RPG Silver One

[Rachmaninoff]

Kerstin just glared at the security Jared had assigned to her. Even if she understood why he had done it, it still irritated her. She was use to moving freely and to have this woman shadowing her every move annoyed her to no end. She had protested, loudly, at the assignment, but unless she was willing to stay on the Creator Jared would not budge. In a small way she began to understand what Darren must feel like. If just one restriction due to security was this irritating. It was no wonder he was so frustrated. After all he had told her about how he had been given the choice of helping or being brought up on charges of being in a restricted sector. As well as how he was given no choice but to accept the position of Shipping Expert.

She still didn't understand his objection to that though since in her opinion having someone more honest in the position like her brother could only be a good thing. Not like that idiot Blaine. Kerstin knew about him, after the mess with the shipping companies pretty much everyone knew of him and a couple of other representatives that had been implicated in the profiteering. Which as she unconsciously gripped her drawing pencil tighter, only made her even more angry. The way Blaine had arrogantly interrupted her evening and his goons had tried to force Drake to leave still had her seeing red. It didn't help that when she tried to find Drake later, to thank him for standing up for her that he had turned out to be an impostor.

When she had found out the very next day Kerstin had immediately gone to Jared, concerned that the person had done something to him. She had not expected to find out that it was the other way around. That the 'Drake' she had met had actually impersonated him only to gather information. The idea that he had [I]used her[/I] to get information had her wanting to thrash him. With an audible snap she broke the drawing pencil in half startling herself and the rest of the class. Embarrassed she looked down and then made up her mind. Kerstin was too keyed up to concentrate anyway, she hadn't done anything for nearly half and hour but fume.

She gathered her things and put them in the locker meant for her in the back of the classroom and left, her 'shadow' right behind her. Kerstin had given up on trying to lose the woman. For one thing it was childish and another, she had easily kept up with her just the same. Kerstin started taking deep breaths telling herself to be calm in quiet tones. Over and over. Not realizing that when she stepped into the lift to head for another level of the university that the doors cut off the woman who had been assigned to her. There was one other person in the lift, but he was looking out at the view since this particular elevator was on the side facing the ocean. As a result it was open and the actual lift made of a special type of glass. The view was quite pretty.

A moment later when she turned around Kerstin realized that the woman who always shadowed her was gone. [I]What the? [/I]The security had never missed joining her on a lift before. [I]What happened?[/I] Kerstin wondered, her irritation vanishing as she realized that she was alone with someone else. But she didn't recognize the person riding the lift with her. For one thing, unlike Blaine he had reddish colored hair and for the most part he was totally ignoring her. [I]Calm,[/I] Kerstin thought. [I]Weren't you complaining a minute ago that you wanted the security to quit following you?[/I]

Still she found the silence unnerving. "[B]Who are you?[/B]" She finally asked him.

He seemed surprised when he turned to see who had spoken and for a brief moment Kerstin was sure that she saw recognition in his eyes. But a moment later they were neutral.

"[B]I'm sorry, were you talking to me?[/B]" He looked around as if realizing that they were the only ones in the lift for the first time. "[B]Hmmm...Looks like you were talking to me.[/B]"

"[B]Well?[/B]" Kerstin finally said when he didn't answer. "[B]I asked you a question! Who are you?[/B]"

"[B]I would have thought that was obvious miss,[/B]" He said. "[B]I'm a student like you are.[/B]"

Kerstin glared at him, "[B]I never said I was a student.[/B]" Even though she knew it was likely that he recognized her. Kerstin folded her arms across her chest, tapping her right foot on the floor. [I]Why does he seem familiar?[/I]

"[B]You're quite correct.[/B]" He agreed with her.

"[B]That still doesn't answer my first question.[/B]" She pointed out and then sighed with exasperation. "[B]Fine, how about I tell you my name, okay?[/B]" She fixed him with yet another glare. "[B]But in return I expect you to tell me yours.[/B]"

"[B]It's not necessary, everyone knows who you are. Kerstin Anderson, correct?[/B]" He smiled at her expression. "[B]I didn't attend the ball they held for your brother, but I saw the announcement. I'll tell you my name just the same though. It's Daniel. Any other questions?[/B]" He teased her.

Kerstin relaxed a bit and then tensed up yet again. "[B]Only one,[/B]" she pointed to the indicator on the lift. "[B]Why are we going all the way to the roof? I could have sworn that the option was not selected when I got on and chose the thirtieth floor.[/B]"

[GuyYouMetOnline]

[color=darkslateblue]"Okay, Kiva, everyone's here and briefed," Daego said as he returned to the bridge. "Are you ready?"[/color]

[color=#483d8b]Kiva nodded. "Yes, I'm ready. We'll include this program with the timeline when we make it public."[/color]

[color=#483d8b]"What's it do?"[/color]

[color=#483d8b]"Well, the High Council can't exactly shut down news broadcasts without looking suspicious, so to suppress the information, they'll go after the data itself. My program will detect any attempts to move or delete the file. It will alow the movement or deletion to happen, but not before copying the file. Pretty simple. The hard part is doing it so that the copy won't be noticed, but I've got it working. I'll just include this when we release the information. It'll make covering it up a lot harder. The Council could still do it, but it would be much more obvious, and probably end up being a bad move, since people would know they were doing it. Anyways, what's our plan of attack?"[/color]


[color=#483d8b]"All right, people, listen up!" Kiva said to the gathered soldiers. They were all outfitted in avanced millitary body armor. While it was of course inferior to the advanced Specialist model Kiva and Daego were wearing, it was ahead of the millitary standard.[/color]

[color=#483d8b]"I know you're familiar with the plan of attack," Kiva said, "but you don't yet know where we're going or just who our target is. That's because our target is a high-level individual, and we didn't want to risk tipping her off ahead of time. And to give you an idea of how important this operation is, our target has been identified as the leader of the Resistance.[/color]

[color=#483d8b]"Evidence suggests that our target has handed primary responsibility over to another, as she is ill and unlikly to live much longer, but getting her will still strike a significant blow against the Resistance. Unfortunately, her illness means that we probably won't get any information out of her, as interrogation would be fatal to her. Anything in her computer system can still be retrieved, though, but only if we get to the computers before our target can delete the data or destroy the computers. We cannot allow this to happen, as I have confirmed that she's keeping important information. I'd pull it out of her computers myself, but her security systems don't allow that to be done even by someone who has the access codes."[/color]

[color=#483d8b]"That takes pretty high-level security," one of the soldiers said. "Just who are we going after?"[/color]

[color=#483d8b]"Our target is Erika Kendrik. Yes, that Erica Kendrik. This, of course, is why this operation has to be kept so secret. The Resistance's leader is a member of the High Council, so there's no telling who else is with the Resistance. You've all been selected for this operation because of your demonstrated ability, but also because after investigating you, we've determined that it's likely all of your are loyal to the Empire. Anyways, now you know the objective, and you're familiar with the plan of attack, so there's really no point in delaying any longer. Double-check your gear, because we're moving out."[/color]


[color=#483d8b]The operation went quite smoothly; Erica's security was taken completely off-guard, and the soldiers were in before anyone could do anything about them. Kiva and Daego found Erica in the same room where Kiva'd met with her while on her vacation.[/color]

[color=#483d8b]"Erica Kendrick," Kiva said. "I could hardly believe it. All this time, you've been the Resistance's leader."[/color]

[color=#483d8b]"Kiva," Erica said. "Why am I not surprised it's you? You've exposed more Resistance agents than anyone else in the Empire. I wondered if it would be you who found me."[/color]

[color=#483d8b]"And I am indeed the one who found you. Now, you're coming with us." Kiva shot Erica on low stun. In her condition, that was enough to knock Erica unconcious, and anything too much stronger would've been fatal.[/color]

[color=#483d8b]"Daego, take her back to the [i]Transcendence[/i]. I'll finish things up down here. And remember, when you get the data from Erica's personal database, include my program with each copy you send out."[/color]

[color=#483d8b]"Got it," Daego said. He signaled for a transport door and carried Erica through it. Kiva found Erica's personal computer system, accessed it with her personal code, and uploaded the contents to the [i]Transcendence[/i]. She then declared a successful operation and signaled the troops to withdraw. She signaled for a transport door, emerging on the bridge of the [i]Transcendence[/i].[/color]

[color=#483d8b]"I sent the information, Kiva," Daego said. "And yes, I remembered to include your program with each copy I sent. And for this kind of news, I'm expecting reports to go out any time now."[/color]

[color=#483d8b]"Good. Okay, contact the High Council. Inform them of our capture of Erica. Let's see how they react to all of this."[/color]

[color=#483d8b]Kiva knew that Daego was right; the information they'd just released would likely be well-known within the hour. Kiva could only wonder what would happen next.[/color]

[Aaryanna_Mom]

Daniel had expected to be dressed down by William. Even though he had been able to leave the ball and avoid Blaine's goons he still had endangered the others by his carelessness. But William had just laughed and laughed at him. Pointing out how if anything, he had made an excellent diversion while he and the other agent had gotten information. It was with great relief that he had switched back to the Daniel persona that William had created for him. Even if Jared investigated or if he ran into Kerstin again, neither one of them would recognize him. It was much easier to disguise one's appearance with their technology than it had been to do so on Earth.

Things had gone back to normal and with his schedule it was rare for him to even see Kerstin, so when she had suddenly joined him in the lift instead of being in one of her classes, Daniel had immediately turned around and pretended to enjoy the view. Especially since he knew that Kerstin now had a member of security staying with her at all times. Something that he himself would have done after the incident with Blaine. But the woman didn't make it and Kerstin who after a glance to see that they were headed for the thirtieth floor didn't select another destination. [I]Great.[/I] Daniel thought.[I] Just my luck, she's probably headed to the Cafeteria as well. So much for lunch.[/I] There was no way he was going to stick around if she was there. Let alone actually talk to her.

But Kerstin had other ideas, clearly nervous that she had been cut off from her security escort. Daniel had tried teasing her a bit to get her to relax, a tactic that worked until she noticed that the lift had passed the thirtieth floor and was now, according to the indicator, heading for the roof. [I]What the hell? Shit![/I] Daniel thought. Students weren't allowed on the roof and doing so in addition to requiring an access code also required a special data key. The only way they would be heading there is if someone overrode the computers controlling the system. That meant only one thing...

"[B]Blaine.[/B]" Daniel said irritated, even as he brushed past Kerstin and started trying to bypass who ever was controlling the lift. But it was too late. [I]Damn William's going to kill me. [/i]He thought. [I]If Blaine's goons don't beat him to it.[/I]

"[B]Blaine? What are you talking about?[/B]" Kerstin reached out and grabbed Daniel forcing him to turn and face her. "[B]What's going on?[/B]"

"[B]You'll find out.[/B]" Daniel said even as the lift arrived and the doors opened. He moved so that he was between her and the door. Sure enough there was a group already waiting for them, weapons drawn.[I] Hell! [/I] He tried hitting the button to close the doors, but of course nothing happened.

"[B]That won't work, don't make us come and get you.[/B]" The one leading them said.

Daniel walked out onto the roof with Kerstin clinging to him. There were five of them and without hesitation they moved to separate them. Stopping when Kerstin resisted but not before they took Daniel's student id. One of them took it over to the one in charge. He looked it over and laughed.

"[B]Well isn't that just perfect.[/B]" He tucked it into his pocket. "[B]Bring both of them.[/B]"

[I]Perfect? What the hell is he talking about?[/I] Daniel wondered as he opened a transport door. But Kerstin who had been quiet finally regained a bit of her courage.

"[B]I already told Blaine that I am not interested in working for him.[/B]" She said angrily. "[B]I am not going with you.[/B]" She stopped Daniel who had started to move towards the door.

"[B]Fine by me sweetheart,[/B]" The one leading them said even as he looked her over. "[B]I'll just stun you and carry you myself.[/B]" He leered at her.

Daniel felt Kerstin stiffen in anger. "[B]Don't,[/B]" he told her. "[B]You'll just make things worse.[/B]"

Kerstin started to protest and then changed her mind as the leader raised his weapon a bit. "[B]Fine.[/B]" She said furiously even as she walked though the door still hanging on to Daniel.

[I]Lovely,[/I] Daniel thought. [I]If my fake persona doesn't hold up to scrutiny this is going to get ugly. [/I] He winced a bit at the thought since once Jason and Celestia had been captured he had become the most wanted individual in the Versilan Empire. [I]If Blaine finds out...[/I]

[SunfallE]

[COLOR=goldenrod]When Fleet Admiral Stevens heard the chime indicating there was a top priority message, of all things he had not been expecting to be informed that Erica Kendrick had been arrested on charges of being the leader of the Resistance. But as the news was made public which was standard procedure should something like this happen and he saw just who had made the arrest he knew it had to be true. But even more shocking was what was in the time line of Erica's involvement with the Resistance that had been found.

"[B]Hell[/B]!" He exclaimed even as he immediately sent out a priority message to Zach the commander of the ground troops, to Elite Commander Dakar and James the commander of the Elite Task Forces. Whether or not the information was true was irrelevant. If he didn't act immediately there would be riots and utter chaos. While he waited for them to respond he sent out another message for Commander Crystal to join him immediately on the Conqueror. Then the others responded, evenly split on the screen in a joined conference.

"[B]I'm sure each of you know why I've contacted you.[/B]" Stevens said grimly.

"[B]I'm already working on suppressing the news[/B]" James said.

"[B]No. Don't suppress it you fool[/B]!" Stevens practically shouted. "[B]All you'll do is make the entire High Council look guilty. If what Kiva uncovered in Erica's computers is correct, only a few of the members even know about this. Hell! I'm a Damn candidate and I didn't know[/B]!"

"[B]With all respect Fleet Admiral Stevens,[/B]" James replied, "[B]You don't have the authority.[/B]"

"[B]On the contrary,[/B]" Dakar interrupted. "[B]If Stevens and I along with Zach all agree to declare martial law, the three of us at that point temporarily out rank even the High Council. I want to hear what Stevens has in mind before we decide what to do gentlemen.[/B]"

James just scowled a bit and then spoke. "[B]Very well Stevens, what did you have in mind?[/B]"

"[B]Lock down the Council Center. Place everyone under house arrest. And I do mean everyone on the entire High Council. At the same time issue the first level of martial law for the entire empire. Only make bloody well sure that only non-lethal force is used to break up any riots.

