probably cause a war between the Hirogen and Starfleet."
With this said, the screen goes black. Jacob messages his ship, telling them to stay in orbit if possible, but warp out if necessary, staying within 10 minutes of transporter range. Jacob took off his newly cleaned uniform, and got changed into his New Romulus civilian clothes. Packing a bag with some Romulan weapons, Even throwing in an auto-turret, Jacob beamed himself to the latest sighting of Hirogen activity, the crater.
When he materializes at the crater, the first thing he sees is the dead Romulans around the pad. Quickly scanning the wound, he determines that tetryon weapons caused the damage, a direct link to the Hirogen. Jacob draws a weapon from the bag, and scans the area. He finds what he is looking for in the center of the crater. As he zooms in on the group he detected, he sees one of the surrounded Romulans get beamed out, and a quantum mortar explosion go off behind the other one. Jacob shoots a tracker from his rifle, and the magnetic clamp locks onto the belt of the remaining Romulan. When Jacob is sure that it is secured, he activates the transporter next to him and beams the Romulan to the pad. As the Romulan materializes, Jacob says, "Don't shoot, I am not here to hurt you. I am here to take down the Hirogen, and I beamed you out for your own protection."
However, once the Romulan fully materialized, Jacob could tell that it was a researcher. The lab coat was scorched, and he appeared to be very panicked. Assessing that the researcher wasn't too hurt, Jacob set up the auto turret, setting the targeting device to target Hirogen. He then set up a cover shield behind the device, and hid behind it, occasionally popping out to snipe a Hirogen or two, trying to tempt them to come and get him.
Smart choice. The Hunter says, the barks and order into his communicator. An instant later Aiel is bathed in a bright blue-white light, then disappears. Now, He says grinning still. You die.
A mortar explosion goes off behind your group. From either flank you catch the movement of several Hirogen Initiates raising their weapons.
-- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
Aiel rematerializes on an unfamiliar transporter pad, instantly collapsing from the pain. Two armed guards rush forward and grab her, tossing the knife aside and dragging her away. Her vision is blurred as she fights to remain conscious. She concentrates on the pain in her chest in an attempt to remain awake.
The guards drag her into a room and heft her onto a table. Restraints enwrap her, securing her to the surface.
That will be all. Comes a female voice from somewhere Aiel can not see. The Hirogen bow and exit the room. Its been a long time. We thought wed lost you.
Who are you?! I demand you release me at once! She screams, then coughs, wracked with pain from the wound.
I dont think youre in a position to go anywhere just yet, Sub Commander. Allow me to suture your wounds. This will only take a few moments. The figure moved across the room, still out of Aiels sight.
What did you call me? Aiel asked, confused. I am not a Sub Commander. I am a civilian of MoRihan. You have the wrong person!
Of course you are. Came the voice. A moment later a young Romulan woman leaned into view. I am going to inject you with a mild sedative. Those clumsy Hirogen managed to lodge this transport resequencer into your sternum. Im going to have to break it to remove the device but ti should hear rather quickly.
No! Aiel screamed. Whatever this woman was about to do, Aiel knew it was far from her best interests and general wellbeing. She struggled against the restraints.
Shhhh. The woman whispered. Everythings going to be okay.
Aiel felt the hypospray injection in her neck. She fought against its effects, calling upon every ounce of adrenaline, but it was no use; everything went black.
[OOC] This weekend I will be going in for surgery on my neck. I will probably be off the computer for at least week. So I am pulling Aiel into her side story a little early. This way the rest of you can continue and Aiel can get caught up upon her return [/OOC]
The debris bounces off his sheild generator, along with several shot. Stelam dives off to cover, finding Jolan there, with a Hirogen rifle and a sead Hirogen Initiate. He signed that the idiot had gotten to close to them when mortar went off.
Stelam looks around. Yah isn't there. He signs at Jolan, having to restart after taking a few shots at a Hirogen, killing it. Jolan signs back, saying that Yah is dead. Stelam's eyes widen, then his jaw locks and he grabs his sword. He hurries out toward a Hirogen, seeming to dodge every shot. He tackles the Hirogen, beinging him to the ground while stradling him, and stabs him over and over in the face. He then rolls off into the brush, as many shots pass over head.
Jolan is suddenly there beside him. Stelam signs, asking how many are left. Jolan signs back, repling with 6. Stelam nods, then motions form Jolan to take the left and him the right. They seperate.
He moves slowly through the grass, it was quiet now. But the quiet matched exactly as he felt, the silence before the storm. He stands up, behind an Initiate. He throws a knife at the back of the neck, killing him. He aims his disruptor at the next, and fires. The Hirogen disintergrates. Stelam dives back into the brush, but a shot grazes his shoulder. He rolls, grabbing his shoulder to check for blood. His hand comes back, covered with his green blood.
He is laying there. Then a shadow comes over. Stelam looks up. The Hirogen smiles at him, and points his weapon at Stelam.
"Be prepared to die, prey." The Hirogen whispers.
Stelam closes his eyes. "If there is any greater being or beings out there, help me now... please?" he mutters. Then blood drips onto his face.
He looks up, and rolls to side, the Hirogen's corpse falling next to him, a hole clearly through it's head. Stelam gets to his knees and sees Jolan kneeling on the other side, the rifle still aimed. Stelam salutes and points his disruptor, firing and killing the Hirogen sneaking up behind Jolan.
