Dedrik Vals's Story

“There’re a lot of bullet holes, but nothing dangerous. What do you know about who attacked us? Who is down? Who did we lose?”

Dedrik nodded, then glanced to his datapad for a moment. Accessing security cameras that governed the hangar doors wasn't a hard task, and even if it was something secret, he knew that his purpose wasn't anything nefarious. As far as the size of the attackers, he was correct in his assumption. The numbers were surprising and no doubt overwhelming, in fact he was surprised more people weren't lost or harmed, though he attributed that to the spray and pray method the troops were using. Even more intriguing though than the lack of accuracy of these men, was their origins.

"Council guards," Dedrik stated flatly. He was more shocked in his own words, but he was trained not to show it. "Interesting." More questions were arising with each moment, and if the Intergalactic Council were sending their elites after the ship, there must be something that Dedrik wasn't informed about. As far as who was lost in the barrage of bullets, the man could check their profiles later, but instead allowed any other crew member to inform the woman. "Apologies, I must attend to some other matters," he said finally before retreating to a corner of the hangar. He wasn't talking to anyone, and simply said it in case someone was listening. That didn't seem like too much the case though, but it didn't matter.

He'd seen the Captain leave first, and judging by the state in which he'd found her in the hangar, she was sorting through some pretty shattered emotions. No doubt, because this station probably had a bar, she'd be there. The Exburnan left next, and the man only assumed it would be to find her. He trusted the creature from the IDA to have that sense to stay with her, and thus he made quick to contact him. Besides, who better to be with her currently than a creature who could sort through the minds of anyone that could be of any possible harm?

Dedrik was sure the datapads had some sort of comm system, and the man waited a moment for the transmission to go through. If it wasn't the Intergalactic Council who'd attacked them prior, perhaps the man wouldn't have made the call, and though he doubted that any danger was imminent here, he still was trained to go through the same mandatory routine checks in every situation, to gather all information he could before acting. "What's your sitrep?" he questioned. Looking up from the datapad, he noticed that the woman he'd spoken to earlier was gone, as were several others. A few others from the IDA were still present, and thus he gave the order to them. "Stay here and make sure the perimeter is secured, full eyes and checks. I'll be back."

With that, the man exited the ship, still speaking, hopefully, with the Exburnan. Once he had his answer, he simply told the creature to stay with her, and he'd be there shortly. It probably wasn't what the Captain wished, especially considering the circumstances, but again when considering them fully, it was simply logical. Dedrik was only doing what he was trained to do in these situations.

As Eddie left the room, Tom looked up from his daydreaming. He wondered how long he'd been sitting there, just thinking.
He'd heard others talking to something called MAK, so he thought he'd give it a try.

"MAK, would you please tell me Rina's current position? I'd like to go find her."

MAK replied without a second's delay and it made Tom jump. "Thomas, Rina is currently in her quarters, asleep. I could wake her up for you, but I suspect she is still suffering from the ordeal at our previous location."

"Don't worry about that, then. I think I'll go take a wander," said Tom, standing and making for the door. He caught Alex's attention as he left. "Alex? I'm popping out to explore for a bit. If Rina turns up, could you tell her where I've gone? Thanks."
He left then, wandering through the ship's corridors until he came to the exit hangar.

As he walked out, he couldn't help but think how much this station looked like the previous one. Space was so boring sometimes. He hoped they'd land on a planet soon.
A short look around and he realised that Dedrik was currently making his way towards the nearest bar. From what he'd seen, that didn't seem like the sort of thing the guard would be into, but he decided that everyone had their little secrets. He quickened his pace, running for a bit, then slowing to a jog, and finally falling into step with the stern-faced man. Dedrik had noticed him as he approached, and given him a curt nod of greeting. Tom returned the gesture, and attempted to make conversation as they walked.
"Hi, I don't think we've been introduced. I'm Tom. Nice to meet you."
He extended a hand, and when it wasn't shaken, he let it fall by his side and continued walking in silence. It seemed Dedrik was concentrating on something. Tom followed his eyes to the bar, where the captain was just walking out of sight into a more secluded corner of the establishment. The Exburnan, Rokunam, had just left, along with a small lively girl in ...a witch's hat... ?
Well, now he'd seen everything.
Except, he hadn't, seeing as he didn't notice the hulking bot sitting hunched just outside the bar, watching the girl. Only when it moved did he see it, and made a beeline for it, having a familiarity with robots.

He walked up to the great big thing and looked at it. It was a bit odd, made up of random bits of robots, some of which he even recognised. It turned its massive head to look at him with its single eye, the lenses inside visibly adjusting to focus on Tom. It seemed unintelligent, just sitting there.

