Full Metal Panic!

Chapter Six

Idle Currents

By Steve Edward

Tuesday, 0600 hours, Parade Ground, Melida Island

Sergeant Major Mao called the troops to attention hoarsely, as Captain Simms with Lieutenant Commander Kalinin followed by Captain Teletha Testarossa exited he administration building.

Commander Kalinin spoke to Captain Simms while they were walking to the parade ground, "Andrew, in certain missions Mithril has a policy to offer personnel, the first right of refusal to not accept a mission. No ill will is held against anyone and the personnel who may consider it not worthwhile will accept another eventually, so it does balance out."

Andrew replied, "So in effect because the nature of this mission makes it highly dangerous, I have to tell them what it is about and ask for volunteers?" Andrei glanced at Captain Simms and nodded.

Coming to a halt, Captain Simms spoke, "At ease all of you. The mission assignment will be considered first right of refusal and as a result it will not be held against you for refusing this assignment."

Captain Simms paused a moment, gazing at the troops. All were mercenaries in the employ of Mithril. They came from diverse backgrounds and from military organizations from around the world. In some cases their military organizations had declined further need of their services and in others, some had not faired well and as a result they left with deep black marks on their records, such as him.

Captain Simms spoke, "Nine months ago, a missionary couple in Africa risked their lives to save the life of a child. The husband, Anthony died. His wife Sandra now 34 years old fled to the coast with the child and paying for her passage on a freighter managed to get her to safety, despite the fact that the ship had been marked for destruction. Unable to pay for her own passage, a militia group captured her. Mrs. Sandra Montgomery was tried for crimes against the state and found guilty by the local war lords, and they automatically sentenced her to death."

Pausing briefly to let that sink in Andrew continued, "She is a US citizen and attempts by her government to win her release have failed as have attempts by third party negotiators. The local war lords and there are several are using her as a pawn in attempts to get weapons among other things. It is likely the death sentence will be carried out in less than two weeks, so there is little time left. For a reminder at what is stake, the child that Jonathan Montgomery sacrificed his life for is here with us today, Ensign Aryl would you please step forward and be recognized."

Aryl stepped forward and turning to face the hardened mercenaries behind her spoke, "Will you please consider his request. That is all I ask." Bowing then returning to the formation, the little Mithril Ensign waited.

Lieutenant Commander Andrei Kalinin then spoke, "Because of mitigating circumstances, the Morison's assigned combat team is not yet ready to assume their duties. Those who would like to volunteer for this mission may take one step forward."

For Captain Simms, it would be amongst the loudest footfalls he would ever hear.

Tuesday, 0800 hours, Command Center Briefing Room, Melida Island

Commander Mardukas spoke, "The latest satellite surveillance observations. The prison where Mrs. Montgomery is being held is located south-west of the former capital. To its north and east are bogs that lead to the tidal estuary. To the west, a near sheer facing of cliffs composed mostly of sandstone and below them a slight beach then rocks. To the prisons south, is the only access road and it was built along the sandstone cliffs. Interspaced along the road are guard posts, connected both by phone and likely radio."

Sergeant Major Mao spoke "What about equipment?" as Mardukas shifted to the next photograph, "Soviet made RK-92 Savages and surprisingly at least six US made M6's. The M6's are posted around the prisons three sides that could be conceivably approached. The Savages are being used in the capital and two are noted to be on the access road to the prison."

Captain Simms spoke, "What about the prison itself, what type of construction?" Commander Mardukas spoke, "As originally built, it was of brick work. However, the brick work was replaced with granite in the 1950's and in an additional upgrade in the late 2010's consisting of poured reinforced concrete with steel inserts of three inch thickness, and the concrete was interwoven with Kevlar fibers." Captain Simms studied the photograph closely then spoke "Richard? When was this taken?" Mardukas replied, "At 1000 hours yesterday."

Captain Simms stood and walked to the display screen, "So every twelve hours we get a fresh shot?" Mardukas replied, "That is correct Captain Simms." Captain Testarossa spoke "Is there something wrong Captain Simms?" Folding his arms and leaning against the table, Andrew replied, "Yes. Where are all the prisoners?" Commander Kalinin spoke "Inside perhaps?" Tilting his head slightly looking at a different angle, Andrew replied, "Well there should be some sign that there are prisoners. Commander Mardukas can we get another shot at a different time?" Mardukas spoke, "I'll make the request immediately."

