Doorway to the Shrouded Sea

Briefing Room

A projection screen and interstellar map dominate the aft bulkhead of this spacious chamber, with a podium before the screen that bears the Vanguard Exploration Service seal - an eagle in profile with its beak aimed up and to the right, against a backdrop of blazing stars. Two dozen chairs are arranged in four rows of six for crew and civilian contractors to gather for briefings. A computer index terminal is off to port. To starboard, a holographic imager table allows officers to plan strategy in three dimensions.

Eellisa enters the room following the crowd.

Virvril makes his way towards a seat with a hole in the backpiece giving him a place to put his tail.

Mnelmn arrives from Corridor.

Mnelmn has arrived.

Mnelmn zooms in, howevering immediately behind one of the 'seats' at the table.

Palin doesn't try to pretend he knows whats going on, and simply heads for a seat.

Genive moves slowly to a seat and sits down.

Eellisa looks around the room slightly puzzled. She squats down and rests on her haunches.

Denick walks in, taking a seat, and waiting for Porter to speak.

Porter walks to the front of the conference room and then presses a button, calling up a holographic rendering of the damaged structure of starbase Retribution. A red dot gleams on what appears to be the second deck of the starbase. He points to that position on the holographic illustration. "Our engineers aboard Retribution have exposed an access hatch on Deck 2 of the starbase, which provides a means of reaching a series of catwalks and corridors - small, narrow, and in some places very unstable - that wind their way through the infrastructure of the base. But somewhere inside what should be an unoccupied cavity is, in fact, some unexplained energy drain."

Palin raises his eyebrow slightly, but remains silent.

Eellisa tilits her head and watches the image curiously.

Denick pauses for a moment, in thought, and then raises an hand.

Porter lowers his hand. "We're not sure what's in there, but..." He furrows his brow at Denick. "Captain, rest assured, when I'm done with the briefing, I will welcome questions."

Denick nods, lowering his hand.

Mnelmn rubs its head with a tentacle as it listens attentively.

Genive sits quietly and listens.

Porter clasps his hands behind his back. "As I was saying: We don't know what's in there for certain, but our discovery corresponds with a report from the base quartermaster - we've seen a decline of food, water and other supplies that is out of whack compared to the anticipated use. It is possible that we have squatters - unwelcome residents - hiding in there."

Palin leans back in his chair, shaking his head slightly, a soft smirk on his face.

Mnelmn spins in place slowly.

Porter smiles faintly. "So, we need to assemble a team to go inside and ascertain what exactly we're dealing with. Before I make the assignments, I'll take any questions."

Denick raises his hand once more.

Porter nods to Denick. "Captain."

Genive nods and continues to listen.

Denick clears his throat, "Sir, two years ago we had a somewhat similar problem on Citadel, which we believed originated from Echo Foxtrot. It started as meter long rat like creatures, which fed on power, but escalated to creatures almost the side of a man, which attacked a group of Vanguard personnel and CBI agents in the hangar. The same may be occurring here, though I'm not sure if they required regular food and water to survive."

Palin raises his eyebrow slightly, "Rats?" he mutters in question. Porter lifts his eyebrows. "Captain, I'm aware of the Echo Foxtrot incident. You may recall, they originated from Lem'ing space, coming back aboard the Bunker Hill. We have no reason to suspect this is the same thing. But, the Lem'ing *were* in the neighborhood recently. I'll expect the team to be armed."

Mnelmn raises a tentacle tenatively.

Porter nods to Mnelmn.

Denick nods, and listens to the recruit.

Mnelmn reaches up to tweak its vocalizer's volume so that it can be heard clearly, "Sir, I would submit to your attention the possibility of sending in a camera equipped with anti-gravity thrusters so we might be aware of what we are dealing with before living beings are to enter."

Porter nods. "That's a great idea. Unfortunately, we don't have any. So, we're sending in a real recon team." He looks toward Virvril. "Height will actually be a liability in these spaces, so I would prefer, if possible, that Colonel Virvril lead the way."

Virvril says, "It sssshall be an honor to do ssssso."

Mnelmn floats back a few inches as though suddenly shocked, clearly surprised by the lack of a recon probe. It bobs in the air, its tentacle fidgeting.

Porter nods, smiling slightly. "Excellent, sir. Then I shall leave the assemblage of the team to you."

Virvril nods in response.

Mnelmn stills its tentacles and remains still, floating silently in the air.

Volidana arrives from Corridor.

Volidana has arrived.

Eellisa looks puzzled at the whole affair and seats herself on the floor.

Genive folds her hands into her lap and turns to listen to Virvril.

Palin shrugs slightly as he mutters, "It would be interesting to learn about a new species of rat. Sure."

Porter looks around. "Any other questions?"

Palin nods slightly and raises his hand.

Porter nods to Palin.

Denick shakes his head slightly.

Palin sits up straighter, "Well, I'm just wondering what those of us who aren't going on a berffel hunt will be doing?"

Porter shrugs. "You'll be waiting aboard the base with me, monitoring the situation in the infrastructure."

Mnelmn drapes its tentacles over the back of the vacant chair in front of it.

Virvril rises up to his full four feet height and attempts to (barely) look about the room. "If thissss were any regular missssion, I'd take a ssssmall team for sssspeed and maneuverability, but thisssss is not a normal missssion. Ssssince we have no idea what we will be facing, I will take sssssufficient perssssonel to permit the handling of any sssssituation that could arissse. I will firsssst accept volunteersssss."

Denick inclines his head towards Virvril, "I'm game, sir."

Volidana rushes in, trying to look dignified despite being late

At the mention of volunteers, Mnelmn drifts upwards by approximately four feet.

Marlan arrives from Corridor.

Marlan has arrived.

Marlan enters and quickly and as unobtrusively as possible moves to take a seat.

Virvril looks to Mnelmn, "Isssss that a yessss?"

Porter glances toward Marlan and Volidana. "Thanks for coming."

Palin leans back into his chair, looking to Porter and then to Virvril. With a sigh he says, "Might as well play exterminator. I'll join the team."

"I volunteer if you feel that I would be of use to the team." Mnelmn answers, its vocalizer still on its 'loud' setting. It belatedly reaches up to turn the volume down.

Eellisa sits quietly and studies the crew.

Genive bites her lip and raises her hand slowly.

Virvril nods to Palin and Mnelmn. "That issss three...will there be any otherssss?"

Denick speaks up, "I'm in, sir."

Marlan nods slightly, "I'm sorry i'm late." she says. "What are we volunteering for?"

Porter nods. "All right. Might as well take a medic along." He points at Marlan. "You're with the colonel."

Volidana looks about nervously "May I ask what we're volunteering for before I volunteer to be boiled in oil?"

Mnelmn gives up some of its altitude and settles onto the back of the vacant chair before it, the chair tilting back and threatening to fall backwards, it doesn't, however, as the Centauran manages to keep its balance.

Virvril nods to Porter, then to Genive. "Yessss, Private?"

Marlan smirks a bit, "Guess it doesn't matter huh." she says in regards to her question but doesn't seem to object.

Porter shakes his head at Marlan. "I don't give briefings twice. You can get a clue from someone else on the way, since you couldn't be bothered to be here on time."

Genive says quietly, " I will gather some provsions. Food and water and such."

Marlan then shifts her eyes to Genive, then back t Porter, "Fine." she says, "But not knowing what it is we're volunteering for, I object to Private Steele being a part of it on medical grounds."

Porter nods to Genive. "Good idea. No telling how long you might be in there." Porter glances toward Marlan. "Noted. Overruled."

Marlan frowns but nods, its obvious she's not pleased with the decision however.

Volidana looks at Virvril and raises a hand "Might as well come along for the ride"

Eellisa stands up and puts her hands on her hips. " I not undeustand. Dis be veuy stauainge ting."

Porter nods to Virvril. "Colonel, happy hunting."

Virvril nods. "Ssssso be it. I want all Vanguard persssssonel to gather battle gear and ordnancccce." He looks to Mnelmn, "Conssssssidering the possssssible ssssstructural damage, bring what you need in order to asssscertain the condition and deal with it if posssssible."

"I will bring the appropriate scanning and repair equipment." Mnelmn bobs deferentially to Virvril

Eellisa shakes her head. " I go 'ook at de sta. I stay." She heads out into the corridor

Eellisa heads into Corridor.

Eellisa has left.

Palin leans forward, ready to stand out of his seat as he says, "Not that I'll know how to use it, but where might I aquire a sidearm?"

Porter glances toward Palin. "There are pistols in the storage locker in the crew barracks."

Virvril says, "We will asssssemble in the shuttle bay in ten minutes."

Marlan looks to Genive next to her and leans over to whisper.

Denick nods, standing, and heading out.

Mnelmn drifts up from its position atop the chair and floats out.

Mnelmn heads into Corridor.

Mnelmn has left.

Palin nods as he stands. "I hope I don't have to use it.." he says, not loudly, but still above a mutter..

Genive whispers back, "Into some part of the Retribution where they have detected some sort of energy source."

Denick heads into Corridor.

Denick has left.

Palin heads into Corridor.

Palin has left.

Genive stands up slowly. She adds quietly to Marlan, "I'll be fine Doc. I need to do my duty."

Marlan frowns a bit but stands herself. She glances over at Porter and doesn't move, apparently waiting.

Genive turns, " I'll go change and get the supplies."

Genive heads into Corridor.

Genive has left.

Porter nods to Marlan. "On your way, Doctor."

Marlan frowns and turns for the door, storming out.

The team arrives on Retribution a short time later...

Deck 2 Corridor

A dimly lit corridor with slate gray bulkheads emblazoned with the starburst insignia of the Guardian Fleet. One archway leads into what appears to be a drinking establishment, while directly across the corridor is an archway to the station's fitness center - a sort of incongruous quirk in the architecture. VIP Quarters are aft. The station's lift tube can be seen forming a cylinder that acts as a sort of column in the heart of this corridor.

The shaft door slides open with a soft whoosh.

Virvril has arrived.

Palin has arrived.

Volidana has arrived.

Genive has arrived.

A couple of maintenance officers stand on either side of the access hatchway. Their uniforms bear the insignia of corporals.

Virvril heads for the access hatch, and the two maintenance personnel beside it.

The maintenance officers salute Virvril. "Colonel, sir. Hello, sir."

Genive bites her lip and follows the Colonel.

Volidana nods deferentially to the officers at the hatch still with very little clue what's going on

Virvril returns the salute. "Ssssstatusss?" he asks of them.

Palin glances at the hatchway as he exits the lift with everyone.

The shaft door slides open with a soft whoosh.

Denick has arrived.

Marlan has arrived.

Mnelmn has arrived.

Mnelmn drifts out of the lift just behind Marlan, slowed by its toolkit.

Denick follows the rest of the group out of the lift.

"Sir," one of the corporals says, "the accessways are secure. Not real stable, though, so you need to mind your step."

Marlan takes the pistol from Genive, chagning its setting to stun before putting it in her holster.

