Season 16: Episode 2: A Night at the Opera

[Rayek trLhoell]

Commander Rayek tr'Lhoell
[USS Discovery - Deck Three - Personal Quarters >> turbolift]

As Rayek left his quarters and made his way to the shuttlebay, he played back on his PADD the encounter with the humanoid looking hologram that had welcomed them to Erewhon.  Obviously the name of the planet below since from the scans of the orbiting station there was no 'state-of-the-art' facility on it.

"Anyone else disturbed by how she knew who we were?"

Hearing Malik's commentary on the audio immediately afterwards, Rayek had to agree it was disturbing - Especially given how easily the ship's computer had been scanned without triggering any of the usual security protocols.  This sort of thing was what every Sec/Tac officer dreaded.  If these people had the ability to read Discovery's computer files without authorization, what kept them from taking control of the ship?

The Romulun brooded in thought still listening to the recording as he descended to Deck Ten on the turbolift.

{USS Discovery|Bridge}

She opened her mouth to retort that there were better places to explore-an entire (mostly) uncharted quadrant ahead, for example, but thought better of it.

"Right. My apologies," she said, and went back to work. One of these days, these people would learn to trust her gut, but today was apparently not that day. She prepped the systems to monitor the away team, glad for once to stay behind.

"Systems are holding steady," she said.

Wait a second.... Lorut apologized?!  He'd been too preoccupied with planning the Away Mission that he'd missed it earlier.  While it seemed out of character for the normally argumentative Bajoran, the fact that she had not argued showed that Vila was learning to follow orders and respect chain of command.  Rayek smiled, pleased with the woman's progress.  Her counseling seemed like it was working.
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[USS Discovery - Deck 10 - Shuttlebay >> Shuttle Allegheny]

[Bridge > Shuttlebay]

Malik stood and made his way to the turbolift, passing Graham on the way. "Helm is yours, Mr Graham."

Once in the shuttlebay, Malik made his way to the trusty Allegheny, their Danube Class runabout. It has proven itself time and time again to be a reliable transport. The Risan began the pre-flight sequence as he waited for the rest of the away team to arrive.

Arriving in the shuttlebay, the Romulan found the runabout already being prepped.  Rayek nodded his approval to Malik, before moving to the shuttle's entryway.  Inside, he found a majority of the Away Team already present.  He greeted each member as he made his way to the co-pilot seat.

[Main Engineering - USS Discovery]

He then exited Engineering and headed for the turbolift.

Rayek nodded to Lek, glad to see that the Chief Engineer had not pawned off the task to a junior officer; though Lek did not look at all pleased to be there - but then that was expected.  "I'm glad you are with us on this one, Commander." he commented as he moved past towards the front.

[Ensign Lilly Hansen | Sec/Tac Officer | Shuttlebay | USS Discovery]

As Hansen stepped into the shuttle, she felt the anticipation of an imminent away team mission building within her. She didn't know the specifics yet, but she trusted that the Lieutenant would provide all the necessary details.

"Lt, I am here as asked, Whats our Mission"

No sooner had he sat, than he overheard Hansen's comment to Lieutenant Lachlyn.

"Ensign," he interrupted, "I can answer that."

He turned in the co-pilot seat to address the team. "This is a First Contact mission.  Our purpose is to represent the Federation and Starfleet to the best of our ability while learning what we can about the Erewhon people, who have invited us to rest and relax in their state-of-the-art-facility.  We will be discreetly assessing their level of technology, social development and potential threat.  Any questions?"

[Dem Broadshire]

