IC
Zhirrzh wanders into camp after his long vigil watching
what remained of the shuttle burn. The morning had been hot and his mood
had soured. Nothing had come of standing watch over the shuttle. Trying
to keep an eye on the shuttle and out of sight of prying eyes had made
it almost impossible for him to stay long in a shaded overhang. He had
seen no signs of life and Zhirrzh had speculated that if he died from heat
stroke, even the carrion eaters on this planet wouldn't venture out to
feed.
Finding a spot where the Explorer provided some
shade, Zhirrzh half-collapsed into a sitting position. "This is going to
be a fun planet." Zhirrzh mumbles sarcastically. Leaning back against the
Explorer, Zhirrzh closes his eyes and lets out a tired breath.
Telgar spends as much time possible trying to be
of assistance to those who need it, but since he is in bad shape and not
much help right now, he tries to exercise as much as possible to keep in
shape until he is well enough to get back into the swing of things.
Once Kahliss had attended to Telgar's immediate
post-op needs, he begins to circulate through the camp. Medkit in
hand, he attends to the remaining injuries and begins making suggestions
to help reduce the tiring effects of the sun.
When he approaches the resting forms of Brennon
and Zhirrzh, he stops. "Zhirrzh, Brennon, While I was tending to
Telgar physical needs, I had a thought occur. I know that it isn't
my place to make suggestions in this area, but as I have been the least
preoccupied in the occupation of keeping us safe, perhaps I was the only
one to have a chance to think of this particular facet? I was curious
as to just how long we think our weapons will last? There will be
all manner of lifeforms out here, of which I am certain we all hope some
are edible. But everytime we hunt with the guns, we will lose energy.
Everytime we defend ourselves against predators, we lose more energy.
I was curious if perhaps we could put the shuttle to use by converting
parts of the damaged ship into spears, polearms, and perhaps some swords.
I know we have knives, but that's a bit too close for my tastes against
the unknown predators that are likely to evolve on a world such as this.
It was merely a thought." His mandible open a bit wider than normal
in a Vrusk attempt at a smile. He then returns his mandibles to normal
and moves on...
Brenon, carefully watches the Vrusk approach Zhirrzh
and himself. Brenon almost nods as the Vrusk closed the distance but catches
himself; he closes his eyes for a mere second and when they open, his face
is back to the stone mask he often wears. Brenon actually listens as the
Vrusk begins to speak. He listens to what the Vrusk has to say, makeshift
weapons, pole arms, salvage, etc...
"That's not a bad idea actually, but I don't feel
it's wise to return to the crash site. We've crashed in an area that appears
to be inhabited. The water hole, and the building we've spotted prove my
point. There's no telling who or what heard/saw the crash. No, the crash
site would be a beacon to any passerby or witnesses. Any those that may
have seen us go down will undoubtedly wonder where the passengers are.....
No, I'm afraid going back isn't an option."
Zhirrzh nods his head in agreement with Brenon.
"As for hunting, I doubt we will find anything edible here in the desert.
At most, we could hope for what passes for desert lizards on this planet.
However, I can build and lay traps at any spot where we will be staying
for an extended time in the odd chance that there might actually be some
prey roaming about. That would definitely save on using the weapons."
Zhirrzh grins. "I'm not averse to bringing down
some larger game by hand either should the opportunity present itself."
From underneath the Explorer, Raleigh overhears
the conversation, shuddering at the thought of
Zhirrzh running down a hobbled wildebeast or some other such game.
Visions of sparring matches roam through his mind as he wonders what might
have happened had Zhirrzh had a knife in their melee on the Dawn...
Pain shoots through Raleigh's arm, torso, and face as his injuries take
more and more of his energy away. He was able to ignore, or at least
avoid, the pain and fatigue due to the urgency of the situation but now,
slowly, he was running out of steam. He works on the vehicle as long as
possible, eager to avoid Kah'liss and the dread hypos that come with him.
But his turn eventually comes up and he takes the treatment.
----------------------------
Below is the medical treatment that is performed on the team throughout
the day:
The doses remaining are for 1 medkit - there is still another medkit
unused as of yet.
Kah'liss deduces that Raleigh is the least hurt and divides the task
of
healing between he and Lyrium...
[DieRoll Lyrium]
Wounds I on Raleigh (Column +X)
Roll = 29
Blue Result = 9 damage healed.
1 dose of Biocort used.
