Episode Nineteen: Succession

[Katrina Logan]

2100
Throne Room / Quarters
Palmyra

This was a plan that needed flawless planning and execution. There were no room for errors. Having people in the right designated positions would make or break this vital task. Word of the Olympian up rise and new commander was a building threat to the Delta Expedition and possibly to surrounding galaxies. Having someone planted on the inside would guarantee the safe undetected arrival of SD-3. Women are thought of as breeders, slaves and servants to the Olympians. Their role was to accommodate the leaders’ needs in any way. Their attire was extravagant revealing every curve and muscle and only those specially chosen were to be amongst the leaders’ special “court”.

Katrina had been planning this for weeks. Inside intelligence and few threads of good luck got her a position as the lady of the house, the one closest to the commander. It didn’t hurt that she was strikingly beautiful and her demeanor pleased the Olympians immensely. They believed her genes would help produce the finest of soldiers, but it was her place to prove her loyalty.

Her attire


In her quarters that was shared with the other servants, Kat finally found a moment alone. It was time. A small device disguised as bracelet was detached from her wrist. Opening the small encased screen within, she began to write a code that would be silently transmitted to her commanding officer. The bird has left the nest. The eggs are safely guarded and the mother will return with food soon. It was the signal to her team that they could safely enter unnoticed. Steps came from outside the door. Kat quickly placed the bracelet back on covering it quickly with the material over her arms as a man entered the room.

<Tag: Olympian Commander and SD-3>

[Robert "Jackal" Walker]

2130 Zulu
Alenta Market
Pamlyra

Five people approached an artisan's table at the Alenta Market. Attired in cloaks of almost burlap material, they all wore head dresses which concealed the majority of their faces. In fact, without intimate knowledge of anyone in the market, they were unable to distinguish these people from any others wandering around the planet's busiest commercial center. Approaching a particular building, the five wandered toward and entryway with an open door. As they entered, the shop keeper outside started loudly at them, yelling to get out of there and that it was not part of the market. The man followed them inside, but the dark room afforded no opportunity to see the attack.

In the blink of an eye, one of the cloaked figures sprung out and slammed him against a wall, and in his fright it took a moment for the man to realize that there was a hard cylinder pressed into his abdomen. The other cloaked figures stepped forward into view, and one of them said, "The weapon against you right now is in a precise position. If my associate chooses to fire, you will immediately be incapacitated as the bullet will pierce your spinal cord and you will be instantly paralyzed in at least the lower half of your body. Following that, you will bleed out extremely slowly due to the size of the wound ... I estimate about four hours ... "

In terror, the shop keeper stammered, "I -- I -- I ... who do you think I am? I'm just a shop keeper!" The voice that spoke before stepped closer to the man and took the hood off. "You're an undercover member of Olympian Intelligence working for Lartan," Lieutenant Colonel Robert Walker continued. His custom M-4 silenced 'pistol' was concealed beneath his cloak, as were the others' weapons. "You've been ordered to report on your daily sightings, let him know anything out of the ordinary. You're his eyes and ears in here ... much less conspicuous than an armed Hoplite I suppose, but no less pleasurable to eliminate." The man was clearly surprised, and asked, "Who are you?" Looking to his team, Walker inquired, "What's the best answer for that?"

<Tag SD-3>

[savage2]

2130 Zulu
Alenta Market
Pamlyra

It had been a long day so far, and with the night beginning, Marcel wondered if these people ever closed up shop for the night. The team followed their leader, around the market. Marcel sort of like these kinds of under cover operations then the one back home. Back home there were limitations, being American, or even European, you wouldn't exactly fit in places like Iraq or Afghanistan. He liked the thought that they were deceiving those around them. And if their snooping around eventually helped them and the expedition to make the universe a little bit safer.

They went into a building, one they knew that normal pedestrians were not allow to go in, but when did a mere technicality stop them. A man followed them into the building and started shouting that they were not supposed to be there, and the Colonel quick rectified the situation. It was quite a site to see the man quiver with fear. "Who are you?" the shopkeeper asked.