Virvril nods, motioning for them to open the hatchway, then looking at the group behind him, particularly Mnelmn. "Keep your eyesssss open for anything."

Mnelmn bobs, its unblinking crystalline eyes staring out in all directions.

The corporal on the right nods, then opens the hatch. A roaring wind can be heard beyond, and a chill gust blows into the corridor.

Genive nods and hitches up the pack on her back.

Mnelmn visibly relaxes as it feels the gust, clearly finding the cold very comfortable.

Genive blinks and shivers slightly as the gust hits her.

Virvril hefts his rifle into a ready position, and steps through the hatchway, doing his best to not show the effects of the cold.

Virvril heads into Access Corridor.

Virvril has left.

Mnelmn heads into Access Corridor.

Mnelmn has left.

Palin doesn't seem fazed by the cold as he mutters, "And the Minerva crew went down the Rabbit Hole..." As he follows Virvril into the access hatchway.

Palin heads into Access Corridor.

Palin has left.

Denick winces slightly, but climbs into the hatch after the others.

Denick heads into Access Corridor.

Denick has left.

Volidana shivers slightly as the hatch is opened blue flecking her aura

Genive heads into Access Corridor.

Genive has left.

Volidana heads into Access Corridor.

Volidana has left.

Access Corridor

A five-foot-wide, five-foot-high cavity that runs between bulkheads. Taller people will have to crouch or crawl to make it through this passage, which seems to have been an afterthought in the design phase. Colored lines border various access panels and conduit hatches in the corridor.

Denick enters, crouching down, leaving about a foot between his head and the ceiling, steading himself with his left hand.

Genive stoops down as she enters the hatchway.

Mnelmn floats low, its tentacles folded up beneath itself.

Marlan arrives from Deck 2 Corridor.

Marlan has arrived.

The hatch to the corridor clangs shut.

Marlan whistles slightly, "Not real tall were they?"

Palin glances back at the hatch from his crouched position in the corridor.

With a sigh he reaches down to the weapon at his hip. Pulling out the pistol, he sets it to stun and quickly returns it to its holster.

Volidana seems unbothered by the tight space as she crouches because of her height

Virvril presses onward, finding the cramped confines of the corridor not too confining. "It meanssss this area was never intended to be ussssssed much."

Marlan simply keeps her head down.

Mnelmn continues floating along, bearing its toolkit silently.

Virvril heads starboard.

Virvril has left.

Volidana heads starboard.

Volidana has left.

Denick heads starboard.

Denick has left.

Palin simply follows Virvril and the others along, not too hampered by the tight space, even though he too has to crouch.

Palin heads starboard.

Palin has left.

Mnelmn heads starboard.

Mnelmn has left.

You head Starboard.

Access Corridor

A five-foot-wide, five-foot-high cavity that runs between bulkheads. Taller people will have to crouch or crawl to make it through this passage, which seems to have been an afterthought in the design phase. Colored lines border various access panels and conduit hatches in the corridor.

The corridor seems to groan and shift beneath you.

Genive arrives from the port.

Genive has arrived.

Marlan arrives from the port.

Marlan has arrived.

Managing to keep its toolkit carefully balanced, Mnelmn opens it and takes out a small scanner. Most of its tentacles still clutching the toolkit, it begins to scan its surroundings.

Virvril instinctively grabs for one of the walls of the corridor, attempting to stablize himself. He turns to Mnelmn, "Report..."

Genive follows the group. Her eyes widen as the corridor shifts and she places her hand on the wall.

Marlan walks, not squatting but simply hunching over slightly. She moves a hand out to the corridor wall to stabalize herself.

Volidana keeps her footing "Caves at home were a bit more solid than this" she comments

"This structure has been damaged during the Lem'ing attack. It is not recommended that we stay here longer than a few minutes. It will not support our weight for longer than that period of time." Mnelmn answers quickly, motioning forward with its tentacles.

Virvril lets out a sharp thssss of annoyance, raising his tail in an attempt to balance himself. "Then we pressssss on." Virvril moves forward, steadying himself and keeping his weapon raised.

Virvril heads starboard.

Virvril has left.

You head Starboard.

Access Corridor

A five-foot-wide, five-foot-high cavity that runs between bulkheads. Taller people will have to crouch or crawl to make it through this passage, which seems to have been an afterthought in the design phase. Colored lines border various access panels and conduit hatches in the corridor.

Mnelmn arrives from the port.

Mnelmn has arrived.

Denick arrives from the port.

Denick has arrived.

Volidana arrives from the port.

Volidana has arrived.

Genive arrives from the port.

Genive has arrived.

Mnelmn continues scanning its surroundings actively, holding up its scanner to its crystalline eyes as its annlyzies this particular cooridor.

The roar of wind and the chill of the temperature becomes more pronounced here. Humanoid ears will be popping from the pressure buildup.

Palin arrives from the port.

Palin has arrived.

Marlan arrives from the port.

Marlan has arrived.

Palin yawns to stretch his jaw and releave the pressure from his ears as he follows the group.

Mnelmn seems to grow more comfortable in the cold, moving a little more quickly.

Denick enters, moving at a fairly slow and constant pace, trying to equally distribute his weight. He winces as his ears pop.

Virvril says, "Thisssss....isssss mosssst unussssssual. Either we have a malfunction in the environmental controlsssssss....or sssssomething beyond the norm isssss jusssst ahead."

Genive shivers and rubs her left ear. "Ouch." She frowns and murmurs, "Should have borught my sweater"

Virvril begins to step carefully onto the catwalk..

"Knowing out luck, my guess is the latter..." Palin says as he carefully steps along the passageway.

You head Starboard.

Catwalk

A gridwork catwalk that provides access to the various utility spaces within the infrastructure of the starbase. The atmosphere is similar to what one might find at high terrestrial altitudes - chilly, with thin oxygen content that would best be bolstered by a rebreather. The environment here might be comfortable for a Centauran, Zangali or Odarite, but most warm-blooded sentients would want thick clothes to wear in this area (perhaps even atmosphere suits). Pipes and wiring conduits span the shadows around the catwalk. Above, one can see gleaming yellow auxiliary lights in the expansive darkness. Much the same view waits below, in the abyss that yawns beneath the catwalk. Caution is recommended.

Virvril arrives from the port.

Virvril has arrived.

Marlan arrives from the port.

Marlan has arrived.

Denick arrives from the port.

Denick has arrived.

Volidana arrives from the port.

Volidana has arrived.

Palin arrives from the port.

Palin has arrived.

Mnelmn arrives from the port.

Mnelmn has arrived.

Genive arrives from the port.

Genive has arrived.

The catwalk lurches and sways violently, creaking above the roar of the wind in the great dark cavity that surrounds you.

Marlan shakes her head slightly, "This is colder than the rocks." she mumbles.

Virvril is knocked off balance at first by the shock, but is quickly able to reach out with a clawed hand and stabilize himself on the railing of the catwalk...."Nalia's light...."

Mnelmn wobbles as the catwalk does, but manages to keep clutching its toolkit.

The catwalk continues to shake and tremble under the weight of the search team.

Years of disuse have caused Palin's reflexes to fail in this time of need. Stumbling to his knees, he flails outwards trying to regain his balance, but is unsuccessful, and only helps to endanger himself further. Falling fully forward, he wobbles and rolls to the side of the catwalk, just barely managing to catch hold of a support, most of his body dangling over the side.

Denick enters, his fingers shivering from the cold, he stops for a moment, pulling a pair of gloves from his jacket pocket. As he does so, he is almost thrown to the floor by the shock, but manages to snatch at the railing.

Marlan loses her balance as the catwalk begins to sway, she reaches out for the rails but can't manage to grab on. She slides sideways between the rails of the catwalk, one hand clutching the catwalk itself.

Genive slips stumbles and falls forward onto the catwalk and slides towards the edge her legs dangling off. "Hellp! she cries out.

Volidana slips and hangs on to the catwalk barely only by dint of her long fingers

Virvril looks back to Mnelm, raising his voice over the roar of the wind, "Report!" He then turns to Denick, and simply points towards Volidana, while he then turns towards Genive....

DS-3633 arrives from the port.

DS-3633 has arrived.

Marlan calls, "Someone give me a hoopin' hand!"

"None have fallen." Mnelmn's vocalizer states loudly over the roar of the wind, its volume on maximum setting. It tries to nudge Genive telekinetically onto the 'safety' of the catwalk.

Genive clutches at the catwalk as it sways her eyes wide with fear.

Genive is nudged back onto the catwalk telekinetically.

Palin hangs tightly to the railing, growling to himself. The only thing in standard terran he shouts is, "I'd prefer not to fall!"

Virvril nods, and then tries to make his way over to Marlan...

Denick quickly regains his footing, holding onto a railing with one hand, and grasping one of Volidana's arms with the other, trying to pull her back up.

Genive sighs in relief and and lies on the catwalk panting.

Denick just *barely* lifts the heavy Light Singer up onto the catwalk.

Mnelmn turns its attentions toward Marlan, trying to pull her up in a similar manner.

Marlan says, "sousuier shorshk sousuier ugh" Marlan is still hanging off the catwalk, fingers beginning to slip as she begins speaking something other then terran.

Marlan is lifted safely aboard the catwalk.

The strain put on the Captain is obvious in the expression on his face.

Volidana grabs on to denick tightly and is hauled up "My thanks, Captain. May Volir smile on you"

Genive manages to gasp out, "Thanks Solsdid, whoever did that."

Palin continues to dangle.

Marlan lays flat on the catwalk, words gone for the moment. "Thanks.." she says turning her eyes to Mnelmn.

Mnelmn busies itself with pulling Palin up.

Mnelmn has safely lifted Palin onto the catwalk, but he has exhausted himself psionically. He won't be able to repeat it again.

Denick winces, "Not a problem." He takes a moment to slip his right hand into the glove, than his left.

Marlan pushes herself up to her knees and lets her eyes wander off the catwalk to the abyss below. She shakes her head slowly and adds, "Next time you need a physical, Mnel...remind me of this."

"Falling was not on my agenda!" Palin growls as he continues to hang off the side of the catwalk, his knuckles going white with the strain. As he is pulled upward, he scrambles to assist Mnelmn in the only way he can, but not falling again. "Thank you." he says, clearly grateful to the Centuaran.

Virvril says, "Let ussssss get acrosssss the catwalk quickly before damage isssss done...."

Virvril readies his weapon yet again, and proceeds onward...

Mnelmn wobbles in place, rubbing its head with a free tentacle. "I should repair this before we attempt to cross it again..." It vocalizes

Denick nods, following the Colonel, his pistol once again ready.

Genive rises the her knees, shivering in the cold. She begins to crawl along the catwalk after Virvril.

Denick heads starboard.

Denick has left.

Marlan moves again to stand, this time she keeps a careful hold on the rails.

Virvril heads starboard.

Virvril has left.

Genive heads starboard.

Genive has left.

Volidana follows unsteadily

Mnelmn takes out its tools and waits for everyone to clear off of the catwalk before it begins work.

