[Radio: (B) RF-Secure] General transmits, "I did not ask your /opinion/,
Major."
[Radio: (B) RF-Secure] Wind Crow transmits, "I didn't give one."
[Radio: (B) RF-Secure] Prismatic Spider transmits, "Dammit, Wind. You
already drove Cossack into a fury, just sit down and stop trying to get the
last word already, will you?"
[Radio: (B) RF-Secure] Wind Crow transmits, "He needs to calm down. That's
really not good for his health."
[Radio: (B) RF-Secure] Prismatic Spider transmits, "You need to stop goading
him with your crap."
[Radio: (B) RF-Secure] General transmits, "I should say that it is not good
for your health, Major."
[Radio: (B) RF-Secure] Storm Owl transmits, "Commander Spider. Major Crow."
[Radio: (B) RF-Secure] General transmits, "Just a moment, Commander."
[Radio: (B) RF-Secure] Storm Owl transmits, "I am pleased to hear you are
safe. I assume you are resting comfortably?"
[Radio: (B) RF-Secure] Storm Owl transmits, "Yes sir."
[Radio: (B) RF-Secure] Rush Raccoon rubs his head.
[Radio: (B) RF-Secure] Storm Owl adjusts his beret.
[Radio: (B) RF-Secure] Rush Raccoon transmits, "Sir, is ANY of this things
Internal Affairs needs to be looking into?"
[Radio: (B) RF-Secure] Storm Owl would laugh his ass off if he had a sense
of humour and found any of this funny. Honestly. Just laugh until it damn
well fell off. For about an hour or so, at least.
[Radio: (B) RF-Secure] General transmits, "Major Wind Crow. You will keep
your opinions and your need to have the last word /to your self/ for the
time being. You /WILL/ stay in Medical untill you have talked to either
myself or the Colonel about why you do NOT irritate the people who are
repairing you out of the kindness of their hearts. Am I clear, Major?"
[Radio: (B) RF-Secure] Wind Crow transmits, "Crystal."
[Radio: (B) RF-Secure] General transmits, "/Good/. Now get to it."
[Radio: (B) RF-Secure] General transmits, "Commander Owl, you may discuss
what it is you wish to discuss with the Major now. I would ask that you wait
for Commander Spider to be returned to our care before you start asking him
question."
[Radio: (B) RF-Secure] Storm Owl transmits, "Yes sir. Thank you, sir."
Fortress V - Medical Center
Sterile white and pale green, the medbay, like all medbays, is a
calm, quiet place, the noiselessness enforced by sonic dampening fields.
Repliforce's medical technicians work here, and this area is rigged to deal
with any number of Reploid injuries, including the most series operations
possible. The staff here is competent and collected, and they have one of
the best survival rates of any military hospital anywhere. Minor upgrade
work is performed here as well, as well as the physicals and regular exams
that are a part of military life.
Contents: Contents:
Dream Doll [RF] Wind Crow [RF]
Grisha [Jacketless_marv] [C]
Shell's Medbay Bed Plaques
Soul Nightshade's Biosphere <SNB> Repair Chamber - Fortress V
Out <O>: Fortress V - Upper Deck
Wind Crow is sitting on a pressure couch where his wind generators and his
flight system are being suppressed because of the damage he incurred.
Malfunctions are bad. The Crow is leaning back in it with his eyes closed
and he's breathing in and out calmly.
In. Out.
In. Out.
In. Out.
Wind hasn't got a care in the world.
Meanwhile, a moderate distance away from Wind Crow inside of a
guarded cubicle, is Grisha. The Russian has a single strap across his waist,
holding him down from that point. His limbs are secured with industrial
forcefields. After all, his hands and feet are registered lethal weapons.
Tap. Tap. Tap. The footsteps stop. There are whispered mutters outside the
medical bay. The whispers stop. Whoosh. The door opens. Storm Owl, flanked
by two of his personal combat response team - the large and imposing
Sergeant Bomber Albatross and the rotund but sturdy Ratchet Bumblebee. The
trio stop in front of one of the Repliforce medics. There are more whispered
mutters. The whispers stop. Storm Owl gestures in Wind Crow's general
direction. The nurse nods. The trio head towards Wind Crow. Another medic
calmly pulls forward the curtain for when some measure of privacy is
required. Ratchet gives a sympathetic look towards Grisha. Bomber gives him
an appraising optic. Storm ignores him.
Dream Doll is off to the side recieving outpatient support for something
with its hands; they are currently in a box and being checked on in some
obscure way by a technician. They both look bored with the procedure, but it
is probably standard practice.
Wind Crow opens his eyes and looks at the people around him.
"Hey," and closes his eyes again.
The Russian remains quiet and still, though very much awake. He's
glaring another (metaphorical and/or metaphysical) hole through the ceiling
in his room.
Storm Owl and his two companions halt in front of Wind Crow's medical bed
after passing through the curtain. It affords only a small amount of
privacy. This is acceptable. If Owl ends up needing any more then he will
take Wind Crow topside and dangle him off the side of the ship with his
flight systems still suppressed. "Hello," he says cordially enough. "Major,
we both know why I am here so I shall not beat around the bush." Storm Owl
pulls up a visitor's chair. He takes a seat. He expects to be here a while.