Then issue an order closing down all reproduction genetic facilities. The people need to see that we are taking this information seriously.[/B]"

James looked at all of them and finally nodded. "[B]Very well, though I want the three of you to issue martial law for the main home world at a Council level as well. I don't want to have to explain myself when the time comes.

Anyway, who do you want to head the investigation? Obviously using the Elite Specialists is out of the question. Should we form up a task force out of each group to work together?[/B]"

Stevens nodded, "[B]I agree, using a task force from each group would be best. And in the end if needed we can then call in the Elite Specialists to assist if we need them to. Considering that Kiva followed proper procedure instead of trying to cover things up makes her an ideal candidate should the need arise.[/B]"

Dakar just snorted. "[B]If she'd even take orders from any of us, it's not like we could stop her either. So long as she's on the Transcendence she's untouchable.[/B]"

"[B]It won't be an order,[/B]" Stevens explained patiently, "[B]It would be a request from a Council candidate. I've seen her in action gentlemen, Kiva is dedicated. And getting to the bottom of this is something I'm sure she would be in favor of.[/B]"

Stevens just shook his head, "[B]Anyway, get to work gentlemen, we have a lot of damage control to take care of. First we have to declare martial law and you James need to secure the Council Center immediately before any of those fools get the idea to flee. Running will only make things worse.[/B]"

A few more words were exchanged and the communication was severed. Stevens resisted the urge to smash the console in the desk he was working at in the observation room of the Conqueror. [I]Just what the hell was the High Council thinking? It had been hard enough convincing the people that the less invasive research in sector fourteen was okay but this?[/I] Furious he slammed his right fist on the desk.
[I]
If we don't handle this carefully, it could start another war. All that we have done and accomplished will go up in smoke! [/I] Even as he thought this Stevens started writing up the orders to declare martial law, making sure to include the instructions to only use non-lethal force if necessary. [I]When I get my hands on the fools who've been keeping this a secret all this time...[/I]Stevens did his best to remain calm. Wanting more than anything to simply transport down to the Council Center and make them talk immediately so he could tear those responsible into tiny pieces.

He sent off the orders and then answered an incoming message, it was Jared. "[B]Stevens, we have a problem.[/B]"

"[B]I already know about Erica, I'm taking care of it right now.[/B]"

"[B]I'm not talking about Erica, I'm talking about Blaine.[/B]"

"[B]Oh?[/B]" Stevens asked. "[B]What about him?[/B]"[/COLOR]

[Horendithas]

[SIZE=1][COLOR=Indigo]Jared was furious. Not at the security agent he had chosen but at Blaine Uratak. There was no doubt in his mind just who was behind the abduction of Kerstin as well as the student who was with her. It hadn't taken long for the agent to realize something was amiss when the doors had slammed shut in her face. She had been quick in figuring out what had happened, but not quick enough to stop them. And by the time she had used her clearance to access the security of the university to see where they had been taken, it was too late. And whoever was in charge had been clever enough to disable the security on the roof, leaving her to rely on a partial shot from another spot on the roof to confirm that their had been five of them who had forced them through a transport door. But that shot was not good enough to identify them.

It didn't take him long to figure out who was with Kerstin, or to see that he had already been in the lift before she got on. And the manner in which he had tried to protect her seemed genuine enough. A quick check with the university records brought up a match. The person was a Daniel Timbers who had just started school there a short while ago. And looking at his schedule compared to Kerstin's showed that he could not have known that Kerstin would have left her class when she did. Nor had this person been riding the lift on a regular basis. Meaning he was likely uninvolved. But if that were true, why did they bother to take him as well?

Further research showed that Daniel had arrived in sector one on the Tryst along with a William Bennits. Who was a rather wealthy investor. Someone who in the past ten years had been steadily gaining wealth due to his clever backing of products that took off. Some did not, but a good amount did. And a quick look at the records showed that both of them had grown up together, attending the same schools, working in the same job. It made sense. At the rate William was rising among the wealthy, he would soon be a major contender. Blaine probably already had him in his sights. Just as Blaine had Kerstin kidnapped to get to Darren, he probably intended to go after William at one point. And kidnapping his childhood friend was something Blaine would do.

Jared was starting to write up the orders to start the investigation when the news about Erica Kendrick's arrest was broadcast. "[B]What the hell?[/B]" He said, ignoring the startled looks from the crew on the bridge. Jared pulled up a separate screen at his station to take a look at the details of the evidence. Quickly reading through it and then stopping at one spot.[I] Is this true?[/I] He read it again before going through the rest.[I] Well that's going to cause a lot of trouble. Hell, if what Erica is claiming about the modifications is true, that could even start a civil war among the factions! [/I] Jared thought about contacting Stevens and then changed his mind. There wasn't much he could do about it, other than to maintain order on the Creator.

But he could finish preparing for an investigation to locate Kerstin and Daniel. Then once he was ready he would contact Stevens since things were going to get interesting. On some level, part of him was annoyed over the idea of having been modified at birth, and on another, part of him didn't give a damn. He'd been abused by the system from the very beginning since the High Council had turned their backs on what Commander Alan had done to him. It's not like he expected them to be nice. Though he was sure Sandra would probably be furious, if only because she hated secrets like that.

Jared finished what he was doing and got up and went into the observation room to contact Stevens. The last thing he needed was for the main crew to overhear the conversation. A moment later he had him. Though Stevens thought he was calling him in regards to Erica. Something that he set him straight on. Though Stevens was still preoccupied.

"[B]It's simple Stevens, both Kerstin and another student named Daniel were kidnapped from the university.[/B]" That got Stevens attention. "[B]I can't confirm it, but I'm positive that Blaine is behind it, especially after he attempted to harass Kerstin at the ball.[/B]"

"[B]Damn! And at a time like this! I can't possibly spare anyone to look for them, not with what's going on right now.[/B]"

"[B]Why not? I understand that what's happened is going to cause problems, but I really don't see a problem with assigning a few people to the task. Also, I need someone to look for Blaine since according to the Elite Military unit that was watching him, he too vanished, shortly after those two were picked up.[/B]"

Jared started getting irritated. "[B]We can't lose our focus and abandon others, that will only lend to the air of panic from Erica's arrest. It will look like we are incapable of handling a situation like this. If you want to keep order you should issue the first level of martial law, giving troops the authority to use non-lethal methods to break up riots. But whatever you do, don't stop regular missions![/B]"

Stevens did his best to not snap at Jared, "[B]I am already doing that Jared. And believe me, I meant it when I said I had no one. I'm organizing a task force from the different forces to head the investigation to find out which if any of the High Council members are guilty of treason. Council members or not, on our own people that type of modification is banned.

I've already sent for Crystal so she can confirm the data, to see if what Erica found is indeed true. Because if it is, heaven help us. We had riots over the research being done on the lesser races and that wasn't anywhere as invasive as this is! I've already issued the order to halt all genetic reproduction facilities, even though that will make it look like the information is true, since the fall out of doing nothing if it is would be even worse.[/B]"

Jared was confused, "[B]Why are you making task forces? What about Kiva? If she exposed her, why not have her head the investigation?[/B]"

"[B]Because everyone knows that Elite Specialists only answer to the High Council. The investigation needs to be done by someone who is not so tightly connected to the Council. Make no mistake, I intend to request her assistance should I need it.[/B]"

"[B]Well how about requesting it now? For Kerstin and Daniel? If Kiva is not involved in the investigation, surely she could use her skills to hack into the systems to help me track down what happened to Blaine as well as those two.[/B]" Jared suggested.

Stevens looked away for a moment to address something and then turned back. "[B]Very well, I need to contact Kiva so I'll mention it. Send me everything you have to give to her. Keep in mind, Kiva does not answer to me so I can't guarantee that she'll do as you ask.[/B]"

"[B]Fair enough.[/B]" Jared replied. "[B]So long as you understand that with or without her help I intend to look for them. Please let me know what Kiva decides to do.[/B]"

"[B]I will, Stevens out.[/B]"

Jared sighed. He was not looking forward to telling Darren what had happened. He only hoped Kiva would agree to help. Her hacking skills were far better than his and Blaine, though he was unlikely to kill either one was far from kind. The quicker they were found, the better. Jared got up and prepared to go down and talk to Darren. [I]What a mess.[/I][/COLOR][/SIZE]

[Aaryanna]

[COLOR=goldenrod]It hadn't taken Crystal long to finally come to a decision. Even if it was against protocol she would go and talk to the person directly. Her mind made up she turned back and headed towards the facility where the ground transports picked up and dropped people off at the beach. She had only gotten about halfway there when the chime for a top priority message sounded. Puzzled she reached into the pouch on her right hip and pulled out her hand held computer. To her surprise it was a request from Stevens to transport to the Conqueror immediately. Crystal immediately opened a channel to the Conqueror.

"[B]Commander Crystal,[/B]" the officer on duty greeted her. "[B]We've been expecting you. Stand by for a transport door. Stevens is expecting you in the bridge's observation room.[/B]" A split second later a door opened at her location. Startling the tourists who were near her position.
[I]
What could be so important that Stevens is breaking the regulations on where one can transport from on Reflection? [/I] "[B]Understood,[/B]" Crystal replied. "[B]I'll be there shortly.[/B]" she closed the transmission and stepped through the door.

After a short nod to the technician in the transport room she immediately headed for the bridge, puzzled at the unbelievable level of activity. Everyone was essentially running in circles, issuing orders, moving as if they were in battle instead of a peaceful orbit around the home world.[I] What in the world is going on?[/I] Crystal entered the lift heading for the bridge, most of the crew recognized her which was a good thing since she was not in uniform. She had been on short leave after all. But other than a few startled glances no one stopped her.

Crystal waited at the doors to the observation room and entered once the doors opened. Immediately heading for a seat across from Stevens who was clearly quite busy. A moment later he looked up after she had taken a seat.

"[B]What's so important that you brought me here without giving me time to change into uniform?[/B]"

"[B]This is.[/B]" Stevens turned on the display on her side with the information in regards to Erica Kendrick's arrest as well as what was in the time line of her involvement while leading the Resistance.

[I]So it's true.[/I] Crystal didn't even realize that she was crying until Stevens spoke up.

"[B]I'm sorry Crystal, I know you've always admired all the hard work Erica has done for the lesser races.[/B]"

Crystal just wiped the tears away and composed herself. "[B]It's not just that Stevens, it also has to do with this.[/B]" She pulled out her hand held computer and opened up the report on the genetic traces she had been working with. The ones from the attack in sector seven. She showed the results to Stevens.

"[B]I've known she was involved since I finished identifying the remains a short while ago.[/B]" Crystal looked away. "[B]But I didn't want to believe that Erica of all people would do something like that. She's always worked within the system to bring about change. I never thought she was the type to actually support the resistance let alone actually lead it![/B]"

Crystal stood up and walked over to look out the towards the view of the home world. "[B]I tried to think of reasons as to how her genetic material could have been there, but I couldn't think of one. Besides the obvious one of actually handling the explosives. And to be honest, I was considering destroying that report and saying nothing. Erica is after all dying, so it seemed pointless to bring up charges that would result in her execution when the damn disease is causing more pain and damage than we ever could.[/B]"

Stevens got up and walked over to Crystal, reaching out and putting his right hand on her right shoulder, "[B]I understand what you are saying Crystal, and on some level I even agree. But I still need your help with this. I need you to go through the data and verify if what Erica found about the modifications is accurate or not.[/B]"

Angry Crystal shrugged off Stevens hand as she turned to face him. "[B]Dammit Stevens! It's bad enough that we were planning on modifying the lesser races, but our own people? Before I agree to do anything I want to know just what you intend to do about it if it's true! And what about the High Council? If you all intend to suppress this knowledge then you had better lock me up as well since I will not help you to hide this or lie about what I find![/B]"

"[B]Whoa Crystal, slow down! I've already put an end to the attempts to suppress the knowledge. I want to find out what's going on as well. I've already talked with the commanders of the various forces and we all agree. They're moving to put the High Council under house arrest so that we can do a full investigation.[/B]" Stevens frowned a bit. "[B]Council member or not, if what Erica says is true, then those responsible will be held accountable for what they have done.[/B]"

He reached out and took Crystal by both arms, looking down at her. "[B]In addition to verifying if the modification data is correct, if it is I want you to start looking into the possibility of reversing what was done. I promise, we won't bury this. I'll do my best to make sure of that.[/B]" Stevens let go when Crystal finally nodded.

"[B]All right, I'll start checking the data. I do have one question for you though, who is keeping Erica? She requires treatments twice a day to keep her disease under control. If there are traitors among the High Council, they'll want to silence her. You'll need someone else to make sure she is cared for.[/B]"

Stevens smiled, "[B]Funny you should mention that. Erica is on the Transcendence and ironically I agree. I was already planning on contacting Kiva to request that you transport there twice a day to see to Erica's needs. I know I can trust you to take care of her. Anyway, you head back to the Tempest and get started on the data, I'll contact you once I get the go ahead from Kiva.[/B]"

"[B]All right.[/B]" Crystal said. She went back over to pick up her hand held computer and with a slight bow to Stevens she left to head for the transport room. Still upset. [I]Why?[/I] She thought to herself again.[I] Why did you do it Erica? [/I][/COLOR]

[Rachmaninoff]

Kerstin, like many other civilians had heard the rumors about how wealthy representatives as well as businessmen would pretty much do whatever they wanted. There wasn't a single world in any sector that didn't have people like Blaine. Just as each sector had those who dedicated their lives to gathering the necessary evidence to put an end to those who were corrupt. Much in the same way her brother exposed those who were cheating everyone. The system was far from perfect, but she believed in it. But now as those who had forced her along with Daniel to come with them took them though the grand hallways of what surely had to be some sort of estate she no longer felt so sure.

She didn't understand how Daniel could appear so calm, even as she practically glued herself to him. Gripping him tightly in an attempt to still the shaking she felt. In all her life, even though she knew what basic weapons were and had learned to handle them if only for safety reasons, no one had ever threatened her before. And the five who were taking them though the estate frightened her. Just as wondering what Blaine wanted frightened her as well.[I] Dammit! Pull yourself together! [/I] She thought as they finally went through a huge set of doors into an expensive looking office. With old fashioned shelves full of curious antiques on display. Upon seeing Blaine sitting in the chair behind the huge elaborate desk waiting for them Kerstin regained a bit of her courage, still furious over what had happened. She let go of Daniel and took a step forward.