Walker looked the rest of them and asked, "What's the best answer for that?" Marcel could not help but note a previous conversation with Marion about the new nicknames in SD-4, it was on his brain and couldn't help it, "Perhaps we should say we represent the lollipop guild, no," Marcel said with a chuckle.

<tag>

[James Calmara]

2130 Zulu
Alenta Market
Pamlyra


While making his way through the market with his team Calmara felt a certain level of tension in his mind and body, not overwhelming or distracting, just enough to keep his mind alert and focused on the job in hand, it had to be this mission was going to be a risky one.

Especially as Calmara was new to undercover work, up to this point all the teams he'd served with while at Delta had a very open presence while off-world. Not this one, lie low, get in, complete objective, get out, was the order of the day. Now approaching the open doorway, cue expected shouts of the shopkeeper, just before he disappeared inside Calmara chanced a quick glance, yes it was the right man and an yes he had taken the bait.

Once inside Calmara took position were he had a good view of the the immediate exterior with out being seen, his weapon an M1911 drawn and ready beneath his cloak, while the team softened up their 'new best friend', satisfied they'd not aroused any suspicion He turned his attention back to their 'new best friend' in time to hear him inquire who they were Col. Walker turned to the team for the reply.

Letting a slight a smile play on his face at Caporal-Chef Savage's reply Calmara gave his suggestion "Lets just say...we're just traders looking for some inside information, and its best if he cooperates!"

Their 'new best friend' piped up obviously eager to please or get himself out of this situation "yes yes of course you are, please spare my life, and you never spoke to me, and i tell whatever you want"

Calmara looked back enquiringly at SD-3, but Col. Walker in particular. "what do ya think?"

<Anyone>

[Miranda Upright]

2130 Zulu
Alenta Market
Pamlyra

Walking through the market, Miranda kept her head down. Sure, she had some bodyguards to protect her if she were ever in danger, but that doesn't change the fact that she didn't want anyone to notice her.

Her first mission at Delta. And to top it all off, she was put on SD-3, the SpecOps of Delta. This required precision around every corner, no room for mistakes. To be put in such a position was very overwhelming. Before they went out to Pamlyra, she was very doubtful of her usefulness on a mission like this. But she received a supportive statement from each of her teammates, letting her know that they all had her back. Kinda like her own personal bodyguards. That cheered her up and washed away some of the doubt in her mind. She was a Chief Petty Officer too, and you don't get that rank by being clumsy.

Miranda continued marching in the middle of the pack. Not looking back when the shopkeeper was yelling at them, they headed into the darkly lit room. No sooner than the last person on their team entered, the shopkeeper was pinned to the wall. Miranda pressed her arm and side to the wall away from the door, keeping her watchful eye and standard issue M-9 pistol pointed at their captive across the room.

It seemed like the guys were having their fun with their "new buddy". She let them have their fun, no need for her to get involved for the moment. Miranda kept quiet, watching for any resistance from the new guy and keeping her eye on Calmara, in case he sees anything. She knew what was expected of her for this mission, and would rather not step on anyone else's toes just yet. Of course, should any danger occur, she would step up immediately and help. But she left all the witty remarks to the guys. She wasn't interested in interrogation, rather she was interested in completing the mission, which at this point meant to infiltrate the enemy castle, stop the attack, rendevous with their XO, and get the heck out of there.

<Tag any>

[Katrina Logan]

2130
Thrown Room
Pamlyra

The man walked quickly into the chamber with a fierce anger stirring in his eyes. Before she could prepare for anything a large hand wrapped around the young medic’s arm yanking her small figure around. Katrina panicked believing they had found the source of her communications somehow. Every precaution had been taken and now they knew. Flashes of her loved one and friends came through her mind as the second in command spoke. ”How dare you rival the females! You shall have the death sentence for this.” Astonished and unaware of what was going on, eyes furrowed. She looked at him questioning and totally in shock. ”What are you talking…..

SMACK!