Commander Rayek tr'Lhoell
[USS Discovery - Deck Three - Personal Quarters >> turbolift]
As Rayek left his quarters and made his way to the shuttlebay, he played back on his PADD the encounter with the humanoid looking hologram that had welcomed them to Erewhon.  Obviously the name of the planet below since from the scans of the orbiting station there was no 'state-of-the-art' facility on it.
Hearing Malik's commentary on the audio immediately afterwards, Rayek had to agree it was disturbing - Especially given how easily the ship's computer had been scanned without triggering any of the usual security protocols.  This sort of thing was what every Sec/Tac officer dreaded.  If these people had the ability to read Discovery's computer files without authorization, what kept them from taking control of the ship?
The Romulun brooded in thought still listening to the recording as he descended to Deck Ten on the turbolift.
Wait a second.... Lorut apologized?!  He'd been too preoccupied with planning the Away Mission that he'd missed it earlier.  While it seemed out of character for the normally argumentative Bajoran, the fact that she had not argued showed that Vila was learning to follow orders and respect chain of command.  Rayek smiled, pleased with the woman's progress.  Her counseling seemed like it was working.
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[USS Discovery - Deck 10 - Shuttlebay >> Shuttle Allegheny]
Arriving in the shuttlebay, the Romulan found the runabout already being prepped.  Rayek nodded his approval to Malik, before moving to the shuttle's entryway.  Inside, he found a majority of the Away Team already present.  He greeted each member as he made his way to the co-pilot seat.
Rayek nodded to Lek, glad to see that the Chief Engineer had not pawned off the task to a junior officer; though Lek did not look at all pleased to be there - but then that was expected.  "I'm glad you are with us on this one, Commander." he commented as he moved past towards the front.
No sooner had he sat, than he overheard Hansen's comment to Lieutenant Lachlyn.
"Ensign," he interrupted, "I can answer that."
He turned in the co-pilot seat to address the team. "This is a First Contact mission.  Our purpose is to represent the Federation and Starfleet to the best of our ability while learning what we can about the Erewhon people, who have invited us to rest and relax in their state-of-the-art-facility.  We will be discreetly assessing their level of technology, social development and potential threat.  Any questions?"

[Shuttle Bay (USS Allegheny) | USS Discovery]

Dem, fashionably late, ran onto the shuttle, sitting down at the back as quiet as possible. It had been established hierarchy that Betaika was in command of the sickbay the entire time, leaving Dem as the most senior officer to run "errands". While glancing down and checking the contents of his hip mounted med kit (he presumed a full kit would be too presumptuous for the type of mission), he overheard Rayek outlining the parameters of the mission. He smiled to himself as he found a likeness to his very first mission on board. What should have been relaxing shore leave had he not discovered an Orion pirate plot.

[Lek]

Commander Rayek tr'Lhoell

[USS Discovery - Deck 10 - Shuttlebay >> Shuttle Allegheny]

Arriving in the shuttlebay, the Romulan found the runabout already being prepped.  Rayek nodded his approval to Malik, before moving to the shuttle's entryway.  Inside, he found a majority of the Away Team already present.  He greeted each member as he made his way to the co-pilot seat.

Rayek nodded to Lek, glad to see that the Chief Engineer had not pawned off the task to a junior officer; though Lek did not look at all pleased to be there - but then that was expected.  "I'm glad you are with us on this one, Commander." he commented as he moved past towards the front.

[Runabout - USS Allegheny]

Lek stored his tool kit and engineering tricorder before settling in on the Allegheny. It had been months since he'd been aboard the runabout and he felt oddly out of place. When Rayek spoke, Lek's reply was short.

"It was my turn in the rotation."

He then busied himself with his PADD looking at M'Nia's progress on the malfunctioning plasma manifold.

[Tekin Nevir]

[USS Discovery - Deck 1 - Main Bridge]

The Captain watched as the Commander and his selected bridge crew left the bridge to head to the shuttlebay.  In the meantime, the backup bridge took their station.  It took a few minutes after they left before the ship got another hail from the station.

"On screen." he stated, before he honestly regretted it.  It was the same recording, or at least mostly the same recording.  The message ended with assurances that the facilities will be available should the ship choose to dock, and then said there will be no more interruptions.

"Bridge to Shuttlecraft.  You are cleared to depart.  You're orders are to investigate and see what kind of threat the station is, or if it is a genuine welcome.  Discovery will continue to stand by."                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        

[Malik Grippen]

[USS Discovery - Deck 1 - Main Bridge]

The Captain watched as the Commander and his selected bridge crew left the bridge to head to the shuttlebay.  In the meantime, the backup bridge took their station.  It took a few minutes after they left before the ship got another hail from the station.

"On screen." he stated, before he honestly regretted it.  It was the same recording, or at least mostly the same recording.  The message ended with assurances that the facilities will be available should the ship choose to dock, and then said there will be no more interruptions.

"Bridge to Shuttlecraft.  You are cleared to depart.  You're orders are to investigate and see what kind of threat the station is, or if it is a genuine welcome.  Discovery will continue to stand by."