( 31 remaining)
[DieRoll Kah'liss]
Wounds II on Brenon (COlumn +1)
Roll = 73
White Result = Healing ineffectual.
1 dose Biocort used. (30 remaining)
OOC -- That's going to help mend their relationship, huh? :)
Wounds I on Brenon
(Column +X)
Roll = 19 Cobolt Result = 12 damage healed.
1 dose Biocort used. (29 remaining)
[DieRoll Lyrium]
Wounds I on Rolgar (Column +X)
Roll=92 Yellow Result = 3 points healed.
1 dose Biocort used (28 remaining)
[DieRoll Kah'liss]
Wounds II on Zhirrzh (Column +1)
Roll = 12 Blue Result = 15 points healed.
2 dose Biocort used (26 remaining)
1 dose anaesthetic used (16 remaining)
--------------------------
Zhirrzh sits quietly. Plans and schemes form, flutter,
and fade as new plans emerge. As the moments pass, Zhirrzh begins to relive
the past several hours as he considers the pirate attack and their bumpy
trip to the surface. Zhirrzh mentally grimaces at the points where there
was disagreement among the team. The points at which there was disagreement
were the most important times when they should all have been in agreement.
As Zhirrzh remembers the point where they were getting ready to move the
Explorer, something Raleigh said pops out in his mind's eye.
I think we need to appoint a leader but it needs
to be a well thought out decision and I can't think right now with that
shuttle inviting a bunch of beasties to dinner!
Zhirrzh unconsciously nods his head in agreement.
Looking around, he sees several members of the team going about their business.
This would be a good time to bring it up. Zhirrzh decides.
"Team, if I could have a moment of your time." Zhirrzh
pauses while everyone stops and focuses on him.
Zhirrzh calls the group together and poses the question
of a leader.
Raleigh, still laying under the Explorer, coated
in grime from the cracked tranny, listens intently to the conversation.
"Thank you." Zhirrzh starts. "As we were leaving
the crash site, Raleigh mentioned that we should appoint a leader for our
group."
Zhirrzh carefully watches their expressions, hesitant
of how to continue. On the one hand, he whole-heartedly agreed with Raleigh.
On the other, he wasn't sure if everyone else felt the same. And if they
did, he certainly wasn't sure if he would like who was appointed. A sudden
image of Kah'Liss barking orders sent a phantom shiver down his spine.
He felt the hairs on his back begin to rise and mentally forced them back
down.
"I agree with Raleigh. There have been times where
there was dissent when there should have been agreement. I'm sure you all
know which times. If everyone is in agreement, I propose we nominate a
few candidates."
His thoughts voiced, Zhirrzh watches as what he
said settles in.
Telgar is in a slight daze when Zhirzzh begins to
speak about electing a leader. He quickly awakens his senses to the
suggestion and then thinks to himself. A moment later Telgar speaks.
"I agree totally that there should be a leader of
some sort elected. I figured that Streel would have helped us out
by appointing one in the beginning, but this group is so diverse that I
guess it is better for us to decide. I have already seen that there
are many different types of leaders in this group with various tactics
and strategies, and I am reminded of a training seminar back at the Academy...
it said something to the effect that a leader of any group, especially
one in a threatening position such as ours, needs to have a leader who
is not only cool headed, but compromising and well accepted by all in the
group.
I think that we need to agree on someone that does
not have any ills towards anyone in this group, or who is not already the
brunt of a grudge of one sort or another. Ultimately, I will follow
whoever is elected until the inevitable happens, but since we are casting
votes, I would like to go ahead and nominate Raleigh for the reasons I
have already stated. Just think about who you would take your orders
from when you nominate your selection."
The slight pain sensations return to Telgar, so
he leans back and relaxes again, waiting for another heated discussion
to break out at any moment between the logical, the militant, and the techies.
He can't help but laugh to himself, thinking how petty some of the arguments
have been on this trip and how stupid the objects of the arguments were,
and how it is nothing compared to what they will have to face later.
He just hopes that he and Kah'Liss did the right steps this time before
coming on this joy-ride. It would be unfortunate to risk the group
to another attack by an unknown band of "pirates".
A load clang emanates from under the Explorer followed
quickly by a series of curses and shouts. Raleigh slides himself
out from under the hulking land rover and approaches the group.
"Now wait just there Telgar. First off, I
was only trying to save my skin up there and was pretty much scared sh#tless!!!