He stands up and looks around. The bodies of the initiates are all around. But there is one body that shakes Stelam to the bone. Yah's body parts are flung all around, he having had taken the brunt of the mortar without a shield generator. Stelam walks over, and takes the comm out of his dead, having to struggle with rigor mortis. He calls Gerrard.
"Gerrard." he says quietly.
"Yes sir?" he asks.
"I need you to send an away team to pick up Yah's body. Or what's left of it..." he adds emotionlessly.
"Of course sir. I'm... sorry for your loss, sir..." Gerrard replies as Stelam cuts the link.
Jolan walks over. "Sir, we should leave before law enforcement gets here." he says.
"Yes. Let's go." Stelam says. He walks toward the direction of the nearest transporter.
"We are detecting a large presence of Hirogen on New Romulus," Drake said, "and we want you to take down their base. We can't have them hunting civilians, but a normal Starfleet team will probably cause a war between the Hirogen and Starfleet."
With this said, the screen goes black. Jacob messages his ship, telling them to stay in orbit if possible, but warp out if necessary, staying within 10 minutes of transporter range. Jacob took off his newly cleaned uniform, and got changed into his New Romulus civilian clothes. Packing a bag with some Romulan weapons, Even throwing in an auto-turret, Jacob beamed himself to the latest sighting of Hirogen activity, the crater.
When he materializes at the crater, the first thing he sees is the dead Romulans around the pad. Quickly scanning the wound, he determines that tetryon weapons caused the damage, a direct link to the Hirogen. Jacob draws a weapon from the bag, and scans the area. He finds what he is looking for in the center of the crater. As he zooms in on the group he detected, he sees one of the surrounded Romulans get beamed out, and a quantum mortar explosion go off behind the other one. Jacob shoots a tracker from his rifle, and the magnetic clamp locks onto the belt of the remaining Romulan. When Jacob is sure that it is secured, he activates the transporter next to him and beams the Romulan to the pad. As the Romulan materializes, Jacob says, "Don't shoot, I am not here to hurt you. I am here to take down the Hirogen, and I beamed you out for your own protection."
However, once the Romulan fully materialized, Jacob could tell that it was Stelam, the Romulan he had met earlier, and the Romulan who, through a background search, was determined to be a pirate. Deciding that they needed to work together, Jacob let that fact slip, and set up the auto turret, setting the targeting device to target Hirogen. He then set up a cover shield behind the device, and hid behind it, occasionally popping out to snipe a Hirogen or two, trying to tempt them to come and get him.
OOC: I kinda want Stelam to take care of this himself, so can you edit this so Jacob finds the carnage? And Stelam walking away?
OOC: I kinda want Stelam to take care of this himself, so can you edit this so Jacob finds the carnage? And Stelam walking away?
OoC: Instead of editing the post to do that, I will simply change any mention of Stelam to be some random Romulan researcher who was being surrounded in a different part of the crater, if that is okay with you. I still want Jacob to be directly involved in fighting at least some of the Hirogen, even if they are different Hirogen.
OoC: Instead of editing the post to do that, I will simply change any mention of Stelam to be some random Romulan researcher who was being surrounded in a different part of the crater, if that is okay with you. I still want Jacob to be directly involved in fighting at least some of the Hirogen, even if they are different Hirogen.
OOC: Thanks! I would like him to see the 10 dead Hirogen over on the other side, and the other dead researchers, though that is up to you.
OOC: Thanks! I would like him to see the 10 dead Hirogen over on the other side, and the other dead researchers, though that is up to you.
OoC: Once he takes care of his group, I will have him look around. I'm in the car writing from my phone when I can get data, so I don't want to start writing the next action until I have more reliable connection.
OoC: Once he takes care of his group, I will have him look around. I'm in the car writing from my phone when I can get data, so I don't want to start writing the next action until I have more reliable connection.
OOC: Man, I hate when I have to do that. And considering having no computer and only my nook, I'm hating what I'm doing right now... I think I just had to correct 5 errors there that wouldn't have happened otherwise...
Aiel awoke, dazed and confused under a bright light, her throat incredibly dry. Thirsty. Was all she could utter.
The Romulan Doctor appeared with a smile and cupped Aiels head under a palm, lifting her to drink from a small glass. She drank, tried to reach up for the glass only to discover her wrists were bound. She suddenly remembered where she was and spit the water out. Get away from me! Im not supposed to be here! Let me go!
The Doctor took a step back and frowned. Youre upset. I understand, but youre not well. Those restraints are in place to keep you from harming yourself.
Liar! Aiel screamed. I dont know who you are or what you want from me but I swear, let me go now or I will
Will what? Came another voice. Another Romulan, a male, stepped forward. Unlike the Woman he didnt wear the white lab coat of a doctor but a padded military uniform. Across his chest he wore a golden metal raptor that all Romulans recognized and feared. Tal Shiar. Whats her status?
Agitated. The Doctor said.
Yet, somehow, without a medical degree of any kind I can arrive at that same determination myself. He glared at her, What is her status?
Her bios are normal and well within range. Her temperature is slightly elevated but that most probably is a result of the treatment needed to remove the Hirogen device from her sternum. The Doctor recited. Hear rate is elevated as well as blood pressure, also normal given her state of confusion.
When will she be ready? he asked.
We can begin the treatment in a few days.
Aiel watched these two carefully, hanging on every word. What treatment? she thought to herself.