[Runabout > Station]

"No questions from me, Commander."

With launch clearance, Malik powered up the engines and piloted the runabout out into space. The journey to the station only lasted a couple of minutes. A small docking bay opened up for them, with navigation lights guiding the way. Malik brought them in for a smooth textbook landing in a small hanger bay designed for shuttles.

"And we have arrived. Atmosphere and contaminant readings are...normal."

"Allegheny to Discovery. We have arrived safely. Proceeding with mission."

[Rayek trLhoell]

Commander Rayek tr'Lhoell
[Shuttle Allegheny]

After ensuring the shuttle had all its' assigned members aboard, Rayek had Malik call the Bridge for permission to launch.

[USS Discovery - Deck 1 - Main Bridge]

The Captain watched as the Commander and his selected bridge crew left the bridge to head to the shuttlebay.  In the meantime, the backup bridge took their station.  It took a few minutes after they left before the ship got another hail from the station.

"On screen." he stated, before he honestly regretted it.  It was the same recording, or at least mostly the same recording.  The message ended with assurances that the facilities will be available should the ship choose to dock, and then said there will be no more interruptions.

"Bridge to Shuttlecraft.  You are cleared to depart.  You're orders are to investigate and see what kind of threat the station is, or if it is a genuine welcome.  Discovery will continue to stand by."                    

"Understood, Captain." Rayek acknowledged.
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[Runabout > Station]

"No questions from me, Commander."

With launch clearance, Malik powered up the engines and piloted the runabout out into space. The journey to the station only lasted a couple of minutes. A small docking bay opened up for them, with navigation lights guiding the way. Malik brought them in for a smooth textbook landing in a small hanger bay designed for shuttles.

"And we have arrived. Atmosphere and contaminant readings are...normal."

"Allegheny to Discovery. We have arrived safely. Proceeding with mission."

With the Captain's permission given, the shuttlebay doors opened and Rayek assisted the skilled Risan pilot in the departure process.

Over on the station, the docking port suitable for the USS Discovery remained, but adjacent to that port, the station rearranged itself to create a small shuttleport.  Guidance lights lit up around the opening - obviously a gesture that this was the entrance to use.

The flight over took less than 5 minutes and despite Rayek's close study of the station during the trip, he could find no sign of any weapon array on it.  Mind you prior to their launch, the station hadn't had a shuttleport either.  The suspicious Romulan wondered if pressed to defend itself if the station could create a energy-weapons array just as easily?
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.

[Station above Verallias II]
Once landed, Rayek led the Away Team out of the shuttle and into a large hall with several unmanned booths located between them and what appeared to be some manner of quantum-transport platform.

With a slight chin-nod towards Ramort and then towards the alien platform, Rayek gestured for the man to take discreet scans of the tech.  Meanwhile, he looked around for any sign of a greeter.

No sooner had he started to look about than the same holographic woman from the ship appeared here on the station.

"Welcome Commander tr'Lhoell and welcome to your Away Team.  You stand on the Gateway to Erewhon, where your fantasy becomes reality. In acknowledgement of your society's lack of monetary system, we are waiving the usual entrance fee.  Please head straight on through to the teleporter which will bring you down to the planet."

The hologram gestured for Rayek and the others with him to walk past the entrance booths and over towards the teleporter pad.

[Lek]

Commander Rayek tr'Lhoell
[Shuttle Allegheny]

[Station above Verallias II]
Once landed, Rayek led the Away Team out of the shuttle and into a large hall with several unmanned booths located between them and what appeared to be some manner of quantum-transport platform.

With a slight chin-nod towards Ramort and then towards the alien platform, Rayek gestured for the man to take discreet scans of the tech.  Meanwhile, he looked around for any sign of a greeter.

No sooner had he started to look about than the same holographic woman from the ship appeared here on the station.

"Welcome Commander tr'Lhoell and welcome to your Away Team.  You stand on the Gateway to Erewhon, where your fantasy becomes reality. In acknowledgement of your society's lack of monetary system, we are waiving the usual entrance fee.  Please head straight on through to the teleporter which will bring you down to the planet."

The hologram gestured for Rayek and the others with him to walk past the entrance booths and over towards the teleporter pad.