"[B]Dammit Blaine! I already told you I'm not interested in working for you! You have no right to force either one of us to come here![/B]"

Blaine just raised an eyebrow, "[B]My aren't we naive and here I would have thought your brother would have taken the time to educate you a bit.[/B]" He stood up and walked around the desk until he was in front of it before he leaned back against it a bit. He raised his right hand, motioning to those who had brought them there. The one who had lead the group moved forward and whispered something to Blaine before handing him Daniel's id card. He looked at it and then tucked it into his own pocket. Turning to address Daniel.

"[B]You on the other hand don't seem all that surprised, but then unlike that fool William I understand you have a bit more sense. I'm sure I don't have to tell you why you are here.[/B]" He snapped his fingers. Ignoring Kerstin's shrieks of protest as two of them restrained her while the other three dealt with Daniel, shooting him with the lightest stun setting before putting disruptor restraints on him. Leaving him on the floor semi conscious.

Kerstin pulled free of the two holding her when they relaxed their grip and flew over to kneel next to Daniel. He seemed to be okay, but why had they put metal bands on his wrists and ankles as well as one around his neck? She turned to look at Blaine furious. "[B]What did you do?[/B]"

Blaine's eyebrow just reached even higher, "[B]You really are quite naive.[/B]" He laughed at Kerstin's angry expression. "[B]Just ask Daniel, I'm sure he'll know what those are.[/B]"

Kerstin turned to Daniel who was starting to sit up. But other than to warn Kerstin to keep back he said nothing.[I] Keep back? What is he talking about? [/I] She turned to look at Blaine. Who must had motioned to the others as they pulled her to her feet and held her away from Daniel.

"[B]Since you don't seem to want to tell her Daniel I'll demonstrate.[/B]" He ignored Kerstin's gasp of horror and Daniel's cries of pain as he activated the disruptor's. Continuing until Daniel could no longer cry out and Kerstin's pleas to him to stop had dissolved into tears.

Blaine seemed indifferent to Daniel's pain and to Kerstin's pleas for him to stop. "[B]Why?[/B]" Kerstin finally asked tearfully, once it was obvious he had finally stopped whatever was hurting Daniel. "[B]Why do you have to be like that? Why do you have to hurt others? I don't understand.[/B]"

A chime from the desk sounded, indicating there was a message for Blaine. "[B]Why does your brother have to meddle in things that are none of his business? Why does Daniel's friend feel that he is entitled to wealth? Why do we consider ourselves better than the lesser races?[/B]" Blaine smiled.

"[B]Rest assured, I'll make sure both of you are properly educated in not only [I]why [/I]but [I]how[/I] things are done.[/B]" He walked around the desk and sat back down. "[B]We'll continue this later. Take both of them to the suite I've prepared.[/B]" Blaine started to open up the communication he had received and then stopped as if a thought had occurred to him.

"[B]Oh and make sure Miss Anderson is properly attired. That horrible cheap outfit just won't do. And be sure to encourage Daniel to change as well. Just be sure to remember that any fun waits until I say so.[/B]"

Kerstin fought wildly as they dragged her though the doors as well as picking up Daniel who was barely conscious.[I] Fun? Properly attired? Cheap outfit? [/I] But the men just laughed at her as they tightened their grip and dragged her down the hallway. Taking both of them to an enclosed room. A room that was a richly decorated bedroom with no window or exits.

They dumped Daniel on the bed and then tossed Kerstin on to it as well. One of them opened up a panel to reveal a couple of dresses. "[B]Here's the deal sweetheart, when I come back in a few hours if you aren't changed into one of these I'll do it for you.[/B]" he smirked at her, "[B]By all means don't do as your told I'd love the chance to dress you myself.[/B]" He opened up another panel to reveal men's clothing. "[B]Make sure he's changed as well, or I'll run him though another little education lesson like Blaine did.[/B]" Then he left, locking the door behind him.

Once they had left Kerstin burst into tears. [i]Now what do I do?[/i] She thought miserably. She turned to Daniel who was starting to come around. It was obvious the metal bands had hurt him somehow, but when she checked them she didn't see a way to unfasten them. Now that she thought about it, they had to be disruptor restraints. Kerstin had heard about them, but she had never seen them. She wondered how Blaine had gotten them since she had always understood that they were only used by the military. Miserable, she curled up on the bed on her right side and cried.

[CENTER]------------------------[/CENTER]
[B]OCC:[/B] I leave the next part up to you Aaryanna_Mom, if I got any of that wrong just let me know.

[Aaryanna_Mom]

[B]OCC:[/B] Nope you got things just fine Rach. ^_~

[CENTER]----------------------------[/CENTER]
Daniel was not at all surprised at what had happened. After all, when he had served as a Commander in the military he had dealt with scum like Blaine before. None of them had been as wealthy and powerful as Blaine was, but still he knew. The only thing that had surprised him was he hadn't realized just how wealthy William was due to the investments he told him about. Daniel hadn't realized that he had reached the point to attract the attention of some of the more ruthless businessmen. Not that it would have mattered. The method they had used to catch Kerstin and incidentally him was not something he could have really prepared for. About the only good thing was that it was obvious Blaine had already been investigating him and William so the chances of his true identity being discovered was less of an issue.

He sighed a bit as he sat up on the bed he had been dumped on. Not sure what to do about Kerstin who was sobbing as if her heart would break. Daniel looked at the disruptor restraints Blaine's goons had put on him. It was a pity he didn't have a hand held computer. Disruptor restraints were primarily used by the military and having been a Commander he knew most of the override codes for unlocking them. It would have been a simple matter to write up a program to transmit the codes and release the locking mechanisms.

Daniel looked at the room they had been locked into. It was for all intents and purposes a guest room, with elaborate furnishing. Minus any windows of course and there was the fact that the doors were locked. On the wall to the right, next to the door leading to the bathroom were two panels in the wall that were open, both of them housing clothing. He vaguely recalled something about them changing, but he couldn't recall the specifics. Daniel turned his attention back to Kerstin. He reached over and placed his right hand on her shoulder, intending to attempt to console her. Daniel did not expect her to throw herself at him and hug him tightly while saying I'm sorry over and over again. [I]What is she apologizing for? [/I]Then it hit him. [I]She thinks this is her fault![/I] He pushed her away until she was facing him.

"[B]That's enough of that[/B]," he said kindly. "[B]It's not your fault at all.[/B]" She started to protest but he shook his head. "[B]I mean it. If anyone is to blame it's Blaine. Besides, just as he kidnapped you to get to your brother, he would have eventually done the same to get to my best friend as well.[/B]"

"[B]I don't understand,[/B]" Kerstin finally said after composing herself a bit.

"[B]It's simple, my friend William is an investor, a very wealthy one at that. But he's also fairly new. He only started investing in the past ten years. And though he earned his wealth fairly, there are those out there who think that by virtue of having gotten wealthy first, they should have been the ones to have gotten the profit that William did.[/B]"

"[B]But that's absurd![/B]" Kerstin protested.

"[B]Of course it is.[/B]" Daniel agreed. "[B]But unfortunately many of the wealthy are elitist snobs who do their best to make sure others stay poor. Not all of them are as ruthless as Blaine, but still the petty bickering, as well as attempts to ruin others is quite common.[/B]"

Kerstin looked away, clearly frightened. "[B]What does Blaine intend to do with us?[/B]"

Daniel shrugged. "[B]I'm not entirely sure. The only thing I do know is that he's careful to avoid killing anyone. Torture and other forms of coercion are harder to prove. So I would imagine he intends to intimidate your brother as well as my friend.[/B]" Daniel sighed. "[B]It's unfortunate, but those type of tactics work. Especially when it's someone who's powerful enough to have connections with the High Council.[/B]"

"[B]He's in for a rude awakening then.[/B]" Kerstin said firmly as she looked back at Daniel. "[B]I know for a fact that it was the High Council that chose my brother for his position, he had no interest in becoming the Shipping Expert. Sandra told me herself that those who objected to Darren as well as Blaine who is trying to have him killed would be dealt with.[/B]"

Well that was news to Daniel! Usually there was a lot of politics and scrambling involved in acquiring the position of Shipping Expert. The High Council may have approved the final decision, but it was rare for them to make the appointment themselves! If what Kerstin said was true, then Blaine's days were numbered. [I]I wonder if Blaine has realized this?[/I] He turned his attention back to Kerstin.

"[B]Anyway, what we need to do is to hold out until either someone finds us or your brother or my friend gives into the threat from Blaine. It would be best if you do as your told. With in reason of course.[/B]"

Kerstin scowled. "[B]I'd rather die than cooperate with Blaine.[/B]"

"[B]I understand Kerstin, but believe me, Blaine won't hesitate to torture you as well. Please, at least try to cooperate.[/B]"

Kerstin sighed. "[B]Fine, if that's what you think we should do. In which case[/b]" She indicated the clothing, "[b]Both you and I need to change. They said that if I don't, they would do it for me and that if you didn't they'd hurt you again.[/B]"

Daniel looked over at the clothing. Not exactly what he would have chosen, but it would do. Though why Blaine would care was beyond him. With a sigh he got up and went over to pick something out. Even if Blaine wasn't anywhere as vicious as Jared had been when he had been interrogated before, Daniel would rather avoid being tortured.

[Horendithas]

[SIZE=1][COLOR=Indigo]Sandra was in her quarters when the chime indicating a priority message had arrived sounded. She was currently lounging on the sofa in the main area, enjoying a drink so instead of moving to her desk she simply brought it up on the large screen on the wall. She nearly choked on her drink when she realized what it said. With a startled oath she set the drink down and read the report of Erica Kendrick's arrest.[I] Hell! How in the world did that happen? She was the leader of the Resistance?[/I] Sandra could hardly believe it! She had known Erica since she was but a child. Sure she had always been like Crystal in the sense that she supported better conditions for the lesser races, but that had proven to be a smart economic move, not necessarily an indication she was for freeing them.

She was almost finished with reading the time line of Erica's involvement when she read one part that made her freeze, her insides feeling as if they had turned to ice. [I]Oh my God! Please tell me those fools didn't do that. [/I]In an instant Sandra was on her feet, pacing back and forth, cursing under her breath. Entering the code for a priority communication with the High Council before tossing her hand held computer on the sofa. It took a moment but then her father answered. Clearly irritated when his face showed up on the large screen.

"[B]I don't have time for this Sandra,[/B]" He said coldly.

"[B]I don't give a shit what you think you don't have time for father.[/B]" She replied equally as coldly. "[B]What I want to know is just what the hell you God damn fools were thinking![/B]"

"[B]We will take care of it Sandra, it does not concern you.[/B]"

"[B]The hell it doesn't![/B]" She yelled. "[B]As a Council candidate and future Council member your actions reflect on me! Don't tell me it doesn't concern me! If what Kiva found out is true, and considering your response I'm inclined to believe her, then whoever is responsible is what needs to be taken care of![/B]"

Sandra's father turned away for a second and then back to Sandra, "[B]On the contrary [I]child[/I] you of all people should know that there are things that are necessary for order to be maintained.[/B]"

"[B]Don't you dare give me the same tired necessary speech. We're talking about altering how people think and feel! Even the damn research in sector fourteen wouldn't have done this! This is reprehensible and I will not stand for it. Hell![/B]" Sandra yelled as another thought occurred to her.

"[B]That's why all of you were so insistent on arranging the betrothals in the first place. To make sure your dirty little secret was kept! To keep anyone from realizing that they had been[I] illegally[/I] modified![/B]"

"[B]We are done here.[/B]" Her father said moving to terminate the connection.

Sandra picked up her hand held computer and started preparing a transmission. One that would be sent to every terminal in the entire fleet. "[B]No father we are not.[/B]" She said between clenched teeth. "[B]I don't give a damn if you arrest me as well, you are not hiding what happened.[/B]"

Her father hesitated. "[B]Snap out of it Sandra! Don't force me to deal with you as well."[/B]

Sandra sighed and then pressed the send button, forwarding the report to everyone in the fleet. By the time they stopped it, it would be too late. Everyone would know. Then she set her hand held computer down and picked up her drink, tossing it at the screen, causing her father to flinch when it shattered upon contact.

"[B]As far as I am concerned,[/B]" She said furiously. "[B]You are not my father![/B]" Sandra terminated the communication. Then she opened one with Stevens. Still cursing under her breath.

"[B]Ah Sandra,[/B]" Stevens said when he answered, "[B]I see that you have heard about Erica.[/B]"

"[B]That's not all I've heard about. What I want to know is what you intend to do. Because if you intend to do as my foolish father and the rest of the Council and attempt to hide it, I can and will kill you.[/B]"

Stevens laughed at her. "[B]I'm glad to see that you feel that way since Zach and Dakar and I as well as James have agreed to declare Martial Law and place the High Council under house arrest. They've been trying to suppress the news but I've already assigned my computer specialist to counter their attempts to delete the data. Though I understand someone else is already making sure the data is copied before it can be erased. I don't know who's doing it though. At least not yet.[/B]"

Sandra just glared at Stevens, still furious. "[B]I sent the report to everyone in the fleet, within a few hours everyone in the whole Empire will know about it.[/B]"

Stevens smiled. "[B]Good. I was about to do that myself. Anyway, even if we don't get along having your assistance will be essential. As soon as I take care of a few things you and I will need to talk. Also,[/b]" Stevens sighed a bit. "[b]you'll want to talk to Jared, I'm afraid he has bad news as well. Now if you'll excuse me I have a lot to do.[/B]" Stevens terminated the communication.