Returning to his seat, Captain Simms turned his attention to the matter of personnel. "Commander Kalinin, you normally assign personnel and from the demonstration this morning, I would not have enough room on Morison to take them all. Besides the aircrews, what about ground troops and support personnel do you recommend?"

Commander Kalinin spoke, "I am sure this will satisfy your needs," as Kalinin pushed the folder to Captain Simms, he waited for Andrew to read through the list and as the captain did so Andrei smiled inwardly as the Andrew's eyebrow went skyward. Captain Simms replied, "Miss Kaname Chidori too?" Captain Teletha Testarossa spoke, "And I as well, Captain Simms."

Andrew turned to Andrei, "What the devil are you pulling Andrei?" Commander Kalinin spoke, "Simple really, Captain Testarossa will be along as an observer and adviser. Miss Chidori has proved useful in the past with assisting Sergeant Souska Sagara's operation of Arbalest (ARX-7) which is equipped with a Lambda Driver, which I might add he is the only one who is recognized by the machine itself as its pilot."

Captain Simms sat back in his chair and spoke "Very well then. Who else is going along for the ride?" Tessa spoke, "Ensign Aryl. It is perhaps best that she be onboard and in the company of other "Whispered", we will assist her in controlling her powers, and as you know how they are already." Andrew replied, "Well perhaps you are correct, Tessa. Sergeant Major Mao?"

Mao replied, "Yes sir!" Captain Simms stood from his seat, "Select the remainder of your team and load the needed equipment. Coordinate with Commander Drake Ward. Departure time is 1200 hours today that is all." Turning to Commander Mardukas, Andrew spoke "Thank you Richard." Commander Mardukas replied, "You are welcome Captain."

Tuesday, 1145 hours, Samuel Eliot Morison TDD-2

Entering the bridge passageway, Captain Simms was intercepted by Commander Ward "You should know that Madam Captain is already on the bridge, and oh yeah she is in your seat no less," as Andrew pausing a moment, spoke "I am not surprised and I kind of expected it. We'll quibble over who sits where later. Let's get underway."

The computer voice announced his presence, "Captain on the Bridge," then stopping at the command chair he looked down at Captain Testarossa and spoke "Yours to take out Tessa." Tessa fingering her hair in her hand she spoke, "This is Captain Testarossa, release docking clamps, bring ship to neutral buoyancy, all engines and thrusters to stand-by."

Lieutenant Alice Wren reported, "Captain, we have green board, ship is tight ready for dive." Captain Testarossa glanced up at Captain Andrew Simms, "Captain Simms? If you will do the honors," as Andrew acknowledge and spoke, "Dock Master this is Samuel Eliot Morison TDD-2. Requesting permission to get underway," The Petty Officer Dock Master replied, "Samuel Eliot Morison TDD-2, dock is clear, maneuvering pool clear. Good luck on your voyage, permission granted for departure."

Captain Simms continued, "Helm! All back one third, thrust position to normal, maneuvering thrusters to automatic, enable automatic guidance." Petty Officer Carter rapidly punching the commands into her console repeated what was ordered. "Underway Captain!"

Commander Kalinin and Commander Mardukas watching from the observation platform turned away as the Morison dived from sight. Commander Mardukas spoke, "Perhaps Tessa will learn more?" Commander Kalinin replied, "Captain Simms has considerable experience both in land and sea combat. She will find the expression "Thinking outside the Box" has an all new meaning when it comes to the tactics he employs."

Tuesday, 1400 hours, Samuel Eliot Morison TDD-2

Helmsman Carter spoke, "Level at 350 meters, speed 25 entering submarine transit lane C-5, Mark." Commander Ward replied "Very well." The computer voice spoke, "Captain on the Bridge", as Captain Simms entered. Captain Teletha Testarossa rose from the command chair and spoke "Captain Simms." Andrew replied, "Tessa, let's take a tour. Drake you have the deck and the con."

Lieutenant Wren watching the officers leave the bridge spoke after the door closed, "You supposed Tessa might still be a tad bit angry at Andrew for taking out the Tuatha De Danaan on the sea trials?" Commander Ward replied "From her reaction on the dock the other day, I could say yes. However Commander Kalinin had a long chat with her Sunday night, what it was about I have no idea but Tessa sure seemed different after I saw her later, of course she began prodding me for what happened to Andrew in Afghanistan, pressing for specific details, of which I just could not answer."