[USS Allegheny - Aboard unknown station]

As soon as the hologram said it was waving the entrance fee, Lek became suspicious. If they normally charged for their services and were willing to go without their normal payment, that implied they would expect a different means of payment later. Rather like a casino might give a high roller customer a complementary room to gain that client's business, but with the understanding the customer would spend an expected amount at the casino's gambling tables. It was a well established means of business, so this had Lek wondering what this place was expecting from them during their stay.

"No, I don't like this one little bit."

He thought as he followed the others, his senses on high alert for trouble.

[Lorut Vila]

[USS Discovery|Bridge]

When the Comms came from the Allegheny that they had successfully docked, Vila brought them up for the Captain to hear.

"Sir, Grippen on Comms," she said, pressing a button.

Allegheny to Discovery. We have arrived safely. Proceeding with mission.

She clicked the Comms off, and sighed. She should be there, but...maybe it was for the better. A teaching moment for the others-hopefully they'd picked up some battle skills, and were prepared. HOPEFULLY, of course, it was as the others thought-just a First Contact situation, but Vila was always on edge. You could take the girl out of the Occupation, but never the Occupation out of the lady.

"Any orders?" She asked, drumming her toes against the bulkhead in front of her. 

[Malik Grippen]

[Station above Verallias II]
Once landed, Rayek led the Away Team out of the shuttle and into a large hall with several unmanned booths located between them and what appeared to be some manner of quantum-transport platform.

With a slight chin-nod towards Ramort and then towards the alien platform, Rayek gestured for the man to take discreet scans of the tech.  Meanwhile, he looked around for any sign of a greeter.

No sooner had he started to look about than the same holographic woman from the ship appeared here on the station.

"Welcome Commander tr'Lhoell and welcome to your Away Team.  You stand on the Gateway to Erewhon, where your fantasy becomes reality. In acknowledgement of your society's lack of monetary system, we are waiving the usual entrance fee.  Please head straight on through to the teleporter which will bring you down to the planet."

The hologram gestured for Rayek and the others with him to walk past the entrance booths and over towards the teleporter pad.

[Station above Verallias II]

Erewhon? Malik had never heard of it yet it had set itself up to be a popular tourist destination. It all seemed a bit suspicious, especially since they were the only guests. Malik shared Lek's wariness.

He spoke to the hologram greeter, "What can we expect to find down on the planet? And where's all the other guests, you don't seem to be doing much business..."

On Risa, as soon as guests arrived they were given flower necklaces and mai-tai's. This place would definitely be getting a 1 star review.

[Miri]

[USS Discover | Deck 1 | Bridge]

[...]

They were now leaving the ship.

Entering the turbolift she tapped her combadge Lachlyn to Ensign Hansen and Crewman Edriron. Meet me in the Shuttlebay. I'll give you the details of the mission when we're together.

[Bridge > Shuttlebay]

Ticking off a few items for the trip, Tanner waited quietly for her team. Nervously she rolled her shoulders and worked to focus on the PADD in her hand.

[USS Discover|Shuttlebay > Shuttle Allegheny]

Boots on the ground. That was one of the humans archaic, pointless saying. Where else could be the boots? Unless they were magnetic, they were supposed to be on the ground. And yet, it stuck to Miraj for whatever reason when she received her orders to get to the shuttle bay.
It took her a while because the turbo lift was packed with other people, each wanting to get out at the different floor of the ship. Finally, when she arrived, it seemed like she was late. One of the last ones to arrive.
She stayed silent during the short briefing, still somewhat ashamed of arriving late. The mission at hand could be easy, could be hard, there were too many unknowns at that moment for her to decide on the method of approach. Setting the phaser to stun, she followed to protocol and observed in silence.

[Shuttle Allegheny > Station above Verallias II]

She followed Rayek out of the shuttle and only slightly got startled by the hologram. Despite years spent away from her primitive home, she still couldn't get used to those. Miraj heard someone saying that they don't like this situation, and she agreed by nodding. For all the knew, they could be walking into a trap. Their away team was too small to deal with any real threat. However, she was already there, following her commander. Trusting his judgement.

[Dem Broadshire]

Commander Rayek tr'Lhoell
[Shuttle Allegheny]

After ensuring the shuttle had all its' assigned members aboard, Rayek had Malik call the Bridge for permission to launch.

"Understood, Captain." Rayek acknowledged.
.
.
With the Captain's permission given, the shuttlebay doors opened and Rayek assisted the skilled Risan pilot in the departure process.