Sandra just stood there for a moment. Resisting the urge to smash things. [I]Jared has bad news as well? Just what the hell is Stevens talking about? [/I] She picked up her hand held computer and in a fit of anger sent the update out again, only this time to every singe reporting agency that she knew of. Then though it was most unlady like she went into the kitchen area of her quarters and smashed everything in sight cursing left and right. Then finally feeling a little less angry, Sandra took several deep breaths to calm herself and contacted Jared. [/COLOR][/SIZE]

[GuyYouMetOnline]

[color=darkslateblue]"God damnit," Daego said. "What the hell were they thinking? Good lord, this changes everything."[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"I don't think it's that severe," Kiva said. She and Daego were on the bridge of the [i]Transcendence[/i], and Daego was, to put it lightly, upset. He'd held it in for the operation, but now it was coming out.[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"It sure as hell is severe," Daego said. "Shit, I can't even know how many decisions this has affected."[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"Remember, it's only a moderate suppression. It's not like it changes who you are. And this old method seems too crude for that sort of thing, anyways. It's nothing like what they're doing in sector 14."[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"Yeah, but it's still bad. There are definitely decisions this has affected. Hell, I was this close to joining the Resistance when they asked me. I thought I did it because I saw them as being too idealistic, but how do I know that this modification isn't the real reason I said no?"[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"So you're finally saying it," Kiva said. "I was wondering when that would come out."[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"You mean you knew I'd been asked to join the Resistance?"[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"No, but it wasn't exactly hard to guess. Your views and theirs are extremely close; it's only natural that they'd try to recruit you."[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"And you never thought I was with them?"[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"I never did. I know you too well to think that."[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]Daego was about to reply, but the 'incomming transmission' signal sounded. Kiva accepted the transmission, and saw that it was from Fleet Admiral Stevens. "Ah, Stevens. I was wondering when you'd contact us."[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"Yes. I have to admit that even though I was surprised by your arrest of Erica, I was even more purprised at the information you released. DId it ever cross your mind that this is something the High council wouldn't want released?"[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"That's irrelevant," Daego said. "Not even the High Council is above the law. There was nothing I could do about the banned research in sector 14, as the Resistance had already released that information and it didn't do much. This time, however, there was something Kiva and I could do, and we did it."[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"Besides," Kiva said, "indications are that only a very few members of the High Council actually know about this."[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"True," Stevens said. "Anyways, I'm sure you've seen the actions we're taking by now."[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"Well, we know about the declaration of martial law, and about putting the High Council under house arrest, and all that stuff. We also know that not everybody is reacting calmly to this news. I imagine it's only a matter of time before all hell breaks loose. Even so, neither Daego nor I regret exposing the information."[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"I can understand that. And don't worry, I don't plan to take any action against you. As a matter of fact, there's something I'd like you to help me with."[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"I don't think involving us, or any Specialist, is a good idea. We answer only to the High Council, so involving us in this wouldn't be smart."[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"I know," Stevens said. "That's actually not what I had in mind. You see, shortly before your arrest of Erica, two individuals were kidnapped from the academy they both attend. We believe the kidnappings were ordered by Blaine Uratak. One of the victims is named Daniel, and it seems likely that Blaine took him as a means of getting at a wealthy merchant named William. Nothing that would necessitate millitary involvement. We would have left it to local law enforcement if it was just Daniel, but another person was taken.[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"The second abductee is Kerstin Anderson. Kerstin is the sister of current shipping expert Darren Anderson. We believe that Blaine took Kerstin as a way to get at Darren. Kerstin was under millitary protection, bu Blaine's men managed to get around her security escort. Essentially, they hijacked the elevator the pair was riding in, moving it before the escort could enter. The pair was taken to the roof, where Blaine's men grabbed them.[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"Additionally, Blaine himself has vanished. It's likely that he knew Jared was getting close to nailing him, so when the confusion down there started, he probably decided to take advantage of the opportunity to disappear. He was under observation, of course, but he managed to elude them.[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"Now, thanks to your efforts, I don't exactly have many people to spare. Everyone's occupied dealing with the chaos your information has caused. So I thought I'd ask you. I can't order you to do it, of course, but I'm certainly allowed to make requests of Specialists, and since the High Council's under house arrest, I don't think you'll be getting orders from them for a while."[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"That,s certainly true," Kiva said. "Yeah, we'll do it. I assume you don't have any objections, Daego?"[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"None," Daego said.[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"Well, that's that," Kiva said to Stevens. "We'll do it. Just make sure that anyone else working on it gives us updates from time to time."[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"I can arrange that," Stevens said. "Oh, and one more thing. For the time being, you are to keep Erica on board the [i]Transcendence[/i]. However, due to her condition, she will need medical treatment twice a day. Commander Crystal has agreed to look after her. To do so, she'll need to transport to the [i]Transcendence[/i] twice a day."[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"Got it. Here, I'm sending you an access code. Daego and I might not be here when Crystal needs to come, so if we aren't, use this code to allow a transport door to be opened on this ship. Will there be anything else?"[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"No," Stevens said. "Let me know as son as your investigation has produced results."[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]Kiva nodded. "Understood." She terminated communications, then turned to Daego. "Okay, first we need to check out that elevator. Get that pair's personal records. I'll want to go over them. Also, contact the academy they were taken from. Stevens forgot to give us the name, but it'll be in their records. I want the hijacked elevator shut down. Nobody is to use it until further notice. I'm going to pull up records on Blaine, see if I can get anything useful."[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]Daego nodded. "Got it," he said, and the pair got to work.[/color]

[SunfallE]

[COLOR=goldenrod][CENTER][IMG]http://img169.imageshack.us/img169/4170/silveronebannerhm6copyknq7.png[/IMG]
[SIZE=1]Banner by [URL=http://www.otakuboards.com/member.php?userid=22789][COLOR=goldenrod][U]Keyblade Wielder[/U][/COLOR][/URL] [/SIZE][/CENTER]

If someone had told James, the Commander of the Elite Task Forces that he would be placing the High Council under house arrest, he would have thought the poor fool was drunk. It had been startling enough to learn that Erica Kendrick was the leader of the Resistance. It was frankly unbelievable, as well as the information about all of them being modified since birth. At first he thought it had to be some sick joke, but when he had logged into the security systems and saw the activity of the High Council in the system. That they were trying to remove the data, he had done as he always had done. James had moved to support it, to help with the removal.

But then Stevens and the others had contacted him. Insisting that the news not be suppressed. He would never have agreed to it if Dakar had not spoken up. Dakar despised Stevens even though he agreed that Stevens had the necessary qualifications for his position of Fleet Admiral. The moment Dakar had sided with Stevens, James knew that they would do as they suggested. And sure enough Martial law, at least the first level was being initiated.

James however was about to brief his men as he had called in only the most trustworthy and loyal of all of his troops. It wasn't every day one asked them to arrest the High Council. He had to be sure that those he commanded would do as they were told. He had already issued the orders for a lock down of the rest of the Council Center. That had been easier. Dakar would help with that and no one would think twice of the increase in security due to the nature of the news.

James walked back and forth in front of the men assembled in front of him, finally he stopped and faced them. "[B]I'm sure all of you have heard the rumor by now. Well I'm here to confirm it. It is true that Erica Kendrick had been arrested on charges of high treason. I have no doubt that the claims that she is indeed the leader of the Resistance is true. But that's not why I've called you here.[/B]"

He looked them over assessing what they were thinking by looking into their eyes. "[B]The problem is what was found when Erica was arrested. Information indicating that a couple of High Council members are guilty of concealing the fact that all of us were illegally modified at birth. I'm sure I don't have to tell any of you that mental alteration is forbidden.[/B]" A couple of them looked nervous and he didn't blame them. He too found the idea of such alteration distasteful.

James continued. "[B]In order to determine if such allegations are true I along with Stevens, Zach and Dakar have decided to declare martial law and place the High Council under house arrest. We intend to get to the bottom of this and find out who if any of them are guilty.

I've called you here since we will be leaving shortly to do just that. I want everyone's weapons on stun and remember, High Council member or not, right now they have no authority over any of you. And the nature of this assignment grants each of you immunity to reproach. Full responsibility will lie with me. Now if anyone feels they can't do this speak up now, I will not hold it against you if you stay here.[/B]"

He looked at each and everyone of them and nodded at what he saw, not one of them raised their hand to opt out. "[B]Good,[/B]" James said. "[B]We move out immediately.[/B]"

In the end it had been far easier than James expected. And in a way it disgusted him just a little bit. The High Council had been so sure of their immunity that when he and his squad had interrupted their meeting they had been completely dumbfounded and caught by surprise. Their protests weak and fleeting. A few had been outraged, but the threat of simply being stunned and carried to their quarters in the Council Center had been enough to shut them up.

Then once everyone had been rounded up he contacted the others to let them know what had happened. "[B]I really hope you know what you are doing Stevens.[/B]" James said in closing as he finished his discussion with him.

"[B]So do I James, so do I. Besides, even if no one was guilty, these charges are far to serious to overlook. And somehow I get the feeling that we are not blindly chasing a rumor. Anyway, good work on catching everyone. That makes things much simpler. Now all we need to do is finish organizing the task forces to do the investigation as well as maintaining order throughout the Empire.

I hope you'll forgive me for being brief, but I have far too much to take care of. Stevens out.[/B]"

James just sighed as he pulled up a list of those he would recommend for the task force. The only problem he saw was getting into the Councilor's personal systems. He doubted any of them would willingly hand over their personal code. He was wondering what to do when it occurred to him that perhaps he should ask Dakar about the two from Earth that were being kept in the Council Center. If he remembered correctly they had gotten around Grade Alpha security. [I]What were their names again?[/I] He pulled the information up. [I]Ah that's right Jason and Celestia. [/I] He made a note to ask Dakar about it when he spoke to him again.[/COLOR]

[Rachmaninoff]

Darren was in his quarters on the Creator when he got a message from Sandra. He had not been expecting one from her and the contents left him speechless. Erica Kendrick was the leader of the resistance? Everyone had been modified when they were born? The whole thing just seemed a bit too unreal. But the report though it had been sent to him by Sandra originally came from the Elite Specialist Kiva who had made the arrest. Darren was stunned. [I]Hell! The God damn leader of the Resistance is a member of the High Council? And even more of them have allowed illegal modifications to be done all this time?[/I] He shook his head in disbelief. [I]Why did Sandra even bother to send this to me?[/I]

He got up and went over to look out at the view of the home world. Darren wasn't really sure what to think. He had no love for the High Council anyway and he had first hand experience with them simply forcing others to do as they wished. Darren had never expected honesty out of them or the military for that matter. So why would this be any different? Still the leader of the Resistance was one of them? Hell! It was the God damn Resistance that had hacked his clearance in the first place, dragging him into this mess. Resulting in the High Council forcing him to work for them. Darren finally couldn't help it, he started laughing. It was so pathetically ironic. He'd been screwed by the High Council on both ends.

The laughter didn't last long, there was an edge of hysteria to it, though that too faded. But the thought that now it was the High Council's turn to be screwed seemed only fair to Darren. The problems that would arise from one of their own leading the Resistance they were so against would be supremely funny. [I]Serves those arrogant bastards right. [/I] He was sorry for what it would do to Sandra though. Darren sighed, she had seemed cold and distant at first, but the longer he had been here and the more he had been required to do as a shipping expert, the more he had gotten to know her. In many ways Sandra's views were similar to his, and her help had been invaluable. Darren was so naive when it came to politics and Sandra had made sure to help him figure things out.

A chime sounded indicating there was another message and he went back to his desk to open it. Darren couldn't help but smile when he saw that it was an update indicating that not only had marital law been declared but that the entire High Council had been put under house arrest pending an investigation. [I]Good.[/I] He was closing the update when the chime indicating someone was at his door sounded. [I]Damn if it isn't a busy day today. [/I] He opened the door to admit Jared who was looking rather grim.

Once the door had shut behind him Jared spoke, "[B]I'm afraid I have some bad news for you Darren.[/B]"

Darren snorted. "[B]I'd hardly call it bad Jared. Seems only fair to me that members of the High Council aren't above the law.[/B]"

Jared looked distressed, something that Darren had never seen. Making him wonder just what was going on. Was he really that upset by what had happened?

"[B]If only it was just that, but what I'm talking about has to do with Kerstin.[/B]"

Darren went cold all over. Not trusting himself to speak as all sorts of wild ideas ran though his mind. Jared took his sudden silence as an indication to continue.

"[B]Kerstin along with another student was kidnapped from the university earlier today. I believe that Blaine is behind it.[/B]" Jared paused for Darren to speak but the color had drained from his face. "[B]It seems that a group of his men waited for the opportunity to cut her escort off when she entered one of the lifts. They hijacked the lift causing it to go to the roof without stopping and seized both of them when they arrived.[/B]"

[I]Oh my God! Kerstin![/I] Darren thought even as he sank to his knees, tears running down his face. [I]I should have made her listen to Jared and stay on the Creator. If he wants me dead, there's no telling what Blaine will do to her.[/I] Darren put his head in his hands and cried. Huge wracking sobs that shook his whole body. Until a moment later someone took his hands in theirs and he looked up to see that Jared had kneeled in front of him.

"[B]We'll find her.[/B]" Jared said firmly

"[B]How can you be so sure?[/B]"

"[B]For one thing it's rare for Blaine to kill anyone, he's fond of using strong arm tactics since those are much harder to prove. Also, Stevens has asked Kiva to help us find them since due to the investigation she won't be receiving any orders from the High Council for quite a while. Kiva has agreed to help and trust me, her skills at locating people are excellent. She found you on Earth remember?[/B]"

Darren nodded, "[B]But...[/B]"

"[B]No buts. I'll be helping with the investigation as well.[/B]"

Darren nodded again, but he still couldn't stop the tears. [I]Kerstin.[/I] Miserable he started to pull his hands free from Jared's but Jared had other ideas, pulling him into an embrace. At first Darren resisted until he realized Jared meant nothing by it, other than to try to comfort him. And when he finally had cried enough that he exhausted himself and pushed away Jared simply let go and then helped him to his feet.

"[B]I'll be keeping you updated on our progress, in the mean time, since the High Council is under house arrest you won't have much to do. But it would help out if you keep an eye on shipping since the news is going to create a lot of panic. We'll need to make sure that riots don't leave anyone with out basic supplies.[/B]"

Darren just nodded, still not trusting himself to speak least he start crying again.

"[B]If you need anything, let me know, all right?[/B]" Once Darren had nodded yet again. Jared finally left.

Darren did his best to keep it in but an occasional tear still kept escaping. [I]If only I had made her stay on the Creator like Jared wanted her to do. [/I] Still miserable he just stood there staring blankly out at the view of the home world. It wasn't until much later that he remembered that Jared had said someone else had been kidnapped with her.

[Aaryanna]

[COLOR=goldenrod]It didn't take Crystal long to return to the Tempest, to change into uniform and to head for the bridge. With the announcement of Martial law all short leave to Reflection had been canceled, though fortunately everyone had already gotten a chance to visit. But it was a pity since due to how quiet things had been she had gotten the authorization for them to also get leave for the home world. But now that would not happen. When Crystal entered the bridge everyone turned to face her, confusion evident in their eyes.