Volidana heads starboard.

Volidana has left.

DS-3633 follows the rest silently.

DS-3633 heads starboard.

DS-3633 has left.

Palin heads starboard.

Palin has left.

Marlan heads starboard.

Marlan has left.

The catwalk creaks and falls away, tumbling into the black abyss below.

Mnelmn radiates no small amount of frustration, following the others.

Mnelmn heads starboard.

Marlan follows carefully. Eyes down on the catwalk.

The span of catwalk to port collapses with a groan and a crack, leaving this span swinging dangerously.

"I was unable to repair the last segment of catwalk." Mnelmn notes over the howling wind.

Palin coughs at the strain on his lungs as he crawl/walks along the catwalk. He doesn't complain as he follows, but it seems he's not in the best of conditions to move quickly in this atmosphere. As the catwalk to port collapses, he grasps onto the metal of this one.

The captain's left hand snaps out at the railing once again, as he looks behind at the collapsed section.

Virvril shouts, "EVERYONE MOVE, QUICKLY!", thssssing loudly and scrambling for the stronger part of the catwalk as fast as his clawed feet can take him.

Volidana gapes as the catwalk they were just on gives way

Virvril heads starboard.

Virvril has left.

Volidana heads starboard.

Volidana has left.

You head Starboard.

Catwalk

A gridwork catwalk that provides access to the various utility spaces within the infrastructure of the starbase. The atmosphere is similar to what one might find at high terrestrial altitudes - chilly, with thin oxygen content that would best be bolstered by a rebreather. The environment here might be comfortable for a Centauran, Zangali or Odarite, but most warm-blooded sentients would want thick clothes to wear in this area (perhaps even atmosphere suits). Pipes and wiring conduits span the shadows around the catwalk. Above, one can see gleaming yellow auxiliary lights in the expansive darkness. Much the same view waits below, in the abyss that yawns beneath the catwalk. Caution is recommended.

Mnelmn arrives from the port.

Mnelmn has arrived.

Genive arrives from the port.

Genive has arrived.

Marlan arrives from the port.

Marlan has arrived.

Palin arrives from the port.

Palin has arrived.

DS-3633 arrives from the port.

DS-3633 has arrived.

Denick arrives from the port.

Denick has arrived.

Genive walks unsteadily, her hand grasping the railing. Her teeth begin to chatter in the cold air.

Volidana steals a glance behind her as she moves, shivering

This catwalk continues to groan and shake violently.

Marlan has goosebumps, but otherwise no indication of the cold shows, "If it gets much colder." she warns glancing at the others, "We won't be able to continue." as she walks.

Virvril sees another access corridor ahead, and motions quietly towards it, not having to state the necessity of speed. He bolts for it.

Palin struggles visibly to control his breathing as he tries to inhale more air than there is in this climate. He says nothing, simply moves onward along the catwalk as quickly as his renaged body will allow.

Virvril heads starboard.

Virvril has left.

Genive heads starboard.

Genive has left.

You head Starboard.

Access Corridor

A five-foot-wide, five-foot-high cavity that runs between bulkheads. Taller people will have to crouch or crawl to make it through this passage, which seems to have been an afterthought in the design phase. Colored lines border various access panels and conduit hatches in the corridor.

Volidana arrives from the port.

Volidana has arrived.

Palin arrives from the port.

Palin has arrived.

Marlan arrives from the port.

Marlan has arrived.

Denick arrives from the port.

Denick has arrived.

DS-3633 arrives from the port.

DS-3633 has arrived.

Genive stoops as she enters the corridor and sighs in relief.

Virvril looks relieved to be on somewhat more solid footing. "Well....we will not be going that way again..." he says, thssing sharply and slapping his tail in dissapointment. "The only way to procccceed, issss onward."

Marlan steps to the side of the cavern as she enters, taking the chance to visually check over the others.

Hunter has arrived.

Denick breathes deeply, letting the rich air into his lungs without hesitation.

The wind dies down in this access corridor, and the temperature grows slightly warmer.

DS-3633 bends at its knees so that it can clear the ceiling. It walks awkwardly, but does not seem to mind.

Virvril says, "Move out everyone...we mussssst pressss on."

Mnelmn arrives from the port.

Mnelmn has arrived.

Palin holds up his hand, gasping, "One moment... Need to..rest a bit."

Genive nods and breathes deeply as she walks.

Volidana has flecks of green begin to show as she begins to warm

Virvril thssses, mumbling something about 'weakling softskins', then nods. "Then we ressst, but only for a few minutesssss.."

DS-3633 turns towards Palin and holds out an arm, "This unit will allow you to support yourself on my arm if necessary."

Marlan looks over at Virvril, "Let me give them oxygen shots." she says, looking over at Palin and some of the othrs.

Palin looks to DS-3633 and shakes his head as he finally starts to get control over his lungs. Inhaling slower and deeper he seems to slowly regain the strength to continue.

Mnelmn follows behind the others silently, not seeming all that interested in attempting repairs this time.

Volidana walks toward Palin "will you be ok ? she asks

Marlan removes the medical kit from across her chest and place it on the floor. Opening one of the compartments she loads a vial into a PI and stands with it in hand, ready to dispatch doses.

Genive leans against the wall and rubs the red mark on her wrist, grimacing slightly.

Denick continues to let his breathing return to normal, before heading over to Marlan.

Palin stands, slightly shakily, but he stands. Looking to Volidana he nods, "I'll be fine. I haven't had to deal with that atmosphere in a long time." he says. Finally calm, he seems visibly stronger now and ready to go on.

Marlan heads towards Palin first, brining the old fashioned PI up towards his neck, "Won't even feel it." she says, "And we're all going to take it, not just you."

Palin tilts his head and obliges the doctor without struggle.

Marlan brings the PI to his neck, as she depresses a button a small hiss is heard as the oxygen supplement is administered. She then turns to face Denick, "next." she says with a small smile as she brings it up once more.

Volidana loooks warily at the shot yet bravely sticks out her arm to oblige marlan

Mnelmn begins to scan the catwalk thoroughly, attempting to determine how much time is left before it too becomes unstable enough to pose a threat to its occupants.

Genive pushes herself off the wall and waits her turn.

Denick tilts his head, recieving it without a word, though he grins wryly a little.

Palin winces involuntarily at the hiss, but shakes it off as he gets out of Marlan's way.

Marlan administers it to Denick and then proceeds, one by one to inject Volidana, Genive Hunter and herself before turning to Virvril, "Sir?" she asks

Virvril waves it off. "Let usssss get going, we have a job to do." Virvril turns, readies his weapon, and proceeds onward.

You head Starboard.

Access Corridor

A five-foot-wide, five-foot-high cavity that runs between bulkheads. Taller people will have to crouch or crawl to make it through this passage, which seems to have been an afterthought in the design phase. Colored lines border various access panels and conduit hatches in the corridor.

Denick arrives from the port.

Denick has arrived.

Virvril arrives from the port.

Virvril has arrived.

Mnelmn arrives from the port.

Mnelmn has arrived.

Genive arrives from the port.

Genive has arrived.

Palin arrives from the port.

Palin has arrived.

Hunter arrives from the port.

Hunter has arrived.

DS-3633 arrives from the port.

DS-3633 has arrived.

Marlan arrives from the port.

Marlan has arrived.

Volidana arrives from the port.

Volidana has arrived.

The temperature continues to grow warmer here. It's not very comfortable for humanoids, but it isn't terribly uncomfortable.

Marlan squirms a bit now, "Like a furnace in here." she complains as she walks.

Genive hitches the pack on her shoulders and her teeth chattering subsides somewhat.

Virvril, originally hiding discomfort from the cold, now begins to move quicker as he basks in the increasing warmth. "Nalia ssssshines well...."

Mnelmn wobbles as it floats along, nauseated by the heat.

Hunter tugs on the collar of his jacket, "Damn...I hate the heat."

Marlan says, "myork por por ugh"

Virvril continues to proceed onwards, through the only path seemingly available.

Volidana hms at the temperature change "I suppose the internal base has no temperature stabilizer

Palin moves long with the group, careful of his steps and crouching in the tight space. Looking to Marlan, he smirks.

Virvril heads starboard.

Virvril has left.

You head Starboard.

Access Corridor

A five-foot-wide, five-foot-high cavity that runs between bulkheads. Taller people will have to crouch or crawl to make it through this passage, which seems to have been an afterthought in the design phase. Colored lines border various access panels and conduit hatches in the corridor.

Volidana arrives from the port.

Volidana has arrived.

Palin arrives from the port.

Palin has arrived.

Marlan arrives from the port.

Marlan has arrived.

Mnelmn arrives from the port.

Mnelmn has arrived.

DS-3633 arrives from the port.

DS-3633 has arrived.

Genive arrives from the port.

Genive has arrived.

Marlan catches Palin's glance and smirks slightly, not having realized he understood.

Hunter arrives from the port.

Hunter has arrived.

The temperature continues to grow warmer - it's about 60 degrees Fahrenheit now.

Virvril continues to increase in comfort level as the temperature increases, and he continues to press onwards.

Palin follows along after Virvril.

You head Starboard.

Atmospheric Module 

A cylindrical chamber with a circumference of about twenty feet, forty feet high, is home to stacked rings of oxygen and nitrogen tanks that encircle the main chamber and are linked to pipes that feed out toward the more commonly inhabited sections of the starbase. Exhaust vents hiss chill air in loud gusts and the air recycling system thrums steadily. Status monitors are arrayed on a horseshoe-shaped kiosk. So much for that brief period of warmth. The exhaust vents are hissing colder air into this chamber.

Virvril arrives from the port.

Virvril has arrived.

Marlan arrives from the port.

Marlan has arrived.

Palin arrives from the port.

Palin has arrived.

Volidana arrives from the port.

Volidana has arrived.

Hunter arrives from the port.

Hunter has arrived.

Mnelmn arrives from the port.

Mnelmn has arrived.

DS-3633 arrives from the port.

DS-3633 has arrived.

Genive arrives from the port.

Genive has arrived.

Mnelmn fans outs its tentacles again, with the exception of those that holds its toolkit. It continues onward.

Virvril thssses in dissappointment.

Marlan sighs in contentment as they step into this room.

Palin steps into the chamber, careful of other people's space. The cooler air sending a flash of goosebumps up his arms, but that's about all.

Genive straightens up as she enters and brushes off her pants.

Volidana glances up at the cylinder "Um...is it broken?"

Hunter grumbles something about too many temperature changes.

Palin shakes his head as he looks to Volidana, "Unlikly." he says.

Virvril looks to Hunter, "Thisssss cold will kill me if thisssss keepssss up. Ssssssergeant, take the sssssquad and ahead and ssssscout."

Marlan glances over at Virvril then over at Hunter. A grin appears on her face and she shares a look with Palin.

Hunter nods, "Aye, sir." He turns to the group, "All right, you hear him, let's move out."