"Start from the beginning, and tell me everything you and Commander Spider
have been up to."
[Radio: (D) Joint-Secure] General transmits, "Attention all ADF and Alliance
Units in the Australia Combat Zone. Please evacuate to (Clearance Telemetry:
Final Arbiter) if at all possible."
Wind Crow looks up, with a look of guilt upon his face. He's been sprung.
The Commander's eyes BORE into Wind's will until he is unable to resist
anymore. Finally he croaks.
"So...you heard about that, huh?" Wind is silent for a moment. And he sighs.
"Are you sure you want to know? Once you hear, you can't unhear this."
[Radio: (D) Joint-Secure] ADF Command transmits, "Acknowledged."
Storm Owl waves his hand dismissively, "Spare me your concern, Major," he
snaps. "It did not work for Commander Spider and it did not work on me. I
have been fighting the enemies of freedom and democracy before your father
was even a gleam in his constructor's eye." Storm Owl does not bother
listing his entire resume, as he feels it has been well documented.
[Radio: (D) Joint-Secure] General transmits, "That's your cue, ADF."
[Radio: (B) RF-Secure] General transmits, "All Repliforce Units in the area.
As soon as you are able, cover the ADF's retreat."
"I warned you," Wind says lowly. He takes a moment to prepare himself and
then goes.
"Firstly, you take some eggs and crack them open and mix them in a container
with oil. The main aim of this is to mix them together into a thick creamy
substance," Wind takes a second to make sure that Storm Owl and his boys are
hearing this. "You can then flavor it with salt, pepper, vinegar and/or
lemon juice, and frequently mustard."
Wind crosses his arms and looks at Storm incredulously, "Your delivery needs
work, Commander. Perhaps if you added in a Please, or perhaps if you proved
to me that you weren't a Corrupt assassin sent to kill me, and ascertain how
much I know. Or, worse, that you're not corrupt and that you're going to do
something incredibly stupid and screw this entire thing up."
[Radio] Tightbeam transmission to General: You say, "If you are busy with
the withdrawal, sir, you may of course ignore this message. If not, however,
I seek your authorization to brig Major Crow. He has refused to disclose his
recent activities."
[Radio] Tightbeam transmission: General statics in, "He's confined to
Medical for the time being, Commander."
[Radio] Tightbeam transmission: General says, "I will decide whether or not
he requires further confinement then."
[Radio] Tightbeam transmission to General: You say, "I suggest the brig once
he is able, sir. With a blink shield to defend against Protoman. He and
Commander Spider have been acting in a mutinous fashion. It is my official
recommendation that both be relieved of duty pending your own decision."
[Radio] Tightbeam transmission to General: Storm Owl scowls. You can hear
it. "Aye sir. Please decide quickly. Unless you disagree I will be placing
blink shields throughout the medical ward."
[Radio] Tightbeam transmission: General says, "Approved. They should be in
place for Lieutenant Shellfish anyway, correct?"
[Radio] Tightbeam transmission to General: You say, "When she is damaged,
yes sir. I shall also be implementing the ecrofilper protocols."
[Radio] Tightbeam transmission: General says, "Also approved."
[Radio] Tightbeam transmission to General: You say, "Thank you, sir."
Storm Owl leans in slightly as Wind Crow says 'I warned you'. He is
expecting something. Bomber Albatross and Ratchet Bumblebee lean in slightly
as Wind Crow says 'I warned you'. They are expecting something. All three
lean back, displaying various amounts of disappointment. Storm Owl shakes
his head, letting out a mechanical breath. He is silent for several seconds.
Those observant will pick up the tell signs of a radio link. As he does not
invoke the holy name of General himself to order Wind to reveal all, it
should be obvious what the response was along the lines of. Storm Owl stands
up, "I shall give you the same chance I gave Commander Spider. You may
either cease your mutinous and secretive actions, or I shall begin getting
the rest of the chain of command involved. Your choice, Major, on whether
you want your 'secrets' to be known by one, or known by all."
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] General's Emergency Beacon goes off.
[Radio: (C) Joint-Chat] General's Emergency Beacon goes off.
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Red VERY TERSE, "Why are people getting injured?"
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Zach Glen transmits, "Brawl in Australia, sir."
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Red transmits, "Deploying immediately, and I swear if I
don't hear about Crow in six hours, things are going to get broken."
[Radio: (C) Joint-Chat] Rock transmits, "Oh, no..."
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Red transmits, "Actually, wait. I forgot I have a leg
iron through my chest."
[Radio: (C) Joint-Chat] Red transmits, "I am unable to deploy, can someone
get out there or do I have to break out the ride armors?"
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Storm Owl transmits, "Wind Crow is resting
comfortably."
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Red transmits, "And why isn't he cussing and not
telling me why he is hurt?"
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Red transmits, "Sorry if I seem a bit brash, but I
frankly do not like being told by a HUNTER that 'oh wait ur d00d is hert and
were healplzing him'."
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Storm Owl transmits, "He was injured, Commander. I do
not know how, however am asking him. He has thus far refused to tell me."
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Red DOES manage a way to say that coherently.
Red arrives from the Upper Deck.
Red has arrived.