She paused in front of the Command spot to address them. "[B]I don't need to tell any of you what the protocol for Martial law is do I?[/B]" They shook their heads. "[B]Good, I realize that this is confusing, but until we hear otherwise it is our duty to maintain order. Stevens, Zach, Dakar and James will make sure that the truth of the matter is uncovered. We must help them with that task by keeping others from panicking.[/B]"

"[B]Is it true then?[/B]" Her sub-commander asked, "[B]That Erica is the leader of the resistance?[/B]"

Crystal nodded sadly, "[B]It is.[/B]" She turned her attention back to everyone else. "[B]Now more than ever I need each and every one of you to do your best. I will be helping with part of the investigation so I'll need you to continue doing what you did while I was working in the Council Center.[/B]" At that moment the chime indicating she had a priority transmission sounded. "[B]Patch that to the Conference room, I'll take it in there.[/B]"

"[B]Understood Commander,[/B]" Her sub-commander said, then he turned to the others, "[B]You heard the Commander! We've got work to do![/B]"

Crystal went into the conference room and opened up the transmission, it was Stevens.

"[B]Crystal, I talked to Kiva and made the arrangements for you to transport over twice daily. Kiva has provided an access code for you to open a transport door should the need arise. In addition to that I'll be sending you the complete file with all the data that Erica had in her time line in regards to the modification. Let me know if you need anything to assist with the research.[/B]"

The chime of a message received sounded and Crystal downloaded it to her hand held computer. "[B]Anything else Stevens?[/B]"

"[B]No, I wouldn't know what you would need for Erica's care anyway, just let Kiva know if you need anything done to her cell.[/B]"

Crystal nodded. "[B]I will. If you intend to talk to her later, then that's going to be necessary. Standard accommodation's just won't do. I won't bore you with the details, but if you check how the furniture and such is set up in her estate you'll find that everything is built specifically for her body. In fact it might be easier to transport a few items up directly from her estate.[/B]" Crystal shook her head. "[B]Anyway, I'll get to work on it immediately, Crystal out.[/B]"

She closed down the transmission and accessed the medical records of what was needed. Patients that suffered from what Erica did were highly vulnerable to pressure sores caused by resting on firm surfaces. And since that made them open to getting infections as well, most doctors would recommend that their bed as well as a number of chairs be made specifically for the patient, to cut down on that complication. Crystal was sure there was probably a chair for lounging in Erica's estate, simply transporting it up would work best.

Her bed would be too big though. Crystal could for now use a standard one for medical purposes. Kiva probably didn't have one on her ship after all normally there just wouldn't be a reason for someone who had the disease to even be on a messenger ship, but there would be a mattress in the stores on the Tempest. Crystal checked and sure enough there was. That would work while she had a smaller one made to match the one in Erica's estate.

Then once she had the necessary information put together she wrote up the message, explaining to Kiva about switching out the mattress in the cell with the one from her ship and the necessity of obtaining one of the lounging chairs from her estate. As well as including some proper pillows for patients as well. Pointing out that simply taking the ones from Erica's estate would work the best. Until someone told her otherwise, she would, within reason, make sure that Erica was properly cared for.

Her message complete, Crystal sent the message to The Transcendence. It wasn't time for Erica's treatment for a while so hopefully by the time she went over, Kiva or her crew Daego would have all of the changes taken care of. Then she opened up the data on the modifications and began to read it.[/COLOR]

[Aaryanna_Mom]

William was not surprised by the news of Erica's arrest or the information in the time line that was released. After all she had informed him of her intent as well as sending him the information. Though the time line she had sent him was complete. Where she had left out critical information that would have exposed current resistance members in her own system, she had not done so for him. There were other things in that time line that were equally as startling as the bit about the modifications.

Still as the events unfolded and he watched the news as it was broadcast live in his quarters in the hotel across from the university, William had to admit that in the end, exposing herself was far more useful than simply leaving the information for her own faction to find. They would have simply concealed the information and his attempts to release it would have been ignored, much in the same way the release of the information in regards to sector fourteen had been ineffective.

It was in short, brilliant. A true indication of how smart Erica really was. There was nothing that she did not use to further the goals of the Resistance, even her own illness as it would prevent them from interrogating her to get the information they wanted. They could ask her questions, but they would not be able to force anything out of her. And using relatives would be next to useless since due to how so many of the betrothals over the centuries had tied so many of the factions together, they'd have to go after more than a third of the families associated with the High Council. And if Erica revealed a few other tidbits that she knew, not one of them would be safe from incrimination.

William turned the news off, noticing as he did so that it was close to dinner time. As well as the fact that Daniel had not returned. [I]I wonder what's taking him so long? [/I]Daniel was always punctual and even if he stopped for lunch at the cafeteria there it shouldn't have made him this late. William walked over and opened up the doors to the balcony facing the university. Below on the street was a pair of security officers, their uniforms that of those who served on the flagships. [I]What the hell? [/I] A moment later the chime indicating that someone was at his door sounded.

William went to answer it, only to be surprised by another security officer who's insignia indicated that he served on the Creator. [I]Well this is interesting. [/I] It was mildly alarming, though not in a serious manner. If they had figured out who he was they would not have been knocking on his door so to speak. William put on his best vacant smile and spoke.

"[B]What can I do for you sir?[/B]"

"[B]Are you William Bennits, friend of Daniel Timbers?[/B]"

William sighed dramatically, "[B]I am. What's that idiot done this time? He didn't cheat one of your men at poker again did he? I keep telling that idiot that he needs to play fair.[/B]"

"[B]Uh, no, it's nothing like that. He is in trouble, but it's not his fault. I need you to come with me please.[/B]"

"[B]Just a minute then,[/B]" Williams went over and picked up his small case with all of his id and other cards with his information. [I]What in the world is going on?[/I] "[B]All right,[/B]" he said as he closed the door and followed the man out. "[B]Where are we going? And why did you come to pick me up?[/B]"

"[B]To the Creator of course. As for picking you up. My men and I were already in the area so it seemed pointless to transport up and then turn around and contact you and transport back down. Now wait here please.[/B]" He said as he approached the other two security officers. Then he opened up a communication to the Creator and a moment later a transport door opened. "[B]This way please,[/B]" He said motioning for William to go through the door.

[I]Just what kind of trouble did you get into Daniel? [/I]William wondered as he stepped through the door. It had to be pretty damn big for them to want him to come on board the Creator to talk to him. [I]Did he cross paths with some of those idiots who think their wealth and power give them the right to do as they please? [/I] Still that wouldn't have involved the military. If that had happened, local law enforcement on Reflection would have dealt with it. No it had to be something else.

But as they took him through the corridors of the Creator and to the bridge before finally entering the side observation room, William was still unsure as to just what had happened. But when he saw who was waiting for him it snapped into place. If Jared was involved it had to be connected to Blaine Uratak. But still that didn't explain how Daniel was involved. His agents were the best and there wasn't a contract out on Daniel. There was one for Kerstin though.

"[B]Please, take a seat.[/B]" Jared motioned to the one across from him at the conference table. "[B]I'll explain why you are here as well as what happened to Daniel and then I have a number of questions for you.[/B]"

[Horendithas]

[SIZE=1][COLOR=Indigo]Jared had not been looking forward to telling Darren about Kerstin, but of all things he had not expected him to collapse. In a way he almost felt stupid. It was obvious how much Darren and his sister Kerstin cared for one another. And due to the circumstances surround Darren's appointment as the shipping expert and the things his father had done, he should have realized it. For Darren, Kerstin was his only family. He had no one else. Jared had tried to make him feel better, but he wasn't really any good at that sort of thing. He was too use to tearing people apart not patching them together. And as he headed back to the bridge and then started preparing everything he had to send to Kiva he wondered why it even bothered him that Darren had been so upset.

Jared had no close friends, because in truth no one really liked him. And in the end he had never cared. There were a few people he cared for like Crystal and Sandra, but they were friends nothing more. He had no male friends. Only associates and lovers. And even the latter was usually a means to satisfy physical desires not emotional ones. With a sigh he finished preparing every thing he had on Blaine, all the transactions for cheating his employees, the ones for paying people to assassinate Darren. It was irritating since only a few more days and he would have been ready to arrest Blaine. Then after including a bit that he would be questioning Daniel's friend William and would inform Kiva of anything he learned that was useful, he made sure to include his thanks for her assistance in closing. Then he sent it off.

Then Jared excused himself to the observation room to pull up the records of Williams affairs while he waited for him to be brought to him. If Blaine was going after William, which due to taking Daniel too when his men could have simply stunned him and left him there, Jared was certain that he was. And that meant that it was possible that somewhere they had crossed paths. So any information he could get on Blaine would be useful. It didn't take long for Jared to see why Blaine would consider William such a threat and once the crew finally brought him to him and William had taken a seat he quickly filled him in on what had happened.

There was no mistaking the surprise in Williams expression when he learned what had just happened. As well as how it was due to Blaine initially being after Kerstin not Daniel that was what got Daniel in trouble.

"[B]I see,[/B]" William said. "[B]If I understand you correctly sir, what you are saying is that in truth, Blaine's men were after Kerstin and upon realizing who Daniel was, elected to take him as well. That can only mean that Blaine was eventually planning on coming after Daniel as well. Or should I say me since he is my best friend.[/B]"

"[B]Correct, which is why I asked you to come here. I've already looked over your affairs, but I'd like to know if you've had any dealings with Blaine in the past ten years. Anything that could help us track down not only Kerstin but your friend as well.[/B]"

William reached up with his right hand and tapped his chin thoughtfully. "[B]Well I do have a good memory for all of the merchants I have dealt with. After all it is my money that has backed a good number of new products. I've also done my share of bidding for contracts as well. Since I'm sure you understand that a fair number of businessmen will go for the same product.

The only one that I know of that Blaine was a contender was related to the incident where Daedalus shipping was exposed. Originally Blaine already had the contract but after the scandal the inventor opened up the bidding again offering a new contract for delivering the goods from sector five to sector eight. Since it was a new product, I made a bid for backing it. Blaine did as well. In the end I won since I offered a better interest rate for the merchant in question.

I didn't think much of it at the time, but Blaine was extremely irritated and made some comment along the lines that I would regret offering such an absurd rate. I told him to stop being so greedy. It's something I find a bit annoying actually. Some of the rates businessmen like Blaine offer are what's absurd, they make it so any problems result in the merchant going bankrupt while Blaine or others like him end up keeping the money.

I tend to offer a good third less than what others like Blaine charge for my backing. As a result it's rare for someone I back to go under and as you can see, making less interest hasn't hurt my ability to make money at all. And merchants are happier when they get a better profit too. It's a good system.[/B]"

Jared listened patiently, it wasn't really anything useful, but it did explain why Blaine would go after William. For someone as greedy as Blaine, a person like William would be a real threat, cutting into profits. Or rather into the excessive profits that Blaine was use to.

Jared asked him a few more questions, but he was pretty much done. It was pretty obvious that William didn't know anything that would help their search. Both him and Daniel didn't even know Kerstin. Neither one of them even attended the same classes or were on campus at the same time. Kerstin lived in the dorms while they lived in the rich hotel across the street. In the end, it seemed that Daniel liked to have lunch at the cafeteria there from time to time, and that statement fit in with what Jared had seen in the surveillance records.

It was for all intents and purposes a coincidence. It would have happened eventually, but due to Kerstin being on the elevator it had happened sooner. Jared sighed inwardly. He wouldn't have much to tell Kiva, though he'd make sure to send the highlights to her just the same.

"[B]Thank you.[/B]" Jared finally said. "[B]That's all for now. One of my men will have you transported back to your hotel. If you think of anything be sure to contact me immediately. I'll be sure to keep you updated as well.[/B]" He stood up.

William got up and bowed in his direction. "[B]Thank you sir. I'm sorry I didn't know anything that could be of use.[/B]" He turned at the sound of the door opening and then left with the security officer that arrived.

Jared watched him leave. It was a pity that he was correct. All William had done was confirm that Blaine did have a reason for coming after him and that he had threatened him. Though it seemed that William hadn't realized that it was a threat. He sighed. Wondering if he should check on Darren or not. Especially since he didn't have any news for him yet.[/COLOR][/SIZE]

[GuyYouMetOnline]