Tom lost interest and decided to enter the bar, sitting himself down on a chair in a corner, watching the events unfold before him. He wasn't one for alcohol. Even though he'd been legally allowed to drink since the age of 13, he never really liked it, and he found that it mucked up his proximity sensors, making him incredibly clumsy. He sighed, and raised a hand, to gain the barkeeper's attention.
"What can I do for you, sir?" The bartender asked, not quite managing to keep the look of curiosity from his face as he addressed the robot.
"I'd like glass of water please. No, make that lemonade."
"Lemonade, sir?" Damn. It appears this was not a universally recognised beverage.
"It's water and lemon juice, with sweeteners, and carbonic acid to add a fizzy sensation." Tom probably over-elaborated his description, but he wasn't taking any chances. Now the thought had crossed his mind, he really wanted that lemonade.
"I'll do my best, sir."

A few minutes later the barkeeper returned with a pint glass full of slightly yellow. bubbling liquid. It was a start.
Tom thanked the man, and rested the glass on the table, waiting for him to leave. If it was bad, he didn't want to make a show of it.
He took a sip, and promptly spat it out again.
"PPPFFFF!!"
What was that?! Wait... he recognised that taste from somewhere... it tasted rotten. Oh. Huh. Carbolic acid. Easy mistake. Tom discreetly poured the remainder of his drink into the base of a pot plant.
"That's the last time I'm asking for lemonade," He thought. He slouched in his seat and gazed out the window.

"Currently, I had just left the Captain at the bar. I suggested she should not be drinking. I apologise for attempting to leave her. Of note, we will be expecting new members aboard the ship, some of which I do not think will benefit us fully, however, that is ownly my humble opinion... I apologise again, but it seems the Captain is headed back to the ship, accompanied by the Steelbeam. I, however, have to deal with something possibly troubling toward the Captain and the ship. I will disconnect now."

Dedrik raises an eyebrow at the Exburnan's words, but didn't question. Although he didn't particularly enjoy the idea of more members, if the Captain thought it was necessary, then so be it. Besides, young or not she wasn't stupid. He trusted her as she trusts her crew, despite, but not totally disregarding, Rokunam's advice. Even so, he'd keep an eye on them, it was his job.

Onto another matter however, before he could say anything the creature had ended the call, just after saying he'd deal with something that may be troubling to the Captain and ship. That made Dedrik frown, but he assumed that the Exburnan could handle himself and call if any trouble arose. Other than that, it seemed the situation was under control, and it was just then that Dedrik saw the her. Snapping to attention, the Vasparti noted the young child it seemed that she was dragging along with her, as well as the humanoid robot. The boy didn't look at all please, and neither did she. Without speaking, Dedrik simply fell into line behind the party of three and accompanied them back to the ship.

Stopping in the hangar, Dedrik watched as the Captain spoke to the AI, then threw the boy into a small room occupying the side of the hangar. She then proceeded to begin work on the humanoid like robot, and though he had questions, they could wait until she wasn't as busy. His primary objective to ensure that the Captain was returned to the ship safely was accomplished, and thus the man turned to his own leadership training to handle any other small situations that may occur. Glancing around, he really had no other tasks. Being only military support, useful only in that field, being if and when combat was imminent, the man would be otherwise incompetent as far as helping to fix the hangar or whatever else. Instead Dedrik decided he'd do one thing he knew how to do in order to ensure safety and maintain a neutralized situation.

Looking down to his datapad, Dedrik took up positions by the hangar door. If new crew members were to be expected, old friend or not, and consent of the Captain or not, he'd simply feel better if he could at least get a glance at who boarded. Accessing the exterior cameras again, Dedrik didn't expect to find much but was simply following as usual, mandatory procedures. Golden eyes on the little screen, the man watched a woman walk up the ramp, then glanced up towards the door as she left view of the camera, and came onto the ship.

Turning just slightly, he took in her full figure, all accessories, identifying markings, etc, and nodded. Clearing his throat and moving his staff so that it wasn't in too much a menacing position, the man spoke, though his voice was devoid of all emotions. "Welcome to the Nightwing, name and business?"

Regina

Reggie listened to the robot talk, and she stared annoyed. "I know how to operate on a robot." She stated through gritted teeth. It was too late, however, the robot had already laid day, putting himself to sleep. She rolled her eyes, tempted to just leave him like that and dump him at the next station.

She sighed, trying to calm her nerves. Her emotions were getting the better of her, which wasn't wise. Glancing behind her, she noticed a small group of people standing at the entrance of the hangar. Dedrik greeted them. Good, at least someone's helping out. She needed to keep a level head, if she was going to get people to fill the empty positions on the crew.

As she removed the chest plate from Thomas's body, she felt her stomach grumble. I'm starving. I should get Minn to make us all some food. I wonder where she is. Reggie glanced around her, hoping to find the pink alien standing in a corner somewhere, but to no avail. Another realization dawned on her. I wonder where Saein is... She rolled her eyes at the thought. Their probably together, doing inappropriate things. And poor Eddie, too injured to enjoy it.