Petty Officer Carter spoke, "Commander, it is pretty much out in the grapevine on the ship, that Captain Andrew well, I mean Captain Simms went through something there, and you know it is a bit unusual to have a submarine captain possessing the skills he has. I mean, take a look at how he well he mixed it up with that Sergeant Major and that girl Miss Chidori. Taking them down at the same time no less. Frankly I am glad he's my captain and not on the other side if you know what I mean?"

Commander Ward replied, "You and me Petty Officer, you and me both."

He took a random route which at times, Captain Testarossa found herself being aided to make it through vertical scuttles, where narrow ladders were the norm. Getting the occasional boost from Captain Simms helped. On Tuatha de Danaan, it would be Commander Mardukas who would conduct the unofficial inspections; on Morison Tessa found it was Captain Simms.

Sergeant Major Mao flipped the card towards the table, the winning card about to land she heard the metallic clank of the scuttle as it was opening behind her. Turning in her seat the hatch sprung open, and then Tessa seemingly floated upward until she reached for the grab handle and steadied herself as she stepped onto the deck. The head, then the shoulders of Captain Simms appeared, "Attention on Deck!" Anyone in the immediate vicinity stopped what they were doing.

Andrew swiveled his head in the direction of Mao and spoke, "Carry on." Mao unable to conceal the cards spoke, "Err Captains." Tessa walked over to Mao, and observed her winning hand as did Captain Simms who replied, "Keep it clean, Mao." Surveying the quarters, Andrew spoke, "Sergeant Major? Is every thing to your liking?" Unsure that she was hearing Captain Simms correctly, she replied "Yes sir they are to me. Has someone complained?"

Captain Andrew Simms turned towards the interior of the billet and spoke, "No Mao, at least that I am not aware of. However if there are any problems, please feel free to point them out and they will be corrected and pass the word to your troops that are not here as well. I do not care if it is a sleeping quarter's issue, chow issue or even an equipment problem I would like to know about it. If it is not a critical issue that needs to be fixed at that moment, pass it on to Lieutenant Wren. I will be informed in any event, Captain Testarossa do you have anything to add?" And as Tessa replied "No Captain Simms, I think you about covered it."

Taking their leave the two officers departed, with Captain Simms cracking the scuttle hatch above, then as Tessa tried to climb the ladder; Andrew boosted Tessa again to the next deck and a similar repeat of "Attention on Deck" could be heard as Captain Testarossa and Captain Simms put in an appearance inside the aircrew's billet. Mao blinked as the scuttle slammed back into its locked position, "Listen up! If I here about it after the fact so help the blabbermouth! Is that understood?" Sergeant Weber replied, "So that that means we can't complain about you?" Mao turned crushing her playing cards as she reached for Kurz.

The Technical Sergeant saluted, "I will pass that on sir, thank you for your concern." The thump from the deck below interrupted the conversation as Captain Simms puzzled over the noise, opened the scuttle and looking below saw Mao digging her knuckles into Sergeant Weber's back while she had him in a head lock. Closing the scuttle, Andrew saw the questioning look on Tessa's face and spoke "Close quarter's defensive training."

Tuesday, 1630 hours, Country of Radnor, Africa

Sandra Montgomery endured another day of being a captive puppet. Already a slim woman, she had lost even more weight since being in captivity. The Baptist Minister, Oliver Brown from her church in Mobile had prayed with her to help keep her spirits high before her captors yanking on the chain caused her to nearly topple over.

The minister had jumped up to help, but had been stopped when the muzzle of the assault rifle had pressed against his temple.

Sandra was pushed and dragged as she tried to walk from where negotiations were being held at what once had been a luxury hotel. Shoved into a battered Isuzu, she was driven off as the crowd; many chanting for her death surrounded the vehicle.

The minister leaving the hotel noted that as soon as the vehicle was gone from sight, so were the protesters. Orchestrated for the cameras, the minister knew they were playing Sandra to the media that was covering the negotiations, to force those who could do it to give them weapons.

Zareb sitting astride of his faithful companion Icarian, a mule of undetermined linage watched the progress of the Isuzu. It did head towards the prison initially but turning off the main road, it continued into the country side where it finally stopped at a dilapidated ranch building. Zareb made a mental note, then removing a sophisticated video and still photo camera he slowly panned the camera as it filmed and snapped a few photographs as well.