I am certainly not a leader! I dont know enough about leadership
and just cause Im the brother of a military hero does not qualify me for
this position. I signed up for this gig to fix the damn Explorer
everytime Zhirrzh broke it...( a low growl from the crowd)...no offense
Zhirrzh. Anyway, thats why Im here and thats exactly what Im going to do.
I appreciate the nomination Telgar but I respectfully decline and
nominate you in my place." With the last comment Raleigh actually shows
a smirk and takes a
few steps back, allowing the group to digest all of this.
Telgar had just leaned back
into his spot to let the conversation bubble when the mention of his name
for a candidate caught his attention again. He recognized the voice
as Raleigh's and look in his direction with shock. Telgar did not
think that he would be nominated for the position of leader out of the
suitable candidates available. His expression returns to normal as
he thinks about the things that had happened on the Dawn not too long ago.
Certainly, although he had the training to fill the spot, he was a bit
too headstrong for the group. He knew that time working with Kah'Liss
as a free contractor had made him eager to jump into things to get the
job done. He knew that he didn't like idle time, and that was the
reason he hated having his current injuries.
"Would the group be willing to carry out my plans
when we actually start to roam this planet and probably find hostels,"
he thought to himself? He wasn't sure of the answers, but he was
sure of a growing respect for this techex called Raleigh. He knew
his job and he usually knew what needed to be done. Sure, the nomination
was probably futile, knowing Zhirrzh's growing popularity with the group,
but it was a nice feeling to be nominated for such a position after all
these years of free-lancing. Telgar would fill the spot as best as
he could if elected, he was sure of that.
Telgar reclines again to let his body rest, a small
smile now upon his face, "Well, I can't argue with that... but keep in
mind, I do need time to heal before I can even begin to think about effectively
leading anything..."
Kahliss watches the interaction
of the group and the following responses. He tilts his head at Raleigh's
reaction in particular. "Might I clarify that Leadership is not the
process of /knowing/ what needs to be done in all situations, but the ability
to listen to the 'expert' opinion of all, weigh the options, and choose
the appropriate solution. It also includes the ability to utilize
one's personnel with a lack of emotion that can cloud one's decision during
crucial decisions.
While past experiences have shown Raleigh to be
headstrong, all the members in this disarrayed organization, with the exception
of the lovely Lyrium and I, are quite headstrong. Raleigh, however,
has shown a tendency to listen to all members of the group with an open
mind and make decisions that have shown a tendency to be acceptable to
all and well made.
Brennon has displayed excellent skill in the arena
of warfare, but his decisions have often been a bit rash and quite reflexive.
If we were fighting a known enemy with defined conditions to win, Brennon
would be one of the ideal choices.
Telgar, though my friend, can be a little thick
headed at times. Absolutely relentless, undauntable, and will never
an ally behind unless absolutely necessary, but thick headed. During
crucial moments, his leadership would be to continue with his original
plans, instead of alter to fit the new situation .. until it could very
well be too late. However, I do agree, that he /could/ make a good
leader.
Zhirrzh is stubborn. Not just thick headed,
but stubborn. Do not get me wrong, Zhirrzh outclasses all of us in
knowledge of guerilla warfare and some of his deductive abilities on what
the opposition is thinking borders on latent telepathy. However,
we have often bent to his will, not because we desired to or because it
was the most appropriate decision, but because we had no defined leader
and he would not budge. This combined with the natural passion of
his race and the clear animosity he holds toward I, has lead to a few clouded
decisions.
Lyrium is a very passionate scientist whose skills
fit her disposition. She can be quite ... biting in her retorts and
is a strong willed woman, but she remains quiet and unassuming when she
doesn't have anything specifically to add in an area she specializes in.
While she might be a very effective leader, it would not be ideal to do
so now, where her skills would be better channeled toward survival.
With these aspects of our character defined, it
is obvious that Brennon and Zhirrzh are perhaps two of the best Enforcers
in the quadrant and that the company did us a huge favor in employing their
services, but neither is suited for leadership in this scenario.
Lyrium is also not suited. That leaves Telgar and Raleigh.
Raleigh would be my first choice, Telgar my second."
" I did not wish to include myself in the original
analysis for ... rather obvious reasons. But if you wish me to, I
shall. Kahliss bears three detriments to his leadership. One,
he requires the unilateral agreement that his decisions will be followed.