Reggie couldn't help but smile at the thought. Speaking of injured. She would have to make a trip to the infirmary and check on everyone. Hopefully, Alex had everything in order. She did her best and beating out the dents in the plate. She would have to fill a few bullet holes that managed to get through the armor. Glancing down at Thomas's open chest, she sighed know she would have to go through a dig them out.

It didn't take too long. There were only a few bullets inside, according to the chest plate. Her hands were covered in oil and grease, but she was comfortable that way. Working on Thomas put her mind in a different mindset. Information taking over her mind, as she took out pieces and remembering what they were for and where they were located. When the chest was finished she reattached it, and wiped down the front.

Reggie moved on to his hand. It might have to be replaced. She got to work removing the smudged bullet. It completely lost its shape when it made contact with Thomas's hand. She pulled it out with a set of pliers, like pulling a tooth out of someone's mouth. She tossed it into a bin to her left and took a long look at the hand. She sighed. Definitely would need being replaced.

She spun, and made her way towards the cabinets of spare parts. She knew she had a robotic hand in here, somewhere. It definitely wouldn't match the rest of the robot, but it would due until they could get him a proper fix. She finally pulled it out of the bin, and stared at the immobile hand. It was brown, instead of the usual chrome, or shiny steel one would see today.

It was much older, but it would function fine. Reggie quickly unscrewed Thomas's hand and replaced it with the brown one. She wiggled her nose, and ran a hand through her long hair. Half way through, she remembered her hands were covered in grease. Fantastic. She could already feel the sticky material attaching to her hair. She grimaced. She didn't have time to shower, she had new crew members to greet.

She pulled her hair up, wrapping it into a ponytail. She informed Thomas that he was all fixed up and spun on her heel. She stepped up next to Dedrik, placing a gently hand on his shoulder. "Thank you Dedrik." She stated. "I will take it from here."

She nodded to the recruit, and then turned to the job seekers. "My name is Captain Regina Oris, and this is the Nightwing."

Bond

The bullets were probably mostly found, but a proper inspection had to be done once landed.

Which arrived sooner than expected. Bond sighed, a bit tired, having not slept for a decent period of time since climbing on the Nightwing. Still, he wasn't sure where his room was, if he still had one, or if he'd ever be able to fall asleep. To see his new crew members shot down so mercilessly...and seeing Reg in the state she was in...and...well...

Bond wasn't one to get emotional, but with the lack of sleep and the memories of his first voyage out of the academy weighing on his mind, he chose to continue working over greeting new recruits or finding food. The outer of the Nightwing pulled another sigh from him, but he set to work to release the bullets and patch any holes he could with the help of MAK when he wasn't sure if he had completed an area or not.

Eventually Regina returned to the hangar. Dedrik had been greeting recruits it seemed, Regina taking his place as Bond was about to head back to work after a small break. He appraised her expression, one of forced authority it seemed. Eyebrows high, he met her eye briefly, sending a silent invitation to talk, which she probably needed. But he wasn't going to interrupt. Although he could easily have pulled a prank and dulled her influence as a Captain over these new recruits, now wasn't the time.

He didn't have the heart when mourning was still in order.

Dia stood up from the bar slowly feeling a little light, a bit floosie... A bit loose. He wobbled along with the crowd he felt injunctiated into. He stood behind a few folks looking over their shoulders as he attempted to price together the recent past. Business... New friends... Old friends... Embarrassment...

"Hmmm what have I made my way through," he thought to himself.

He quietly chucked to himself as he heard a low murmur about the place. He found it silly... And then he thought of the word murmur and chuckled again.

He stood their at the back of the group trying hard to maintain cohesive thought. Just then he heard a familiar voice, slightly disembodied, with only a direction of sound to go on. Past the group he found himself with, he heard a woman say, "My name is Captain Regina Oris, and this is the Nightwing."

He found emotions within this voice, he found himself feeling strong enough for anything... Strong enough to lose worry and strong enough to act, he felt empowered to take action and take charge! He felt the need to say something to usher in this new feeling?

"I'd love to go first!" He sort of shouted.

Valerio had finished his drink a little while after the woman and the robot had wandered off. After throwing some coin onto the bar and heading out into the crowd a thought began to nag at him repeatedly until he gave it his full attention.

"Anyone looking for a job, please meet me at my ship, the Nightwing." she'd said before leaving and he had to admit that joining up with a crew like that... well it would be a fresh start, and he wouldn't let his past happen again.

He started to make his way through the crowds for awhile before cursing the packed mass and ducking into one of the side streets of the station. As he wandered down the small alley he came to a security outpost, with a security check that he unlocked and passed straight through into the catacomb-like labyrinth of the station. A network of tunnels and passageways that linked every section together and allowed him and his fellows access to where they were needed without hindrance. While passing through one of the alcoves he paused by a data console and brought up his VDI system, submitting a formal leave of service for the next few weeks and transferring his equipment and all possessions aboard the Nightwing, hopefully it wouldn't be a futile exercise. After logging out he continued on his way throughout the winding tunnels.