Over on the station, the docking port suitable for the USS Discovery remained, but adjacent to that port, the station rearranged itself to create a small shuttleport.  Guidance lights lit up around the opening - obviously a gesture that this was the entrance to use.

The flight over took less than 5 minutes and despite Rayek's close study of the station during the trip, he could find no sign of any weapon array on it.  Mind you prior to their launch, the station hadn't had a shuttleport either.  The suspicious Romulan wondered if pressed to defend itself if the station could create a energy-weapons array just as easily?
.
.

[Station above Verallias II]
Once landed, Rayek led the Away Team out of the shuttle and into a large hall with several unmanned booths located between them and what appeared to be some manner of quantum-transport platform.

With a slight chin-nod towards Ramort and then towards the alien platform, Rayek gestured for the man to take discreet scans of the tech.  Meanwhile, he looked around for any sign of a greeter.

No sooner had he started to look about than the same holographic woman from the ship appeared here on the station.

"Welcome Commander tr'Lhoell and welcome to your Away Team.  You stand on the Gateway to Erewhon, where your fantasy becomes reality. In acknowledgement of your society's lack of monetary system, we are waiving the usual entrance fee.  Please head straight on through to the teleporter which will bring you down to the planet."

The hologram gestured for Rayek and the others with him to walk past the entrance booths and over towards the teleporter pad.

[Station Above Verallias II]

Dem was in his usual state of complete unrest. Barely a few hours ago he had resigned from being second officer onboard, and now he was on an away mission to a completely foreign and the dangerous situation he could possibly think of. While he relished in the freedom of his shore leave, after taking his six month (mental) break (down), this was the last thing he wanted to do.

Something like trying to find the cure for the common cold would be a lot better.

[Lilly Hansen]

Commander Rayek tr'Lhoell
[USS Discovery - Deck Three - Personal Quarters >> turbolift]

As Rayek left his quarters and made his way to the shuttlebay, he played back on his PADD the encounter with the humanoid looking hologram that had welcomed them to Erewhon.  Obviously the name of the planet below since from the scans of the orbiting station there was no 'state-of-the-art' facility on it.

Hearing Malik's commentary on the audio immediately afterwards, Rayek had to agree it was disturbing - Especially given how easily the ship's computer had been scanned without triggering any of the usual security protocols.  This sort of thing was what every Sec/Tac officer dreaded.  If these people had the ability to read Discovery's computer files without authorization, what kept them from taking control of the ship?

The Romulun brooded in thought still listening to the recording as he descended to Deck Ten on the turbolift.

Wait a second.... Lorut apologized?!  He'd been too preoccupied with planning the Away Mission that he'd missed it earlier.  While it seemed out of character for the normally argumentative Bajoran, the fact that she had not argued showed that Vila was learning to follow orders and respect chain of command.  Rayek smiled, pleased with the woman's progress.  Her counseling seemed like it was working.
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[USS Discovery - Deck 10 - Shuttlebay >> Shuttle Allegheny]

Arriving in the shuttlebay, the Romulan found the runabout already being prepped.  Rayek nodded his approval to Malik, before moving to the shuttle's entryway.  Inside, he found a majority of the Away Team already present.  He greeted each member as he made his way to the co-pilot seat.

Rayek nodded to Lek, glad to see that the Chief Engineer had not pawned off the task to a junior officer; though Lek did not look at all pleased to be there - but then that was expected.  "I'm glad you are with us on this one, Commander." he commented as he moved past towards the front.

No sooner had he sat, than he overheard Hansen's comment to Lieutenant Lachlyn.

"Ensign," he interrupted, "I can answer that."

He turned in the co-pilot seat to address the team. "This is a First Contact mission.  Our purpose is to represent the Federation and Starfleet to the best of our ability while learning what we can about the Erewhon people, who have invited us to rest and relax in their state-of-the-art-facility.  We will be discreetly assessing their level of technology, social development and potential threat.  Any questions?"

Commander Rayek tr'Lhoell
[Shuttle Allegheny]

After ensuring the shuttle had all its' assigned members aboard, Rayek had Malik call the Bridge for permission to launch.

"Understood, Captain." Rayek acknowledged.
.
.
With the Captain's permission given, the shuttlebay doors opened and Rayek assisted the skilled Risan pilot in the departure process.