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Red transmits, "My apologies, folks. I get very
agitated when my team members are hurt and I am kept in the dark for more
than a day."
Storm Owl, two of his squadmates, and Wind Crow are behind a privacy curtain
that doesn't really make anything private. They are having a frank and
not-very-honest discussion. Their words are terse. The tension is high.
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Storm Owl transmits, "I understand completely,
Commander. I too share in your concern."
From the little outpatient section off to the side, Doll asks the technician
who is doing something to its hands, "-Why- were the magnetic coils flawed
like that again? Was it a partial melting?"
"Think so," the technician reploid answers. Both of them are some distance
away from the privacy curtain, and are either unaware of the discussion or
are pretending very well.
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Red transmits, "Thanks, Owl. But, to be perfectly
honest, I have a bit more agitation and in a different sense than you do.
Wind is my bro, and my team mate. When something hurts him and I don't find
out what it is, I get nervous, irritated, and would like to break a face of
a bad guy or two."
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Dream Doll transmits, "We don't know either, sir."
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Shield Shellfish grunt.
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Storm Owl makes a very precise and accurate mental
note.
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Dream Doll transmits, "Well I rather doubt it was a
fishing accident."
In a secured section of the medbay, Grisha is secured to a medical
bed by a strap across the waist and industrial forcefields surrounding his
arms and legs.
Wind Crow's radio is working. Storm Owl should try to remember this. He's
been listening to all the radio chatter and he knows what's happening. But
then he looks up at Storm Owl curiously. Did he just threaten Wind with what
I think he threatened Wind with?
Did he threaten to beat the information out of Wind and then just REVEAL all
of his secrets to the entire world? No, Storm Owl. No. This is bad.
"...What you're suggesting is madness, Storm Owl. Any chance you had to
convince me that you are trustworthy, Corrupt or Uncorrupt, has now passed,"
Wind says, radioing in for back up. No WAY is he EVER going to stay in a
room with Storm Owl alone anymore. Storm Owl is MARKED as a traitor in Wind
Crow's eyes. "I'm afraid this discussion has come to a close."
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Storm Owl transmits, "As do I, Commander." Then, in a
bizarre moment of honesty, "I consider all of Repliforce my family."
Shield Shellfish (Shell) pages: Who knows what evil lurks in the hearts of
men?
Shield Shellfish (Shell) pages: The Shellfish knows.
And let's make things worse. Let's throw in an angry older brother who has
not been very informed over the past day or so. The scarlet giant tromps
through the medbay looking a little bit more than just 'peeved'. His intense
gaze darts around the room, killing the weak of heart and making humans
probably wet themselves. The reploid marches over to the 'privacy' curtain
and taps on the metal bar of the curtain, "Ahem. Hem hem."
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Storm Owl transmits, "I think you do not, Lieutenant
Shellfish. I do not think anyone does."
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Shield Shellfish transmits, "Yes, sir."
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Red transmits, "Now, Owl, don't take this as a 'Oh, he
gets emotional when family members hurt and makes irrational decisions'. I
know what I am doing."
Doll pulls its hands suddenly out of the inspection equipment. "I'll try not
to erase anyone's tapes," it says to the technician as it steps away from
the outpatient bay, hands going into its pockets as it walks past Red, over
towards the water dispenser off to the side.
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Red transmits, "I would not do anything to jeopordize
ourselves physically, I just have what you would classify as, ah, Colonel
syndrom, per se."
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Red transmits, "Lots of bark, and bite only when
necessary."
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Storm Owl transmits, "I see."
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Storm Owl doesn't see.
[Radio] Tightbeam transmission: Dream Doll says, "At your word, sir."
[Radio] Tightbeam transmission to Dream Doll: You say, "Be ready."
[Radio] Tightbeam transmission: Prismatic Spider says, "May I ask, pray
tell, what you are no doubt grilling Wind Crow regarding?"
Storm Owl arches an optical brow. "I am afraid it has not," he replies in a
matter-of-fact manner. He turns towards the sound of the tapping.
"Commander," he greets Red simply before turning back to Wind Crow. He has
no issue with Red being here, but Bomber Albatross is now glancing in Red's
direction, ready in case he acts. Storm Owl reaches over to a mic on the
wall, speaking calmly into it. "This is Commander Storm Owl to all hands."
The voice echoes through the halls. "Full security is to be placed at and in
the medical ward. The ecrofilper protocols are now in full effect. The ship
is now at red alert." Ironic, those words.
[Radio] Tightbeam transmission: Red does not leave room for arguement, "Owl.
I'd like a quick chat with you. Outside that curtain once we're done here."
<Repliforce> The Fortress V, the intercom buzzes. Owl's voice is heard,
"This is Commander Storm Owl to all hands. Full security is to be placed at
and in the medical ward. The ecrofilper protocols are now in full effect.
The ship is now at red alert." Klaxons go off. Crews are running this way
and that in an ordered chaos.
[Radio] Tightbeam transmission to Red: You say, "Granted."
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Shield Shellfish grunt?!
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Storm Owl makes a mental note.
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Dream Doll transmits, "Yes, p-e-r not p-r-e."
Long distance to Shield Shellfish: Storm Owl doesn't reply. Neener!