DS-3633 turns around in a full circle to take in the room. It walks over towards the monitors and looks them over for a few moments before returning to the group.

You head Starboard.

Access Corridor

A five-foot-wide, five-foot-high cavity that runs between bulkheads. Taller people will have to crouch or crawl to make it through this passage, which seems to have been an afterthought in the design phase. Colored lines border various access panels and conduit hatches in the corridor.

Hunter arrives from the port.

Hunter has arrived.

Mnelmn arrives from the port.

Mnelmn has arrived.

Volidana arrives from the port.

Volidana has arrived.

The corridor is somewhat warmer than the atmospheric module. You can still hear the hiss of air back there.

Genive arrives from the port.

Genive has arrived.

DS-3633 arrives from the port.

DS-3633 has arrived.

Palin arrives from the port.

Palin has arrived.

Marlan arrives from the port.

Marlan has arrived.

Marlan enters, still hunching over some, "Well..*I* feel better now." she notes.

"This is quite extensive..." Mnelmn comments as its floats cautiously down the corridor.

Volidana nods in satisfaction, stable, warm "Let me guess. we have to keep moving?"

Hunter reaches down to his right thigh and draws his pistol. He keeps his arm hanging at his side as he pauses for a moment. He looks around the corridor before shrugging slightly and moving on.

Hunter heads starboard.

Hunter has left.

You head Starboard.

Access Corridor

A five-foot-wide, five-foot-high cavity that runs between bulkheads. Taller people will have to crouch or crawl to make it through this passage, which seems to have been an afterthought in the design phase. Colored lines border various access panels and conduit hatches in the corridor.

Volidana arrives from the port.

Volidana has arrived.

Marlan arrives from the port.

Marlan has arrived.

DS-3633 arrives from the port.

DS-3633 has arrived.

Palin arrives from the port.

Palin has arrived.

Genive arrives from the port.

Genive has arrived.

Mnelmn arrives from the port.

Mnelmn has arrived.

Marlan adds, "Sure not alot of creativity though.."

The temperature is a little less warm, growing colder, and while the sound of the atmospheric module is declining, you can hear a rather familiar roar...wind, and the promise of a deeper chill.

Hunter pauses again to look around, "This is getting old very quick."

Palin shrugs, "Functional in design, and functional in usage." he says. "I would be far more worried had they added artistic design to this place..."

Genive murmurs as she walks slightly stooped. She shivers again and mutters. "I'm going to need a massage and a warm bath after this."

Marlan chuckles, "True." she responds as she follows along, she glances at Genive, "Better then that unbearable heat."

"The age of these corridors has not increased very drastically since we entered it." Mnelmn notes

Hunter waves his left hand down the corridor and sighs, "Let's keep moving."

He heads down the corridor.

Access Corridor

A five-foot-wide, five-foot-high cavity that runs between bulkheads. Taller people will have to crouch or crawl to make it through this passage, which seems to have been an afterthought in the design phase. Colored lines border various access panels and conduit hatches in the corridor.

Mnelmn holds up its scanner and scans in the aft direction, trying to determine what lies ahead.

Hunter stops and turns around, a soft 'hmm' can be heard before he says, "Ok, let's check out the aft first, but we stick together."

DS-3633 states to noone in particular. "The design of this area is logical, however the environment is not a logical choice for a humanoid occupied structure."

Hunter quickly moves to the front of the group.

Hunter heads aft.

Hunter has left.

Mnelmn heads aft.

Mnelmn has left.

Volidana heads aft.

Volidana has left.

Marlan glances aft, "And perhaps it'd be better if one group stayed back...no reason for all..." she sighs as he moves ahead, "Guess i should be quiet."

You head Aft.

Utility Alcove

A cramped pocket of air built into the bulkhead of the starbase, it still provides a bit more room to stand, stretch legs and maneuver about than the access corridor adjacent to it. The alcove is about six feet wide, eight feet high and six feet long - forming a rectangular cube. Amber auxiliary lights provide minimal illumination.

Marlan arrives from the fore.

Marlan has arrived.

DS-3633 arrives from the fore.

DS-3633 has arrived.

Palin arrives from the fore.

Palin has arrived.

"There is very little here. I wonder how far away we are from what we are to investigate." Mnelmn wonders aloud, spinning in place.

Genive arrives from the fore.

Genive has arrived.

Hunter hmms softly, "Looks like this corridor runs parallel to the other one." He thinks for a moment, tapping his foot on the floor, "Who else here has a commlink on them?"

Hunter turns on his commlink.

DS-3633 glances to the corner of the alcove and walks over. "There is a pack of rations here if anyone requires food."

Palin stands straight, though his short height doesn't come to much more than 8 inches taller than the previous corridor.

Volidana raises a hand in response to hunter's question

Marlan shakes her head, "Not me." she resounds, investigating the alcove herself.

Hunter speaks into his commlink, "Hunter to Command, we have a second corridor running parallel to the first...please advise."

Palin shakes his head to DS as he says, "I'm fine, thank you."

Genive nods "I have a comm Sir."

Genive turns on her commlink.

DS-3633 picks up the ration pack and turns it over in its hand, glancing at it curiously. DS opens it up as apparently noone requires it and inspects the contents.

Hunter nods and holds up a finger as he waits for a response. He frowns slightly as he takes off the headset, "Damnit. Too much interference with the structure." He thinks again, "Ok, I say we go down this corridor for a while, if for nothing else, to check it out."

Marlan nods slightly, "And if our targets in the other corridor?" she asks'

Hunter chuckles, "Then we have further to walk."

Marlan smirks but nods, "right."

DS-3633 drops the crumpled ration bar and kneels, picking up something else. The object reflects light and DS glances it over. It holds up a Guardian Fleet rank insignia and says, "Is this significant?"

"I will follow." Mnelmn notes helpfully, wrapping its scanner up in a tentacle.

Palin nods slightly and mutters to himself. He says, "ung-ung ogrog ugh korfka ung-ung ugh"

Genive peers at the insignia and bites her lip.

Volidana peers curiously at ds

Hunter moves over to DS and looks at the insignia, "I'd say it is."

Palin raises an eyebrow. "Why? We knew this was a GF base a long time ago, sir."

Marlan chuckles and grins.

Hunter nods, "Gut instinct."

Marlan says, "sousuier gorg gorg agrun ung-ung gorg myork nyetski erumuten shorshk erumuten"

DS-3633 nods its head, "This unit did not have enough information to come to a conclusion on its own." It glances at the insignia once more and then hands it to Hunter.

Hunter drops the pin in one of the pockets on his jacket, "Ok, let's move." He starts down the corridor.

Hunter heads starboard.

Hunter has left.

You head Starboard.

Access Corridor

A five-foot-wide, five-foot-high cavity that runs between bulkheads. Taller people will have to crouch or crawl to make it through this passage, which seems to have been an afterthought in the design phase. Colored lines border various access panels and conduit hatches in the corridor.

Genive arrives from the port.

Genive has arrived.

Marlan arrives from the port.

Marlan has arrived.

Palin arrives from the port.

Palin has arrived.

Mnelmn arrives from the port.

Mnelmn has arrived.

DS-3633 arrives from the port.

DS-3633 has arrived.

Palin nods his agreement with Marlan as he follows the rest of the group through the corridor.

Genive peers around. "I'm glad I'm not leading. I'm lost already."

Volidana arrives from the port.

Volidana has arrived.

Hunter frowns slightly as he looks around, "Ok, I need one person with me...the rest stay here for a minute while we check out something."

"I am unlikely to make anything collapse, and so I will volunteer to follow you." Mnelmn states.

Genive nods and squats down to wait.

Hunter nods, "Ok, Recruit." He turns and heads up the corridor.

Hunter heads fore.

Hunter has left.

Mnelmn heads fore.

Mnelmn has left.

Palin leans up against the wall as he waits, twiddling his thumbs.

DS-3633 glances around the corridor and looks over the rest of those present, optical scanners resting for a moment on each before moving on.

Marlan has arrived.

Palin raises an eyebrow as he says, "I thought we were waiting for them?"

Genive bites her lip. " I hope this place has a second entrance."

Mnelmn arrives from the fore.

Mnelmn has arrived.

Hunter arrives from the fore.

Hunter has arrived.

Hunter moves down the corridor, explaining as he walks, "The corridors only paralleled for a few meters." He points aft, "We're moving this way."

Volidana grins at Palin "Doing alright?"

Genive nods and stands up.

Hunter waits for a few seconds to allow the rest of the group to catch up before continuing down the corridor.

Hunter heads aft.

Hunter has left.

You head Aft.

Access Corridor

A five-foot-wide, five-foot-high cavity that runs between bulkheads. Taller people will have to crouch or crawl to make it through this passage, which seems to have been an afterthought in the design phase. Colored lines border various access panels and conduit hatches in the corridor.

Mnelmn arrives from the fore.

Mnelmn has arrived.

Marlan arrives from the fore.

Marlan has arrived.

Volidana arrives from the fore.

Volidana has arrived.

DS-3633 arrives from the fore.

DS-3633 has arrived.

Palin arrives from the fore.

Palin has arrived.

The roar of wind and the chill grows louder. A catwalk can be seen extending off into the shadows.

Genive arrives from the fore.

Genive has arrived.

Volidana frowns as she sees the catwalk, aura blue "not again"

Palin looks across the catwalk with a sigh. "Must we go across this ribbon of metal?" he asks.

Hunter looks over to Mnelmn, "That catwalk stable?"

Genive looks frightened as she sees the catwalk ahead.

"We can continue safely." Mnelmn states. "It is safer than the last one. It should be able to support our weight." It moves forward tentatively.

DS-3633 walks towards the catwalk and looks at it, "Perhaps we should move in small groups. Caution is often the most logical choice of actions."

Genive stares at Mnelmn for a moment. Not looking convinced she starts to slowly follow.

Mnelmn stops at the catwalk, waiting for Hunter to take the lead.

Palin nods with a slight sigh. He says, "yargh korfka ogrog por por blug-blug myork nyetski"

Marlan smirks as she continues on.

Volidana nods to DS "Good idea"

Hunter nods slightly to DS, "Good idea. We'll move in groups of two...and watch your spacing." He heads over to the catwalk.

You head Aft.

Catwalk

A gridwork catwalk that provides access to the various utility spaces within the infrastructure of the starbase. The atmosphere is similar to what one might find at high terrestrial altitudes - chilly, with thin oxygen content that would best be bolstered by a rebreather. The environment here might be comfortable for a Centauran, Zangali or Odarite, but most warm-blooded sentients would want thick clothes to wear in this area (perhaps even atmosphere suits). Pipes and wiring conduits span the shadows around the catwalk. Above, one can see gleaming yellow auxiliary lights in the expansive darkness. Much the same view waits below, in the abyss that yawns beneath the catwalk. Caution is recommended.

Hunter arrives from the fore.

Hunter has arrived.

Mnelmn arrives from the fore.

Mnelmn has arrived.

The catwalk creaks while the wind roars around you.