We need her at full functionality sooner rather than later. Administer the treatment in 24 hours.
What?! The Doctor exclaimed, Thats far too dangerous! If we attempt to recalibrate the nanites before shes ready we risk significant damage to her temporal lobe as well as her amygdala. Further, we run the additional risk of that damage spreading to other areas, including the thalamus, the hypothalamus, and the epithalamus. Youll turn her into a vegetable!
He looked at her dispassionately. She will be ready in 24 hours. If she is not, well need another operative. Doctor. The last word was an unveiled threat and it struck home as intended. The Doctor nodded.
Good. He said, then looked to Aiel. Dont worry Sub Commander. Well have you back on your feet in no time. He offered a smile then turned and walked away.
Aiel watched his back until he was out of sight, then looked to the Doctor. Whats wrong with you people? She asked, Im not a Sub Commander. Im a citizen of molRihan. My name is,
Aiel Llwyen. I know who you are, Sub Commander. At one time, you knew me, too. She said, smiling softly. Hopefully youll remember me again soon. The Doctor said, preparing a large hypo with an odd, greenish liquid.
Whats that? What are you going to do to me?
Im going to sedate you. Then I will inject this into your cerebellum. She tapped the greenish needle. If all goes well youre going to experience some rather vivid dreams. Memories. Some you will recognize, others you will not.
What is in that syringe, Doctor? Aiel asked.
The Doctor looked to her and shook her head. You have a right to know, of course. These are modified Borg nanites, reprogrammed to manipulate certain areas of your brain, specifically those areas involving short and long-term memory.
No! Aiel fought against the restraints again. Youre not going to brainwash me!
Its too late for that, Sub Commander. The Doctor said as she administered the sedative. Aiels body instantly began to go numb. We are simply undoing that which weve already done.
[OOC]Again, I was saving this turn of events for later, when Aiel had gotten to know you all a little better, but time is against me, it seems LOL As for the surgery, ya neurosurgery to repair a collapsed vertebrae in my neck. I wont even be able to drive for 6-8 weeks so well se ehow long it takes for me to even get back on the computer thanks for the good wishes![/OOC]
Aiel awoke, dazed and confused under a bright light, her throat incredibly dry. Thirsty. Was all she could utter.
The Romulan Doctor appeared with a smile and cupped Aiels head under a palm, lifting her to drink from a small glass. She drank, tried to reach up for the glass only to discover her wrists were bound. She suddenly remembered where she was and spit the water out. Get away from me! Im not supposed to be here! Let me go!
The Doctor took a step back and frowned. Youre upset. I understand, but youre not well. Those restraints are in place to keep you from harming yourself.
Liar! Aiel screamed. I dont know who you are or what you want from me but I swear, let me go now or I will
Will what? Came another voice. Another Romulan, a male, stepped forward. Unlike the Woman he didnt wear the white lab coat of a doctor but a padded military uniform. Across his chest he wore a golden metal raptor that all Romulans recognized and feared. Tal Shiar. Whats her status?
Agitated. The Doctor said.
Yet, somehow, without a medical degree of any kind I can arrive at that same determination myself. He glared at her, What is her status?
Her bios are normal and well within range. Her temperature is slightly elevated but that most probably is a result of the treatment needed to remove the Hirogen device from her sternum. The Doctor recited. Hear rate is elevated as well as blood pressure, also normal given her state of confusion.
When will she be ready? he asked.
We can begin the treatment in a few days.
Aiel watched these two carefully, hanging on every word. What treatment? she thought to herself.
We need her at full functionality sooner rather than later. Administer the treatment in 24 hours.
What?! The Doctor exclaimed, Thats far too dangerous! If we attempt to recalibrate the nanites before shes ready we risk significant damage to her temporal lobe as well as her amygdala. Further, we run the additional risk of that damage spreading to other areas, including the thalamus, the hypothalamus, and the epithalamus. Youll turn her into a vegetable!
He looked at her dispassionately. She will be ready in 24 hours. If she is not, well need another operative. Doctor. The last word was an unveiled threat and it struck home as intended. The Doctor nodded.
Good. He said, then looked to Aiel. Dont worry Sub Commander. Well have you back on your feet in no time. He offered a smile then turned and walked away.
Aiel watched his back until he was out of sight, then looked to the Doctor. Whats wrong with you people? She asked, Im not a Sub Commander. Im a citizen of molRihan. My name is,
Aiel Llwyen. I know who you are, Sub Commander. At one time, you knew me, too. She said, smiling softly. Hopefully youll remember me again soon. The Doctor said, preparing a large hypo with an odd, greenish liquid.
Whats that? What are you going to do to me?
Im going to sedate you. Then I will inject this into your cerebellum. She tapped the greenish needle. If all goes well youre going to experience some rather vivid dreams. Memories. Some you will recognize, others you will not.
What is in that syringe, Doctor? Aiel asked.
The Doctor looked to her and shook her head. You have a right to know, of course. These are modified Borg nanites, reprogrammed to manipulate certain areas of your brain, specifically those areas involving short and long-term memory.
No! Aiel fought against the restraints again. Youre not going to brainwash me!
Its too late for that, Sub Commander. The Doctor said as she administered the sedative. Aiels body instantly began to go numb. We are simply undoing that which weve already done.