Logan’s face reddened with the slap before the general continued with his speech. Her head jostled to the side feeling the sting of the bruise forming. ”You and your flock of women aboard this vessel have been feeding the soldiers LIES and you will all pay!” He released her hand and instinct told her to kneel in submission. Hands trembled as her mouth spoke softly. ”I beg you my lord, let me speak.” There was a moment of silence. She was fearful to speak, but needed to find out if the rumors were true. ”But, we are not allowed to converse with the soldiers. We only offer them their food and drink. The only male conversed with his the commander.” Grabbing her arm again, Kat felt the welt buidling up from the previous nab and moaned with a yelp. Pulling her close to him, he rang out more hatred in his speech. ”Then why is there talk of conspiracy against the commander of this ship? Tell me woman, you know something!”

”I don’t know anything, I swear” she started seeing the hand being raised for another strike. ”I don’t know what you speak of.”

It was then another voice broke over the general’s. A calm soothing, yet maniacal ring echoed through every bone in the officer’s body. Shivering, the voice reached every nerve crystalizing it with fear.

”Release her Barthos, at once. I shall deal with my traitors personally.”

Reluctantly but obediently, the general released his grip. Upon turning to his commander he bowed in submission. ”As you wish my lord.” He quickly made his way from the throne room. Katrina was now terrified as the commander approached. His quiet steps eerily ran a grievance through her soul.

Please get here soon guys. I can’t do another torture treatment.

”You have some explaining to do Rosetta.”

<Tag: SD-3>

[Jonathan Plisko]

2130 Zulu
Alenta Market
Pamlyra

Jonathan felt kind of bad for the man he had pinned to the wall, but at the same time he was after all the enemy - or was he? They had been the victim of bad intelligence before, but at the same time it wasn't his place to question their movements and actions. No, that privilege belonged to someone back on Earth who got to pick it apart under a microscope - who had never set foot in the field, let alone the shoes of someone on an off world team.

"I'd suggest you make friends with us real quick bud, because I don't know how long I can hold this trigger..." Jonathan said in a low voice to his captive, while he motioned to his Glock that was pressed against chest. "Colonel my fingers are getting a little sweaty..."

As much as he would have liked, he couldn't conceal his grin from rest of the team. It such a short time everyone had made him feel so welcome and as apart of the team. He didn't want to let them down now.

[James Calmara]

2131 Zulu
Alenta Market
Pamlyra

As he looked about his team members seemed unsure that what they were doing was necessary, Calmara was certain it was in his mind identifying, extracting information from, and eliminating and counter-intelligence threats was key the last thing the team needed was their operation coming undone because and threat had been left unnoticed and unchecked.

A nod and an affirmative response for Col. Walker his CO, and a hurry up from SSgt Plisko was all Calmara needed, he started pressing his 'new best friend' for information, after giving Pisko some attention.

"Take it easy Sarn't not long now just keep you head, how my friend first question, Who else knows were here"

<Plisko>

"N..n..no one"

"Your sure you haven't passed on or location and description to any one else?"

"Yes..yes.. i did not know of your presence until now i swear"

"OK next question, do you know of anyone in the Complex who's suspect of being not what they claim?"

"I know nothing of what goes on there"

"Alright...do you have any information on any resistance in Alenta?"

Then man merely nods knowing he's been rumbled.

"Have you passed on this information to your superiors?"

The man nods again.

"do you know of there plans"

The man shakes his head. Calmara nods at Plisko. Plisko presses his pistol. The man shakes his head fiercely.

"anyone else have any more questions?"

<SD-3>

"OK Colonel what now?"

<Walker>

Leaveing the man to his fate, Calmara then turns to Chief Upright "ok we've not been made, Check comms, anything from Maj Logan yet?"

<Upright & SD-3>

[Robert "Jackal" Walker]

2132

Walker listened intently to the 'interview' while covering the door as well. Confident that what Calmara said was the case, he said, "Alright folks, we're leaving now." The man said, "You -- you're not going to kill me?" "Not today ... " Walker commented before nodding to Plisko, who knocked the man out. Turning to the others, the Lieutenant Colonel said, "Let's get to the complex ... "

2150
Commander's Complex

Approaching the complex with a group of other villagers, SD-3 carried an offering for the commander, to pay homage for his protection and grace. Being brought into his 'throne room', Walker rolled his eyes slightly. This guy was only a commander, not a god of any type, and yet he sat upon a throne. Guess he is all full of himself like the reports after all he thought to himself. One of the underlings for Lartan came out now and the villagers hid their heads by lowering them, which SD-3 followed. The CO also was watching with his peripheral vision the activities ahead, as he imagined most of his team was doing. Where is Katrina? he wondered to himself.