[color=darkslateblue]"Well, here's a surprise for you," Daego said. "I didn't have to get authorization to access the personal records. Erica's personal code is still in the system. It hasn't been removed yet."[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"Really?" Kiva said. "Well, I suppose that's understandable. Procedure would be to have it removed from the system immediately, but given the circumstances, I can understand how that could be forgotten."[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"Should I contact Stevens?"[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"I don't think he's the one who'd remove the code, but he is the one we know the location of. Yes, contact Stevens, but not to get the code removed. At the moment, it's better to keep the code in the system. See, the team investigating the High Council will most likely need to access private Council information, and it's unlikely that any of the councilors will provide their personal codes. But we already have Erica's, so if we give it to Stevens, he can get it to the investigation team. It won't get them into private databases, but it'll work just fine for Council systems."[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"Smart thinking," Daego said. He contacted the [i]Creator[/i] with a priority message for Stevens. The Fleet Admiral responded quickly.[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"Ah, Kiva," Stevens said. "What is it?"[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"We've discovered something you should know about," Kiva said. "It doesn't relate to the investigation, but it's important anyways. We've discovered that Erica's personal code hasn't been removed from the system. I know you're not the person who'd do that, but you're the one we knew the location of, and I assume you can get the information to the proper individual."[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"Yes, I can do that. I guess that with all the confusion, Erica's code was just forgotten. I'll be sure to get it removed."[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"Don't," Kiva said. "Right now, it's better to keep it in the system. I'm sending it to you right now. Get it to the team conducting the investigation for the High Council. They can use it to access Council computer systems."[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"Good point," Stevens said. "All right, I'll do that. We'll keep Erica's code in the system until the investigation is complete. Will there be anything else?" [/color][color=#483d8b]There wasn't so Kiva said so and terminated communications. Almost at that exact moment, two messages were received. One was from Jared, describing his conversation with William.The other was from Crystal, detailing what accomidations would be necessary for Erica.[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"You take care of the stuff for Erica," Kiva said to Daego. "I'm going down to take a look at that elevator."[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"You can't do it from here?" Daego said.[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"Nope. Most elevators, including the one I'll be looking at, have no long-range capability. You don't have to be in the elevator to access it, but you do need a terminal that's not too far away. If you're hardwired in to it, it's possible to work from a greater distance, but still not too far away, simply because of the limitations of being hardwired. So I'll have to go down there."[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"You should probably wear at least light body armor. Things down there are pretty crazy, and though nothing too bad's happened on the campus yet, that doesn't mean nothing will happen."[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"Yeah, I know. I actually plan to wear standard body armor, not just light armor. Anyways, I'm going to got put the armor on, then I'm heading down there."[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]There was obvious tension on the campus, and things could very well turn violent at some point, but for now, any hostility was purely verbal. Kiva had a few remarks directed at her, but she just ignored them. If anyone tried anything against her, she'd take action, but verbal abuse was nothing to worry about.[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]The elevator had been shut down as ordered, so it wasn't in use when Kiva arrived. She entered the elevator and hooked her handheld up to it. The elevator contained an access record, from which Kiva could determine where the remte command had originated from.[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]Most elevators could be controled from a seperate computer by entering the proper code. This was intended for use in emergencies, where if the elevator control was left as normal it wouldn't get anywhere. Smoeone had entered the code and taken control of the elevator, sending it to the roof and holding it there until Kerstin and Daniel had been taken. Whoever had done so had covered his/her tracks well, but Kiva was still able to trace the command back to its origin.[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]Knowing which computer terminal the command had originated from, Kiva left the elevator and made her way to the campus's security center. She was, of course, allowed entry immediately; even with all the confusion and the Council under house arrest, the campus security personell weren't going to refuse an Elite Specialist. In the security center, Kiva accessed security recordings of the room where the computer terminal she'd identified was. By viewing the recording, she saw who was using that terminal at the time the command was sent. The image wasn't detailed enough for Kiva to see what was on the man's screen, but with a little work, she was able to use the campus's records to identify the man. Upon doing so, she contacted Daego.[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"I've identified the man who hijacked the elevator," Kiva said. "His name is Loe Kramen, and he's with computer maintainance for the campus. I haven't determined how he knew when to give the command, but I suspect he was givin a signal of some kind. I'm going to question him, see what he knows. I doubt it's much; he was probably just given money in exchange for agreeing to send the elevator to the roof when given the signal. Still, he's my best lead right now. Also, Jared's conclusion in regards to Daniel is most likely correct; it was pure chance that put him and Kerstin in the elevator at the same time."[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"Yeah, that's what I thought," Daego said. "Anyways, acommadations for Erica have been set up according to Crystal's specifications. I'm back to going through records."[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]"Good. Make a detailed inspection of Loe Kramen, just in case. I'll see if I can get more names when I speak with him. Kiva out."[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]Kiva terminated communications, then went to fine Loe. He was on duty at the moment, so he would be on campus. Kiva would simply go to the computer maintainance office and ask for him. When he showed up, she would have a few questions for him.[/color]

[SunfallE]

[COLOR=goldenrod]Jason had absolutely no idea what was going on. One minute they had been working in the lab with Nat then the next the security received a communication and immediately took both of them back to their quarters. It was confusing as hell since people were rushing all over the place as well as squads of security personal. Once they were in their quarters, other than someone bringing them dinner as they always did, no one else showed up. It was a bit frustrating to not know what was going on. Finally both of them did as they always did, simply went to bed and then the next morning got up and got ready for when either Dakar or someone else would come for them. But other than to give them some breakfast, again no one came.

"[B]I don't understand,[/B]" Jason finally said when they had waited for several hours. "[B]What in the world could be going on out there?[/B]"

Celestia sighed and sat down on the sofa, shifting a bit when Jason sat down next to her. "[B]I have no idea. I couldn't think of anything last night and I still can't think of anything today. Besides I doubt they'll tell us anything.[/B]"

"[B]True...[/B]" Jason started to reply only to hastily get to his feet when the door to their quarters finally opened to admit Dakar. Reaching down and offering his hand to Celestia to help her stand up as well. They were moving to join Dakar when he surprised them by entering their quarters enough for the door to close behind him. Jason stopped. Confused since Dakar looked far from pleased. [I]Hell! What did we do wrong this time? [/I]Though he couldn't think of a single thing.

Dakar didn't keep them waiting. "[B]Has anyone told you of the events that took place yesterday?[/B]"

Jason shook his head negatively as did Celestia. Dakar suppressed a sigh, annoyed that James had even suggested putting them on the task force who would attempt to hack into the private records of each Councilor.

"[B]Yesterday, Erica Kendrick, a member of the High Council was arrested. The reason she was arrested was due to evidence that proved that she was the leader of the Resistance.[/B]" Dakar ignored Jason's and Celestia's startled responses.

"[B]Included in that evidence was data indicating that illegal mental modification has been done to the Versilan people. As well as notes indicating that even though it happened well over a thousand years ago, the modification is still done at birth. Knowledge of this apparently is known to several other High Council members who in spite of knowing that such modification is banned, has not only suppressed the fact but failed to notify the genetic reproduction facilities and put an end to it.

As a result, the entire High Council has been put under house arrest while we determine which councilors are guilty of treason. Make no mistake, such an offense is punishable by execution no less.[/B]"

Celestia started to say something but Dakar cut her off. "[B]I'm not finished. Anyway, currently several task forces have been formed to do a formal investigation. Part of that includes checking each Councilor's personal data storage. I'm sure you can imagine that each Councilor has highly sensitive material in there and as a result very few of them are willing to offer up their personal access code. We can get into the main Councilor's data base but we aren't expecting to find anything in there.

But personal data storage is another matter. Such vaults are carefully prepared for each member of the High Council and the security is the best there is in the entire Empire. Breaches are unheard of. Which means there is a good chance that the information we want will be in that system.

Anyway, this is not my idea, but both of you are going to be placed on the team that is working on getting into those private data files for each Councilor. You've gotten around Grade Alpha security and you've written a program to erase the data banks of a battleship in spite of the precautions to prevent such a thing, so I'm sure you're skills are up to the task. So come with me.[/B]"

Jason and Celestia did as they were told, following Dakar to an area of the Council Center that they had never seen, the security obviously much higher than where they had been working before as there was multiple checkpoints for them to pass through. Finally at the end of the current corridor there was a set of double doors, doors that required Dakar to enter an access code to open.

They followed him inside and both of them couldn't help but stare. It was clearly the most advanced set up they had ever seen. There were already ten people in the room, nine of them being addressed by another man who was clearly some type of commander like Dakar as he too was dressed in a more formal outfit. When they entered he stopped what he was doing and addressed them.

"[B]Ah Dakar, good you brought them. I take it that you already briefed them?[/B]"

"[B]Just the basics James, since this was your idea I figure you can tell them the rest.[/B]"

James just laughed. "[B]Fair enough. No worries I'll take care of everything.[/B]" He turned to Jason and Celestia. "[B]Take a seat and I'll fill you in on what you missed once I'm done.[/B]"

Jason and Celestia did as they were told, trying to ignore the stares being directed their way. Of all things, they could have never predicted this happening. Most of all that the leader of the Resistance had turned out to a member of the High Council no less![/COLOR]

[Rachmaninoff]

Kerstin had been awake for hours but Daniel was still sleeping, and considering what had happened yesterday, she was not surprised. Other than to make sure he was still covered by the blankets, Kerstin had slipped out of the bed carefully to avoid waking him. It hadn't taken her long to get cleaned up and dressed. Again in one of the dresses Blaine insisted that she wear. And then she had curled up on the sofa in the room, doing her best to not cry again.

If the time on the display above the panels where the clothing was kept was correct, it hadn't even been a day since they had been kidnapped. Yet to her it felt like an eternity. Sandra and Jared had told her that Blaine wanted Darren dead, and even though she knew they were not lying, she had found it hard to believe. But now...she knew better. Blaine and his goons had not stopped with torturing Daniel. That had only been the beginning.

Yesterday, both of them, at Daniel's insistence, had changed into the clothing provided. While doing so Kerstin had been surprised to discover that Daniel had an old fashioned locket with an picture in it. He had not shown it to her, rather she had noticed the chain and practically helped herself to it, reaching up and opening it to take a look in spite of Daniel's protests. Something she did not understand, after all usually having someone's picture like that close to you meant that you cared for them. But Daniel had hastily tucked it back under his tunic and said it was nothing.

Blaine's men however had not been kind about it at all when they finally came to get them. They had scanned both of them and then took any personal belongings they had, including Daniel's locket. To Kerstin's surprise he had actually resisted them taking it from him. Only confirming her belief that whoever the woman was she was important to Daniel.

But Daniel had been no match for the five of them and they took it from him and then laughed at him over it, making lewd jokes about the woman in the picture. Something that though he tried to hide it, upset Daniel. Then the one leading them had cruelly tossed it to the floor, smashed it by stepping on it and then destroyed it with his disruptor. Leaving nothing but a tiny burn mark where it once had been. Kerstin had been furious and attacked the one who destroyed it without thinking. That had been a mistake. He had calmly backhanded her, sending her flying into the wall, stunning her.

Kerstin had never been hit by anyone, ever. And in the end they had punished Daniel anyway, activating the disruptor restraints. It had sickened Kerstin to see them enjoying the pain they were causing Daniel. Never had she felt so helpless. And when they finally had their fill of that and had then forced them to go with them to where Blaine was she had been to shocked to put up much of a fight.

The rest of the evening hadn't been much better. Blaine was unbelievably arrogant as well as vindictive and cruel. Taking pretty much any opening or any incident of what he considered improper behavior from them as an excuse to torment them. Daniel had taken the brunt of it. Interfering anytime they started getting too rough with her, in spite of being tortured repeatedly. Until finally Daniel had been unable to even move.

Kerstin looked up from her spot on the sofa when she realized that Daniel was starting to wake up. She didn't understand why he had even tried to protect her. No matter what he had done, Blaine and those goons of his always found some reason to hurt one of them. And in the end, before they had finally brought them back to this room. Daniel had ended up lying on the floor unconscious from the disruptor's and Kerstin had been on the floor next to him, begging them to stop with tears running down her face.

Something that Blaine had seemed to enjoy. Kerstin sighed as Daniel started sitting up in the bed. Looking around and then upon seeing her he asked how she was doing. Kerstin choked back a sob, even though Daniel said it wasn't her fault, she still felt guilty. [I]If only he hadn't been on the elevator yesterday[/I]. And yet the thought of being here alone terrified her even more. Making her feel even more guilty that she was glad Daniel was there with her. [I]God I hope someone finds us soon. [/I]

[Aaryanna]

[COLOR=goldenrod]The first time Crystal had transported over to The Transcendence to treat Erica, she had been too dazed from the light stun she had received. Even if it was likely that they had used the lowest setting, her body just wasn't up to the shock. As a result Crystal had been pleased to see that the accommodation's had been switched to what she requested since it was going to take her a few days to recover from being stunned and the proper setting would help that recovery. In the end Crystal decided it was probably best since she was still too upset to talk to Erica. Perhaps in a few days she would feel more charitable. But right now she wasn't feeling that way at all.

The next time, which had been earlier that morning, Crystal had made a point of going down to Erica's estate and picking up some clothing and blankets for her as well. It wasn't necessary, but it would be more comfortable than standard prison issue. And in the end she'd rather err on the side of caution. Erica had been more alert, but had said nothing and Crystal had chosen not to say anything either. Simply adjusting the dose based on the scans and then going back to the Tempest.

She had been back for a while and was preparing to contact Stevens in regards to the data he had given her about the alterations. The problem Crystal was running into was that without a sample of altered vs unaltered she couldn't verify anything beyond what was recorded. Everything that had been recorded was technically accurate. But that didn't mean they really had been altered. She would need physical proof of someone who had been changed as well as someone who hadn't. And according to Erica's time line. The only ones who were not changed were the High Council and their immediate families.

Crystal was in the side conference room just off the bridge when she finally sent a priority transmission to Stevens. She was not surprised that she ended up waiting nearly twenty minutes for him to get back to her. Crystal just kept reviewing the information in regards to the genetic alterations until he finally responded.

"[B]Ah Crystal, sorry to have kept you waiting. What can I do for you?[/B]"

"[B]I've been reviewing the data on the alterations Stevens, and as far as I can tell the data appears to be in order.[/B]"

"[B]I see.[/B]"

"[B]That's not all Stevens, the problem with that is I need to be able to actually verify that the change actually happened. Remember, this was over a thousand years ago, so for all intents and purposes, how people are now is considered normal. I hunted for references that would indicate otherwise, but either whoever did it removed the data, or it never happened at all.[/B]"

"[B]I see,[/B]" Stevens said, "[B]So without current tests you can't verify the claims, is that what you are saying?[/B]"

Crystal nodded, "[B]It is, however, there is a solution. The report indicates that members of the High Council and their immediate families were not altered. All I would need is genetic samples from each Councilor to compare against samples taken from pretty much anyone else.[/B]" Crystal paused for a moment, "[B]I realize that it would violate privacy laws, but I need you to get those genetic samples for me. I could go with just you and Sandra and Erica, but it would be more conclusive and accurate if I had a much wider base of test samples.[/B]"

Stevens just smiled broadly, "[B]Oh I can do better than that. All Council members as well as immediate families are required to provide genetic samples for a central storage facility. It's suppose to be for choosing who is betrothed to who as well as other reasons. But I would imagine that it's primary purpose is to make sure someone who is altered didn't slip through the cracks.[/B]"

Stevens started laughing, "[B]Oh this is just too perfect! With the lock down of the Council Center I can simply grant you access to the facility and you can take as many samples as you want. I don't give a damn if those fools object. Mental alteration is punishable by execution and far too serious a crime for privacy to interfere.[/B]" Stevens smiled. "[B]Just give me some time to talk to the others and then I'll arrange for you to be admitted into the facility. It shouldn't take too long, I'll call you back once it's taken care of. Now is there anything else you need?[/B]"

Crystal shook her head, "[B]Not at the moment. Once I get those samples I'll start checking them. In the mean time I'll start gathering some from my crew.[/B]" She paused and tilted her head to the side a bit as something occurred to her, "[B]I guess that does mean I have something else I'd like you to do. If you could have each doctor on each ship stationed here get samples from volunteers that would be useful as well.[/B]"

"[B]Consider it done, Stevens out.[/B]"

Crystal went back to the data to review it once more, until she got those samples, for the moment she was stuck. Then she opened up a channel to the ship's doctor Alex to talk to him about gathering genetic samples from the crew. At least from those who would be willing to volunteer that is. She was sure plenty of them would. [/COLOR]

[Horendithas]

[SIZE=1][COLOR=Indigo]So far Jared had found next to nothing in regards to what happened to Kerstin and the other student Daniel. But after talking with William last night he had issued the order to round up the two associates he had already secured a confession from. The first one a petty official by the name Andris Raster had disappeared. Meaning it was likely that either he knew or was involved in the affair with Kerstin, or he had panicked and ran. But the second one Van Kaveran had already been picked up earlier that morning and placed in the interrogation chamber. He had not been secured in the chair, but Jared left him there with several security personal guarding him for several hours while he finished up other aspects of his duties required as the second in command of the Creator. By the time he arrived Van was almost beside himself immediately speaking up the moment Jared entered the room standing up from his position of sitting in the chair.