Satisfied he had all he need for now, Major Zareb of Mithril tapped the heels of his bare feet into Icarian and the mule trudged off descending from the ridge. Behind them, the prison an ominous gothic looking structure it held no prisoners, but still it was heavily guarded. Zareb would have to find out later why. For now, someone at Mithril was interested in Mrs. Montgomery and he had the information they wanted.

Tuesday, 1900 hours local, Command Center, Melida Island

Commander Kalinin set the surveillance photographs down on the table and then sat back to listen to the intelligence officer, "The warlords who are holding Mrs. Montgomery only use the prison as a backdrop. Information from in country indicates she is being held five kilometers from the prison at what appears to be a former ranch. Commander Kalinin, Captain Simms's suspicions were right on the money. That prison is empty."

Commander Richard Mardukas spoke, "Andrew is still three days away, which would give us time to set surveillance on that ranch. However the question that comes to mind,

Andrei is what are they guarding at the old prison?" Andrei looked at the photograph and replied, "Something that they don't want the world to see or know about Richard."

Wednesday, 0430 hours, Samuel Eliot Morison TDD-2

The change in the lighting throughout the submarine signaled it was at battle stations and the subdued voices on the bridge as they communicated with various parts of the submarine lent a sense of urgency. Tessa noted that there was no joking or laughter from anyone not even from the normally bubbly helmsman Petty Officer Carter; she too was all business, as Captain Simms and Commander Ward studied the combat plot.

The Morison was using the international commercial submarine transit lanes for its voyage to Radnor, and as Simms had expected they found a patrol. "She's just patrolling, seeing who in the corridor." Commander Ward spoke, "Commercial shipping by submarine is growing, and in another five years shipping concerns are going to be building more submarine freighters that surface freighters."

Tessa replied, "Which will bring smuggling to an all new level." Andrew replied, "Surface navies will be a thing of the past, no more massive formations having to contend with the weather, or other problems. Submarines will continue to evolve, and like the Tuatha de Danaan class they will be a multi-role platform."

Petty Officer Larkin spoke, "Contact moving off and increasing speed. Heading is 110, depth 200 meters. We are in her baffles." Andrew spoke, "Secure from battle stations. Commander Ward, give our distant friend another 30 minutes then resume base course and set depth to 150 meters at 30 knots. We need to make up some time."

Turning the deck and con over to Commander Ward, Captain Simms prepared to leave the bridge. Captain Testarossa spoke, "Captain, I have been told you enjoy physical workouts. May I join you?" Andrew replied, "You are welcome to use the gym like anyone else Tessa."

The early morning battle stations, had stirred to submarine to life. Returning to his cabin to change; Captain Simms passed other crewmen going about their duties. After changing into his workout clothing, he walked to the gym which was situated near the hanger.

Bypassing the free weights since his normal spotter, Commander Ward was on duty; Captain Simms began his stretches before tackling the multi-station machine.

Several crewmembers and soldiers entering the gym greeted the captain as they began their own workout regime. It was during his stretches that silence descended onto the gym. Turning to see what was causing it, Andrew smiled when he saw Tessa then spoke, "Well just don't keep standing there Tessa, come on over and we will start."

Tessa sitting on the mat across from Andrew spoke, "Your work outs are rather complex, Captain. Do you mandate the same for your crew?" Andrew replied, "No I don't, but I do expect my crew to maintain some semblance of physical fitness. I picked this up after I was recovering from my wounds some years back."

Tessa spoke, "I have never been physically adept, unlike Miss Chidori or the Sergeant Major." Andrew concluding his own got to his feet and coming behind Tessa replied as she struggled to touch her toes, "Some are blessed with physical attributes and others are not. Never try to be what you can not be, but earn respect another way."

Pressing gently on her back, Andrew helped Tessa reach her toes, "Tessa you have a gift, and it is designing. This submarine and the Tuatha de Danaan are proof of that. A word of advice, stay to the light weight settings and don't over do it."

Helping Tessa to her feet, Captain Simms headed for the multi-point workout station and selecting the arm curl position, Captain Simms began his workout.

Sergeant Souska Sagara entered the gym with Sergeant Kurz Weber and he paused as he passed Captain Testarossa, "Good morning Madam Captain, as Tessa struggled with doing leg curls Souska noted the weight setting, "Madam Captain, should you be at a lower setting?"