<Tag SD-3>

[Miranda Upright]

2131 Zulu
Alenta Market
Pamlyra

Miranda took a peek outside. Despite the market being almost overcrowded, the night was peaceful. The marketplace seemed to flow, like a river. People would stream in and out through the tents. The awnings above the merchants rippled with the gentle wind. The exchange of currency swam from one hand to another. This busy market seemed to wave through the night, never ceasing, never ending. There were never any rapids; only smooth, continuous motion. Forgetting the mission, Miranda seemed to sink into the beautiful trance of the marketplace.

"BEEP BEEP, BEEP BEEP!!!!"

Miranda nearly jumped at the high pitch emanating from her pocket. She snapped back into reality and almost dropped her M-9. They were expecting this message, but Miranda nearly forgot about it. She dug into her pocket and pulled out a small PDA.

This PDA was not only a communication device, but it was also Miranda's all-purpose tool. It could do anything that Miranda needed it for on missions. It was the communication between her, her team members and her friends. She and her brothers had modified it so that she could connect to networks with it. it would store her macros and programs she made for missions. She could keep track of her To-Do list whenever she needed. She could even play Solitare on it. No matter what time of day it was, Miranda only needed this device to stay engaged.

She quickly glanced over the screen. "The bird has left the nest. The eggs are safely guarded and the mother will return with food soon." It was from their XO, Major Logan. They could enter into the complex without detection.

No sooner than she read the message, Calmara asks her: "ok we've not been made, Check comms, anything from Maj Logan yet?"
"What good timing you've got, Sarge. Just got the message. We're good to go."


2150
Commander's Complex

SD-3 continued on as they entered into the complex with the villagers. Keeping her head down, she rolled her eyes to her sides, to check out the room. It was a large room, with several ornaments hanging from the walls. The carpet they were walking on was long and red with silver tints. The room was lit by several torches hanging from the archways, as well as powered lights from the ceiling. All of this was to elevate the commander's status and to create an atmosphere that he could control at will. If someone were to unknowingly walk into the room, he may feel as if he has stepped into a palace, with the king sitting in his chair at the front of the room.

As Miranda looked around, she could tell that the rest of SD-3 had the same thought on their minds. Where is she?

<Tag SD-3, Enemy Commander>

[Katrina Logan]

2152
Throne Room
Palmyra

The commander sat on his throne watching as petty peasants came in to pay their respects with an offering. These infantiles could be part of the revolution that were rumored all over the complex. No expression came forth as they entered. He simply snapped his fingers as his second in command came over bending slightly to become within ear shot. After a command, the officer nodded with an ‘as you wish’ leaving and entering to the another room. Lartan then spoke. ”My servant will come and give you something to refresh your thirst in a moment. She has been, shall we say, a bit tied up and busy.” The maniacal tone implied that her “interrogation” was more than just being tied up. In fact, she was subdued to being placed on a flat surface with arms and legs bound while an object projecting jolts of pain would surge through the nerves in immense pain. However, nothing physical would be noticed in bruising.

Katrina figured the wrist device might be fried from the torture, but the prize she obtained while in the private room of the commander still remained safe. In a short time, Rosetta(Kat) came out a bit slowly. Legs were shaking, but her stamina remained strong. The tired and stressed marks across her brow indicated that her “questioning” was only moments before and she was forced to now serve drinks when she could barely keep herself in tact. But there was still a mission to be accomplished. Kat fought on.

Carrying a tray of drinks, she approached the first man recognizing him instantly. Expression became a bit at ease as her heart was now in relief. They’re here and they’re safe. Bowing her head, she offered the gentleman a drink. ”Take this and replenish your strength.” When the man held up a hand in a pleasant denial, Kat nearly gave away her position. ”Please, it would be an insult if you do not take the drink.” Another look in her eyes, one that Walker should already be aware of, was there was something else besides that drink. The small chip she acquired information from the commander’s database lie neatly tucked under the goblet. Just take the drink.