After a several minutes he came out near where the Nightwing was docked, chuckling to himself at the fact it would have taken the better part of an hour to get here through the crowds that had been pressed in around the pub. Making his way towards the ship he had to admit she was a beauty, and her weapons systems looked to be something from a dream; state of the art and experimental in some cases from what he'd seen during the audit as well as complete array's worth of conventional firepower.

A long drawn out whistle escaped his lips as he continued to inspect the ship, his feet leading him towards the nearest boarding point. He noted with interest that a few other members of the station were present, including one or two he'd seen in the pub during the captains recruitment. Clearly he wasn't the only person tempted by employment. As he made his way onto the cargo deck he heard a voice echo over the heads of those around him. It was obvious who it was.

"My name is Captain Regina Oris, and this is the Nightwing."

((OOC: Life had to be handled. I am, so sorry. I really am.))

Pale blue eyes analysed the current of people. Each with a different destination in mind. Some held data pads, stooping at random times to read a few words. Others held supplies ranging from tools to medical supplies. It was one organized cluster of disaster. She could see the roots one would take to avoid another. The tension in the air was almost impossible to not to notice. Of course, she didn't expect much else, the crew had lots friends, family. It was always hard to bounce back from that. They seemed to be holdin-

"Welcome to the Nightwing, name and business?"

Swiftly turning on her foot, Mercia stuttered incoherent words. The man in front of her stood proud, no emotion crossing the Vasparti's face. She opened her mouth to answer him. Her voice, though, got caught in her throat when his attention was broken away from her. It was then that she noticed a few others standing with her. All of which she had seen at the bar.

"My name is Captain Regina Oris, and this is the Nightwing." Blinking at the Captain, Mercia smiled slightly. So she was the Captain of this ship.

"I'd love to go first!" A man shouted from the small crowd. His voice was very, enthusiastic. Looking back, the brunettes eyes found there way to a Fotiss. His voice not quite matching his sophisticated attire.

"Congratulations! You're all hired!" Regina shouted to them. "Sorry for the informality, but we're in a bit of a hurry and I'm going to need as much help as I can get." She pressed a few buttons on her datapad and grimaced at what she saw. "We're in an extreme hurry, actually."

What, just happened? Putting her finger in the air-looking as if to say some unneeded fact- but all that came out was a quiet 'Mmmmm.' Mercia was finding herself at a loss for words around this crew and their Captain. Did she just honestly hire all of us? She thought, fiddling with her vintage bags strap. Was it on a whim? Or was she just des- Looking towards her bag against her side, the brunette gave herself a small dose of fireworks. That didn't matter at the moment for she had left with the Nightwing. With all of her possessions in her room, on that. Stupid. Station. Groaning in exhaustion, she resisted the urge to stomp her foot like a child.

Looking back towards the Captian, the brunette noticed the Fotiss-now known to her as Dia Fora- make a very bad attempt at an introduction. Mercia could not find it in her to give two shits about what was spewing from his mouth. What she wanted to know was why they had just up and left the station. So abruptly that she was sure they could have possibly left someone behind. What kind of ship is this? Shaking her had, she made her way to Regina. Fora's introduction finished. Coming up beside Oris, she finally spoke.

"Captain, if I may ask a question."

Dedrik's filling in for the Captain didn't last long. The first line of recruits seemed a bit on edge, confused or nervous and the man did his best to lessen any tension. When a new presence made itself known on the man's shoulder, he turned just slightly, only to find that it was the Captain.

"Thank you Dedrik." She said. "I will take it from here."

Straightening slightly and giving a brisk salute, the Vasparti nodded. "Aye Captain," he said simply before retreating off to the side. From here Dedrik took silent stock of everyone present, memorizing faces, noting how people held themselves or acted near others; not a detail was missed in the man's analysis. The only thing that bothered him was the way the Captain had so readily accepted the rag-tag group before her, as well as the hasty departure from the station. Making a mental note to gather more information later, he then returned his attention to those trying for their interview. The Fotiss' show was embarrassing to say the least, and the other woman's ended in a less than appeasing display, some sort of reunion with her apparent sister, Saein.

The man was trained for a more professional demeanor in public, and to keep emotions and personal relationships out of his work for the best mission results. That and of course to not take drugs, a piece of the conversation between the two women and the Captain that he'd just caught. Though, considering the current situation, he supposed the precursor wasn't so terrible.

The Captain however, it seemed, was becoming overwhelmed. Dedrik knew it, and he was sure that she was well aware too that there was just too much to do. He nodded silent approval when she finally decided to hand over the reigns to Bond, the engineer.