He is a team leader, but a military leader. If all agreed to follow
his decisions, he would feel far more comfortable in his decision making
process and thus be less prone to being steamrolled. Two, His knowledge
of military tactics and survival are derived from textbooks. This
could hamper him slightly in his decisions by basing them on a textbook
solution instead of experience. This also could possibly be overcome,
but only by careful attention to those in the group who are educated in
these experiences. Third, there are two members of the group that
hold a racial prejudice against him. This animosity could hamper
their willingness to following his decisions. Likewise, it may make
them question his goals, though it obvious that he has nothing to gain
from worsening the situation we are currently in.
That is my profile of myself. I feel it more
likely that we will convince an annoyed techex into leadership, then to
overcome the three obstacles to my leadership, most especially the last
obstacle."
Kahliss leans back and returns to listening
as he silently attends to the injured.
Raleigh, propped against the wall of the Explorer,
again hears his name mentioned and sighs quietly to himself.
"Well brother, is this how it started with you too?" he mutters
to himself as he waits for Kahliss to finish. Grabbing a moment of
silence he again addresses the group...
"Ok, it's obvious we need a leader. Only luck kept the
last conflict from becoming a debauchery. I will accept the nomination
as team lead but only if the rest of you appoint a second in command.
My
preference would be one of the Enforcers as this has become a struggle
for survival and I will need the input of someone trained in tactics and
combat. Night approaches quickly so lets get this wrapped up
quickly. I would like to see a couple of our people scouting
out that well before sun up. Kahliss, I appreciate your candidness,
and everybody's for that matter, so lets press the issue and get to more
important things...like completing the mission and getting off of this
rock."
Ignoring Raleigh for the moment, Zhirrzh faces Kah'Liss
and begins to speak, his voice level, but cold.
"Let me see if I can understand your logic. We are
on a hostile world with an obvious military presence. We've been ambushed,
attacked, boarded, shot out of the sky, and potentially stranded if the
Dawn didn't make its jump before being blown apart. So, under those circumstances,
you believe our best course of action would be to elect a techie with extremely
limited military skills and experience to be our leader. And not just any
techie, but the same techie who suggested splitting the group and halving
our strength. Who literally came within a hair's breadth of getting himself
killed by putting himself in a chicken shoot with a bunch of space pirates.
And who's only saving grace was extreme good luck." Zhirrzh pauses and
nods his head before continuing in a sarcastic tone. "Makes sense to me."
He then continues, his voice again level and cool.
"You say that his decisions showed a 'tendancy to be acceptable to all.'
I don't remember accepting any of his decisions, so that certainly discounts
that 'all' theory. In fact, he made his decisions unilaterally and then
acted, never waiting for assent from the entire team."
Zhirrzh turns his head toward Raleigh and his eyes
narrow. "In my opinion, his actions were the ones that were stubborn and
rash. I will not follow orders from someone who would endanger those under
his command so readily and thoughtlessly." Zhirrzh glances at Telgar and
again smiles sarcastically. "So much for having a leader who is 'compromising
and well accepted by all in the group' huh?"
Positive that he is making at lease a few members
angry, Zhirrzh decides to change tactics. Turning back to Kah'Liss he continues.
"You say that Brenon's decisions have been rash and reflexive. That his,
" Zhirrzh sneers reflexively, " animosity towards you clouds his judgement.
But I ask you this. Has he done or said anything to put you in any danger,
or at a higher risk of danger, than any other member of this team? It seems
to me that your own personal prejudices are influencing your decisions."
Taking in Telgar and Raleigh with a glance, he adds, "All of you."
Kahliss sighs. "I have no prejudices or animosity
toward any member of
this group, it would be illogical and unwise in the given situation.
I was
merely pointing out the logical deductions of psychological profiles
of each
member in the group. More over, I might add that Rolger, Telgar,
Raleigh,
and I were in acceptance of the plan that Raleigh and Telgar formulated
on
the ship. It was you and Brennon that would not change your plan.
In
addition, the situation, as I heard over the radio, was worsen by certain
acts members took in their 'relief' efforts.
Now, I am /not/ a trained military person, but this
is a very large
planet, we have landed in the middle of a desert, there are no
reinforcements on their way. At what point would it seem logical
that we
are in a 'hostile' military situation? We are in a life or death
survival
situation. That is not military, but communial. Our current
opposition
appeared to be trained pirates. We have injured their ship, damaged
several
fighters, and killed at least 10 pirates. They will not be worried
about
tracking the potential survivors of a crash in the middle of a desert.
I
would worry about regrouping my own forces and returning to my own
base. I
would leave the survivors to die. We were lucky. Probability
would have
had us dead, or minus a lot more supplies than we have.