[Radio] Tightbeam transmission to Prismatic Spider: Storm Owl doesn't reply.
Red opens his mouth and raises his finger suddenly, and then he hears Owl's
words, "Nice to se--" Then, Storm Owl speaks. This is when all facade of
'jollyness' disappears, "Owl, you have ten seconds to explain your actions
before I quickly go and find a loop hole in all of this. I am VERY good at
that, and I WILL disable this." Red crosses his arms and he sends a very
brief glance at the Albatross.
Bomber should probably get an uneasy feeling that perhaps Red might kill him
without a second thought. It's a very dangerous situation to look at Red
that way. The Red Alert Commander juxtaposes himself between Owl and his
trooper, DARING anyone to get near Wind. "Five seconds left."
Red assumes Crimson Slayer stance. DON'T SCREW WITH HIM.
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Red transmits, "Anyone so far as /touches/ Wind Crow or
anybody else in this protocol, I will see to it they are court martialed."
Doll pours itself a cup of water.
A complex polygonal structure, matte-gray and heavy-looking, starts to form
near the exit. It does not structure itself to prevent careful entrance or
exit, but it seems designed to interfere with attempts at high-speed
departure. It may or may not fool Blink systems; these things are difficult
to tell at first glance.
It considers speaking up, but instead looks towards the towering commando
while sipping the cup of water. It breathes steadily, to help keep the
nerves down.
Wind looks very calm, "Storm Owl. I have a message for you from Commander
Spider."
Wind coughs, he's still not feeling well. "Commander Spider has deemed it
appropriate to file a full report to General, recommending that it's General
and not you who decides if you need to know. I leave it up to General at
this point, and I officially state that my weapons systems and flight
systems are disabled. I cannot run, and I cannot fight."
[Radio: (C) Joint-Chat] Brook Alexandria somewhat frantic, "Soo, uhh, anyone
still /alive/.. or did you all just leave!?"
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Raven nonchalantly says, "Question."
[Radio: (C) Joint-Chat] Spiral Pegasus transmits, " Still functional.."
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Dream Doll transmits, "Yes?"
[Radio: (C) Joint-Chat] Michael Eildath transmits, "OOC: Wanna bet?"
[Radio: (C) Joint-Chat] Brook Alexandria squeaks happily. Then whispers,
"Little help with Lumine, maybe?"
[Radio: (C) Joint-Chat] Shield Shellfish transmits, "Present."
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Raven talks slowly. "Does anyone care if I spend the
next twenty minutes or so punching people in the face? Because these people
are throwing things at me. I find this very rude. *hic* Not to mention their
faces are distorting in very funny shapes and colors. Obviously this an
insult. I don't know how, it just has to be. Also I think I am very drunk.
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Dream Doll transmits, "If you're defending yourself or
others, I can't see a difficulty with it. Take care of yourself."
[Radio: (C) Joint-Chat] Spiral Pegasus transmits, " Lumine.. huh, yeah. I'll
take him."
Bomber has been through a lot of action in his time. But Red is a very scary
mech. The Repliforce long range weapons expert sizes Red up. Although taller
and wider than Red, there is little doubt who would win a close combat
battle. Nevertheless, he shows no fear. If he dies fighting alongside his
Commander of many years, then by God he'll make sure the Gatebot gets it
just as bad. He steps in closer towards Red. Ratchet Bumblebee's hand
meanwhile slowly lowers towards his leg. He is visibly nervous.
You could hear a pin drop from the other side of the medical ward.
Or a cup of water slowly being poured.
Storm Owl hangs up the mic and whirls around towards Red. "You do
not give orders to me on this ship, Commander," he snaps. He spends his five
seconds speaking in his droning monotone voice. "You are no longer needed
here in the medical ward, Red. If you wish to stay, the threats from you
cease immediately. Otherwise, you may kindly depart." His beady optics lock
onto Red. He is not backing down. Alas, in five seconds he has not the time
to speak with Wind Crow.
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Raven transmits, "I DID NOT CALL YOU FAT! GEEZ."
"Tell /our/ men to back off from Wind, then. They won't listen to me, and I
will not stand idle, Commander," Red stands defiantly, "And if I back down,
I already know what will happen. It was not an order that I gave you,
because if you did not notice, which I find that hard to believe, I did not
address you as Commander Owl. I addressed you as Owl, indictating that I
demanded through a wholly personal basis. Whether or not I have rank, if you
tell your men to back off, we can have a /civil/ conversation instead of
these 'Tell me or bad things happen', underlying threats."
[Radio: (C) Joint-Chat] Brook Alexandria transmits, "General's down.. looks
like the rest of the Mavericks are retreating - Lumine included."
"Otherwise," Red taps his subspace pocket belt, "I do believe we have a lot
of tension to break up here," That subspace pocket might be recognizable by
the other soldiers as where Red keeps his 'toys', "And this is not trying to
break up the Repliforce here, I'm trying to establish two things. One, being
abrasive gets you no where, and two keeping a posse," Red motions to Exhibit
A and B (the reploids), "To get answers makes people distrust you."
Red stares at Owl, "Just trust me as a Commander on this, Owl. Listen to me,
and things will start to cool down."