When the small... child, approached the Captain though, is when Dedrik stepped forward to offer assistance. He knew that Regina had locked him up purposely, and actually found it surprising when he escaped. The duration of which it took him to complete the task wasn't too bad either, but now wasn't the time for admiration over minor details, especially considering the circumstances in which the boy was detained in the first place.

"Captain," he began, "Is there any way I could help in the current situation? Perhaps keeping this miscreant from further trouble?" Nodding to the boy, he was simply doing what he was trained for: to try to fix the most immediate hindrance. Because he knew it wasn't attending to new recruits now, Dedrik found the title belonging to the one person stopping the Captain from proceeding with piloting her ship. Waiting for a response, he'd accept any other duty given to him too, of course.

The captain had directed the prospective hirelings to introduce one another but just as the first one began to speak her voice echoed through the hanger.
"Congratulations! You're all hired!" Regina Interrupted, "Sorry for the informality, but we're in a bit of a hurry and I'm going to need as much help as I can get"
Well that was simple enough he thought as she went off and ordered for the ship to leave dock. Having been a little surprised at the ease with which he had acquired a new job he'd zoned out of the introductions, having just caught the name of the one currently speaking; Dia Fora he believed is what they’d said.
"Okay, everyone, walk and talk please. We are heading to the bridge!"
As the captain hurried off and shouted for the new recruits to follow Valerio had shrugged and thumbs hooked into the front pockets of his jeans wandered with the group, taking in the details of the ship as he did so. The small lass from the pub was busy chittering at the captain again but oddly enough her voice wasn’t as unbearable as it had been earlier. A fact for which Valerio was immensely grateful.
The party continued till they reached an elevator where they met another member of the c- their crew now he supposed, who the captain introduced them too.
"Everyone this is Bond! He's our engineer!" she called out as they got into the elevator for the bridge. As the elevator rose he turned towards the Engineer, and held out his hand to the man, intending to give him a strong warm handshake ”Evenin’ Bond, pleasure to meet ya, the names Valerio Vimes. Mighty fine ship you have here.”

Bond

So he was in charge of the recruits. Well, that beat fixing bullet holes.

Standing taller, he scanned the group, accepting a warm hand from Valerio Vines. Bond chuckled, "Not my ship Valerio," he answered, eyes trailing over to Regina where a shorter guy was speaking with her, Dedrik for some reason stepping in. He didn't worry too much about it though. He had recruits to impress.

Slipping his yellow handled screwdriver from his back pocket, he flipped it once in the air with a grin. "Welcome to the Nightwing. I've been on this crew since our grand voyage began...yesterday." He coughed. "But! I know a thing or two about her already and the food...is sublime. In fact, we should head to the kitchen now. Much better to answer questions around a table of food."

Turning his back, he led the group down the hall a ways, hoping Regina wouldn't mind the relocation. His smile faltered as no one could see. Just hours ago, his crew mates were shot down. What better chance did these recruits have? Or any of them? He had to speak with Regina for specifics on what was actually going on, but not before she got some rest. That girl needed to slow down. She was the Captain after all. She could divvy all the work to others and crash on her own mattress.

Reaching the kitchen, scents of previous meals wafted through the air, but the light was off. Flipping a switch, he squinted in confusion, Minn nowhere to be found.

"Sit tight here, get acquainted, I'll find our lovely cook."

Ducking out of the kitchen, he tried to remember if Minn was rooming with Saein or not...and where Saein said her room was.

Eventually he found Eddie in the hall, blood dripping from his nose and a pale anxiety taking over his face. "You okay?" Bond asked, not liking the sight of blood on this ship anymore. Not that he liked it ever before. Bond's eyes flicked to the door the pilot stood outside of and squinted, realizing this was the room he was looking for. "Minn inside?" he asked, hand on the door handle before receiving an answer.

Pushing the door open, he paused, seeing Minn half wrapped in a sheet, leaning over a small pile of garments and clothes. Her pink back was exposed to him and she turned slightly, eyebrows pulled together in panic. "What are you doing?!" she cried, pulling the sheet higher, all the way up to her chin and slipping to fall backwards onto the low mattress. The sheet fluttered, a momentary view given to Bond, but he only smiled, shaking his head with laughter. Now he understood Eddie's plight.

Facing the pilot, he clapped him on the shoulder. "Don't worry about it," he said and stepped inside the bedroom. "Minn, we have new recruits that need food. Get dressed."

She sat up roughly, puffing out to blow some of her pink strands of hair out of her face. "Get out!"

Bond laughed again, but complied. "Hurry up!"

He closed the door and stood beside Eddie in the hallway. Crossing his arms, and leaning on the wall, he sighed and closed his eyes. "Good choice, Ed." Lifting on eyelid, he grinned toothily.