Mnelmn follows behind Hunter carefully, compensating carefully for the roaring wind. Its progress is slow but steady.

Hunter slowly starts to walk across the catwalk, "You ok?" He glances over his shoulder for a second.

Volidana arrives from the fore.

Volidana has arrived.

"I am doing well." Mnelmn replies, its toolkit swaying beneath it.

Palin arrives from the fore.

Palin has arrived.

Hunter nods slightly as he continues to walk.

Genive arrives from the fore.

Genive has arrived.

Palin walks along the catwalk, holding tightly to the railing at the side. He is careful but quick in progression.

Volidana walks carefully as she stays near palin

Genive shivers and her teeth begin to chatter. She grabs onto the railing and forces herself not to look down.

Marlan has arrived.

DS-3633 arrives from the fore.

DS-3633 has arrived.

"Quite some distance..." Mnelmn repeats as it continues carefully.

Hunter heads port.

Hunter has left.

You head Port.

Catwalk

A gridwork catwalk that provides access to the various utility spaces within the infrastructure of the starbase. The atmosphere is similar to what one might find at high terrestrial altitudes - chilly, with thin oxygen content that would best be bolstered by a rebreather. The environment here might be comfortable for a Centauran, Zangali or Odarite, but most warm-blooded sentients would want thick clothes to wear in this area (perhaps even atmosphere suits). Pipes and wiring conduits span the shadows around the catwalk. Above, one can see gleaming yellow auxiliary lights in the expansive darkness. Much the same view waits below, in the abyss that yawns beneath the catwalk. Caution is recommended.

Volidana arrives from starboard.

Volidana has arrived.

Palin arrives from starboard.

Palin has arrived.

Genive arrives from starboard.

Genive has arrived.

The wind continues to roar. The catwalk shifts slightly, creaking.

DS-3633 arrives from starboard.

DS-3633 has arrived.

Mnelmn arrives from starboard.

Mnelmn has arrived.

Palin holds tight to the bars of the catwalk as he progresses as quickly as is safe.

Genive cringes and bows her head against the wind. Her teeth chattering, "Oh gwad lets get out of here. I'm freezing."

Volidana sways and frowns glancing at Palin

Hunter grabs onto the railing for a moment before continuing on.

Hunter heads port.

Hunter has left.

Marlan has arrived.

DS-3633 adjusts its footing, watching the rest from behind.

You head Port.

Catwalk

A gridwork catwalk that provides access to the various utility spaces within the infrastructure of the starbase. The atmosphere is similar to what one might find at high terrestrial altitudes - chilly, with thin oxygen content that would best be bolstered by a rebreather. The environment here might be comfortable for a Centauran, Zangali or Odarite, but most warm-blooded sentients would want thick clothes to wear in this area (perhaps even atmosphere suits). Pipes and wiring conduits span the shadows around the catwalk. Above, one can see gleaming yellow auxiliary lights in the expansive darkness. Much the same view waits below, in the abyss that yawns beneath the catwalk. Caution is recommended.

Genive arrives from starboard.

Genive has arrived.

Volidana arrives from starboard.

Volidana has arrived.

Mnelmn arrives from starboard.

Mnelmn has arrived.

DS-3633 arrives from starboard.

DS-3633 has arrived.

The wind continues to roar. The catwalk shifts slightly, creaking.

Marlan has arrived.

Once again, the scanner comes out and Mnelmn quickly checks its structure.

DS-3633 glances down at the catwalk aw well, attempting to scan for any obvious instabilities in the structure.

Palin arrives from starboard.

Palin has arrived.

"It is important that we continue. But there is no immediate danger at present." Mnelmn warns via its vocalizer, continuing onward.

Volidana continues to sway as she looks back at her partner

Hunter nods slightly, "Ok, let's keep moving." He continues down the catwalk.

You head Port.

Catwalk

A gridwork catwalk that provides access to the various utility spaces within the infrastructure of the starbase. The atmosphere is similar to what one might find at high terrestrial altitudes - chilly, with thin oxygen content that would best be bolstered by a rebreather. The environment here might be comfortable for a Centauran, Zangali or Odarite, but most warm-blooded sentients would want thick clothes to wear in this area (perhaps even atmosphere suits). Pipes and wiring conduits span the shadows around the catwalk. Above, one can see gleaming yellow auxiliary lights in the expansive darkness. Much the same view waits below, in the abyss that yawns beneath the catwalk. Caution is recommended.

Hunter arrives from starboard.

Hunter has arrived.

Volidana arrives from starboard.

Volidana has arrived.

Palin arrives from starboard.

Palin has arrived.

Genive arrives from starboard.

Genive has arrived.

The wind continues to roar. The catwalk shifts slightly, creaking.

Marlan has arrived.

Mnelmn arrives from starboard.

Mnelmn has arrived.

DS-3633 arrives from starboard.

DS-3633 has arrived.

Genive tries to peer ahead, " How much longer. Can you see." she calls out loudly her voice muffled by the wind.

Palin continues to walk, pressing on with determintion to get through.

Hunter sighs slightly as he continues to walk. He squints his eyes, trying to see the end of the catwalk. Hunter shrugs slightly as he continues on.

Hunter heads port.

Hunter has left.

You head Port.

Catwalk

A gridwork catwalk that provides access to the various utility spaces within the infrastructure of the starbase. The atmosphere is similar to what one might find at high terrestrial altitudes - chilly, with thin oxygen content that would best be bolstered by a rebreather. The environment here might be comfortable for a Centauran, Zangali or Odarite, but most warm-blooded sentients would want thick clothes to wear in this area (perhaps even atmosphere suits). Pipes and wiring conduits span the shadows around the catwalk. Above, one can see gleaming yellow auxiliary lights in the expansive darkness. Much the same view waits below, in the abyss that yawns beneath the catwalk. Caution is recommended.

Volidana arrives from starboard.

Volidana has arrived.

Mnelmn arrives from starboard.

Mnelmn has arrived.

Palin arrives from starboard.

Palin has arrived.

Genive arrives from starboard.

Genive has arrived.

The wind roars, and an ominous groaning comes from the catwalk structure.

DS-3633 arrives from starboard.

DS-3633 has arrived.

Marlan has arrived.

Hunter stops at the sound of the groaning, "Recruit, I want a reading of this catwalk."

Mnelmn bobs and rescans the catwalk thoroughly, attempting to locate any structural faults.

Hunter adds, "And make it bloody quick."

Palin's lip curls slightly as he sees more and more catwalk ahead. "How many catwalks can one station have?"

Genive begins to walk a bit more quickly as the groaning increases. She calls out loudly, " I think we need to move Sir!" Her eyes widen as she lets her self look down.

DS-3633 moves a bit slower as the cold begins to contract its metal body. "This unit must keep moving or my joint will become inoperative."

"We must hurry. This will not last longer than eight minutes!" Mnelmn warns, hurrying forward. "Our pace must increase!"

Hunter nods, "Ok, double time it across." His pace picks up as he walks.

Hunter heads port.

Hunter has left.

You head Port.

Catwalk

A gridwork catwalk that provides access to the various utility spaces within the infrastructure of the starbase. The atmosphere is similar to what one might find at high terrestrial altitudes - chilly, with thin oxygen content that would best be bolstered by a rebreather. The environment here might be comfortable for a Centauran, Zangali or Odarite, but most warm-blooded sentients would want thick clothes to wear in this area (perhaps even atmosphere suits). Pipes and wiring conduits span the shadows around the catwalk. Above, one can see gleaming yellow auxiliary lights in the expansive darkness. Much the same view waits below, in the abyss that yawns beneath the catwalk. Caution is recommended.

Palin arrives from starboard.

Palin has arrived.

Mnelmn arrives from starboard.

Mnelmn has arrived.

Genive arrives from starboard.

Genive has arrived.

Volidana arrives from starboard.

Volidana has arrived.

DS-3633 arrives from starboard.

DS-3633 has arrived.

Marlan has arrived.

Hunter continues to walk across the catwalk.

Hunter heads port.

Hunter has left.

The wind jostles the catwalk, shifting it slightly to the left. The groaning of protesting supports continues. A finger-thick cable twangs.

Palin moves as quickly as he can, abandoning careful caution for speed, keeping close to the rest of the group.

Genive face looks worried as she hurries along. Face down in the wind.

Palin heads port.

Palin has left.

DS-3633 creaks as it moves, mimicing the sounds of the catwalk.

Genive heads port.

Genive has left.

Mnelmn heads port.

Mnelmn has left.

You head Port.

Catwalk

A gridwork catwalk that provides access to the various utility spaces within the infrastructure of the starbase. The atmosphere is similar to what one might find at high terrestrial altitudes - chilly, with thin oxygen content that would best be bolstered by a rebreather. The environment here might be comfortable for a Centauran, Zangali or Odarite, but most warm-blooded sentients would want thick clothes to wear in this area (perhaps even atmosphere suits). Pipes and wiring conduits span the shadows around the catwalk. Above, one can see gleaming yellow auxiliary lights in the expansive darkness. Much the same view waits below, in the abyss that yawns beneath the catwalk. Caution is recommended.

Marlan arrives from starboard.

Marlan has arrived.

DS-3633 arrives from starboard.

DS-3633 has arrived.

Volidana arrives from starboard.

Volidana has arrived.

Hunter glances over his shoulder before continuing on.

The wind roars and the catwalk begins to lurch.

Genive is shivering, her lips turning slightly blue. " She chatters, " M m m an its c c cold."

Marlan nods, "It's a little cold." she admits, though she doesn't seem to chatter nearly as much as Genive.

Genive grabs onto the rail as the catwalk lurches. " Dammit. move .. Please."

Hunter stops and grabs the railing, "Bloody hell." Keeping his hands on the railing, he starts to move again.

"Faster!" Mnelmn warns, its scanner's beeping growing more insistant.

Hunter heads port.

Hunter has left.

You head Port.

Catwalk

A gridwork catwalk that provides access to the various utility spaces within the infrastructure of the starbase. The atmosphere is similar to what one might find at high terrestrial altitudes - chilly, with thin oxygen content that would best be bolstered by a rebreather. The environment here might be comfortable for a Centauran, Zangali or Odarite, but most warm-blooded sentients would want thick clothes to wear in this area (perhaps even atmosphere suits). Pipes and wiring conduits span the shadows around the catwalk. Above, one can see gleaming yellow auxiliary lights in the expansive darkness. Much the same view waits below, in the abyss that yawns beneath the catwalk. Caution is recommended.

Palin arrives from starboard.

Palin has arrived.

Genive arrives from starboard.

Genive has arrived.

Volidana arrives from starboard.

Volidana has arrived.

DS-3633 arrives from starboard.

DS-3633 has arrived.

Mnelmn arrives from starboard.

Mnelmn has arrived.

Marlan arrives from starboard.

Marlan has arrived.

TWANG! Another support cable snaps loose, whipping just past Volidana's face before dangling toward the abyss.