"[B]I don't understand,[/B]" he whined. "[B]I already told you what I know about Blaine.[/B]"

Jared just walked over until he was standing in front of him. "[B]You neglected to mention that Blaine intended to kidnap Kerstin Anderson as well as a Daniel Timbers.[/B]" Jared shoved him back down, forcing him to sit and leaned over a bit before continuing.

"[B]Either you tell me what he's done with them or I'll get that information from you the fun way. By all means refuse to cooperate,[/B]" Jared smiled nastily, "[B]It's been far too long since I've had the pleasure of a full interrogation.[/B]"

Van paled, "[B]But Blaine never said anything about kidnapping anyone! He only told me to make the payments for the assassination of Darren![/B]" Van squirmed clearly distressed. "[B]Please! I really don't know anything about a kidnapping![/B]"

"[B]We'll see about that.[/B]" Jared replied coldly.

It didn't take him too long to get the location of several buildings as well as estates and property that Blaine used under a different name. Though Jared doubted that he would find Kerstin or Daniel at any of them he'd check them just the same.

"[B]Throw this scum into one of the holding cells,[/B]" Jared told the security, then he turned back to Van before leaving, "[B]If I find out that you lied to me, you'll regret it.[/B]"

Jared left and sent the order for a small squad to be waiting for him in transport room one. It was a pity that there was too few available to hit all of them at the same time. But Stevens had not been kidding when he said he had next to no one to spare. It had taken a good argument just to have the smaller squad at his disposal. Once he had changed into body armor Jared contacted the Transcendence to make sure Kiva knew what he was up to.

Then he joined the men and briefly explained what they were going to do. But in the end all five locations he had gotten from Van were empty. There were no signs of a hasty retreat leaving Jared to believe that in the end they had never been considered in the first place. And considering how easy it was to get information from Van, Jared was not surprised. Blaine would have been foolish to use a location that Van knew of. Jared made sure to leave surveillance in place that would let him know if someone did show up. Then once he was done and the men had returned to their duties he forwarded a report to Kiva as well as the access codes to the surveillance he had set up. After all, it was possible that someone would show up. And if they did, they just might have information leading to where Blaine was set up.

Jared headed to the weapons locker and changed out of the body armor, then once he was cleaned up he went to talk to Sandra who was currently in her quarters. Jared had not spoken to her since all hell broke lose the other day but he had seen her around and even he could tell that she was furious. When he entered her quarters it was clear that she was still quite angry.

"[B]Jared,[/B]" She nodded when he entered her quarters. "[B]What exactly did you need?[/B]"

"[B]Not much Sandra, it's unfortunate but the leads I got from Van earlier turned out to be a dead end. I've set up surveillance so we can nab anyone who does show up, but for the moment I'll have to rely more on Kiva since Stevens has most of our computer specialists engaged in other tasks. I'll be doing some checking under the false names that Van supplied, but I seriously doubt that Blaine would have used a name or location that Van knew about and Andris has gone underground so I am unable to question him as well.[/B]"

Sandra sighed, "[B]I see, it's a pity but for now those computer specialists are needed elsewhere, though make no mistake. If Kiva had not agreed to help I would have insisted that at least one of them be assigned to help with the investigation. After all those fools are under house arrest so it's not like taking a little longer would have hurt.[/B]"

Sandra looked away and then finally turned back to looking out at the view of the home world as the Creator continued it's lazy orbit of the planet. "[B]Besides, recovering Kerstin and this Daniel is more important than worrying about how long the High Council is locked up. They've been coming up with all sorts of reasons as to why Stevens and the others overstepped their authority. It's utter bullshit of course, but it is slowing things down a bit.[/B]"

Jared just laughed, "[B]Sandra, most of those arrogant fools are more concerned about being denied access to their more comfy estates than about the fact that some of them are traitors.[/B]" He shook his head as he took the last few steps between then and joined her at looking out at the view. "[B]What are you going to do if one of the traitors turns out to be your father?[/B]"

Sandra shot him an unreadable look, "[B]Jared, I don't care if he's my father or not. If he was foolish enough to abuse his position in that manner he deserves to be dealt with. Trust me, I'll execute him myself if that turns out to be the case.[/B]"

She reached up, running her right hand through her hair in a nervous gesture that she was probably unaware of, "[B]Besides, I meant it, recovering Kerstin and the other student is far more important.[/B]" Sandra sighed. "[B]If I had known this would happen I would have made Kerstin stay on the Creator. The last thing Darren needs is more grief.[/B]"

Jared just raised an eyebrow at that statement. "[B]Ah yes, speaking of Darren I should go and give him an update on the investigation.[/B]" He bowed slightly to Sandra, "[B]Until later.[/B]"

Sandra just remained silent saying nothing else. Not that Jared blamed her, after all, even if she didn't get along with her father it would make things extremely difficult for her if her father turned out to be one of the traitors. Still unless he was mistaken, Jared was positive that Sandra's father was not what she was worried about. [/COLOR][/SIZE]

[GuyYouMetOnline]

[color=darkslateblue]Loe Kramen hadn't[/color][color=darkslateblue] been very helpful. Kiva'd been right; he had simply been told to send the elevator to the roof when given the signal. He did, however, know who had him do it. It was a man named Elos, a good friend of Loe's. Loe didn't know why Elos had wanted the elevator raised, but he thought he could trust his friend. He didn't even ask for any money; he was just doing his friend a favor.[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]Loe didn't have any other information, so Kiva left him to his work. She acessed records to see where Elos lived, then went to the man's house to question him. When nobody answered the door, she just hacked her way through the electronic lock and opened it herself. The house was empty, and after examing it thuroughly, she determined that it'd been a couple days since anyone had been in the place.[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]Kiva accessed the house's computer system, easily getting through its light security. She was looking for any clues to where Elos went, and it didn't take long for her to find what she wanted. In fact, she found it too many times. He'd paid for several seperate trips, all of which overlapped. Obviously, he didn't go to all those places; it was clearly meant to make him harder to track.[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
[color=#483d8b]It wasn't too hard for Kiva to sort through the distractions and find something useful. Regulations required [/color][color=darkslateblue]doccumentation for any transportation, even when it was paid for by someone else. So Elos had kept a record indicating that he'd been transported to a location on the home planet. It was a private estate belonging to a man Elos was friends with. This man was Soete Telmerak, who just so happened to be a business associate of Blaine Uratak.[/color]
[color=darkslateblue][/color]
[color=darkslateblue]Kiva contacted Daego immediately. "I'm uploading some information," she said. "I want it sent to Jared. These are reservations Elos made, and though I doubt he's actually at any of these locations, it's probably a good idea to check them out anyways. So get the information to Jared. I just want to take one more look around this house, then I'll come back up. Get ready, because we might meet some resistance where we're going. We'll be paying a visit to Soete Telmerak."[/color]
[color=#483d8b][/color]
----------------------------------------------------

OOC: Sorry it's so short. I was busy today. I'll have a longer post next time.

[Aaryanna_Mom]

Even if the false identity that he had created for both Daniel and himself was one of the most detailed and though William had ever done, he was far from thrilled with the attention he was getting do to Kerstin's kidnapping. William knew that Blaine did not like him as well as a number of other powerful businessmen and merchants. Which was why he kept tabs on them to make sure he wasn't caught unaware. But that could not have prepared him for the unexpected, and Daniel getting caught up in the mess with Kerstin was just that. Unexpected. Both of them had been careful to avoid Kerstin since associating with her would have been too obvious, but now that precaution was completely wasted, thanks to Blaine.

With all the commotion going on due to the arrest of Erica Kendrick as well as the High Council being put under arrest. Things were going crazy. So far on the home world and Reflection, though tense, things were under control. But William had already gotten word from agents about riots and all sorts of things getting out of hand in other sectors. The military as well as local law enforcement was hard pressed to keep things under control. It was good for the Resistance, but bad for finding Daniel and incidentally Kerstin. William had already gotten intelligence informing him that Kiva had accepted a request from Stevens to locate Kerstin. He just hoped that she did. If Blaine found out who Daniel really was, it would be a disaster.

The chances of Kiva finding out was less of a threat since there wasn't a reason to completely investigate Daniel, and even if they did. It would take quite a bit of digging to realize he wasn't who he claimed he was. And even then, they still might not realize it since he had been damn sure to be careful with the details. William just sighed a bit from his vantage point of sitting on the sofa in the suite, even though the news was on, he wasn't really paying attention to it. So far his own agents had failed to turn up any leads, well beyond the ones that Jared had already checked out.

William turned the news off, tired of watching it as they were simply rehashing the same questions in regards to whether or not the claims of being modified were true and if they were which High Council members were guilty. At least Erica had gotten what she wanted with her exposure. It made the three attacks he had done look like nothing. He got up and started getting ready to go out. There were things he needed to get taken care of. There was more Erica wanted done and he would do all he could to make sure the rest came to light as well.

[CENTER]-----------------------------------[/CENTER]
Daniel didn't know what to think. He had expected Blaine to perhaps threaten Darren or William, but he had not expected him to be quite so ruthless and vicious towards him and Kerstin. In a small way Blaine reminded him of Jared, a rather crude reminder since Jared when he put his mind to it was far more cruel, but still, Daniel had been surprised. Though upon reflection he supposed he shouldn't have been.

Most people who were willing to go so far as to kidnap and coerce others usually had a mean streak in them, he just hadn't dealt with anyone like that in a while. Not since he had Commanded the Tempest. Daniel could tell that he was confusing Kerstin with how he kept drawing attention to himself in an attempt to keep them from harming her. And when she had tried to get him to explain he had just shrugged it off, refusing to really explain why.

Because in a sense he could not. Daniel was sure that they had no privacy, that Blaine or his men could see and hear everything they did. If he explained to Kerstin why he simply took the torture, even Blaine might realize what was going on. After all he knew just how hard it was to break habits from over a decade of serving as a Commander. There were certain things, certain actions that as a Commander, on duty or not, you were required to do it. And protecting civilians was one of them. It didn't matter that Blaine had initially been after Kerstin. Daniel was duty bound to assist her. Even if the High Council had stripped him of his command, they couldn't strip him of his sense of duty. He could not live with himself if he stood by and did nothing while she was getting hurt.

Still Daniel knew it was only a matter of time before Blaine put it together. Even though he had been silent, Blaine had given him some very odd looks towards the end of the evening the other day. It was pure speculation, but Daniel was of the mind that Blaine was use to people who didn't resist or try to stop him from hurting someone else, or rather, once they had been tortured a few times, they became passive, doing nothing. In the end, he would give himself away since unless he literally could not move, he knew he would keep trying to protect Kerstin.

Daniel only hoped they would be found before Blaine got too suspicious. Because once he did, things really would get ugly. He knew perfectly well that it was possible that Blaine would use disruptor restraints on Kerstin as well. Daniel only hoped that Blaine would misunderstand and think he was trying to protect her for other reasons. Because the last time he had been forced to watch someone else be tortured was when Jared had arranged for his mother to be tortured to death. Daniel honestly didn't know if he could take seeing something like that again. Even if he didn't know Kerstin.

Even when he had been a Commander, he had never tortured anyone. He had used drugs, but as far as he was concerned, torture was not only barbaric, but completely unnecessary. Daniel sighed, looking over at the door to the restroom. Once Kerstin was done getting ready, he would do the same. Blaine had made it quite clear that he expected them to be nicely dressed for dinner. Which seemed rather pointless since neither one of them had any interest in being near Blaine for any reason. And it didn't matter how good the food was. Neither one of them had any appetite at all. Daniel sighed again.

[SunfallE]

[COLOR=goldenrod]Celestia still found it hard to believe what had happened the other day. The whole thing still felt so surreal even though her and Jason were once again in the same high security area that Dakar had brought them to the other day. Yesterday had been spent going over what was expected, explaining a bit about the nature of how the data vaults were constructed as well as the different security levels. In all honesty she wondered if her and Jason would be of any help. It sounded far more complicated than the security they had bypassed on Commander Crystal's hand held computer or Darren's. But James, who they learned later was the Commander for the Elite Task Forces seemed to think they would do just fine.

He had even been patient enough to explain that normally delicate tasks such as this were handled by the Elite Specialists. But since they answered only to the High Council it had been decided to leave them out of it. Even the other members in the room with them were not part of the Elite Task Forces since like the Specialists they too only answered to the High Council. Celestia didn't know what to think. After all, in spite of all of her hard work, since she had arrived at the Council Center, she and Jason had learned, by accident, that it was the Elite Specialist Kiva who had been responsible for locating every single base on Earth as well as for capturing her and Jason.

If they couldn't call in the person who had gotten around everything she had done, how did they expect her to be able to get around their tightest security? Celestia could see the doubt in the eyes of the others there as well. And when they had started going over things today, that doubt had been expressed. Quite clearly. Many of them didn't think it was even possible. And after taking a look at the system, at least as far as she could without an access code, both Celestia and Jason wondered the same thing. After all even though they had hacked the updates for the fleet, their routine had always failed to by pass the security of the Messenger ships.

"[B]I just don't know Jason,[/B]" Celestia finally said, "[B]Honestly I just don't. Even if we re-write the routine we used to get into the fleet updates as well as to get around the security on Commander Crystal's hand held and Darren's, I'm not sure that it would work.[/B]"

"[B]We won't know until we try and rewriting that routine shouldn't take all that long, we could always see how far we can get. We can worry about getting all the way in later. After all the data on how the routine is stopped will help us determine what we need to do next.[/B]"

Celestia shook her head negatively, turning to look directly at Jason who was sitting next to her in front of the terminal they had been assigned to. "[B]That won't work, the security here is much tighter and any attempts is likely to trigger a program to delete the data, just like it did before when we were working with Crystal's and Darren's computers. In this case, we would need a program to not only bypass the security and copy the information, but to catch and stop the deletion routine. But without knowing something about it that's going to be hard to do.[/B]"

"[B]Excuse me,[/B]" A voice said from behind them. Jason and Celestia turned to face them, it was one of the other men on the team. "[B]But what security are you talking about that you got around?[/B]"

"[B]I don't know what the security was, it was just on a hand held computer that we hacked into.[/B]" Celestia replied.