[Radio: (G) Global] Guts Man transmits, "Yeah, he tried calling Santa Claus
and ate the telephone!"
[Radio] Tightbeam transmission: Dream Doll says, "At your orders, sir."
Wind decides this needs to calm down. This isn't the time to get into a
fight when he can't really move or fight.
"Indeed. I felt intimidated when I saw an angry superior officer with two of
his men, while I sit here with my weapons and flight system bound," Wing
shrugs now, he's been reading Repliforce law book. "Especially when I was
accused of Mutiny without legal counsel present."
Wind follows up Red's arguements perfectly, "If you want to speak to me, now
is the time to speak Civilly without threatening me with your rank or your
men."
Wind says soothingly, almost placatingly. "Now. If you have something to ask
me Storm Owl, perhaps something resembling a question that I can feel
comfortable answering we can resolve this."
"Counterproposal," Storm Owl says, keeping his optics locked onto Red. "You
leave the medical ward. I leave the medical ward. My mechs stay. None of
yours enter. Wind Crow stays here. He will be safe, I promise you. You can
consider that a promise on a 'personal basis', Commander," Storm Owl says.
"Major Crow and Commander Spider are the ones who have conspired without
informing Repliforce, acting outside its chain of command and without
authorization. -They- are the ones who will be giving answers here. -They-
are the ones who have already refused to explain themselves, whether the
question asked was civil or an order." This is partially in response to
Wind. "-They- are the ones who have to rebuild trust in them." The doors to
the medical bay whoosh open. Armed Repliforce guards are entering. There is
a standard evacuation being conducted.
And then Red says those words. 'Just trust me'. His beak visibly
twitches. He has heard these words spoken so many times, and has always
obeyed. And always regretted it. The camera pulls in close to Storm Owl.
There is a pause. "No." He raises his head slightly, "My five seconds are
up, Commander. The ball is in your court."
Doll sips its water and adjusts its speed-bump structures around the doorway
to facilitate ease of exit. It starts looking left and right; there's that
Strider in the medbed, it realizes, and starts thinking of the proper
geometry to guard from most ricochets.
"Ball is in my court, fine," Red looks at Wind, and nods and then back to
Storm, "My proposal. You get our guards to put your guns down and back off
and you and I can speak. I WILL NOT trust faceless grunts, whom I do not
know or trust at this point in time. I trust you, but I do not trust," Red
points at Albatross, "You." Then to bee, "You." And then to several other
grunts that interrupt, "Or any of you." The Commander takes a seat in one of
the chairs, "Two things back in this sort of 'law'. I'm a officer of equal
rank, Commander Owl, and I will take my soldier out of the medical bay and
into my own care if it is necessary."
Then, Red's comm flashes momentarily.
[Radio] Tightbeam transmission: Red says, "You are playing right into their
hand."
General arrives from the Upper Deck.
General has arrived.
Wind looks at Red, the balls in his court. The Crow just says.
"You've had your chances to convince me you are trustworthy Storm Owl, now
it's the General's decision after he reads Commander Spiders report."
General has left.
"Wind?" Red says without looking, "Shut up right now, okay?"
Storm Owl shakes his head at Red. He doesn't turn to Crow, but he does say,
"The General has been incapacitated. Commander Spider is not here - nor
would I trust his judgement in this case. Colonel is also not here. I am
forced to make the decision, and my decision is that this medical ward is
under lock down. You are to depart. When the General awakes he can and will
make the decisions necessary. But until then, I cannot permit Wind Crow,
Prismatic Spider, or whoever else may be a part of this conspiracy within
Repliforce to proceed. They have acted outside the chain of command and
without authorization. My decision is final, Commander."
Storm keeps his optics on Red. The guards that have entered keep
their optics on everything. The speed bumps are a concern. "Sergeant, please
escort the Commander out of the medical ward," he says to the Albatross.
"Corporal, please disable Major Crow's radio until General or Colonel decide
otherwise."
Sergeant Bomber Albatross takes a step towards Red, "Sir, if you'll
please come with me?" Corporal Ratchet Bumblebee hesitates and then takes a
step towards Wind Crow, but does nothing else. Storm Owl stares at Red. He
is fearful of what might happen. But he is more fearful of what this
conspiracy might do and has done to his beloved Repliforce.
The holographic interference around the doorway changes shape again,
becoming simpler although still a potential obstacle to rapid exit.
Doll finishes its water and refills it without looking away from where Red
and Storm Owl look at each other. It remains silent, although its eyes flick
towards Sgt. Albatross's for a moment as he steps towards Red.
"Damn it, Owl. You have not listened to a damn thing I've said, you
asshole!" Red stomps his foot down and snorts at Albatross, "Back off,
bucko. I'll leave once I'm finished," Red taps his elbow, "And no, you
cannot tell me when I can or cannot leave. I am of equal rank AND" Red
emphasizes the AND, "I hold the cards as well, /Commander/. You are going to
leave with me as well, because by the order of your beloeved protocol: Equal
rank or higher makes it, blah blah blah. Sergeant, if you would please
escort Commander Owl out as well, if I am to be escorted. And if you
question that, I will throw the book at you."