Hunter's pace quickens as he sees the end of the catwalk. He practically jogs down now. He stops at the sound of the cable snapping, "Get of this damned thing...NOW."

Genive begins to run. Catching up to Palin. " M m mm ove " she urges.

Palin continues to press on as swiftly as possible. As the cable snaps he looks towards its old location and growls "Let's just run." he says, and rushes for the other side of the catwalk.

Hunter starts to move again.

Hunter heads port.

Hunter has left.

Palin heads port.

Palin has left.

DS-3633 takes long steps, moving as fast as it can.

You head Port.

Access Corridor

A five-foot-wide, five-foot-high cavity that runs between bulkheads. Taller people will have to crouch or crawl to make it through this passage, which seems to have been an afterthought in the design phase. Colored lines border various access panels and conduit hatches in the corridor.

Genive arrives from starboard.

Genive has arrived.

Marlan arrives from starboard.

Marlan has arrived.

Genive continues to run.

Mnelmn arrives from starboard.

Mnelmn has arrived.

DS-3633 arrives from starboard.

DS-3633 has arrived.

Hunter turns around, "Everyone ok?"

Volidana arrives from starboard.

Volidana has arrived.

The wind dies down, the temperature grows a bit warmer.

"One wonders how we will get back." Mnelmn states, radiating worry.

Palin looks back at the catwalk and nods. "Suggestion: avoid catwalks."

Genive nods and but still looks frightened.

Marlan looks back, slightly out of breath but a grin on her face, "Or take flying lessons."

Hunter nods slightly, "Ok, let's move." He turns towards the corridor and starts to walk down. Those closeby, can hear him let out a sigh of relief.

Hunter heads aft.

Hunter has left.

Volidana breathes with relief as she reaches the corridor

DS-3633 pauses as it reaches the warmer corridor. It stands still a few moments before moving.

Genive shakes her head as she follows.

Genive heads aft.

Genive has left.

Palin heads aft.

Palin has left.

Volidana heads aft.

Volidana has left.

Mnelmn heads aft.

Mnelmn has left.

DS-3633 heads aft.

DS-3633 has left.

You head Aft.

Access Corridor

A five-foot-wide, five-foot-high cavity that runs between bulkheads. Taller people will have to crouch or crawl to make it through this passage, which seems to have been an afterthought in the design phase. Colored lines border various access panels and conduit hatches in the corridor.

Hunter looks over to Mnelmn, "Any clue how close we are?"

Its trusty scanner close at hand, Mnelmn attempts to calculate its position relative to the point indicated during the briefing.

Genive stoops down and breathes deeply. After a minute or so her shivering subsides somewhat.

Palin leans up against a wall as he waits for the verdict of how far they have left to continue.

"There is another long catwalk ahead..." Mnelmn states, disappointment somehow creeping into its artificially-generated voice.

Marlan smirks, "maybe we should try crossing this one, one at a time." she suggests

DS-3633 looks down at the dust, "Someone was in these corridors at some point." It points to a set of footprints.

Hunter frowns slightly, "Great...just bloody great." He looks over the group, "Anyone who wants to turn back...speak up now."

Genive blinks, "Go back? Go back to what?"

Palin raises an eyebrow and shakes his head. "I doubt going back is an option right now sir. That first catwalk collapsed..." he says.

Marlan laughs, "Let's just go huh.." she says walking port, "At least this way there's something to walk on for now."

DS-3633 kneels slowly to inspect the bootprints in the dust, attempting to determine how old they are.

Volidana blinks "wind should have taken care of footprints

Genive glances stoops down and takes a look at the footprints.

Hunter nods slightly, "Good point...just a standard question. Relying too much on my training." He looks over to DS, "Can you tell how old they are?"

DS-3633 tilts its head, then looks up. "These have been here for less than three solar days."

Marlan stops, near the exit to port and looks back.

Hunter nods slightly and glances to his pistol, "Ok, let's move." He starts down the corridor.

Genive stands up and moves towards Marlan.

Volidana blinks "who else has acess?"

Hunter shrugs slightly, "I have no clue...but something tells me, we'll find out." Hunter glances over his shoulder one more time before moving on.

Hunter heads aft.

Hunter has left.

Mnelmn heads aft.

Mnelmn has left.

Volidana heads aft.

Volidana has left.

Genive heads aft.

Genive has left.

DS-3633 heads aft.

DS-3633 has left.

You head Aft.

Access Corridor

A five-foot-wide, five-foot-high cavity that runs between bulkheads. Taller people will have to crouch or crawl to make it through this passage, which seems to have been an afterthought in the design phase. Colored lines border various access panels and conduit hatches in the corridor.

Marlan arrives from the fore.

Marlan has arrived.

Palin has arrived.

Genive glances around. " Okay which way now?"

Hunter glances around, "Great..."

"Another utility alcove. I recommend proceeding toward the aft." Mnelmn suggests after consulting its scanner.

DS-3633 glances down again at the ground, then points aft. "The footprints continue."

Volidana hms as they reach yet another split

Hunter nods, "Aft it is." He moves down the corridor.

Hunter heads aft.

Hunter has left.

You head Aft.

Access Corridor

A five-foot-wide, five-foot-high cavity that runs between bulkheads. Taller people will have to crouch or crawl to make it through this passage, which seems to have been an afterthought in the design phase. Colored lines border various access panels and conduit hatches in the corridor.

Volidana arrives from the fore.

Volidana has arrived.

Genive arrives from the fore.

Genive has arrived.

Mnelmn arrives from the fore.

Mnelmn has arrived.

DS-3633 arrives from the fore.

DS-3633 has arrived.

Genive shakes her head as she sees the catwalk, " Oh no, not again!"

Mnelmn holds up a tentacle as though to halt the others. "I have an idea."It suggests. It pauses as its scanner beeps, interrupting it. Holding up the scanner, it states. "There is a polydenum power signature just ahead."

Marlan arrives from the fore.

Marlan has arrived.

Hunter frowns, "Ok, we move one at a time." He looks over to Mnelmn, "I want constant scans of this catwalk." He pauses, "What's the idea?"

Genive stands quietly and stares ahead at the catwalk.

Mnelmn sets its toolkit down and takes out a high-tensile cable, holding it up "I will, with your permission, attach this to walls on either side of the catwalk as a safety measure. Perhaps it will allow us to partially support our weight."

Hunter nods, "Please...do so."

The bolstering cable does the trick.

Volidana grins at mel " you are quite resourceful."

DS-3633 looks at the catwalk and tilts its head. "Interesting solution."

"It is why I am in the Vanguard's employ." Mnelmn replies matter-of-factly. "I would still recommend that we go one at a time."

Genive sighs and looks a bit relieved.

Volidana nods and waits for Hunter to lead

Hunter nods as he grabs a hold of the cable, "Good." He pauses for a moment, "Let's get this over with." The pilot steps out onto the catwalk.

You head Aft.

Catwalk

A gridwork catwalk that provides access to the various utility spaces within the infrastructure of the starbase. The atmosphere is similar to what one might find at high terrestrial altitudes - chilly, with thin oxygen content that would best be bolstered by a rebreather. The environment here might be comfortable for a Centauran, Zangali or Odarite, but most warm-blooded sentients would want thick clothes to wear in this area (perhaps even atmosphere suits). Pipes and wiring conduits span the shadows around the catwalk. Above, one can see gleaming yellow auxiliary lights in the expansive darkness. Much the same view waits below, in the abyss that yawns beneath the catwalk. Caution is recommended.

Hunter arrives from the fore.

Hunter has arrived.

Genive arrives from the fore.

Genive has arrived.

Marlan arrives from the fore.

Marlan has arrived.

Mnelmn arrives from the fore.

Mnelmn has arrived.

Mnelmn heads aft.

Mnelmn has left.

The wind roars. The catwalk shifts slightly, but does not buckle or groan significantly.

Marlan frowns, "Why does it feel like we're walking in circles..."

Volidana arrives from the fore.

Volidana has arrived.

DS-3633 arrives from the fore.

DS-3633 has arrived.

You head Aft.

Catwalk

A gridwork catwalk that provides access to the various utility spaces within the infrastructure of the starbase. The atmosphere is similar to what one might find at high terrestrial altitudes - chilly, with thin oxygen content that would best be bolstered by a rebreather. The environment here might be comfortable for a Centauran, Zangali or Odarite, but most warm-blooded sentients would want thick clothes to wear in this area (perhaps even atmosphere suits). Pipes and wiring conduits span the shadows around the catwalk. Above, one can see gleaming yellow auxiliary lights in the expansive darkness. Much the same view waits below, in the abyss that yawns beneath the catwalk. Caution is recommended.

Hunter arrives from the fore.

Hunter has arrived.

Volidana arrives from the fore.

Volidana has arrived.

Genive arrives from the fore.

Genive has arrived.

DS-3633 arrives from the fore.

DS-3633 has arrived.

The wind roars. The catwalk shifts slightly, but does not buckle or groan significantly.

Genive clenches her teeth as she walks.

DS-3633 walks carefully, but continues to look for more signs of someone else down here.

Mnelmn heads starboard.

Mnelmn has left.

You head Starboard.

Catwalk

A gridwork catwalk that provides access to the various utility spaces within the infrastructure of the starbase. The atmosphere is similar to what one might find at high terrestrial altitudes - chilly, with thin oxygen content that would best be bolstered by a rebreather. The environment here might be comfortable for a Centauran, Zangali or Odarite, but most warm-blooded sentients would want thick clothes to wear in this area (perhaps even atmosphere suits). Pipes and wiring conduits span the shadows around the catwalk. Above, one can see gleaming yellow auxiliary lights in the expansive darkness. Much the same view waits below, in the abyss that yawns beneath the catwalk. Caution is recommended.

Hunter arrives from the port.

Hunter has arrived.

Genive arrives from the port.

Genive has arrived.

Marlan arrives from the port.

Marlan has arrived.

The wind roars. The catwalk shifts slightly, but does not buckle or groan significantly.

DS-3633 arrives from the port.

DS-3633 has arrived.

Mnelmn skirts ahead, keeping an eye on its cable, its scanner in tentacle. "So far it is holding." It reports to Hunter just before it darts ahead.

Hunter sighs slightly as he continues to move.

Volidana arrives from the port.

Volidana has arrived.

Hunter heads starboard.

Hunter has left.

Genive glances back at Marlan she calls over the wind, " You got any warming pills in your kit." She grimace and plods on.

Marlan heads starboard.

Marlan has left.

Genive heads starboard.

Genive has left.

You head Starboard.

Catwalk

A gridwork catwalk that provides access to the various utility spaces within the infrastructure of the starbase. The atmosphere is similar to what one might find at high terrestrial altitudes - chilly, with thin oxygen content that would best be bolstered by a rebreather. The environment here might be comfortable for a Centauran, Zangali or Odarite, but most warm-blooded sentients would want thick clothes to wear in this area (perhaps even atmosphere suits). Pipes and wiring conduits span the shadows around the catwalk. Above, one can see gleaming yellow auxiliary lights in the expansive darkness. Much the same view waits below, in the abyss that yawns beneath the catwalk. Caution is recommended.