<Tag: Walker>

The commander spoke from behind. ”Hurry up Rosetta. I have a new assignment waiting for you. And you mustn’t keep your new commander waiting. He isn’t as forgiving as I am.” The color drained from her face. This wasn’t part of the plan.

After she was finished, the commander continued. ”Barthos, take her to the docking bay. Ares doesn’t like to wait.” Barthos nodded and grabbed Kat by the arm causing the tray to drop. It was left there as she began to be escorted away. Lartan spoke to the visitors. ”And now that you have some nourishment, why have you wasted your time in coming here?”

<Tag: Walker and SD-3>

[James Calmara]

2152
Throne Room
Palmyra

Entering the throne room, like the rest of SD-3, as part of the delegation carrying the tribute. Calmara was placed middle, opposite side to Col. Walker. Once in he glanced about from beneath the hood of his cloak first off all taking in a layout of the room, guards, entrances, exits, and anything else that just might be handy to know. He'd been doing this all along the route taking stock of doorways, passages, guard placements, blind spots, anything and everything in case they had to leave in a hurry.

Calmara trudged forward turning his attention Lartan, the Olympian commander who occupied the throne Who does he think he is, he's military commander not a god, he should be with his troops leading them not sat in a comfy 'throne room' taking tributesrealizing he was going off on one Calmara brought his thoughts back to the tasking hand, halted with the rest and put down the tribute.

The tone and choice of words of Lartan's first words made Calmara cringe inside, it also brought two things to mind. One, a phrase that had been passed on by a certain SG leader 'The hard part of this job isn't risking your own life, its watching your team take chances with theirs.' two, the single mind promises to do everything in his power to pull this mission off, Maj. Logan was going through the mill to make it happen he felt he owed them her much.

Calmara kept his head low during the next exchange but from what was said and what followed, Calmara realized the next part was not planed for and called for a bit of improvisation. Then Lartan rounded on them Ohh no, we've been rumbled, possible Calmara thought to himself and took the initiative and blurted out a reply as falteringly as he could bear "Oh might and wise commander, we know you are good to the people who serve you loyally, therefore how can any trip to seek your blessing possible be waste of time."

Lartan looked across to him, Calmara kept his head down but eyes up, then stood in front of Calmara's row and called across in a haughty, maniacal tone. "You bring this and claim to serve me loyaly yet you hide your faces." he gave the container they carried a swift kick, the crashing echos rang round the room. We don't hide Commander, merely keep our heads low as a mark of respect."

"Your respect me well yet now you must show your loyalty." Lartan motioned to his guards to step forward, as he returned to his 'throne' swirling his cloak.

<tag SD-3>

OOC:- the quote from Mitchael is just a nod to SG-1, i thought it fit the situation perfectly and couldn't resist using it.

[Robert "Jackal" Walker]

2152

As Lartan spoke to Calmara, Walker grimaced to himself. It was clear a demonstration might soon be needed by the pseudo-God figure, and Robert wasn't looking forward to what it might be. " ... you must show your loyalty." These last words caused the Lieutenant Colonel to hesitate for a moment. Their cover could not be blown ... too much had been sacrificed getting this far.

"My lord," Walker began. "One of the men in your chambers is a traitor. I overheard him yesterday discussing smuggling spices in from off-world circumventing your trade guidelines ... he said the last shipment arrived two days ago, something like 200 kilos." Lartan stood and looked furious, "WHAT? Who is this man? And what proof do you have?" Showtime ... the Lieutenant Colonel thought before stating quickly, "Please, I don't know names ... only what I overheard! He had ... light hair, and a scar on his forehead." Robert acted nervous for the commander, and the man turned and called, "Galos! Come forth!"

A man fitting Walker's description came in, and Lartan ordered, "Search him!" Galos protested, but two Hoplites pushed him up against the wall and began patting him down, removing various trinkets before tossing a fabric bag on the table. Lartan picked it up and examined the contents, then slowly turned back around. Tossing the bag to the floor, he walked behind Galos and commented, "For someone who had served me so well, I would have expected more from you." The man started, "My commander, you have to --"

In the blink of an eye, the man's words were cut off with a strange gurgling sound as Lartan drew his knife and sliced the man's throat open. The soldier fell to the ground, clutching at the fast-oozing wound and emitted choking noises, before settling to ease, drowning in a slowly expanding pool of his own blood.