One can't tell if he's actually going to throw a real book or is just using
the cliche. Red stares at Owl, "Until you agree, your orders mean nothing to
me, Commander. Compromise, or your beloved Repliforce will devour into civil
war, and not by my actions. I am trying to protect your Repliforce, I really
am, but you are not letting me. And YOU are the one who is going to be the
catalyst." Red stands up and if anyone so far as TOUCHES Red, a blast of
cold electricity (non-lethal) and a change in air pressure in that immediate
area should make them stop touching him, "Touch me again, and you will never
touch anything again, soldier. I WILL eliminate your name from the roster,
so help me."
Then, back to the matter at hand, "I trust you, Storm Owl. Believe it or
not, but you are on my list to be trusted. You are a bit arrogant and narrow
minded, but you are very trustworthy, despite the facade," Red snarls again,
at a random grunt who quickly backs off, "TOUCH THAT BIRD AGAIN AND IT WON'T
BE PRETTY," It's definately not a seasoned vet, so if a Vet tries it it
probably won't work. "IF I am to be escorted then, Commander, then by
default I also hold this authority. Albatross, Please escort both myself and
Commander Owl out of the medbay and make sure NO ONE talks or speaks to
Major Crow, Commander Spider, or anyone else involved until Commander Owl
and I finish speaking, WITHOUT interruptions."
About this time, there is a *PHWA-WUMP!* and a fizzle as a hologram
of a set of Jaws of Life undo Dream's well made barricade.
"Thank you, Sergeant," a familar voice around the medbay intones. A
medical crew comes bustling in. A largeish flatbed manned by a couple of
power loaders and one Lieutenant Bonesaw Babboon. On the flatbed is the
General. He is melted, dented, bleeding mechfluid almost as fast as it can
be replaced, and has a few bowling ball sized holes scattered throughout his
frame. "Now. If you gentlemen are done with your pissing match, I believe
there are lives to be saved." Bonesaw gestures at the loaders, who bustle
General over toward one of the larger medbunks. The babboonploid ambles
over, and assists the loaders on making the transfer. Bonesaw then turns to
the pair. "Are you still here? Either help or find someplace else to argue
while I bring the General back online."
Red would kiss Bonesaw if he were female.
"On this ship, I am in command, Red," Storm Owl says. "These mechs I have
served with for years. If it comes to a question of who they should
follow..." Owl shakes his head, "It will not be a battle you can win."
Bomber Albatross jerks back as the cold electrical blast nearly hits him.
Click! Klack! Click click click! Whirrrrl!
There are now a dozen guns drawn and loaded as the warning shot is
fired. Storm Owl himself jerks back as a firefight that would surely
decimate the medical ward nearly breaks out. The guns are pointed at
Commander Red.
Bomber peers at Red, now growing frightened inwardly at how this is
proceeding. "Sir, no sir," he tells him. There is no doubt as to where his
loyalty is. Red is in the middle of -Owl's- house, and he no doubt has the
loyalty of his crew. "If you'll -please- come with me, sir." He doesn't
reach out again, but there is a subtle pleading nature in his voice.
The tension is slightly disturbed as General is wheeled in on a
couple power loaders. This is too much. The Repliforce's leader lies
unconscious, the Fortress V's Commander stand at odds with the Red Alert
Commander. "Doctor," Storm Owl says to Bonesaw without looking at Red. "This
may not be the best place for the General." This is the understatement of
the century. To Red: "Shall we depart, Commander?" he asks, willing to leave
if Red does. He does not want a fight here.
Fingers go to triggers as the response is awaited.
There is also a gun in Dream Doll's hand. It resembles a standard handgun
with unusual iridescent flanges, but its purpose is clearly recognizable.
It winces slightly at the disruption of the hologram but does not take its
rather expressionless attention away from the impending conflict. There is,
in fact, someone more or less in Doll's direct line of fire; this is not,
however, a genuine problem for it.
Red does not flinch. It was his fault for trying to touch Red when he did
not want to be touched, "Fine, if you want to play it that way." The
Commander turns to Wind, "I'll take care of ya, buddy. This won't be that
much of an effort," Red turns on his heel and walks out.. but he suddenly
pauses, "So help you, Commander Owl, if any harm comes to Prismatic Spider,
or Wind Crow or ANYONE ELSE because of this protocol, you will have to
eventually answer to me sometime. And that one time, you will be the one
left with no choice but to follow the the irrational order or suffer
consequences."
The Commander tromps out. He lets nurses get by with no problem, but if any
soldiers get in his direct path to the door, they are pushed out of the way
with barely even a single shoved.
Doll is in fact pointing its gun more or less at Red, although as Red starts
moving away, it's lowered to point at that greatest enemy of all: the floor.
Bonesaw looks up from his toolkit, and looks dryly at Commander Owl
"Commander, for injuries of this magnitude there are about two
places on earth I can treat the General. Hunter Base is one of them, and
we're /in/ the other one." A glance at Red, "And he had a point, Commander
Red; his ship his rules. However, as Chief Medical Officer on Duty, I am
/completely/ within my rights to kick the lot of you out of here." As he
watches the Red Alert Commander stomp out, he picks up a rag to start
cleaning his hands off, "Noone will come to harm here. Not at the hands of
another 'Forcer, at any rate. Both the General and Major Wind Crow are in
good hands here."