As for roving tribal bands, this is a desert, your
opposition can be
seen for kilometers when standing on the rocks. They won't be
sneaking up
on us, unless through the ground, and there is no defense for that.
I
suggest the Techex because his ability to decipher hype and needless
worry
from pressing matters is far more precise than yours, And without the
native
animosity inherent toward my race that hinders me."
He then turns toward a small box he has filled with
supplies. "Which
reminds me, those enforcers who were not forcibly removed from their
armor
by surgerical necessities, may wish to do so now. We are limited
on water
supplies and the armor causes the wearer to lose between twice to four
times
as much water." The box contains lighter colored clothes and
water bottles.
Telgar sighs for a moment. He only wishes
he had the full strength to thoroughly debate the finer points of leadership,
but he is tiring of all the dramatic arguing within the team.
Finally he interrupts the conversation, "Would everyone
just quit this bickering! I am steadily growing impatient with everyone's
aim to make himself look good. We were hired to conduct recon on
this rock and we were chosen because Streel was under the impression that
we could handle something like this. Most of us have been in worse
situations in the past I'm sure. We have finally made the intelligent
decision to elect a leader, and we can't even carry out that task without
fighting and bringing in all our prejudices. I'm beginning to think
that Streel's faiths in this group may have been misplaced.
I don't believe any of us are the perfect leader
and I'm sure we each have something against us that would make us undesirable
for the position, but the fact is that we need someone to take responsibility
for the group.
Zhirrzh... we have been thus far, only mere acquaintances
from the Guild and I had hoped that we could find a common ground based
on our professions, but so far you have yet to show me that such a relationship
would be of any benefit to either of us. If you want to take the
group as your project because you refuse to let others lead - and I don't
care what the reasons - then go ahead and try. I don't know who you
expect to follow you, besides Brenon, after you have continually shown
how short-fused and impatient you are with everyone, but let all of our
blood be on your hands; the hands of the "Leader", because you want to
be the one who decides what will happen.
Being a leader brings great responsibility as you
well know, and all casualties will add to the guilt that you will gain
from your selfishness. I admit that I made a mistake by suggesting
Raleigh publicly, and it is a mistake I intend to reconcile right now.
Now, everyone get something to write on and with.
I don't care if you have to use grease and scrap metal, because we are
going to do what we should've already done." Telgar stands to his
feet, ignoring any expressions from Kah'Liss as to his injuries.
"We are all going to nominate one candidate for the position of leader...
whoever you think should be leader. Failure to vote disqualifies
you from being eligible and you may vote for yourself if you choose.
Zhirrzh, you can choose to do this and show me that there is someone inside
of the man called Zhirrzh worthy of the title of Enforcer... worthy of
the title of Leader if Fate sees it fit; you can sit idle while we vote,
and then adhere to its results; or you can continue to fight within the
group and tear us apart..." Telgar looks around the group and procures
a few slips of paper. He addresses Zhirrzh, "That goes for all of us...
Now Zhirrzh, what's it going to be?"
Raleigh was about to make his acceptance
speach when Zhirrzh cuts him off. In shock he stands there, listening
to the argument unfold, watching as the two enforcers stood eye to eye,
wishing to god his rifle was
closer in case worst came to worst. He is noticably shaken at this
point. He had always been a
loner, throughout school and during his professional life. The
shadow of an famous older brother haunted him more than any man could possibly
imagine. He longed for solitude at times when all he got was
attention.
Then he found his place as a merc. Nothing too dangerous,
usually behind the scenes in a safe area, repairing whatever was needed.
Just him and his trucks. When he was approached by Streel it sounded
like
a good offer. The job paid well enough, no responsibility other
than keeping the Explorer running...he could handle that. Also, it
gave him the opportunity to work with other Mercs who had made reputations
as professionals.
At this very moment, with Telgar and Zhirrzh squaring
off, he wanted nothing more than to rinse his hands of it. He eyed
Brennon nervously through the corner of his eye. Brennon was already
staring down
Kahliss, cold and methodical, not a hint of emotion. Then he looked
casually at Raleigh and a chill went up his spine. Raleigh knew that
if this turned bad, like he had seen before, there would be no chance
he could beat Brennon...but then again, he had always been a fast runner.
"Please god," Raleigh said to himself, "Dont do
this here!"
Zhirrzh glances down at what Telgar is holding towards
him, then back up to Telgar's face. Very deliberately, Zhirrzh takes
a step forward to stand nose-to-nose with Telgar.