[OOC]Again, I was saving this turn of events for later, when Aiel had gotten to know you all a little better, but time is against me, it seems LOL As for the surgery, ya neurosurgery to repair a collapsed vertebrae in my neck. I wont even be able to drive for 6-8 weeks so well se ehow long it takes for me to even get back on the computer thanks for the good wishes![/OOC]
OOC: Well, he's a pirate, a little unstable, and Yah was a good friend. It would drive someone like Stelam into a rage, or as close to rage looks like for him!
I really can't wait to see what kind of twists this'll bring! I have somewhat of a reaction for Stelam, mainly very angry at first with possible murder on the mind... mwahaha:D
Anyway, hope surgery goes well. Though do take advantage of the weeks off, if you get them. Always nice to get a vacation!
Comments
Stelam smiles at her. She was clever, and if she wasn't a Fed, he would have asked her to be part of his crew right then. Hah, maybe in another life! he thinks, then activates the communicator.
"Jolan! Yah! Come here quickly, I got a Klivam in my sights. The idiot wandered off to far from his group, and I have a lust for his pink blood!" he says, then mimicks licking his lips at Aiel.
"We're comin', boss!" Yah says over the communicator, "Save some for us, okay?"
Stelam kills the link. "Well, what did you think of my debut performance as a bloodthirsty pirate? I think I did rather well!" he says to Aiel, with a smile.
"I'll tell you after we have these warriors down." She said with a smirk.
They squatted in the bushes. From their vantage point they could see the entire clearing without being seen themselves. If the warriors do manage to catch on to the upcoming ambush it would be too late. She'd selected this particular spot not because it was the perfect place to lie in wait. In fact, it wasn't. If she were coming into the area her eyes would have been drawn immediately to three different, more opportune places to hide, all past the place she had chosen. She knew that although the three warriors may not immediately notice, the leader most probably would. Hopefully, by the time he caught on it would be too late.
Seeing as they had some time to kill she addressed the elephant between them. "Why haven't you asked me yet?"
She looked to him, then clarified, "Why I'm helping you?" She turned her attention back to the clearing, her eyes catching any movement, no matter how subtle, like a vivver cat stalking its prey. "The truth is, I don't know. I shouldn't, to be honest. In fact, I shouldn't give two hnaevea if you get yourself killed. Maybe it's because when I was growing up I was the only Romulan in a world filled with aliens. Even Vulcans looked down on me as if I had some illegitimate claim to being on Earth. A planet of twelve billion and I was alone."
She continued to stare outward, her eyes a little less focused than before. "You were the first Romulan who ever gave me more than a semi-courteous nod. Besides," she smirked at him, "you're not entirely boring, I suppose."
The sound of boots on grass grabbed her attention. Her entire body tensed up as her focus changed again. Any joviality or levity instantly gone as Yah and Jolan entered the area and moved towards their mark. A moment later, as planned, the Klingons crept in, trying to remain unseen. The Leader motioned to the others to pause as he scoped the surroundings.
'Just a little further...' Aiel thought to herself, her hand wrapped around the hilt of her mek'leth.
The Leader sniffed the air, cautious. He motioned to his two lieutenants to move around the perimeter of the clearing to flank the two men. He then motioned to the Third to remain where he was as he, himself, continued to follow Yah and Jolan.
"Fvadt." Aiel swore quietly. "He's a clever one. We're not going to be able to block off their retreat after all. We'll have to take out the lieutenants silently before we can take on the Leader. I hope your men can fight." She glances at Stelam for a moment, then moves to put herself in a position to take out the Klingon on the far side.
"Oh, they can." he whispers.
Then Jolan and Yah turn, with their pistols out, and fire at the lieutenants, wounding the one on the far side and killing the other. They then flee farther into the forest.
Stelam jumps out of hiding, immediately engaging the leader with his sword. The Leader had a bat'leth.
"There you are pirate! I will show you the true wrath of the Empire" he yells before swinging his weapon.
Stelam easily dodges, simply taking a step and leaning. "If that's the best the Empire has, I'm suprised it hasn't fallen." he jibes as he steps around the Klingon, and swings. His blade hits armor.
"You think I'm a peta'Q who doesn't come prepared?" The Leader screams as he twists extremely fast. Stelams leans back, but the blade catches him on the cheek. He wipes away his blood, and looks at the Klingon emotionlessly.
"You have struck a blow. But can you kill?" he says as he dodges another blow, this time crouching and rolling. He comes out of the roll on his back, infront of the Klingon. The Klingon swings, but Stelam kicks him in the stomach with both feet, having propeled himself up with his hands.
The time for talk is over, it's serious now. They circle each other, Stelam's blade and the bat'leth gleaming with a cruel light. Stelam swings, the Klingon blocks. The Klingon swings, Stelam dodges. It seems to be a stalemate.
OOC: Stelam isn't much for stealth...
Using Stelam's less than subtle tactics to her advantage, she manged to get behind the wounded lieutenant unseen,m his attention drawn to the fight. He reached down and drew a disruptor, leveling at Stelam's back. With a flash of metal the disruptor landed in the grass, along with the hand which still held it.
"It's not honorable to shoot someone in the back." She said, then swung the blade effortlessly, opening his throat. She kicked his chest and sent him down to die in the bush.