Captain Simms glanced over and replied, "Tessa stop. Sergeant, set it to the minimal weight." Waiting till Sagara had made the adjustment; Andrew spoke "Start low, Tessa like I said. It is a matter of repetitions, verse actual weight. Build up of muscle is different in men than it is in women. Start at 20 repetitions for each station. I would recommend a two week workout regime at each setting." Tessa restarting replied "You seem to be able to gauge the amount of time needed Captain." Andrew smiled, "I had a good but tough instructor who refused to let me quite."

Wednesday, 0900 hours, Samuel Eliot Morison TDD-2

Staff briefings, were considered by some to take up a great deal of time, but were important for dissemination of information to department heads, and in turn any issues of importance brought to the attention of the Captain. Captain Simms jotting notes about the air detachment spoke, "I have no problems wit the avionic test, but coordinate with the bridge when you test the replacement board for the radar on the Osprey. The last thing we need is to have some snooper picking up radar emissions, underwater. So make sure we have a low power test first." With that hammered out, Captain Simms dismissed the briefing and then waited as the staff departed.

The intelligence officer of the Morison, Lieutenant Taz Norton, entered the briefing room followed by Captain Teletha Testarossa. Norton inserted the compact disk into the panel then pressed some keys, "Melida Island cc'd these about an hour ago. Commander Kalinin added a cryptic note for view number 3. I quote "As it was before," but I am not sure what he means by the sir."

Andrew replied, "I do. Norton what about offensive equipment? Any changes?" as Norton clicked to the next frame he replied, "Oddly sir, no, even the M6's are still in their same positions." Tessa spoke, "Perhaps they feel they are in the best positions they can be in Captain." Andrew rose and walked to the display screen, then tapped a setting to let him to draw.

"Not likely. The upper works of the prison walls are wide enough and strong enough to support Arms Slaves. Better defensive positions, here and with the proper staggering would create a large cross fire area. The M6's are decoys."

Tessa observed the drawn lines, "Then why are they there?" Norton spoke, "Because of what's concealed in these positions." Highlighting the areas with a light pen, Norton continued. "Man portable 75's. Nasty rate of rapid fire, and the attacking force would go for the M6's first. While the attacking force is taking out the M6's, wham they get hit from behind by what some would think as a lightly armed prison." Tessa replied, "However Captain Simms you have already stated that the objective is Mrs. Montgomery, are you taking on a second objective? Because if you are, you should reconsider, since we have limited resources."

Turning from the display screen, Captain Simms spoke, "Tessa, I know you have the final say so on this mission. Humor me and let us get some more Intel. By the way don't you have a class scheduled with someone?" Twisting her hair, Tessa replied "In fact I do, however remember Captain, I have the final say so. Good day sir."

Captain Testarossa shut the door for effect when she left the briefing room. Lieutenant Taz Norton turned to speak to Captain Simms but the Captain had returned to studying the displayed satellite photograph and spoke, "Taz, keep working on the Intel for the ranch house, but request Mithril have a night time infrared pass made of the prison. I'll take the heat for it if Tessa objects." Lieutenant Norton replied, "Under the table sir?" Andrew replied, "Keep it above and on the level. That is all. You are dismissed."

Wednesday, 1000 hours, Samuel Eliot Morison TDD-2

Ensign Aryl feeling the presence of Tessa, Alice and then Kaname as they merged and began communicating, with each other then her, the warmth she felt, the happiness from all helped calm and steady her mind. Tessa seemed to speak but yet it was not a verbalization, "We each are now bonding, and we can allow how much we want to openly reveal to each other. Understand Aryl that you should never force your will onto another."

Kaname verbalized, "Within us are things that for most are not understandable. Safeguard it and never volunteer it. Only volunteer it to those that you know." Alice continued, "More importunately, never force yourself onto another nor seek to influence their thoughts."

As each young woman guided Aryl, they felt her drawn to someone. Tessa verbalized, "Do not wonder Aryl, remain focused with us."

Sergeant Sagara, on guard outside of the wardroom, observed Captain Simms approaching, "Good morning, Captain Simms."

Andrew paused next to Souska and spoke, "I can assume all is going well?" Souska replied "All within known parameters sir." Andrew replied, "Excellent. By the way Sergeant, I have been meaning to ask you about Arbalest. How is its maneuvering and handling in comparison to the M9?"