Bonesaw powers up his beam bonesaw to start cutting away various
armor slabs to be replaced as he waits for people to clear the heck out.
Wind Crow looks at Bonesaw with alarm. But doesn't voice it. Suffice to say
he's currently thinking 'HOLY S***!'.
"Emphasis on had, Doctor," Red responds cordially.
Doll quietly remarks to Sgt. Albatross, "Must run in the family."
Storm Owl follows Commander Red. Over his shoulder he says to Ratchet,
"Corporal, the radio." The medic nods back but doesn't do anything yet. He
wishes to wait until Red is gone. Owl more or less ignores Bonesaw, as while
medics can bleat all they like, for something of this magnitude Storm Owl is
not going to listen. Owl gives him instead a brief, "Please alert me the
moment General awakens." Owl is grateful that his old friend will receive
medical care without another firefight endangering him. Albatross follows
Storm Owl, returning Doll's remark with a silent distressed look. With a
motion from the Sergeant, several guards follow them as well. Owl isn't
going to be anywhere near Red without troopers. Weapons are generally being
lowered.
Bonesaw waves Commander Owl of as if to say, "Sure, just let me
work."
Red suddenly stops outside the door and he glances at the troopers, "You
know what? No, I am not going to talk to you, if you can't trust me enough."
Red pulls out his scythe and tosses it to the floor, "Good evening,
Commander." And then he walks out.
The scythe on the floor has no more power core and looks to be more of a
symbolic sort of gauntlet throw down.
After other people file out, Doll looks over towards Wind Crow with a brief
smile, before its gun vanishes into thin air with a faint flicker of light.
It then walks out, pausing in the doorway at the clattering of the scythe.
It looks mildly surprised.
"Good evening, Commander," Storm Owl replies. He peers down at the scythe
and, wordlessly, picks it up, holding it with him. Once Red departs, Owl
says to Bomber, "Red's whereabouts are to be known at all times. Him and the
rest of Red Alert." "Aye sir," Bomber replies, stepping aside as Doll
marches through. The pair, plus additional guards, begin heading in the
opposite direction as Red.
Inside, meanwhile, Ratchet steps over to Wind Crow to disable his
radio, "I'm sorry, Major. I really am."
The scythe really is not all that special, because the main meats are
missing anyways. Storm Owl would not be able to learn anything.
Red enters the Upper Deck.
Red has left.
============================ BB Post in Progress
=============================
Group: Repliforce
Title: Orders
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Locked to Rank 5+, though the orders within are given to those who
need to know. No allies. Allies can burn in hell. Repliforce Spinny. Storm
Owl. It is very rare the Fortress V Commander makes a video report.
He looks defiant. "This is Commander Storm Owl reporting. The date
is December 19th, 2219. The time is approximately 0040 hours, local ship's
time. This broadcast is to inform those of significant rank that a
conspiracy within the chain of command that has gripped Repliforce."
"For some time now, Commander Prismatic Spider and at least Major
Wind Crow, and has been acting outside the chain of command without the
General's authorization. They have been operating alongside Protoman, the
mech who has proven time and time again that he will do what benefits him
and his family over the safety of innocents. They have trusted him with
their conspiracy over Repliforce itself. They have refused to explain their
actions to anyone."
Storm Owl takes a deep mechanical breath. "Until we receive word
from Colonel, or the General recovers from his injuries, the ship is on high
alert and is on battlestations. Major Crow is to remain in the medical bay
with his weapons, flight systems, and radio off. General's repairs are to be
a priority. The medical ward and the surrounding areas is being fitted with
friend-or-foe anti-blink systems as we speak."
Storm Owl raises his head slightly, "Until the General and Colonel
are reached, this ship is under my command, and orders from Commander Spider
concerning this ship are not to be obeyed. I have served with you loyally
for years, and I promise you this is only until this is sorted out, which
will be shortly."
"We will get through this, Repliforce. We will have trust in our
army once again, without the secrets, without the lies, and without the
conspiracies. Storm Owl out." He fires off his perfect salute.
Repliforce spinny.
==============================================================================
[Radio] Tightbeam transmission to Prismatic Spider: You say, "This is your
last chance, Commander, to inform me of all your actions."
[Radio] Tightbeam transmission: Prismatic Spider says, "Ultimatums again,
Storm Owl?"
[Radio] Tightbeam transmission to Prismatic Spider: Storm Owl sounds very
genuine, "I am so, so sorry it has come to this, Commander."
You post your note about 'Orders' in group 'Repliforce' as message #39
Request sent.
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Revolver Ocelot transmits, "...Did the entire ship just
shake? ...Did we hit something? I KNEW we shouldn't let that Chinese reploid
drive."
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
From: Dream Doll (Conn)
Date: Tue Dec 19 00:49:32 2006 Folder: 0 Message: 49
Status: Unread
Subject: Medbay Report
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Text, filed and submitted like many other intelligence reports.)
While undergoing magnetic coil alignment in the outpatient section of the
medical bay, I overheard a disturbance between Wind Crow and Storm Owl; the
latter had come with several others to inquire after the former's recent
injuries, after Wind Crow's somewhat questionable behavior on our military
frequencies.