DS-3633 arrives from the port.

DS-3633 has arrived.

Volidana arrives from the port.

Volidana has arrived.

Marlan grins, "Sorry..isn't included." she responds.

The wind roars. The catwalk lurches up and down. Looking around, you might notice it is only suspended by two cables. The others dangle and whip about in the wind.

Mnelmn arrives from the port.

Mnelmn has arrived.

Genive shakes her head and gasps as the catwalk lurches. " Gawd. Not again. Move!"

Mnelmn heads starboard.

Mnelmn has left.

Hunter's frown deepens, "Bloody hell..." He shouts out, "Move."

Hunter heads starboard.

Hunter has left.

You head Starboard.

Catwalk

A gridwork catwalk that provides access to the various utility spaces within the infrastructure of the starbase. The atmosphere is similar to what one might find at high terrestrial altitudes - chilly, with thin oxygen content that would best be bolstered by a rebreather. The environment here might be comfortable for a Centauran, Zangali or Odarite, but most warm-blooded sentients would want thick clothes to wear in this area (perhaps even atmosphere suits). Pipes and wiring conduits span the shadows around the catwalk. Above, one can see gleaming yellow auxiliary lights in the expansive darkness. Much the same view waits below, in the abyss that yawns beneath the catwalk. Caution is recommended.

Genive arrives from the port.

Genive has arrived.

DS-3633 arrives from the port.

DS-3633 has arrived.

Volidana arrives from the port.

Volidana has arrived.

Genive starts running.

The wind roars, and this segment of the catwalk is dangling by ONE cable, thrumming as the footsteps go past.

Marlan arrives from the port.

Marlan has arrived.

Mnelmn zooms ahead, waving its tentacles as though to encourage the others to keep up at a similar pace.

Mnelmn heads starboard.

Mnelmn has left.

Genive heads starboard.

Genive has left.

You head Starboard.

Catwalk

A gridwork catwalk that provides access to the various utility spaces within the infrastructure of the starbase. The atmosphere is similar to what one might find at high terrestrial altitudes - chilly, with thin oxygen content that would best be bolstered by a rebreather. The environment here might be comfortable for a Centauran, Zangali or Odarite, but most warm-blooded sentients would want thick clothes to wear in this area (perhaps even atmosphere suits). Pipes and wiring conduits span the shadows around the catwalk. Above, one can see gleaming yellow auxiliary lights in the expansive darkness. Much the same view waits below, in the abyss that yawns beneath the catwalk. Caution is recommended.

Hunter arrives from the port.

Hunter has arrived.

Marlan arrives from the port.

Marlan has arrived.

DS-3633 arrives from the port.

DS-3633 has arrived.

As the wind continues to roar around you, you find this segment has intact support cables.

Mnelmn heads starboard.

Mnelmn has left.

You head Starboard.

Catwalk

A gridwork catwalk that provides access to the various utility spaces within the infrastructure of the starbase. The atmosphere is similar to what one might find at high terrestrial altitudes - chilly, with thin oxygen content that would best be bolstered by a rebreather. The environment here might be comfortable for a Centauran, Zangali or Odarite, but most warm-blooded sentients would want thick clothes to wear in this area (perhaps even atmosphere suits). Pipes and wiring conduits span the shadows around the catwalk. Above, one can see gleaming yellow auxiliary lights in the expansive darkness. Much the same view waits below, in the abyss that yawns beneath the catwalk. Caution is recommended.

Hunter arrives from the port.

Hunter has arrived.

Genive arrives from the port.

Genive has arrived.

Marlan arrives from the port.

Marlan has arrived.

As the wind continues to roar around you, you find this segment has intact support cables.

DS-3633 arrives from the port.

DS-3633 has arrived.

Genive shivers, " Can we please move to where it's warmer?"

Volidana arrives from the port.

Volidana has arrived.

Hunter slows down a bit as he moves on.

Hunter heads starboard.

Hunter has left.

You head Starboard.

Access Corridor

A five-foot-wide, five-foot-high cavity that runs between bulkheads. Taller people will have to crouch or crawl to make it through this passage, which seems to have been an afterthought in the design phase. Colored lines border various access panels and conduit hatches in the corridor.

Genive arrives from the port.

Genive has arrived.

Volidana arrives from the port.

Volidana has arrived.

DS-3633 arrives from the port.

DS-3633 has arrived.

Marlan arrives from the port.

Marlan has arrived.

The wind dies down, the temperature grows warmer, the footing grows far more solid.

Mnelmn arrives from the port.

Mnelmn has arrived.

Volidana sighs in relief yet again

Genive stoops down and sighs, " Geez, I can't take much more of that."

Marlan frowns and leans back against the wall, "You sure we're not going in circles?" she asks again.

DS-3633 glances down at the ground again, now that its attention isn't focused on safety. "It appears that the other person was here as well." It points starboard.

Hunter looks over to Mnelmn, "How much farther to that power source you picked up earlier?"

Genive sighs. Shes starting to look tired and leans against the wall, resting for a moment.

Volidana hms "what kind of footprints are they...humanoid?"

DS-3633 looks to the others, "They appear to be made by a boot that would be worn by a humanoid. This unit reminds you of the ration and rank insignia found earlier."

"At the end of the corridor. We will no longer have to negotiate such..." Mnelmn pauses for a moment, trying to recall the right word. "Catwalks."

Hunter nods, "Ok, let's get there." He starts moving down the corridor.

A short time later, the explorers reach the end of the access corridor...

Access Corridor

A five-foot-wide, five-foot-high cavity that runs between bulkheads. Taller people will have to crouch or crawl to make it through this passage, which seems to have been an afterthought in the design phase. Colored lines border various access panels and conduit hatches in the corridor.

Hunter arrives from the fore.

Hunter has arrived.

Volidana arrives from the fore.

Volidana has arrived.

Genive arrives from the fore.

Genive has arrived.

DS-3633 arrives from the fore.

DS-3633 has arrived.

Marlan arrives from the fore.

Marlan has arrived.

Mnelmn sweeps its scanner before it, attempting to detect life signs.

"I am unarmed and quite vulnerable to energy weapons. I would request that those who present a more difficult target enter. The life form is inside."

Mnelmn concludes, gliding to a halt near the entrance.

Genive steps back slightly and bites her lip.

Hunter brings his pistol up near his face as he moves towards the entrance, "One more...up here with me."

DS-3633 tilts its head, then steps forward. "This unit will volunteer to enter first and draw any weapon fire."

Marlan frowns a bit, but takes no backwards step, "Let's hope he's friendly." she responds.

Operations Module 

A dimly lit but fairly cavernous chamber tucked into the depths of Starbase Retribution - a dark secret buried in a cold, forgotten place. Winding steps lead around the circumference of the operations module, accessing secondary and tertiary levels. On the entry level, a ring of computer terminal mainframes dominate the center of the room. Recessed pockets in the bulkhead hold holovid monitors - most of the image projectors are dark, while others show glittering clouds of static. The secondary level is home to dozens of cryogenic chambers, hazmat vaults, stasis chambers and cargo crates stenciled with military tracking numbers.

DS-3633 arrives from the fore.

DS-3633 has arrived.

Hunter arrives from the fore.

Hunter has arrived.

Marlan arrives from the fore.

Marlan has arrived.

Genive arrives from the fore.

Genive has arrived.

Marlan enters, following DS and Hunter.

Hunter brings his pistol up and scans the room, "What the hell is this place?"

Genive enters following Marlan. She looks around her eyes wide. " Woooh."

No people besides those who entered are seen.

Mnelmn arrives from the fore.

Mnelmn has arrived.

DS-3633 steps towards the data storage terminal and begins to look it over.

Marlan walks off to the right, circling the room to examine the cryogenic chambers, "Look at this place.."

"Intriguing..." Mnelmn concludes as it glides forward. It begins to wander the room, eventually coming to a halt near the teleportal.

Hunter holsters his place, "What exactly was the Guardian Fleet up to?"

Genive looks up at the chambers. "I dunno, but it probably wasn't good."

Marlan frowns slightly, "These must be specialist.." she says as she studies the chambers.

DS-3633 attempts to determine the extent of the damage to the terminal, then looks to Mnelmn, "Are you able to repair this so that data may be retrieved?"

Genive walks over and examines the data terminal.

Mnelmn floats toward the scorched data storage terminal. It sets its toolkit nearby, and attempts to repair it.

Hunter hmms softly, "I want this area secured. Whoever else is down here will probably come back, and I don't want any suprises."

DS-3633 turns to Hunter, "It is likely the teleportal was used, as footprints only led into this room, there were none out of it that I detected."

Hunter hmms and moves over to the teleportal, looking it over.

Marlan continues examining the chambers, she begins looking at the controls, attempting to see if the chambers are still operational.

"I need more time with this." Mnelmn notes, motioning to the data terminal. "Extended time. The damage is rather extensive."

Some time later, Mnelmn and DS-3633 work together to repair the teleportal, and the team uses it to reach their next destination...

Submarine Arrivals Deck 

A dimly lit chamber whose centerpiece is an under-lit pool of briny bluish-green seawater, above which is suspended a submersible vehicle with glass bubble windows and articulated mechanical arms for use underwater.

Pipes carrying oxygen and fresh water twist and spiral along the bulkheads, leading toward the regularly inhabited areas of the deep-sea base.

Stale recycled air smells of salt and sweat.

Standing on either side of a hatchway leading into an adjacent corridor are a pair of grim-faced humans clad in black armor and molded plastic helmets that fit their close-shaved heads. They appear to be armed with plasma rifles.

Lazarus steps into the submarine arrivals facility, walking with purpose, chin held high, brow furrowed. When he speaks, it is with a rather lyrical, lilting accent, but his voice is rather gruff. Not hostile, simply the sort of voice one might expect from a person tempered in a dry, harsh place.

Lazarus nods to the gathered individuals, saying, "G'day. Welcome to Safeharbor."

Mnelmn floats up from behind DS-3633 slowly, tilting forward to take a look at the new arrival.

Genive hitches her pack into a more comfortable position on her back and turns her gaze to the new arrival.

Marlan shifts her eyes to Genive then over at Lazarus.

Virvril says, "Finally, ssssssomeone with a sssssensssse of hosssspitality."

Keller's arm drifts back to his side, elbow bending, though his weapon still remains on the intruders. "They've come about the supplies.", he explains to the older man with concern.

Volidana blinks at the change in tone "I know you want left alone...my people feel much the same..i'm certain something can *blinks at lazraus arrival

Virvril relaxes his grip on his weapon, and lowers the barrel a bit, but not enough that it can't be raised quickly.

Lazarus glances toward the short reptiloid. "Our hospitality has been greater than you can possibly know." He nods to Keller. "Thank you, Commander. You have done well." He looks back at the others. "We all knew this day would come. Frankly, I am surprised it took this long."