Her eyes flashed towards the Third. He was obviously ready to bolt, seeing that the fight had quickly gone against him, but he couldn't just leave his commanding officer. If the Leader manged to get the upper hand and see that he'd run off, a fate worse than death would await him. As he contemplated this, Aiel made the choice easier for him by clubbing him in the nape of the neck - hard - with her weapon. He'd have one hell of a headache when he awoke, but his honor would be intact. For now.
Aiel wipes the sickly, purple blood from her blade off on the grass, then folder her arms across her chest. 'Let's see how this plays out.' she thought to herself as she watched the Klingon and Stelam dance. Even Yah and Jolan knew not to intervene; this was Stelam's fight.
OOC: Sadly, I do not feel very well right now, and definately not well enought to illustrate a fight. Especially after I pulled an all nighter so I can reset my sleeping pattern...
[OOC]Sleep. Feel better. It's not like we're on a deadline.
OOC: I know. Can't exactly sleep. Like I said, I need to reset my sleeping pattern. I'm done going to bed at one time and not falling asleep until three hours later.
They circle each other, both focused on their prey. It turns into a series of lightning fast thrusts, parries, and dodges. Stelam had enough though. When the Klingon attacks, Stelam blocks it one handed and throws a knife in the Klingons face. It goes straight through the neck, killing him instantly.
"He didn't deserve the dishonor of a slow death... nor of a purposefully drawn out fight..." he says as he stabs his knife and sword in the dirt to clean them. He walks over to Aiel.
"So, where are we going to put him?" Stelam asks tiredly, gesturing to Idiot.
Impressive. She thinks to herself as she watches the Leader go down. When its over she removes the disruptor from the body and kneels before the Third as he comes to.
Good morning. she says cheerfully, Thats a rather nasty egg you have on the back of your head. You see, I hit you, hard, with this, she taps her makleth, between the third and forth dorsal vertebrae. Id point to it to show you but I am sure you already know where that is by the resonating pain you feel in your neck. Klingons are marvelous warriors, naturally armoured. A marvel of evolution, really, but everyone has a weakness. A soft spot, as it were. That was yours.
She looks to Stelam. You have a doctor on your ship, yes? she asks, already knowing the answer, then looks back to the Third. We will get you some medical attention, but first, youre going to answer some questions. First, what is your name?
You the baktag from the Romulan slums. I will tell you noting. And after that, you will die like a verengan Ha'DIbaH! He spits.
Aiel exhales heavily, then shakes her head. Thats disappointing. Surely you recognize this. She shows him the disruptor she took from the dead Klingon. Nasty little weapons. Power settings are tweaked so high. She stands, adjusts the disruptor to the maximum setting, then fires it at the dead body lying nearby. It disintegrates, leaving little more than a smoldering stain in its wake. She then adjusts the settings again to the lowest stun and looks to the Third. I know what youre thinking. She wants information. She wont kill me. Shes bluffing. From the smirk on his face it was obvious she was right on the money.
Yah, help me for a moment, yes? She asked. Yah looked to her nervously. She then aimed the disruptor at him and fired. The blast sent him up and back, knocking him to the ground where he lie, unconscious. She looked back at the Klingon and smiled. Like I said, nasty weapons these. Even the lowest setting holds enough power for a severe stun. She then adjusted the weapons setting at random, without even glancing at it, then leveled it on the Klingon.
The Klingons smile had long since faded. SoH maw' be'!.
Maybe maybe I am crazy. She said, her eyes drifting off for a moment. She then looked to him and smiled again. Kind of puts you in an iffy situation, doesnt it? Now, what is your name?
The Klingon looked to her, then the others as if asking for help. None came.
Pete. Aiel said, matter-of-factly. Your name is now Pete. So Pete, who sent you to ruin a perfectly good day for all of us, eh?
The Klingon stared at her, then smiled. Its a nice show youve put on, petaQ. Almost worthy of a Klingon. Almost. But again, you can not gain information from a dead man.
Wow. Aiel said as she stood. You got me there, Pete. Dead men tell no tales and all that. I guess youre free to go. It was fun see you around. She turns and walks away.
He stares at her. Is she serious? He pushes himself to his feet.
Except for one, little detail. Well two details, really. She said, turning to face him. Whoever sent you will send more. Youre the only one left to report what happened so, without you, the newcomers wont have a clue that were ready for them. It will be like qegh bIQHa'DIbaH bach.
What is the second detail? The Klingon asked.
The smile drops from her face. She raises the disruptor square at the Klingons chest. The second is that I dont really care what your name is, who sent you or what you want. I just wanted to look in your eyes when you realized you were going to die.
The Klingons eyes widened. He turned to flee just as a bolt of plasma tore through him, killing him instantly. She watched him fall, smoldering, into the grass, then tossed the disruptor aside. She walked over to where Yah was lying, moaning and beginning to come to. Thank you for assisting me with my demonstration. She kneeled, then said in a lower tone. Call me his girlfriend one more time and Ill make sure the setting is set to maximum.
She stands, then looks to the others with a smile. Well, wed better get rid of the bodies and search for anything that might give is a clue as to which house these petaQs are from. More will come, Id wager.
[OOC]That went a little more crazy than I had first anticipated, but I went with it. LOL[/OOC]
Stelam shakes his head. Either she was really insane, or as good at faking it as he was. Elements, she would make a great addition. Damn Feds taking her when she was young.
"If there is one thing I admire about Klingons, it's their stubborness." he says with a frown. Soon the bodies are gone, disintergrated and the ashes thrown about.