It was a powerful presence, of mind and spirit, which Tessa noted had come to a stop nearby. Kaname verbalized, "Do all of you feel that? I sense Souska, but the other I do not know." Alice focusing on the presence smiled inwardly "That is Andrew." Aryl verbalized, "I felt him many months ago Alice." Tessa told all to break the merging and rose from her seat and approached the wardroom door and opened it. Captain Simms in conversation with Sergeant Sagara turned to greet her and was promptly punched out for his trouble.

Wednesday, 1500 hours, Command Center, Melida Island

"He went behind my back Commander." Commander Mardukas replied, "Madam Captain, I doubt he has any intentions to do so, since I and Commander Kalinin are in agreement that the prison's actual use is now suspected to be anything else a prison that some are trying to make it out to be."

Commander Kalinin replied, "Madam Captain, we have scheduled a specialized mission pass tonight per Captain Simms's request. Remember what we did discuss in private."

Captain Testarossa on the bridge of the Morison flicked her hair in agitation "Commander Kalinin, I do remember quite clearly. What is your recommendation?"

Andrei replied, "That we consider it a secondary objective." Tessa replied, "Very well Commander, please continue with the intelligence gathering."

Commander Mardukas spoke, "Madam Captain, the in country intelligence operative has information that he will need to convey directly. The Morison is now in air range to make retrieval." Captain Testarossa spoke, "Very well Commander, please provide the needed information to Commander Ward. That is all."

Rising from the command chair, Captain Testarossa addressed Commander Ward "Please coordinate with Commander Mardukas on the details then you may inform Captain Simms when he wakes up!" Leaving the bridge, Tessa slammed the bridge door loudly. Commander Drake Ward cleared his throat, "Richard? Ready to copy," as Drake looked around the bridge at the watch station crewmembers the men and women returned the look, just what the hell was going on with their captain and Captain Testarossa.

George Albert set the coffee down on the desk, and then took a seat across from Captain Simms, "You must have done something? For a little woman like her she can really pack a punch Andrew." Taking a sip of the coffee and setting the cup down, Andrew replied "I really wish I knew. I was talking to Sergeant Sagara about his Arbalest, and I hear the wardroom door opening then from there it is blank. How long was I out?"

The doctor spoke, "All told about four hours or so. Cracking your skull on the beam pretty much sent you to la-la land. Drake was going to assume command, but that mighty Miss Tessa took over." Andrew felt the tenderness and the ache then replied, "It is her prerogative to do so Albert."

Doctor Albert replied, "Well it may be her prerogative, but hell she could have been more upfront with you, if she felt you were overstepping your authority. Jeez she is only 17 years old for Christ sake!"

Andrew looked up, "George, I am a bit surprised at hearing that from you. She may be 17 years old, but just a gentle reminder she did design the submarine we are on." Doctor Albert continued, "That she did, but her inexperience shows. She normally has Commander Kalinin and Commander Mardukas at her side to provide guidance and tactical awareness. Hell Andrew you could likely run circles around her and this submarine with one hand tied behind your back, in an old diesel boat!"

The soft knock on the cabin door interrupted the conversation. Doctor Albert got up, "Captain, I'll get it." Doctor Albert opened the door to find Captain Teletha Testarossa with Lieutenant Alice Wren and behind them Ensign Aryl and Kaname Chidori. Doctor Albert spoke, "Captain Testarossa? May I assist you?"

Tessa replied, "I need to speak with Captain Simms. You may stay if you like doctor and in fact I recommend it." The doctor stepped out of the way and after they entered closed the door, "Captain Testarossa, as ship's doctor I would ask that you refrain from using Andrew for a punching bag again."

Tessa taking a seat on the cabin sofa replied, "So noted Doctor. Please, if you will take a seat as you need to hear this as well." Lieutenant Wren spoke, "More coffee Andrew?"

Refilling the cup, Alice set it down on the desk then joining Tessa on the sofa waited for Captain Testarossa to begin.

Tessa spoke, "Captain Simms? You are already familiar with the term telepathy are you not?" Andrew stirring his coffee spoke, "Yes, I am Tessa. What is this all about?" Kaname Chidori spoke, "Captain Simms, "Are you aware that you present a powerful mental force to a telepath, more specifically the "Whispered"?