Moments later, Minn ripped open the door in a flustered manner as she pushed her semi-wet strands of hair back and tugged the waistband of her previous black low rise pants up over the top of red underwear. Bond's eyebrow rose as she passed them, her back shown. His eyes switched to Eddie, eyebrows raised suggestively.

"Welcome to the Nightwing. I've been on this crew since our grand voyage began...yesterday." Bond coughed. "But! I know a thing or two about her already and the food...is sublime. In fact, we should head to the kitchen now. Much better to answer questions around a table of food."

Pausing in her steps, she couldn't help but stare at Bond. The Mechanic already making his way down the hall to the café. The group obediently followed along. Yesterday?, Mercia thought. Jogging to catch up with the crowd, the brunette never stopped thinking. Did he just say, yesterday? Yesterday, this voyage started. They had already gotten attacked. Had men and women killed, and now they were being chased. By who? Who would do such a thing like start a war with Star Fleet? Are they stupid or something? What did this ship do to upset someone to that length? Or were they just at the wrong place, at the wrong time? Putting her hand to her head in frustration when they stopped in the kitchen, all the brunette wanted to do now is sleep. Her face was contorted in a sort of angry confusion that made her radiate a very unfriendly vibe. Her whole body tense.

"This is just one giant cluster fuck of confusion." Mercia muttered to herself, staring at the door the engineer had exited through. Maybe she should just sit and wait.

With a now growing headache, the blue eyed woman plopped down in a seat. It's sleek design holding not an ounce of warmth. Mercia didn't care at this point in time. She wanted, needed answers. How was she to help at all if she knew nothing? Not a single thing had been explained to her and it made her want to pull her hair out. Grumbling something along the lines of 'Damn ship...', she plunked her head against the cool surface of the table.

Austin continued his work in solitude, other then the occasional help from MAK. He began looking around for any information concerning the Nightwing's crew. He looked in the Intergalactic Counsels records. He really would like to wipe them from every system entirely, but that was far to much work to make just one person disappear. He had to constantly clear his own information from any database. It had taken him decades to disappear completely, and keeping on it was already annoying. Doing the same thing for the entire crew would be nearly impossible. Sure he could write a program, but it was impossible for the program to look everywhere. He had to look manually for a lot of the information he deleted about himself.

He decided the Intergalactic Counsel records would have to do. He prepared to clear everyone's names. But he had to make some quick preparations first. He quickly made some blind transfers and transactions of everybody's belongings. That way they wouldn't be traced back. He then put them all under one of his many account's under an assumed name. He made sure to use a few accounts to draw less suspicion. Not that any of that mattered much considering they were all off the record. He then made fake identity for the crew, and put everyone's belongings under new names. He opened up his backpack to check. He had a large amount of blank money cards and identification cards. He needed to get every body a new ID and such.

He unhooked from MAK, deciding to make the alterations he had decided on later. He searched the ship for a scanner, and promptly went to it. He pulled out all the cards he needed, a good stack of each type, and went to work authorizing them all. He hooked up all of the money cards to his private account, which held very large amounts of funds. He decided he was going to stick around for a while, and that this might help everyone out.

After the long process was complete, Austin sent another message to Regina.

It's Austin. I've taken some steps to hide the crew of the Nightwing. But I need to speak to the entire crew in person. Could you arrange this for me please? I'm unsure if they will listen to me. Also I've got a present for everybody. I'm sure it is something you will all enjoy.

OOC: I just tagged as many people as I could. This pretty much involves the whole crew.

Specialized boots with powerful electro-magnets positioned within the hard rubber soles. Dedrik was thankful for them, and the fact that his staff could also grasp onto the nearest metal object helped too, as though the man could stand firm, three points of contact to hold worked much better than two.

By the time the jumps were complete and everything had settled, the man disengaged his equipment, allowing him to once more begin movement around the ship. It seemed not everyone had the luck of having in their possession such luxuries, but Dedrik was thankful that his race equipped their warriors with anything that would ensure mission success; their ultimate goal was a weapon that could do anything, and that could be useful in every situation possible, leaving no room for failure. Even the Vasparti's staff itself was extremely versatile, magnetic systems being only a fraction of the weapon's functionality, though rarely did he use it for much else than what it's exterior states it would be used for.

Nevertheless, the man busied himself with helping whomever needed it. Because the suddenness of everything had obviously caught everyone by surprise, Dedrik found himself surrounded by floor-bound crew members, sprawled out and laying anywhere except within the safety chairs. He didn't blame them though, if he'd of been able to get to one he may have strapped in, no matter how much he detested the devices.

The Robot Tom seemed to be doing a fair job of helping as well, and it seemed nobody was in a critical state, most everyone at least up and walking. When the order for the crew to report to the hangar came through and after the doctor appeared, Dedrik felt it was safe to say the situation was under control here, and so he could leave. Everyone else would probably find their way there shortly, but the man himself felt it necessary to be there immediately.