Stelam walks over to Aiel. "Fire a blast at my crewman without my permission again, and loose your head, okay?" he looks over at Yah. "Though the idiot did deserve that..."
He then stands straight and looks her in the eye. "Thank you for your assistance, I am in your debt."he says. Then adds, "Though be warned, I am selective about when I repay debts."
Jacob had spent the last six hours helping out on New Romulus, doing whatever little tasks he could find. He didn't have any real reason to be there, other than doing something to keep himself from being bored while William interrogated the prisoner.
By this point, Jacob's uniform was coated with sweat. He was looking forward to a sonic shower when he finished up welding a girder into place in the embassy. When Jacob finished off the weld, he walked out of the building, dropping off his supplies on the way out. He walked down his street, and turned into his house. Going into his room, he prepared to clean up.
Just when he had finished putting on his cleaned uniform, Jacob got a call on his computer. Swiveling it around on the desk, he accepted the call. On the screen, Drake's face appeared, and he spoke the words, "I'm sorry, but I need you to stay there a bit longer."
As they walked back to the area transporter she was lost in her own thoughts. What were you thinking? She scolded herself, You were supposed to sit back and let them handle the Klingons, not directly interfere. Dha'rudh! You over played your hand.
She continued to silently scold herself as they arrived at the Crater Transporter. She was so focused on admonishing herself that she didnt notice the others had tensed. Stelam put an arm up to stop her. What is it? She asked, then noticed the scene before them.
Lying around the smouldering remains of the destroyed transporter were several Romulan bodies. Some had suffered weapons fire. Others had been disembowelled and left to rot in the sun. What happened here? she asked, stunned.
Her answer came in the form of sniper fire from the nearby overgrowth. Not the familiar red glow of a Klingon disruptor as she had anticipated, but a brilliant, blue-white stream of energy. They dove into cover and draw their weapons. The others managed to few shots but scored no hits. Their attackers were too well hidden. Suddenly the firestorm stopped.
I do not know who you are, Came a low, gravelled voice, And I dont care. Give us the girl and we will allow you to leave alive. Resist us and you will be dead before you even realize one of us coming up behind you.
[OOC] Camping sounds fun. It's winter here so hearing about all the summer adventures makes me mis shome even more![/OOC]
"Damn. I hate snipers..." Stelam mutters.
"Well, I would like to know who's threatening my life and the life of my friends before I hand over someone. So would you be ever so kind as to introduce yourself?" he yells from cover.
He motions to Jolan and Yah to watch behind them, with a wide search area. He nods at Aiel to watch the brush and infront with him. He uses Fed regulation sign language to relay to Jolan amd Yah to divide the search equally, then the same to Aiel.
"You know, I do hear that it is a principle of battlefield honor to let the enemies be known!" he yells again.
Do not presume to lecture me on battlefield tactics. Where was your honor when you ambushed that Klingon party? The voice chuckles. I have no interest in you, Pirate, and frankly I do not have a desire to kill you. I am here for the Romulan girl, nothing more. Step away from her and allow us to take her and neither you nor your men will be harmed. Alternatively
Theres a pause, then the distinct sound of a quantum mortar. An instant later, an explosion nearby covers Aiel, et al, in dirt and smoke.
You have thirty seconds to decide.
Stelam looks at Aiel. "I think I have a plan, but it will put you at risk directly. You okay with that?" he asks.
He motions to Yah and Jolan, who move closer to them and they form somewhat of a protective circle.
"It doesn't appear I have a choice, does it?" She says, then nods to him.
"Not particularly..." he says as he grabs her and spins her around so she is infront of him. He puts a disrupter to her head.
"I seem to be sensing from you that you want this girl alive. And being as I am not a moron and know how transactions like this usually end, I'm going to need some insurance." he yells. "Now, you are going to let me and my friends walk to the other end of this crater amd into the woods. We will leave the girl on the edge... Savvy? "
He nods to Jolan, who covertly takes out a communicator. Stelam leans down to Aiel, to whisper in her ear.
"We're going to beam up to my ship after leaving you at the edge. They won't kill you, back make sure they have to come get you. There is no way a transport inhibitor can go that far. As soon as we are up there, we will bea, you along. Okay?" he whispers.
You step out, holding Aiel hostage. First there is only silence, then a low chuckle. A moment later a Hirogen Stalker uncloaks. You assume we need her alive. The truth is, were being paid to return her. They were rather unspecific about the terms of her personal condition upon deliver. Secondly, I dont trust you, Pirate.
The Stalker gives a signal. A small red light focuses in on Aiels chest, followed by a resounding THUMP as something is shot into her. She yelps, green blood trickles from the wound. The Hunter gives another gesture. Four Initiates step forward from the bush behind him, all weapons trained on your party.
I will allow you one more opportunity to leave here with your skin. Leave the girl. He grins, showing sharpened teeth, Or die.
"Captain, I detect no more life signatures in your area. Though that tracker in Miss L'lwin is rather disconcerting if you win. I would suggest taking the offer." Gerrard's voice eminates from Jolan's communicator.
"I agree with that sentiment..." he says. "I hope you will forgive me Aiel, but my debt cannot be repayed here..." he says, letting her go. He secretly passes her a knife. "Stab the feanna if you get the chance. Maybe cause a distraction?" he whispers, backing up.
Smart choice. The Hunter says, the barks and order into his communicator. An instant later Aiel is bathed in a bright blue-white light, then disappears. Now, He says grinning still. You die.