Over on the station, the docking port suitable for the USS Discovery remained, but adjacent to that port, the station rearranged itself to create a small shuttleport.  Guidance lights lit up around the opening - obviously a gesture that this was the entrance to use.

The flight over took less than 5 minutes and despite Rayek's close study of the station during the trip, he could find no sign of any weapon array on it.  Mind you prior to their launch, the station hadn't had a shuttleport either.  The suspicious Romulan wondered if pressed to defend itself if the station could create a energy-weapons array just as easily?
.
.

[Station above Verallias II]
Once landed, Rayek led the Away Team out of the shuttle and into a large hall with several unmanned booths located between them and what appeared to be some manner of quantum-transport platform.

With a slight chin-nod towards Ramort and then towards the alien platform, Rayek gestured for the man to take discreet scans of the tech.  Meanwhile, he looked around for any sign of a greeter.

No sooner had he started to look about than the same holographic woman from the ship appeared here on the station.

"Welcome Commander tr'Lhoell and welcome to your Away Team.  You stand on the Gateway to Erewhon, where your fantasy becomes reality. In acknowledgement of your society's lack of monetary system, we are waiving the usual entrance fee.  Please head straight on through to the teleporter which will bring you down to the planet."

The hologram gestured for Rayek and the others with him to walk past the entrance booths and over towards the teleporter pad.

[Ensign Lilly Hansen - Station above Verallias II]

{BEFORE}

"Commander, if I might add something. While our primary objective is to assess the Erewhon people and their level of technology and potential threat, I think it's also crucial we remain vigilant for any unusual or covert activities. The fact that we were able to be scanned without triggering standard security protocols raises a red flag. It could be indicative of more sophisticated technology or intelligence capabilities that we need to consider."

{NOW}

Lilly took a moment to glance around the shuttle, noting the diverse range of team members preparing for the mission. As the shuttle touched down and they approached the teleporter pad, she kept a watchful eye on the surroundings, ready for any sign of unexpected developments.

"Alright, team, let's keep our eyes and ears open as we step through the teleporter. We should observe any potential changes or reactions from the environment, and remember to document everything. Stay sharp and ready for anything."

As the holographic greeter appeared, Lilly noted the lack of physical presence from the Erewhon people and the seemingly seamless transition from the station to the planet. Her instincts told her that there was more beneath the surface of this seemingly idyllic welcome.

"Keep in mind that appearances can be deceiving. We are dealing with a civilization that may have advanced technological and intelligence capabilities. Let's remain cautious but open-minded as we proceed." Lilly whispered to Rayek and Tanner.

Lilly's focus shifted between the platform and the team, prepared to take immediate action if necessary while ensuring that they maintained the guise of a friendly Federation delegation.

[Tanner Lachlyn]

[Station above Verallias II]

"Welcome Commander tr'Lhoell and welcome to your Away Team.  You stand on the Gateway to Erewhon, where your fantasy becomes reality. In acknowledgement of your society's lack of monetary system, we are waiving the usual entrance fee.  Please head straight on through to the teleporter which will bring you down to the planet."

Free of charge? Nobody gives anything away free. Not without a reason. Tanner's brow lifted and she glanced at Rayek briefly. That was a red flag.

She had every intention of speaking to her team before they stepped food on the transporter but Lilly perked up and beat her too it. Eyeing the woman she held her tongue briefly and listened to what she had to offer. Opting to not jump to the defensive. Especially not with the new Crewman there.

"Alright, team, let's keep our eyes and ears open as we step through the teleporter. We should observe any potential changes or reactions from the environment, and remember to document everything. Stay sharp and ready for anything."

"Keep in mind that appearances can be deceiving. We are dealing with a civilization that may have advanced technological and intelligence capabilities. Let's remain cautious but open-minded as we proceed." Lilly whispered to Rayek and Tanner.

Tanner glanced at Lilly and nodded, her eyes moving to Edriron with a smile, "At the same time we're there guests, so keep a smile along with the watchful eye."

Turning to Rayek she smoke, "Sir, are your ready to go?"

[Rayek trLhoell]

Commander Rayek tr'Lhoell
[Shuttle Allegheny]

[Ensign Lilly Hansen - Shuttle]

{BEFORE}

"Commander, if I might add something. While our primary objective is to assess the Erewhon people and their level of technology and potential threat, I think it's also crucial we remain vigilant for any unusual or covert activities. The fact that we were able to be scanned without triggering standard security protocols raises a red flag. It could be indicative of more sophisticated technology or intelligence capabilities that we need to consider."