Cmdrs. Red and Storm Owl had a disagreement regarding Wind Crow's refusal to
disclose intelligence information except to General, personally. (For
reference, General was in battle and was shortly thereafter rendered briefly
inoperative, while Colonel was recovering from previous damage.)
The disagreement was quite heated; however, Cmdr. Red made numerous
references to 'initating civil war' and fired a warning shot of some sort
when an attempt was made to escort him from the medical bay. After numerous
weapons were levelled at him, and the damaged General was brought in, he
left under his own power. However, shortly after exiting the medical bay, he
insulted Storm Owl, refused to speak with him further, threw down a
duplicate form of his weapon, and departed.
(Footers, timestamps, etc.)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Radio: (A) RF-Chat] Revolver Ocelot mutters something about 'parallel
parking' over what sounds like a power drill.
[Radio] Tightbeam transmission: Prismatic Spider says, "You mean 'we refused
to explain our actions to you', Storm Owl. I believe I already informed
General and Colonel what I was doing and why. I look forward to having
Colonel and General straghten this out shortly."
[Radio] Tightbeam transmission to Prismatic Spider: You say, "Hello, you
have reached the voicemail of Commander Storm Owl. I am afraid I am unable
to take your message at this time. If it is an emergency the standard access
codes can be used to reach me. Please have a nice day."
[Radio] Tightbeam transmission: Shield Shellfish <incoming transmission
request! this conversation may be monitored for security purposes.>
[Radio] Tightbeam transmission to Shield Shellfish: You say, "Proceed."
[Radio] Tightbeam transmission: Shield Shellfish says, "At your convenience,
sir, I would appreciate discussing the current situation with you."
[Radio] Tightbeam transmission to Shield Shellfish: You say, "Of course. I
am currently busy, Lieutenant, but I shall try to meet with you as soon as I
can. Until then, keep General and Colonel safe. Keep Wind Crow guarded."
[Radio] Tightbeam transmission: Shield Shellfish says, "Yes sir."
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
From: Rush Raccoon (Conn)
Date: Tue Dec 19 01:20:59 2006 Folder: 0 Message: 50
Status: Unread
Subject: Letter of Love
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
** From: Major Rush Raccoon **
** To: General, Colonel, Storm Owl, Iris and Jet Stingray.. oddly, Prismatic
Spider is left out. **
"It seems I have a report from Sgt. Dream Doll. You most likely have a copy
of this one, too."
"My question is this, General, and Colonel Sirs. What the Freaking Hell. I'm
going to tell you right clear what I think of everything as of recent.."
"We have a third in command who apprently hides very important details about
this shadowy organization and operations he does personally to counter them,
leaving us in the dark at least two times already, and brings some other
Repliforcers into it from time to time..... And now we have warning shots
going off in the medbay and Threats of Civil War!?"
"I want this foolishness to end. Now."
"I want the go ahead to activate the prior arrangements the IAD Had during
the inital Sigma Viral Outbreaks the next time this situation props up, I am
of course refering to Section 10, Article AB. Which basically states in a
paraphrased manner that " the IAD and IAD Commander have the explicit
permission to tell Anyone of Any Rank (Excepting the Colonel and General) to
sit down, shut up because this is a issue of Repliforce Internal secruity
and you will LIKE what your about to hear and you WILL Answer what your
about to be asked or you WILL end up in the brig or worse depending if how
hard you resist."
"This is of course, a Temporary arrangement. But shots going off in the
medbay is the last straw on my end, and that of the entirety of the Internal
Affairs office."
* END *
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
From: Storm Owl (Conn)
Date: Tue Dec 19 11:44:18 2006 Folder: 0 Message: 51
Status: Read
Subject: Re: Letter of Love
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
To: General, Colonel, Iris, Jet Stingray, and Rush Raccoon
I apologize in advance for the brief nature of this reply, Major Raccoon. However I
am willing to speak with you at our earliest convenience about your concerns. I am afraid I
must reject your request to have the authorization to brig those that you see fit for now.
The General's last orders to me prior to his deactivation was that Wind Crow was to be
confined to the medical bay - not the brig. Soon he and Colonel will be repaired and this can
be sorted out.
- Storm Owl
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
================================= Repliforce =================================
Message: 13/40 Posted Author
Activities Tue Dec 19 Leo
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Repliforce appears to be going along with what Storm Owl says. Until either Colonel or
General countermand or alter Storm Owl's orders, his commands are carried out. The F5 stays
on full alert, and anti-Blink measures are being installed at key areas around the ship.
Some of the soldiers, mostly the newer ones, are concerned about this development. Loyalty to
Owl seems to increase as soldiers have served longer, while newer soldiers are more likely to
question (but still obey) Owl's orders.
==============================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
From: Storm Owl (Conn)
Date: Tue Dec 19 11:53:27 2006 Folder: 0 Message: 52
Status: Unread
Subject: Prismatic Spider
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
To: General and Colonel
I have been given Prismatic Spider's word, passed on by Wind Crow, that he will be
explaining everything to General and General alone. I apologize that it has taken such
drastic steps in order to secure this promise, and I hope it will be carried out.
- Storm Owl
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------