"You forget something human," Zhirrzh sneers. "I
am not a man. In fact, I am in no way human, no matter what our similarities.
Associating me with your own human emotions and ambitions is a pitiable
trait. I
have never asked for leadership, neither have I given any indication
that I wanted leadership, nor in any fashion /hinted/ that I wanted leadership.
As I see it, our only choice for leader in our present situation is Brenon."
Zhirrzh glances at Kah'Liss. "While it is evident
that our attackers were pirates, it is also evident that they were /trained/
pirates as you pointed out. That being the case, it would be foolish not
to think that
their commander is also highly trained." Zhirrzh glances back to Telgar.
"A highly trained commander would not leave it up to chance that we would
die in the desert. Repelling his boarding party in the manner we
did would convince him that we are an extremely resourceful group.
Though in my opinion, we were just plain lucky. They won't go back to their
caves to hide and lick their wounds. As soon as they regroup,
they'll come after us."
Zhirrzh heaves a deep breath and turns his attention
back to Kah'Liss again. "If any 'roving tribal bands' exist in this desert,
they are not likely to come from the desert, but from the rocks that we
ourselves will take shelter in. It is clear that we need a leader that
can think like the enemy, no matter who the enemy might be, and anticipate
all hostile situations. Brenon is the most highly trained and
therefore the only suitable candidate."
Having finished, Zhirrzh focuses his gaze on Telgar.
Neither moving nor blinking, Zhirrzh stands and studies the Enforcer.
OOC Interlude here -- It's getting hot! :)
Since we are all doing disclaimers ...
Kahliss is actually /very/ PO'ed at the situation,
though only disgruntled at Zhirrzh specifically. As for the player,
KC isn't. Heck, it's a part. Hard to take it seriously about
the player. But, I think we are all professional RP'ers here.
Or so it has seemed so far, making for excellent RP and no hurt feelings.
And Jeff, you are an experienced GM, do players'
/ever/ make anything easy? They either think too much, or kill too
much. *playful grin*
Kahliss visually snorts this time. "With what,
might I ask, will they ferrit us out with? We forced them to destroy
their own shuttles, we killed their boarding crews. They now have
a pair of fighters and a damaged starship? Moreover, /what/ will
they worry that we might wreck? Huh? Think about it Zhirrzh.
A /trained/ pirate is not going to waste /valuable/ resources on /us/!
We are in a desert! A .. Ne'Agrahless ... desert! What plans
are we going to foil? Someone's pet scorpion project?
Perhaps we get out of this desert. That makes
us five resourceful people who are /still/ stuck on a planet. What
conceivable reason would we have to launch a strike against a trained force
with no reinforcements, information, and most of all ... a base that we
don't even know where it is??!!
We are not an advanced strike force, we are a planetary
expedition that happens to have two enforcers, two techex, two scispecs,
and two explorers. Even if we /were/ an advanced strike force, it
would be months before we could get anywhere! Now, I suggest we stop
this bickering, turn the reigns over to someone who is going to think with
his head and not his hormones/adrenaline and start worrying about the freaking
sunstroke and water! Zhirrzh, you of all, are the most susceptible.
We have enough water for only a month, at most. A desert will consume
twice that, and a Yazarian /thrice/ that! Luckily, I will only consume
my usual amount, but I will be unable to work during the middle of the
day and middle of the night. Extreme heat and cold will provoke hibernation
in me.
Now get out of those Ne'Agrahless clothes and armor
into something lighter! Drink some water, and realize that I am not
taking /any/ orders from Brennon or You unless they pertain to forward
intel or combat scenarios!"
Kahliss is visually shaking with the tension of
the moment, and some settling adrenaline sparked by the heat. He
then storms off to where he has the water and medicinal supplies stored.
Telgar has only once seen Kahliss shaken like this ... and discovered the
truly inhumane uses of many items that can be found in fully stocked Laboratory...
*flash*
"Don't worry, I won't kill that Ne'Agrahless Vrusk,
just a light introduction to the uses of Hydrochloric Acid and a decompression
chamber ... that's all..."
"Uh ... Kahliss ... I don't know if this is ..."
"Legal, it's a gray area..."
"No... I meant ..."
"Right? Who cares?"
"No, I meant humane."
"He isn't human, now is he?"