Rayek raised a sloped eyebrow imperceptibly at Ensign Hansen's addition.  Since he had asked for the group's input (intended more so as questions), the Romulan held back the quip that immediately came to mind  - that covert activities would fall under the heading of 'potential threat' -  and instead nodded his silent acknowledgment of her contribution.  "Thank you for that, Ensign."

He looked around at the rest of the group before moving on.
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[Erewhon Station]

[USS Allegheny - Aboard unknown station]

As soon as the hologram said it was waving the entrance fee, Lek became suspicious. If they normally charged for their services and were willing to go without their normal payment, that implied they would expect a different means of payment later. Rather like a casino might give a high roller customer a complementary room to gain that client's business, but with the understanding the customer would spend an expected amount at the casino's gambling tables. It was a well established means of business, so this had Lek wondering what this place was expecting from them during their stay.

"No, I don't like this one little bit." He thought as he followed the others, his senses on high alert for trouble.

[Shuttle Allegheny > Station above Verallias II]

She followed Rayek out of the shuttle and only slightly got startled by the hologram. Despite years spent away from her primitive home, she still couldn't get used to those. Miraj heard someone saying that they don't like this situation, and she agreed by nodding. For all the knew, they could be walking into a trap. Their away team was too small to deal with any real threat. However, she was already there, following her commander. Trusting his judgement.

Rayek was also suspicious of the waived entrance fee.  For a moment, he considered insisting on paying their fee - but Away Team's lack of any sort of monetary collateral other than Federation credits was a deterrent.  Besides which refusal to accept the gift of free entrance could be considered rude, and Rayek didn't wish to start this first encounter off poorly.

[Station above Verallias II]

Erewhon? Malik had never heard of it yet it had set itself up to be a popular tourist destination. It all seemed a bit suspicious, especially since they were the only guests. Malik shared Lek's wariness.

He spoke to the hologram greeter, "What can we expect to find down on the planet? And where's all the other guests, you don't seem to be doing much business..."

On Risa, as soon as guests arrived they were given flower necklaces and mai-tai's. This place would definitely be getting a 1 star review.

The holographic woman smiled towards Malik as he asked questions.    "Our other guests are already enjoying the facility and immersing themselves in their fantasies.  They've been here several days already.  As to what you can expect... well that all depends on what you desire from it.  Erewhon was modeled to appear as a small urban city - such as those from Earth in the early 21st century.  To keep with this theme, guests are given holographic identities to fit with the era. We ask that you do not remove the wristband that contains the holo-emitter for your identity.  Once in the city, you are free to explore and do whatever takes your imagination."  She explained as she motioned for Rayek and the others to step onto the platform.

Rayek frowned slightly at the mention of the wristband holo-emitter.  "Are these holo-emitters truly necessary?" he balked.

The woman looked to the Romulan with a patient smile.  "Yes, it is a requirement of the site.  The wristbands serve several of functions.  It is the means of payment for service, health monitoring, but mainly it identifies you as a guest, and allows our facility to ensure you are enjoying yourselves."  The hologram motioned once more for Rayek to be the first up on the platform.  "You have nothing to worry about. The wristbands will be added during transport."

[Station Above Verallias II]

Dem was in his usual state of complete unrest. Barely a few hours ago he had resigned from being second officer onboard, and now he was on an away mission to a completely foreign and possibly dangerous situation he could possibly think of. While he relished in the freedom of his shore leave, after taking his six month (mental) break (down), this was the last thing he wanted to do.

Something like trying to find the cure for the common cold would be a lot better.

[Ensign Lilly Hansen - Station above Verallias II]

Lilly took a moment to glance around the shuttle, noting the diverse range of team members preparing for the mission. As the shuttle touched down and they approached the teleporter pad, she kept a watchful eye on the surroundings, ready for any sign of unexpected developments.

"Alright, team, let's keep our eyes and ears open as we step through the teleporter. We should observe any potential changes or reactions from the environment, and remember to document everything. Stay sharp and ready for anything."