Down the halls was when the Dedrik ran into the wanderer; almost quite literally too, as he rounded a corner fairly quickly. She had a few bruises, and as the man looked her over, searching for a name in his mind, the thought also occurred to him on how she managed to break so far from the main group. Just from the look about her, he could tell she was lost, and from the way she held herself he could also gather enough to at least assume she was a strong-type of woman, like the Captain, with probably too much pride to admit to the fact that was so obvious. He'd seen her before of course, and it was now he remembered that he truly never got a name. The Captain had taken charge and so readily accepted everyone, then of the few that did give a brief display, this woman hadn't been one of them.

With the entirety of all that having passed through his mind in a matter of a second, Dedrik cleared his throat, nodding in respect before straightening again. "Apologies, ma'am." he said simply. "If I may be so bold as to make an assumption, you seem lost... Is this correct?"

He was trained to help whomever was in need of it, and to be friendly, but for some reason when he tried a smile, it didn't work. Sighing mentally, instead he simply reapplied his stoic expression, or lack of.

Stopping in her tracks, the blue eyed strategist stared at the male who had stepped in front of her so suddenly. He was a Vasparti. A species Mercia wasn't used to seeing on a day-to-day basis. He was also quite tall, almost a full six inches taller than herself.

Looking over the other worldly being-to Mercia at least-the brunette gave him a small crooked smile. Almost s if her lips weren't used to the simple task. She recognized him as the first encountered on the ship. The blue eyed woman also remembered how she hadn't even been able to say a syllable to him, let alone anyone else for that matter. Tilting her head, the brunette let her smile dwindle slightly. Thinking of which, she hadn't said more than a single sentence to someone other than h erself.

"Apologies, ma'am." He spoke, his voice startling her out of whatever abyss she was in. "If I may be so bold as to make an assumption, you seem lost... Is this correct?"

Mercia took a small intake of breath. A light shade of crimson made her face glow in the lighting. A small amount of shame and embarassment twisted in her chest, but was quickly diminished when she took a glance at the Vasparti. Putting on her best innocent face, the strategist 'leisurely' answered.

"No! Um, no.. I was just trying to get acquainted with the ship...." Mercias voice grew weaker as she spoke. Shoulders slumping in defeat, she hung her head. She found herself fiddling with her bags strap. Meeting his stoic gaze, the brunette felt a bit ashamed she had tried to lie about something so trivial.

"Okay, yes. I'm lost. I'm absolutely and completely lost..." Giving a nervous laugh, she continued. Why not use this to her advantage? Maybe she could get some answers out of this. "Could you help me?"

Dedrik watched as the woman contemplated his words, her face growing suddenly red. The man himself remained untouched by his emotions, though right now if anything, he was simply feeling sympathy towards the brunette and her current predicament. It took a moment, but finally she composed herself enough to fabricate an answer, and though it employed a look that otherwise said she had no idea what he was talking about, the man could see through the rouse quite clearly.

"No! Um, no.. I was just trying to get acquainted with the ship...."

The man simply shook his head at her words, letting out a huff of exasperation from the corner of his mouth. The action spoke more words than he could’ve, almost being as if he were offended at the fact that she’d even consider lying to him. Albeit he wasn’t a specialist in interrogation or anything that would otherwise grant him the ability to detect such subterfuge, but nevertheless, the way the strong, defensive statement turned so quickly into a quiet voice of trailing defeat was all the proof he required. Without even speaking, he simply kept his gaze on her, watching as her fingers worked the strap of her bag, her eyes then drifting up to meet his. With that, the man knew that the next answer would be the truth.

"Okay, yes. I'm lost. I'm absolutely and completely lost. Could you help me?"

Nodding with approval, Dedrik now spoke. “Of course, ma’am.” he said simply. It was mandatory for him to aid whoever was in need of it, and either way, he enjoyed doing such. With that in mind, the man gave a short bow, being that he came forward just enough so that she knew what he was doing. The action was customary amongst his kind, and it was a way of acknowledging someone superior. Not always in the sense that they commanded them, but in the way that said they would do all they could to help. Of course not many knew of the fact, and so most found the gesture rather strange, especially when in the military a salute was usually given, and so Dedrik clarified with his next statement.

“I am at your service. With what would require my help?”

"Of course, ma’am.” The Vasparti said, bowing slightly to the brunette. “I am at your service. With what would require my help?”

Mercia wasn't used to the gesture, her mind working a way to tell him it wasn't needed but trying not to insult him. She blinked a few times at him. Her mind still thinking of his overly formal tone. The brunette shook her head, a small nervous smile gracing her lips. She figured sticking to the truth was her only option. "Please don't do that. I don't like feeling above everyone else. Especially someone I'm going to be working with..."