*flash*
Brenon places his hand on Zhirrzh's shoulder to ease
the tension, he then lowers to the ground, and scoops up a hand full of
sand; slowly letting it sift through his fingers as he rises. Brenon lowers
his guard, letting go of his stone mask. "We've a long sojourn ahead of
us people. If we're going to make it through this we're definitely going
to need a focal point, someone to make decisions; not just any decisions,
good decisions. And can make them quick. What happened on the Dawn was
very unfortunate and is an example of what a lack of leadership can do
for a team. Some of you, well, are pretty damned lucky to be here. And
if it weren't for the ... Kah'liss, I doubt several of you would still
be with us. He turns to Kah'liss, "I appologize to you Kah'liss, I've long
harbored and ill will towards your people that has hardened into a prejudice
for all of your kind. I sometimes overlook the fact that not all Vrusk
were like those from my childhood...." After a short pause, "I won't lie
to you, I can be impatient, stubborn and sometimes even a little rash.
But my judgements are always sound and I've always pulled out on top. And
I've been in some pretty hairy situations. I guess with that said you see
where I'm going, I'd like to lead this group. I'd like Raleigh to be my
second as I respect his opinion and feel all of leadership shouldn't be
made up entirely of those with a militaristic background.
Kahliss stops dead in his tracks in his way back
to the Explorer. He turns at Brennon's announcement, and then the
agitation seems to visually flow out of him. He then shrugs, "Thank
you Brennon. I have no desire to see any of us die either."
He visually deflates a bit more, "And I was a bit harsh in my last statements.
I apologize. I am sentient and still bear the burden of emotions.
I think a vote should be in order now, perhaps a secret ballot would be
best."
Once the dust settles, Lyrium is elected to cast
and count all ballots. Brenon takes one of the proffered ballets and moves
off about 20 yards. Scans the horizon for a few moments; then promptly
writes down his vote and deposits it with Lyrium.
Telgar accepts the paper and pen from Raleigh.
He simply looks back at Zhirrzh with a saddened look on his face.
He knew that he had made a strong stand against Zhirrzh, but it was one
he would have rather done without. He had hoped to become comrads
with the Yazirian and his friend Brenon, but someone had to end all the
arguments. As a result of his actions, Telgar was able to get the
group to agree to finally vote. He was thankful that Raleigh had
stepped in with the ballets and organizing the secret vote.
Zhirrzh, his eyes never having strayed from watching
Telgar, sneers and holds out his hand for the paper and pen. Accepting
them, Zhirrzh stares a moment more at Telgar before turning to face Brenon.
He nods his acceptance and follows Brenon's lead by quickly jotting down
three names and handing them to Lyrium.
Everyone waits patiently(?) as Lyrium tallies the
votes a few meters from the rest of the team. After her count, she sighs.
Brushing wind blown sand from her eye, she turns to the team and addresses
them calmly,
matter-of-fact. She didn't like the bickering and was ready to get
this over with, but the results indicated they weren't quite done.
"We have a leader, but there is a tie for second,"
she begins. "Everyone on the team received a vote, so that should say that
in some form or another, we at least respect each other in SOME fashion,
and Streel
recognized the strengths in each of us. Using the point system suggested
by Raleigh, here are the results:
"Brenon, with 11 points, is our leader. We are tied
for second in command, each with 7 points, between Raleigh and Telgar.
It appears we need to have a runoff vote for 2nd."
She hands out additional slips of paper, and awaits
the next round...
Zhirrzh smiles and quietly accepts the second piece
of paper. He
quickly jots down one of the names and hands it back to Lyrium.
Brenon looks up at the mention of his name. He gives
Lyrium a curt nod
in response. After several others reach for the makeshift ballets,
Brenon follows
and in turn marks his vote. Then quickly hands it back to Lyrium.
At Lyriums announcement of the team leader,
Raleigh nods
approvingly. Brennon was as good a choice as any, Raleigh only
hoped
he would be impartial to everyone...including Kahliss. Another
pissing match was the last thing this team needed.
Taking the second scrap of paper he quickly jotted
down his choice for
2nd in charge...his selection was easy and required no thought...there
was really only one other option after all.
Lyrium tallies the second round of votes and makes
the announcement. "By
popular vote, Raleigh is the team's number two...."
Telgar smiles at Raleigh, "Congratulations, friend."
Looking at Brenon, Telgar asks, "So do you have a plan in mind for us?"