A mortar explosion goes off behind your group. From either flank you catch the movement of several Hirogen Initiates raising their weapons.
-- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
Aiel rematerializes on an unfamiliar transporter pad, instantly collapsing from the pain. Two armed guards rush forward and grab her, tossing the knife aside and dragging her away. Her vision is blurred as she fights to remain conscious. She concentrates on the pain in her chest in an attempt to remain awake.
The guards drag her into a room and heft her onto a table. Restraints enwrap her, securing her to the surface.
That will be all. Comes a female voice from somewhere Aiel can not see. The Hirogen bow and exit the room. Its been a long time. We thought wed lost you.
Who are you?! I demand you release me at once! She screams, then coughs, wracked with pain from the wound.
I dont think youre in a position to go anywhere just yet, Sub Commander. Allow me to suture your wounds. This will only take a few moments. The figure moved across the room, still out of Aiels sight.
What did you call me? Aiel asked, confused. I am not a Sub Commander. I am a civilian of MoRihan. You have the wrong person!
Of course you are. Came the voice. A moment later a young Romulan woman leaned into view. I am going to inject you with a mild sedative. Those clumsy Hirogen managed to lodge this transport resequencer into your sternum. Im going to have to break it to remove the device but ti should hear rather quickly.
No! Aiel screamed. Whatever this woman was about to do, Aiel knew it was far from her best interests and general wellbeing. She struggled against the restraints.
Shhhh. The woman whispered. Everythings going to be okay.
Aiel felt the hypospray injection in her neck. She fought against its effects, calling upon every ounce of adrenaline, but it was no use; everything went black.
[OOC] This weekend I will be going in for surgery on my neck. I will probably be off the computer for at least week. So I am pulling Aiel into her side story a little early. This way the rest of you can continue and Aiel can get caught up upon her return
With this said, the screen goes black. Jacob messages his ship, telling them to stay in orbit if possible, but warp out if necessary, staying within 10 minutes of transporter range. Jacob took off his newly cleaned uniform, and got changed into his New Romulus civilian clothes. Packing a bag with some Romulan weapons, Even throwing in an auto-turret, Jacob beamed himself to the latest sighting of Hirogen activity, the crater.
When he materializes at the crater, the first thing he sees is the dead Romulans around the pad. Quickly scanning the wound, he determines that tetryon weapons caused the damage, a direct link to the Hirogen. Jacob draws a weapon from the bag, and scans the area. He finds what he is looking for in the center of the crater. As he zooms in on the group he detected, he sees one of the surrounded Romulans get beamed out, and a quantum mortar explosion go off behind the other one. Jacob shoots a tracker from his rifle, and the magnetic clamp locks onto the belt of the remaining Romulan. When Jacob is sure that it is secured, he activates the transporter next to him and beams the Romulan to the pad. As the Romulan materializes, Jacob says, "Don't shoot, I am not here to hurt you. I am here to take down the Hirogen, and I beamed you out for your own protection."
However, once the Romulan fully materialized, Jacob could tell that it was a researcher. The lab coat was scorched, and he appeared to be very panicked. Assessing that the researcher wasn't too hurt, Jacob set up the auto turret, setting the targeting device to target Hirogen. He then set up a cover shield behind the device, and hid behind it, occasionally popping out to snipe a Hirogen or two, trying to tempt them to come and get him.
The debris bounces off his sheild generator, along with several shot. Stelam dives off to cover, finding Jolan there, with a Hirogen rifle and a sead Hirogen Initiate. He signed that the idiot had gotten to close to them when mortar went off.
Stelam looks around. Yah isn't there. He signs at Jolan, having to restart after taking a few shots at a Hirogen, killing it. Jolan signs back, saying that Yah is dead. Stelam's eyes widen, then his jaw locks and he grabs his sword. He hurries out toward a Hirogen, seeming to dodge every shot. He tackles the Hirogen, beinging him to the ground while stradling him, and stabs him over and over in the face. He then rolls off into the brush, as many shots pass over head.
Jolan is suddenly there beside him. Stelam signs, asking how many are left. Jolan signs back, repling with 6. Stelam nods, then motions form Jolan to take the left and him the right. They seperate.
He moves slowly through the grass, it was quiet now. But the quiet matched exactly as he felt, the silence before the storm. He stands up, behind an Initiate. He throws a knife at the back of the neck, killing him. He aims his disruptor at the next, and fires. The Hirogen disintergrates. Stelam dives back into the brush, but a shot grazes his shoulder. He rolls, grabbing his shoulder to check for blood. His hand comes back, covered with his green blood.
He is laying there. Then a shadow comes over. Stelam looks up. The Hirogen smiles at him, and points his weapon at Stelam.
"Be prepared to die, prey." The Hirogen whispers.
Stelam closes his eyes. "If there is any greater being or beings out there, help me now... please?" he mutters. Then blood drips onto his face.
He looks up, and rolls to side, the Hirogen's corpse falling next to him, a hole clearly through it's head. Stelam gets to his knees and sees Jolan kneeling on the other side, the rifle still aimed. Stelam salutes and points his disruptor, firing and killing the Hirogen sneaking up behind Jolan.
He stands up and looks around. The bodies of the initiates are all around. But there is one body that shakes Stelam to the bone. Yah's body parts are flung all around, he having had taken the brunt of the mortar without a shield generator. Stelam walks over, and takes the comm out of his dead, having to struggle with rigor mortis. He calls Gerrard.