Marlan asks, "If all you needed was supplies, why hold us at gunpoint?"

Virvril nods. "We have only recently occupied Retribution, and thussss have not explored it entirely. Conssssidering the condition of Earth, vissssiting you through conventional meanssssss wasssss not feasssible."

Lazarus looks toward Marlan, an easy smile drifting across his face. "They're protecting the president. It's a bit more complex than you probably understand. You see, I am Lazarus Blades. President of the Solar Consortium."

"Intriguing..." Mnelmn notes, folding its tentacles up beneath itself. "I did notice somewhat of a resemblance."

Virvril nictates his eyes rapidly at this information. "Fasssscinating. We sssssaw you dessstroyed when the bomb exploded in New York..."

Lazarus nods to Virvril. "Yes. The studio we used to simulate my presence in the city can be found within this colony."

Keller tightens his grip on the pistol at the announcement of Lazarus' title, his back straightening. He takes a protective half-step towards the President.

Virvril says, "Then there issss more to the dessssstruction of Earth than firssst meetssss the eye."

Genive takes in a deep breath and her face darkens. She narrows her eyes and stares at Lazarus.

DS-3633 tilts its head as it observes both parties from its vantage point.

Lazarus shakes his head. "Not by much. The maniacs in the Keep Earth Pure movement detonated the devices, as they threatened. I wanted to stay in New York, but my colleagues insisted that it would be the height of foolishness to not attempt to survive to lead the rebuilding efforts. I listened."

Ducking back beneath the safety of DS-3633, Mnelmn takes out its scanner and holds it low in its tentacles. It begins to scan its surroundings, keeping the Phyrrian between itself and the armed guards as it listens to Lazarus.

Virvril nods. "Sssssenssssible, I would agree. Well then, Mr. Pressssident. I have one quesssstion to assssk of you. Are you aware of the desssstruction of a probe which was sssssent into your atmossssphere?"

Genive licks her lips and murmurs something quietly to herself. She glances at Virvril and then back to Lazarus.

Volidana smiles a bit at Lazraus "Did you want to be found? leave the trail on purpose?"

Lazarus clasps his hands behind his back, smiling crookedly. "I am well aware of it. I gave the order to shoot it down." He nods to Volidana. "Shooting down your probe was a flare, as it were. Proof of life on Earth."

Virvril nods slowly. "Yessss....it did ssssspark discussssion to that effect. It would alsssso have revealed life if it had been allowed to continue functioning, but from what you tell me Mr. PRessssident, you have a flair for the theatrical."

Mnelmn grows bolder, floating upwards and continuing to scan its surroundings.

Lazarus tilts his head appreciatively to Virvril. "It was important that we demonstrate we were alive - and that we could defend ourselves."

Keller nods solemnly to himself, standing at attention next to Lazarus, his eyes flicking to Mnelmn and then to the Phyrrian with the remnants of what might still be nervousness.

Virvril says, "How many do you believe ssssurived the bombssss? Are there more coloniesssss, like thissss one?"

Mnelmn attempts to determine the relative size of the base, its tentacle pressing a few buttons on its large, quietly-beeping scanner.

Lazarus smiles sadly. "Eight other colonies. Precious few, I am afraid - perhaps thirty to forty people on each base at most. Safeharbor boasts the highest occupancy rating. Mostly soldiers and scientists."

Marlan asks, "As xenophobic as ever?"

Virvril snaps a look at Marlan with a sharp thssss of warning, but it is too late.

Lazarus glances toward Marlan. "I would say not. The inhabitants of these bases are pioneering souls with open minds. If we were xenophobes, I assure you: You would all be dead. You would have died the moment we discovered you on our starbase."

"It would've been easy to set the teleportal to destroy itself and the Retribution without our knowlege." Mnelmn agrees.

Marlan grins a little, "Well...great then."

Volidana realizes curiosity and fear have caused her to speak out of turn and looks at Virvril for permission to speak

Virvril looks back to Lazarus. "Perhapssss we ssssshould bring you up to ssssspeed on the current ssssstate of the Sssssol sssssysssstem."

Genive lets a small smile play over her face and visably relaxes.

Lazarus smiles, chuckling and raising a hand. "Do not patronize me as if I am some locked-away refugee, Colonel Vir of Hatch Vril. We have had a great deal of access to all your records. We know."

DS-3633 tilts its head, "This unit inquires: why was the recording of Neidermeyer and a Kamir with the teleportal?"

Keller grins faintly, then grows solemn once more, once again becoming the faceless mask of the soldier, knees stiff, eyes ever alert.

Lazarus looks toward the Phyrrian. "Ah. Well, the short story is: The teleportal is located in a secret Guardian Fleet lab. Known among top government officials as Area 16X. Before the bombs, that teleportal led to both this colony and a secret facility in the desert called Area 16."

Virvril says, "What wasss the purpose of Area 16?"

Genive coughs and quickly puts her hand over her mouth to stifle it. She listens with interest.

Lazarus shakes his head, sighing. "Same thing as Area 16X. Torture of political prisoners. Development of biological and digital weapons. Development of specialized warfare. Oswald Cottington, the man who built Sanctuary, spent some time in the desert prison."

Volidana hms "What do you intend to now that you've been found out. stay?"

DS-3633 speaks up again a few moments after Lazarus' last answer. "Were you working with the Kamir? Or gathering information against them?"

Virvril takes his rifle and powers it off, slinging it over his shoulder, apparently satisfied that he's not going to suffer attack.

Lazarus crosses his arms before himself. He smiles at Volidana, but then turns toward DS-3633. "Our evidence indicates that Gustav Eiger and his followers were, in fact, most likely under the influence of the Kamir. It is they, we believe, who manipulated our people to making the mad choice to immolate Earth."

Virvril nods. "Assss the Hiverssss have indicated to ussss, ssspeaking of the evilssss of the Kamir."

"Many of those back on Centauri, including myself, believe that an outside force must have caused the humans to destroy themselves. They have had ample opportunity to do so at many points in their history, yet never decided to do so." Mnelmn states.

Genive nods and murmurs, " Okay, now I'm begining to get it."

Lazarus nods curtly at the Centauran. "For a while, I thought perhaps the Hivers themselves were behind it - we used them to run our OtherSpace Drives, after all. But then I saw that footage with Neidermeyer...then I knew. I knew the fall of the Consortium, the decimation of Earth...all of it is on the hands of the Kamir."

Virvril says, "Do you believe Neidermeyer isssss sssstill in their employ?"

Lazarus smirks. "Is the sonuvabitch still drawing air? If so...yes."

Virvril thsssses in amusement. "He isss indeed wasssting air, in the sssservice of Cabrerra."

Keller grits his teeth at the mention of the former military man's name. "Bastard...", he whispers, between clenched teeth, barely audible his eyes going slightly glossy.

Volidana smiles "a point of mutual agreement"

Lazarus returns his attention to Volidana. "As for my plans: Earth will announce that it is, in fact, alive, and that our claim remains on Retribution. We will demand that the Martians release any claim of their own. We will, I am afraid to say, require that the Vanguard leave it as soon as practically possible. We want to remain left alone until such time as we are ready to let others in."

Virvril nods. "In all truth, that issss a matter between you and the Martiansssss. We however have living quarterssss we can utilize if that issss indeed your wissssh."

DS-3633 places its hand on the pad and pushes a key on the keypad. The swirling portal opens up long enough to swallow them up.

DS-3633 has left.

Volidana glances at virvril with a smile not having expected him to acquiesce

Lazarus smiles at Virvril. "Thank you, Colonel." He scratches his chin, then says, "You are all welcome to explore the colony. Have a look around. Then, I must ask you to depart. Commander Keller will see you back to Retribution."

Keller nods once at the President's words, stepping aside to allow the group through and going back to his post to one side of the door.

"This is quite historic." Mnelmn states, putting away its scanner. It takes out its datapad and begins noting recent events in detail.

Virvril nods, but seems to have one last question. "What planssss do you have for the ssssurface of Earth? Do you believe it can be made habitable, in time?"

Lazarus is in the midst of turning toward the corridor. He stops, then turns, a sad grimace crossing his face. He looks at Virvril and says, "The surface may be lost to us for centuries. Our only chance to prosper will be beneath the waves."

Virvril nods, the answer apparently satisfying him. "I musssst make my report to the General." He looks to his group. "Thossse who wissssh to explore may do sssso. When you are finisssshed, return to the Minerva and ssssubmit your reportsssss."

Genive smiles sadly, " At least there is something." She takes a step towards the corridor. " I can't believe I'm back on earth, underwater or not."

Volidana hms "I'm afraid you'll not have an easy time with the Martians, sir. They've not been hospitable of late"

"I have been greeted here with more common decency than on Mars." Mnelmn agrees.

Lazarus nods to Virvril, then smirks at Volidana. "Yes, well...why do you think I'm asking the Vanguard to depart the starbase?" He winks, then turns and heads into the corridor.

Virvril heads into the teleportal.

Virvril places his clawed hand on the pad and pushes a key on the keypad. The swirling portal opens up long enough to swallow them up.

Virvril has left.

Volidana places her glowing hand on the pad and pushes a key on the keypad. The swirling portal opens up long enough to swallow them up.

Volidana has left.

Noticing the Colonel's departure, Mnelmn follows suit, floating toward the teleportal.

You head into Main Corridor .

Main Corridor 

A four-foot-wide, six-foot-high corridor that extends along the spine of the deep-sea base. Spaced at regular intervals, blue plasma lamps provide meager illumination.

Gridwork panels on the floor appear to be removable with special hooks that are mounted in brackets on the bulkheads. Beneath the panels are utility access tubes, apparently leading to maintenance areas where colony equipment can be repaired.

Four hatchways flank the corridor to port and starboard, with the arrivals deck aft and another hatchway to fore.

Genive wanders in and looks around curiously.

Lazarus walks along the main corridor, speaking quietly with a technician as he goes. "Yes, that'll be fine. The farming units can stay out for a few more hours to compensate."

Genive taps her finger on her chin and thinks for a moment. She walks quickly to catch up with Lazarus. " Excuse me Sir, If its not a bother I have a question."

Lazarus stops, turning toward Genive. "Of course."

Genive smiles a bit shyly, " Um it may seem kind of odd..Do you perhaps have any clams? New England ones to be specific."

Lazarus lifts his eyebrows. "New England? No." He smirks. "That's about a thousand miles from here. We might be able to order a shipment of them from Causeway Colony, off Cape Cod."

Genive grins broadly, " If you could. I would be most grateful. Its been a personal quest of mine to find some. "

Lazarus nods. "Well, I'll put in the request. It may be a few days. I'll have someone contact you aboard the Minerva."

Genive smiles and nods "Thank you." She pauses for a moment and grins ," If you could keep it just between you and me. I want it to be a suprise."

Lazarus chuckles. "All right, if you wish."

Genive waves as she turns to leave. " I'm going to get back now."

Lazarus nods to Genive. "Good to see you, Ms. Steele. I'll be in touch."