Shifting from foot-to-foot, Mercia gestured around the hall. A few stragglers making there way to different destinations- once again carrying tools need for maintenance. This was the second time that she saw the ship and her crew in a disarray. She didn't like it one bit. It reminded her to much of the station she was on just hours ago. She even remembered the gory details of a certain ship in her first year there. Withholding a shudder of disgust, she looked around the hall once again. Her blue eyes landed on a rushing crewmen. Following an exhausted looking crewmen with her eyes, her expression hardened. An expression of complete sobriety and slight agitation crossing her bruised face. Yet, the only thing she could think of was 'What can I do to help?'.

"I have a few-a lot- of questions on the workings of the ship and the events that have taken place. But first, let me introduce myself." Holding out her hand for him to shake, Mercia's lips once again quirked into a crooked smile. This time 'round, it held a solemn undertone. "I'm Mercia Lamora, pleased to meet you."

"Please don't do that. I don't like feeling above everyone else. Especially someone I'm going to be working with..."

Dedrik nodded, understanding as to how the woman felt currently. "Apologies." he offered simply. He stood waiting, watching the woman dance from one foot, her gaze locked onto the crew around them as they were left attending to whatever it is that had to do. Patiently Dedrik remained, silent, until finally she spoke again, though this time with a certain amount of confidence, a sort of restoration or new purpose, new resolve forming within the woman.

"I have a few-a lot- of questions on the workings of the ship and the events that have taken place. But first, let me introduce myself. I'm Mercia Lamora, pleased to meet you."

Dedrik accepted the shake, taking her hand in his firm grip, the same one used to murder countless training dummies, as well as other real creatures or beings. But that last part wasn't anything too important. "Dedrik," he said. "Dedrik Vals."

With that he let go, returning his hand to the same position at his side, though maintaining an at-ease pose. Pleasantries aside, the man never enjoyed wasting time on frivolous conversation, so he cut directly to it. "My own mission briefing explained a general overview of the Captain's goals in this endeavor, one that didn't tell me much. I myself, and those others from the IDA are here as a military presence and defense should we ever encounter the need for such.. Otherwise intentions are to hopefully to discern the location of the mission human homeworld. I don't know too much else, other than what you may already know as far as the Intergalactic Council sending their guards after the ship. Reasons unknown to myself, and I had been hoping to speak with the Captain about such matters, though it seems it would have to wait."

The man stopped to allow the woman time to take in his words and comprehend them, then he continued, going on about whatever else he may have missed before finally finishing. "As far as the events that have transpired here, that's all I know. I realize you probably have more questions, and I will be more than happy to answer anything else if I can." With that, Dedrik once more fell silent, waiting.

As Maria's magic 'show' came to an end, Tom stood and stretched. Not that metal is at all stretchy, but it was more for the sake of body language than anything. He was tired. Having cut short his earlier nap in order to get some food, he decided to go back to bed. He began the walk back to the barracks fairly slowly, not wasting too much energy. Come to think of it, he was running low on energy a lot quicker than usual. Perhaps it was something to do with the way Regina had repaired him.

He sighed and trudged along a little farther, and was just turning the corner into the corridor leading to the barracks when he noticed he was feeling a little warmer than usual... wait, not warm. Hot.

Tom ran a few feet up the corridor and realized he was getting colder, so he turned around and headed towards the front of the ship. The heat gained intensity the further he went, and he heard a dull whine ignite in his back as his cooling system kicked in. Something was terribly wrong.

Eventually reaching the cockpit, he was confronted with a blinding light, rendering the entire room invisible. Damn these modern designers and their obsession with chrome. He stumbled towards the driver's seat, and finding no-one in it, shouted to MAK for help.

"MAK! What is going on?"

No answer.

"MAK? Answer! MAK? ... MAK?!"

It was then that the truth of the situation dawned on him. The searing light from the cockpit window, a thought previously pushed to the back of his mind, made itself known again as he squinted through the glass. He was able to shut out just enough light to confirm his suspicions. A blazing white ball appeared in the centre of his vision, no larger than a football held at arm's length.

They were travelling towards a supernova.

This, Tom reasoned, must be the only explanation for the lack of warning or change of course, and the intense radiation from the blast must have shorted out MAK, along with the on-board cooling systems. He was rather surprised he was still functioning himself.

He spun round, looking for some control to turn the ship around. In doing so, he noticed Dedrik, who had succumbed to the heat and passed out on the spot. He ran over and picked up the limp Vasparti, hurriedly carrying him away from the bridge and down the corridor to the elevator, where it was cooler. He wasn't able to remotely send him down to the medical bay, but this would have to do for now.

Running back to the cockpit, he dropped into the pilot's seat.

"Now. Let's see here..."

Tom found the main control joystick and gripped it firmly. There was no time to lose. The ship's hull would be melting any time soon.