As two Hoplites dragged the lifeless form out of the chambers, Lartan stepped forward and called, "Rise, my faithful subjects. Jeral, see that Rosetta tends to their needs." Now we're getting somewhere ... Walker thought.

2154

SD-3 was led into another chamber and separated. Each were shown to quarters of their own, and Robert entered his. On the bed were new clothes, and the Lieutenant Colonel began to change his clothing. Knowing now that a weapon would not be practical, he moved his dresser out a short ways. Extracting a small roll of duct tape from his robes, the Marine officer fastened his weapon to the rear of the dresser near the top with the tape, and slid the dresser back into place. The other team members would be doing the same now. They all had miniaturized fiberglass transceivers in their ears, undetectable except if their inner ear canal was inspected closely, to communicate with each other still.

Walker had just reached for the tunic laid out for him when a slight jingling caught his attention. Turning around quickly, he was surprised to see that it was Katr-- Rosetta. "Uh ... hi ... " he feigned surprise while sweeping his hand across his forehead. It was a sign to inquire whether they were 'alone' or if the room was bugged in any way.

<Tag Kat and SD-3>

[savage2]

(OOC: I thought Rosetta was being taken away somewhere? :BIC)

2154

What happened in the throne room had been quite interesting. They gained a little trust with the death of a man. They were certainly going to have their hands full trying to bring this guy down. They had each been given their own room, maybe to separate them, who knew really. New clothes were provided, ones that could hardly accommodate any large weaponry like the cloak had given.

Marcel knew that he had to find a place for his belongings, the one's that he didn't wanted taken by anyone, ie his guns. Marcel had his new pants on and was about to put on the tunic that he was given when he heard a noise behind him at the door. He turned to see a girl standing at the door holding a tray, she was bringing in water. "My apologizes," the girl whispered as she was that he was shirtless. Marcel look at his naked chest and then back at the girl, he continued to put on the tunic more for her comfort then his. The girl's cheeks were beet red. Maybe the girl was new and didn't expect things like this. She was petite with honey coloured hair, cute. She put down the water on the table, "Is there anything else you desire?"

"No, that will be all," Marcel said, and he stood there waiting to leave. If only he was in a different sort of situation with this girl happening upon him. Marcel decided to go seek out one of his teammates. He left his room and knocked on Plisko's door.

<tag Plisko>

[Katrina Logan]

2154

Heading out of the throne room with two guards, Katrina was stopped by another guard. What now? The men spoke among themselves and one even looked like he chuckled. Kat just remained still. Anything resembling curiosity would send the major back into the chamber strapped to the table and feeling jolts ……. stop thinking that. The guard had turned and commanded the young servant to tend the needs of Lartan’s new personal guests. Kat nodded and went her way wondering what explanation would be given to Ares of her not showing up as ordered. ”His excellency has ordered you to be delivered to Ares after you have tended to the needs of the guests.” Color faded again from her face and a nod without expression verified her orders.

When he was changing, Kat was already in the room waiting. She wasn’t sure exactly who’s quarters happened to be the first ones and when the familiar figure changed in front of her, a tear trickled softly down her cheek. Her fingers entangled and twisted around the others nervously and trying to find something that was missing. She had removed it for this mission and now more than ever wished it to be there. The safety of it now seemed gone, the safety of her well being. In military fashion with no regard to how she was, Kat understood and simply walked by him without a word. It was the most difficult thing to do rather than run straight up and be gathered in the arms of the man she loved with every inch coursing through.

As though tidying up the room for him, she remained quiet but found what she was looking for. A small tranceiver. A glass with a pitcher of water was on a table near the bed. Pouring him a glass, the act continued. ”Is there anything the lord’s guest needs?” She asked this after showing him the device and then dropping it into the glass of water. But as she placed the glass back down, it was quite evident the shaking in her hands indicated there was more going on than planned.

<Tag: Walker and SD-3>