Raleigh, upon hearing the vote, shrugs and turns
to Brennon. "Well Commander, whats the call? The desert will
start cooling rapidly Im sure as soon as the sun sets so thats our best
bet for travel. The
Explorer is(Im assuming Jeff, correct me if Im wrong) in good condition
and can travel. Only minor repairs remain, including a new paint
job(I look at Zhirrzh and playfully stress the last part)." He then begins
to finish up with the Explorer, his first recommendation that everyone
rests until nightfall.
After Lyrium tallies all the votes and announces
the newly elected leaders, Brenon
nods his head in appreciation, then moves closer to Raliegh and addresses
the group,
'I know some of what I'm saying will seem redundant, but I think everyone
needs to
hear our current situation again and let it set in. We've been sent
out by Streel
Corporation to do a possible rescue and an initial planet survey of
a planet that
is supposed to be unknown, uncharted and uninhabited. Well, they were
obviously wrong. Since,
planetfall, we've discovered one manmade structure. That being the
well . We were assaulted by a
light cruiser with fighter support, boarded, and forced to defend ourselves.
In hope of
avoiding capture or destruction aboard the Dawn, we escaped via shuttle
and critically
damaged enroute. It is unknown whether or not the Dawn will make it
back so we may be here a
while. I think what Streel may have stumbled upon is a pirate's cove.
So when we move, we need
to move fast and quietly. Thus our present situation. We got enough
food and water to hold us over
for a bit, but I fear with this heat, our consumption of water will
deplinish our cache
fairly quickly. To reduce the amount of consumption we'll need to do
most of our traveling
at night, we can use Zhirzzh's eyes and the aid of the infra goggles
when sojourning by night.
The first order of business is to send out a message, and hope that
someone back at Streel
gets it. When dusk sets well in we'll move the explorer within two
clicks(2km) of the well. I'd like Zhirrzh
and Telgar to carefully scout out that well, Zhirrzh, you'll be point;
I want you to actually check
out the well and bring back a sample for testing, don't drink it, just
bring back a sample. I also want
you to look for any tracks near the well, maybe we can get a rough
idea of the direction of those using it. Be careful though, I'm sure in
areas like this, wells are a huge commodity; so it may be Pixie-Rigged.
Telgar,if you're up for it, I want you to provide cover for Zhirrzh
and act as an additional pair of eyes, you'll need to take a pair of IR
goggles with you. We'll be waiting in the explorer and I'll expect you
to keep in constant contact via your commlinks. I'd like reports every
5 minutes. If at any point it gets hairy you'll have the explorer back
here for support with an armed crew. You'll use needler rifles for this
sorte as energy weapons tend to be real revealing at night when discharged;(Brenon
winks at Zhirrzh and Telgar). Kah'liss, continue to treat the wounded,
I'll need an assessment of what medical supplies we have left and how long
you think they'll last given our current situation. What things might we
have to counteract this heat?
Zhirrzh nods his head in acceptance. He glances
at Telgar and grins.
"Up for a late night walk in the countryside?"
Zhirrzh turns back to Brenon. "In that case, I think I'll
get a few hours rest before sundown. Sounds like its gonna be a long night."
Telgar returns Zhirrzh's grin with a sigh of relief
that the proper things had taken place. Telgar lean back for a day's
rest. Tonight is going to be a long night, he thinks to himself...
Kahliss nods and does a quick inventory of the medicinal
supplies while continuing to treat the wounded. He does have one
question to ask, "Brennon, if we /are/ worried about the pirates, wouldn't
sending a transmission provide a chance opportunity for the pirate's to
intercept the message and therefore have absolute confirmation that we
/are/ alive and a potential threat with a working radio?" The question
is phrased in curiosity more than anything else, like a private asking
his sarge for clarification for why they are doing something, than questioning
the action itself.
Brenon acknowleges Kah'liss with a nod, "That's
not a bad point...
"Telgar, Zhirrzh, you two get some rest, You've
a long night ahead of you. The rest of you, Raliegh,Kah'liss, Rolgar and
Lyrium. I know most of you are tired, but this is real important. I realize
some of you might be aquainted with the KE-2000 Laser Rifle, it's time
you became more than acquainted with her." He motions for everyone to get
a little closer, "Within the next hour I'm going to give you the most comprehensive
lesson I can muster on the KE-2000, teach you how to operate and repair
it. But what I can't teach you within this hour is how to respect it, just
know she's a deadly weapon and deserves the same respect you'd give a coiled
red stinger.....
The next hour is spent with Brenon's training of Laser weaponry. Using
up 100 SEU of a backpack for target practice...