The other Versilan got up and brought his chair over and then sat down next to them. "[B]Explain it to me.[/B]"

Celestia did as he asked, and both her and Jason answered the questions he had about each step of the process.

"[B]Based on what you've told me, it sounds like it was Grade Alpha security. That's actually pretty high grade security you know. On the High Council has better security for personal computers.[/B]" He smiled a bit, "[B]I'm Matt by the way and based on what I've heard you two must be Celestia and Jason.[/B]"

"[B]We are,[/B]" Celestia confirmed. "[B]What would you suggest Matt?[/B]"

"[B]It's simple really,[/B]" He replied. "[B]You need to see the program that deleted the data on the hand held computers right? We may not have access to the security for the High Council's vaults since I understand that even the programmers were kept in the dark about the final construction and setup, but we do have access to the program used for Grade Alpha security. Would looking at that help?[/B]"

"[B]Yeah, it would,[/B]" Celestia replied. "[B]But how do we get it?[/B]"

"[B]Oh that's easy,[/B]" Matt replied. "[B]I can pull that up right here at your terminal. Just give me a second okay?[/B]"

Celestia and Jason moved so Matt could move his chair in front of the terminal. "[B]Oh and one other thing,[/B]" Matt said even as he started entering his access code. "[B]If you don't mind I suggest we work together, I don't know about the others here, but I for one am curious about how the hell you got the transportation doors to move. I don't suppose you'd mind explaining that as well?[/B]"

"[B]Uh, no, I don't mind.[/B]" Celestia stammered.

"[B]Neither do I.[/B]" Jason spoke up.

Matt smiled again. "[B]Good, since that's been bugging the hell out of me. You wouldn't know it but I've been researching how to get that to work for quite a while now. Anyway, here it is.[/B]" He pulled back a bit as Jason and Celestia moved closer to take a look.

It didn't take Celestia or Jason too long to realize that writing up a program to catch the deletion routine was not going to be easy. Still at least for now they weren't being taken for further interrogations since James had told Dakar the other day that he didn't want him wasting time on that when it could be done later. A few minutes later both Jason and Celestia were going over different aspects of the deletion program with Matt as they started talking about different possibilities on how to stop a program like it.[/COLOR]

[Rachmaninoff]

Darren was trying to concentrate on keeping track of the shipping, with all the chaos due to the arrest of Erica Kendrick and placing the High Council under house arrest, things were getting ugly. But it just didn't matter, as much as he wanted to do his job, he couldn't quit thinking about Kerstin and wondering just who the student Daniel Timbers was that had been taken with her. Jared had already explained what had happened as well as why Blaine had even bothered to kidnap Daniel as well, but still, in the end Darren just didn't understand it. Oh he understood why Blaine kidnapped them, he just didn't understand the mentality behind thinking such a thing was acceptable.

Frustrated he turned the terminal off. Making decisions when he was upset would only cause problems and it wasn't like those who worked in his office couldn't handle things. [I]Gods, I'm so useless. I haven't a clue how to even find Kerstin and I'm too easily upset by things. [/I] He got up and went back to staring out at the view of space, his thoughts going back to all that had happened since his ship had been stopped in sector thirteen. He had thought his life had been turned upside down but now Darren knew better. All the other stuff wasn't worth getting upset over, it was Kerstin that mattered.

[I]I'm a fool.[/I] He thought miserably. The chime indicating there was a new message for him sounded. Startled Darren turned from the view and walked back over to turn the terminal back on to retrieve the message. But the sender wasn't anyone that he knew. Confused he opened it to take a look and practically choked when he saw just what was in the message and feelings of pure panic and fear nearly took over.

He contacted Jared, but when Jared asked him what he needed nothing came out. Darren tried to speak but instead tears just ran down his face, Jared just told him to sit tight and cut the communication. In no time at all the chime to his quarters sounded and Darren finally managed to get it together enough to let him in. Jared wasted no time and immediately joined him at his terminal, taking a moment to go through the message or rather video that Darren had been sent.

"[B]Shit![/B]" Jared swore, "[B]Move Darren, I need to check this immediately.[/B]"

Darren just nodded and moved out of the way, standing to the side while Jared pulled up multiple holographic windows, first to pull up the records of where the message came from and the second to contact someone else on the Creator. A moment later someone replied.

"[B]What can I do for you Commander?[/B]" He asked.

"[B]I'm sending you a feed on a message that was just sent to Darren's quarters. I need you to check it immediately and find out where it originated from.[/B]"

He looked at something and then turned back to Jared, "[B]Got it, give me a moment sir, it looks like it came from a public terminal on the home world, but I'll run the program to check for alterations just the same.[/B]"

Jared turned to Darren, "[B]Go and sit down.[/B]"

"[B]But...[/B]"

"[B]Just do it Darren.[/B]" Jared turned back to the data once Darren had taken the seat on the other side of the terminal.

Once he had done that Jared muted the volume and replayed the video Darren had been sent. Even if he couldn't see it, hearing it again would only upset him further. For the video was one of the student Daniel lying on a floor unconscious with Kerstin on her knees next to him in tears, begging someone off screen to stop hurting Daniel. And since Daniel had disruptor restraints on him Jared had no trouble guessing what had happened. But unfortunately the video was carefully done to avoid showing anything that would reveal where the two were.

"[B]Got it sir,[/B]" the officer working on the data finally said. "[B]It looks like the message originated from a public terminal on the home world after all. However, as you'll see in the data I'm sending you, they tried to make it look like it came from a different terminal altogether. Was there anything else?[/B]"

"[B]No.[/B]" Jared terminated the connection and immediately contacted Sandra.

"[B]Jared,[/B]" She said when she saw who it was. "[B]What did you need?[/B]"

"[B]Take a look at this Sandra,[/B]" Jared sent her the video.

Sandra turned away for a moment and then turned back, "[B]I see.[/B]" She said coldly.

"[B]I'm heading down to check the location immediately Sandra, I doubt that the person who sent this is still there, but with it being a public terminal there will be a visual record and if not then who ever runs the place will be in serious trouble."
[/B]
"[B]Got it,[/B]" Sandra replied, "[B]I'll take care of things here as well as stopping by to check on Darren once I'm finished in a bit.[/B]"

Darren watched as Jared closed all the windows and then shut down the terminal before turning to address him.

"[B]I removed the video Darren. When the time comes it will be evidence against Blaine and frankly there's no reason for you to watch it again.[/B]" Jared paused for a moment, "[B]Besides, don't let it get to you. I know that's not easy, but don't let Blaine win, understand?[/B]"

Darren just nodded, not trusting himself to speak. It was one thing for Jared to tell him to not let it bother him, but to actually be able to do it? [I]Kerstin. [/I]

Jared walked over until he was right in front of Darren who looked up, "[B]I realize that ignoring something like that isn't possible, but trust me. Blaine will not get away with it.[/B]" Jared shook his head, "[B]Once I'm done I'll come and give you an update on what I found okay?[/B]"

Darren just nodded again and then watched Jared as he turned and then left his quarters. He tried to not cry, he really did. But within a short time he couldn't help it. Darren knew what disruptor restraints were. Even if Kerstin hadn't been wearing any, the fact that Blaine had no qualms about using them on the other student Daniel only meant that Blaine could and would use them on her as well. If not for the confusion caused by the arrest of Erica and the High Council, Darren was sure that Blaine would have made sure to include instructions of what he expected Darren to do.

[I]I'm so stupid.[/I] Darren thought. [I]I should have realized that some of the laws passed and things being done were due to others like Blaine forcing them to do it. After all the damn High Council forced me to become the shipping expert. [/I] Miserable he got up and went over and curled up on the sofa and just cried.

[Horendithas]

[SIZE=1][COLOR=Indigo]Jared was almost to the first transport room when a chime sounded indicating there was an new message for him. He paused to open it up and retrieve the message. It was from William and attached was a copy of the very same video that had been sent to Darren. He took another moment to send back a short reply thanking him for forwarding the information and that he would look into it. Then once that was sent he continued on his way. Not even bothering to stop and change into any type of body armor since he doubted that he would run into any problems. That and he always wore a very lightweight armor under his uniform. If he couldn't take a squad, the extra armor would only weigh him down. And in truth he wasn't expecting too much trouble. Things were getting ugly in other sectors, but not in sector one.

He did have a small disruptor with him and after checking briefly to make sure it was set on stun, he gave the transport technician the information necessary to send him right in front of the building where public terminal that had been used was located. Jared didn't care if protocol required that he transport down to a designated area. He was in no mood to work his way through the crowds or to deal with any troublemakers. Especially since according to the data, it was actually inside an exclusive bar. One that was known for being extremely picky about just who they would let in. And the surrounding area wasn't much better.

Jared paused for a moment to forward a message to Kiva, to inform her of his intent. He included a copy of the video as well as all the data of how it had been sent and what the computer specialist on the Creator had found by examining it. The specialist on the Creator was good, but Kiva was better and she might find something in the data that the specialist had missed. Then he included the information that so far, all of the trip destinations she had sent him in regards to Elos were being checked even as the message was sent. He had been in the process of assigning people to that task when Darren had contacted him.

Finally the message sent, Jared nodded to the technician in the transport room who opened the door. A split second later he was in front of the building, a huge set of double doors with two heavily built men standing on each side. If they were surprised by his appearance they were hiding it well. Jared ignored them and immediately moved to enter the building.

"[B]Hold it.[/B]" One of them barked. "[B]Just where do you think you're going pal?[/B]"

Jared glanced at him contemptuously. "[B]Fool, go back and try to actually pass your exams in basic education. If you fail to recognize the insignia of the second in command of the Creator then obviously you were too busy sleeping instead of paying attention during class.[/B]"

Reddening in anger the man took a step towards Jared, "[B]Don't get smart with me, anyone could make up a uniform and toss it on. How do I know that you actually are who you claim to be?[/B]"

Jared just laughed, "[B]Lets get one thing straight, if any [I]fool[/I] was running around impersonating me I'd gut him myself. But if it makes your tiny little brain feel any better, my name is Jared Waldo Scorer, go ahead, use your hand held computer if you actually know how and check the public records.[/B]" Jared frowned a bit, "[B]You'd better be quick though, or else I'll toss you in prison for hindering an investigation.[/B]"

Jared just smiled inwardly when the man paled at the mention of his name. [I]What an idiot. Impersonating an officer of the Military is a crime punishable by death. [/I]Still Jared didn't like it. He could just stun both of them and enter, but then who ever ran the place would be likely to attempt to give him grief and he didn't have time for that or the resources at the moment to actually counter it if they did. But in the end it was unnecessary.

"[B]Right,[/B]" the man said when he had finished checking the public records. "[B]Uh, yeah, don't take it personal sir, but we get some pretty whacked out people around here. Go on in. Larry the bartender can take care of any questions you have, I've gone ahead and messaged him that you're here.[/B]"

"[B]Good,[/B]" Jared said before entering the building. Even though it was midday it was full of people and other than a few side glances at his uniform most of them ignored him as he made his way over to the bar. He looked around as he did so but didn't see any public terminals. Which meant they were probably somewhere else.

With a sigh he approached the only man who was serving drinks. "[B]You must be Larry.[/B]"

"[B]And you must be Jared,[/B]" He immediately answered. "[B]What can I do for you sir?[/B]"

"[B]I need to talk to whoever is in charge since I will require access to your surveillance of the public computer terminals here.[/B]"

"[B]Ah, that would be me actually since I'm the co-owner of this place.[/B]" Larry replied. He motioned to one of the girls, "[B]Hey Tess, take over for me for a bit okay?[/B]"

Larry opened up one of the panels to the counter to admit Jared and motioned to the door leading elsewhere behind the bar. Passing through the small kitchen area until they finally came to a small office. One wall was a huge screen with multiple shots displaying things in the bar. Including an enclosed area that had two terminals in it.

"[B]That's the two public terminals that we have for our customers. I can give you access sir, but may I ask what for?[/B]"

"[B]No you may not, however if you require authorization I can provide you with that.[/B]"

"[B]If you would sir, after all such records, even though they are the property of my establishment are considered private to a certain extent.[/B]"

Jared just smiled. He pulled out his hand held computer and pulled up the authorization the High Council had given him for the investigation. Even if they were under house arrest, since it was a different matter, the codes he had been given were still valid. A moment later, he prepared the formal request for the video records and copied it to a data chip. Then he gave the chip to Larry who sat down, put it into his terminal and accessed it.

"[B]Got it, sir. Just give me a moment and I'll open the files up for you.[/B]" Larry quickly input the codes to bring up the menu for the surveillance. "[B]There did you need me to find something? Or did you prefer to do it yourself?[/B]"

"[B]I will do it myself.[/B]" Jared replied.

Larry got up, "[B]Got it, if you need anything else just let me know.[/B]"

Jared waited until he left to sit down and start looking through the files. It took him no time at all to find the footage of the person who had sent the video to both Darren and William. It was none other than Andris Raster, the petty official that he had secured a confession from in regards to Blaine. Making it clear that he too was involved. That his disappearance was not due to being scared by the current situation with Erica and the High Council. Jared copied the data from the bar's system to his hand held computer. [I]So he is involved. That fool. [/I] Finished Jared left and headed to where the computer terminals were, but whatever Andris had done to make it look like the transmission came from elsewhere must have been a program since nothing seemed to be amiss. Still. He placed a top level security hold on the terminal in case Kiva wished to come down and examine the data herself.

Once he finished that Jared explained to Larry that no one was to use the terminal, not that they could since he had locked it, but it would be better if people left it alone. Jared also told Larry that if anyone saw Andris again he was to contact Jared immediately. Then after he left the bar, before he called for a transport door he sent everything he had found out to Kiva, making sure to include the footage from the surveillance at the bar. As well as including the access code to the security lock he had placed on the computer terminal. If she didn't need to examine it he could always unlock it after Kerstin and Daniel were found. Then once that was sent he requested a transport door and stepped through once it appeared.[/COLOR][/SIZE]