"Gerrard." he says quietly.
"Yes sir?" he asks.
"I need you to send an away team to pick up Yah's body. Or what's left of it..." he adds emotionlessly.
"Of course sir. I'm... sorry for your loss, sir..." Gerrard replies as Stelam cuts the link.
Jolan walks over. "Sir, we should leave before law enforcement gets here." he says.
"Yes. Let's go." Stelam says. He walks toward the direction of the nearest transporter.
OOC: Hope your surgery goes well, Prierin.
OOC: I kinda want Stelam to take care of this himself, so can you edit this so Jacob finds the carnage? And Stelam walking away?
OoC: Instead of editing the post to do that, I will simply change any mention of Stelam to be some random Romulan researcher who was being surrounded in a different part of the crater, if that is okay with you. I still want Jacob to be directly involved in fighting at least some of the Hirogen, even if they are different Hirogen.
OOC: Thanks! I would like him to see the 10 dead Hirogen over on the other side, and the other dead researchers, though that is up to you.
OoC: Once he takes care of his group, I will have him look around. I'm in the car writing from my phone when I can get data, so I don't want to start writing the next action until I have more reliable connection.
OOC: Man, I hate when I have to do that. And considering having no computer and only my nook, I'm hating what I'm doing right now... I think I just had to correct 5 errors there that wouldn't have happened otherwise...
Aiel awoke, dazed and confused under a bright light, her throat incredibly dry. Thirsty. Was all she could utter.
The Romulan Doctor appeared with a smile and cupped Aiels head under a palm, lifting her to drink from a small glass. She drank, tried to reach up for the glass only to discover her wrists were bound. She suddenly remembered where she was and spit the water out. Get away from me! Im not supposed to be here! Let me go!
The Doctor took a step back and frowned. Youre upset. I understand, but youre not well. Those restraints are in place to keep you from harming yourself.
Liar! Aiel screamed. I dont know who you are or what you want from me but I swear, let me go now or I will
Will what? Came another voice. Another Romulan, a male, stepped forward. Unlike the Woman he didnt wear the white lab coat of a doctor but a padded military uniform. Across his chest he wore a golden metal raptor that all Romulans recognized and feared. Tal Shiar. Whats her status?
Agitated. The Doctor said.
Yet, somehow, without a medical degree of any kind I can arrive at that same determination myself. He glared at her, What is her status?
Her bios are normal and well within range. Her temperature is slightly elevated but that most probably is a result of the treatment needed to remove the Hirogen device from her sternum. The Doctor recited. Hear rate is elevated as well as blood pressure, also normal given her state of confusion.
When will she be ready? he asked.
We can begin the treatment in a few days.
Aiel watched these two carefully, hanging on every word. What treatment? she thought to herself.
We need her at full functionality sooner rather than later. Administer the treatment in 24 hours.
What?! The Doctor exclaimed, Thats far too dangerous! If we attempt to recalibrate the nanites before shes ready we risk significant damage to her temporal lobe as well as her amygdala. Further, we run the additional risk of that damage spreading to other areas, including the thalamus, the hypothalamus, and the epithalamus. Youll turn her into a vegetable!
He looked at her dispassionately. She will be ready in 24 hours. If she is not, well need another operative. Doctor. The last word was an unveiled threat and it struck home as intended. The Doctor nodded.
Good. He said, then looked to Aiel. Dont worry Sub Commander. Well have you back on your feet in no time. He offered a smile then turned and walked away.
Aiel watched his back until he was out of sight, then looked to the Doctor. Whats wrong with you people? She asked, Im not a Sub Commander. Im a citizen of molRihan. My name is,
Aiel Llwyen. I know who you are, Sub Commander. At one time, you knew me, too. She said, smiling softly. Hopefully youll remember me again soon. The Doctor said, preparing a large hypo with an odd, greenish liquid.
Whats that? What are you going to do to me?
Im going to sedate you. Then I will inject this into your cerebellum. She tapped the greenish needle. If all goes well youre going to experience some rather vivid dreams. Memories. Some you will recognize, others you will not.
What is in that syringe, Doctor? Aiel asked.
The Doctor looked to her and shook her head. You have a right to know, of course. These are modified Borg nanites, reprogrammed to manipulate certain areas of your brain, specifically those areas involving short and long-term memory.
No! Aiel fought against the restraints again. Youre not going to brainwash me!
Its too late for that, Sub Commander. The Doctor said as she administered the sedative. Aiels body instantly began to go numb. We are simply undoing that which weve already done.
[OOC]Again, I was saving this turn of events for later, when Aiel had gotten to know you all a little better, but time is against me, it seems LOL As for the surgery, ya neurosurgery to repair a collapsed vertebrae in my neck. I wont even be able to drive for 6-8 weeks so well se ehow long it takes for me to even get back on the computer thanks for the good wishes![/OOC]
OOC: Well, he's a pirate, a little unstable, and Yah was a good friend. It would drive someone like Stelam into a rage, or as close to rage looks like for him!
I really can't wait to see what kind of twists this'll bring! I have somewhat of a reaction for Stelam, mainly very angry at first with possible murder on the mind... mwahaha:D
Anyway, hope surgery goes well. Though do take advantage of the weeks off, if you get them. Always nice to get a vacation!