As the holographic greeter appeared, Lilly noted the lack of physical presence from the Erewhon people and the seemingly seamless transition from the station to the planet. Her instincts told her that there was more beneath the surface of this seemingly idyllic welcome.

"Keep in mind that appearances can be deceiving. We are dealing with a civilization that may have advanced technological and intelligence capabilities. Let's remain cautious but open-minded as we proceed." Lilly whispered to Rayek and Tanner.

Lilly's focus shifted between the platform and the team, prepared to take immediate action if necessary while ensuring that they maintained the guise of a friendly Federation delegation.

[Station above Verallias II]

Free of charge? Nobody gives anything away free. Not without a reason. Tanner's brow lifted and she glanced at Rayek briefly. That was a red flag.

She had every intention of speaking to her team before they stepped foot on the transporter but Lilly perked up and beat her too it. Eyeing the woman she held her tongue briefly and listened to what she had to offer. Opting to not jump to the defensive. Especially not with the new Crewman there.

Tanner glanced at Lilly and nodded, her eyes moving to Edriron with a smile, "At the same time we're there guests, so keep a smile along with the watchful eye."

Turning to Rayek she spoke, "Sir, are your ready to go?"

Rayek glanced around to the gathered officers.  Malik, seemed unimpressed.  Dem and Lek both seemed unhappy to be called on to do this.  The only one somewhat eager was Hansen and that wasn't necessarily a good thing since she seemed to speak to him like he was incompetent and didn't know the first thing about security, much less his job as a First Officer.  The Romulan's expression remained neutral as he tamped down on his usual acerbic commentary and was rewarded when Lieutenant Lachlyn spoke up in response to Hansen.

He nodded in answer to Lachlyn's question.  "Yes, let's go."

Rayek stepped up on the platform tense until the alien teleporter took affect.
.
.
Erewhon - Transporter site
Rayek rematerialized in what appeared to be a bustling city center.  On the transport pad around him were several individuals, some he recognized - likely because the Erewhon computer had used a human facial design similar to what his teammates had looked like previously, though some had opted for an appearance completely different.

While Rayek didn't have easy means to see himself, his attire had changed to a dark casual outfit in place of his usual Starfleet uniform.

As he looked over the area, trying to take in his surroundings, an exotic looking woman in an ethnic floral skirt and rather revealing bikini top appeared in front of Malik with a flower lei necklace and drink in hand, which she presented to him after placing the lei around his neck.  "Aloha! Welcome to Erewhon, Malik.  My name is Candy and I'm your holographic server during your stay with us.  I'm here to make all your fantasies come true. Call on me any time day or night."

Rayek watched this exchange in surprise.  Not ever having been to Risa, Rayek didn't recognize the similar style of greeting.  He wondered, why Malik got this special treatment?

A moment later several other Polynesian-looking women and men appeared with more lei's and mai-tai's and approached those in the group that seemed to like the greeting Malik got.  One dark-haired beauty, who reminded Rayek of his own wife, placed a flower lei over his head and offered him the rum based drink.  "Aloha to you as well Commander. You can call me T'Sana.  I'll be your personal holographic server.  If you have any questions or requests for information, do not hesitate to call for me.  I am at your service. What would you like to do first?"

Rayek knew the answer he should give was 'meet with the manager of the facility' but instead he answered, "Tour your facility. Would you be my guide?"

To which T'Sana smiled and nodded in agreement.  "It would be my pleasure to tour you around."

[Lorut Vila]

{USS Discovery|Bridge}

A bit of time had passed, and Vila was fast growing bored. She knew herself well enough to know that she was (self) destructive when bored, and so, she tapped her Comms badge.

=/\=All available Ops personnel, please report to battle stations for simulations

She clicked off the general channel and opened a channel to the Captain.

=/\=Sir, I am going to run simulations with my team. Don't be alarmed if things start happening. I'll notify Engineering.

She clicked off with Tekin, and dialed up Engineering.

=/\=Lieutenant M'nia? This is Lieutenant Lorut. I am running some simulation and damage control protocols. If you notice anything haywire, it's just us.

Her tasks done, she waited for the others to appear. Once they had assembled, she began a series of tests.

"Now, I have Comms currently programmed to loop every fifteen seconds. I want you to try to hack in and change it to thirty second loops while I try to block you out. This is ensure our security systems are up to date," she said. She would be nice, and program them in Standard, and not Bajoran this time.